Author Topic: M42 Oil Filter - discussions/questions - STP S7073 vs MAHLE (Read 10024 times)

Cobra Jet · « **on:** April 11, 2008, 08:22:27 AM »

I'm just curious if anyone has used any other oil filter for their M42 besides the normal "MAHLE" oil filters?

I was in Auto Zone and just for the heck of it decided to look to see if they even stocked any oil filters for the M42 - and surprising as it was to me, they did have 1 brand in stock.

It is the STP oil filter, part # S7073. The box contains the same contents as included with the MAHLE kits - oil filter, small rubber O-ring, large rubber O-ring for lid and (2) small metal washers. Price of the "kit" is $5.29 (online price).

The size of this oil filter looks correct for the M42 and the quality/construction of the actual filter looks very good, as well as the additional parts included.

I did purchase one, but have not used it yet. I'm suspecting this is a good "optional" replacement oil filter to the MAHLE and will work in the M42 without any issues.

Here is the AutoZone link (the filter pictured is the exact filter in the box - the picture does not show the other parts that are included):
http://www.autozone.com/R,APP6197/vehicleId,2407501/initialAction,partProductDetail/store,1855/partType,00000/shopping/partProductDetail.htm

The STP oil filter design appears to be similar to the MAHLE oil filter, except that the perforated outer sleeve on the STP S7073 encases all of the internal paper ribs.

MAHLE OX91D pictured below:

STP S7073 pictured below:

FYI & NOTE - The STP filter pictured above appears to be "tall & thin" in the picture, however, the actual STP #S7073 oil filter is actually "short & fat" like the MAHLE OX91D and is the correct size for the M42 engine that uses or has the oil can w/ aluminum lid. I think the online pic from AutoZone is just distorted due to their web pic sizing parameters.

BOSCH replacement oil filter (The STP # S7073 looks EXACTLY like the BOSCH):

Opinions?

lindol · « **Reply #1 on:** April 12, 2008, 02:48:26 AM »

I recently changed my oil filter with a Fram CH5151, the parts store also indicates that a Mann Filter 24-HU 921 X is an option as well. Don't know about the Mann filter as I've not used it before, but I've used Fram filters for many years on a number of different cars. However, these part numbers or filters may not be the same in the US, so double check with your parts store.

christophbmw · « **Reply #2 on:** April 12, 2008, 10:33:23 AM »

ive only used Mahle and Mann....dont trust anything else. I have seen cheap filters in M50's and the y dont fit right they get crushed because they are too big, dont know if the same goes for the M42 and cheap filters.

Why dont you want to use the Mahle? Whats the price difference......it might be worth the extra couple bucks.

nomad · « **Reply #3 on:** April 13, 2008, 09:47:52 AM »

STP filter seems to fit fine in mine.
No oil problems.

bmw327 · « **Reply #4 on:** April 13, 2008, 06:45:33 PM »

STP also makes a version for the (mighty) M30 which works fine. I bought one for the 535 at Autostoned when my stash of Mann filters ran out and can't say anything bad about it. Dimensions are fine. I prefer Mahle, Mann, or Bosch, but the STP will certainly do in my humble estimation.

r0ckrat · « **Reply #5 on:** April 14, 2008, 03:45:47 PM »

Do any of the other (not Mahle) filters come with teh replacement o-rings and washers for the filter housing & bolt?

sheepdog · « **Reply #6 on:** April 14, 2008, 05:48:53 PM »

Quote from: r0ckrat;47026

Do any of the other (not Mahle) filters come with teh replacement o-rings and washers for the filter housing & bolt?

STP does.

jrobie79 · « **Reply #7 on:** April 14, 2008, 08:55:20 PM »

fram as well as purolator also come with all the replacement o-rings and washers

oldtimer · « **Reply #8 on:** April 18, 2008, 06:16:02 AM »

I guess when you talk about German built cars one does not think of domestic parts, in this case the oil filter. I can order the filters on line ahead of time. Since I am not one plan things ahead just want to head for your local parts store and get what I need the STP brand I have always use. I have noticed any difference and it does come with all the necessary O-rings for the cap and the bolt even the washer for the bolt. I think that's standard package.

I wouldn't be surprise if all of these filter came out of the same assebly line and re-labeled for different company like everthing else out there.

Cobra Jet · « **Reply #9 on:** April 18, 2008, 07:36:59 AM »

Quote from: oldtimer;47413

I guess when you talk about German built cars one does not think of domestic parts, in this case the oil filter. I can order the filters on line ahead of time. Since I am not one plan things ahead just want to head for your local parts store and get what I need the STP brand I have always use. I have noticed any difference and it does come with all the necessary O-rings for the cap and the bolt even the washer for the bolt. I think that's standard package.

I wouldn't be surprise if all of these filter came out of the same assebly line and re-labeled for different company like everthing else out there.

LOL!

That's one of the reasons I started the thread - most folks don't order or "stock" a bunch of oil filters at their house. So for the most part, I'd say it would be for the "convenience" of being able to go to a local Parts Store and being able to find/purchase the correct oil filter instantly... I'm glad to hear that the STP filter is used by others with great success! Now most folks on here know for a FACT that they can use the STP (or some of the other non-MAHLE oil filters mentioned above) when in a pinch or wanting to buy a replacement oil filter at their local Parts Store.

Thanks for all of the replies (and keep any more coming for future reference)!