New smaller size of Fram CH10358 oil filter

[canadajohn]

I've always changed my own oil using Fram filter CH10358. I've just ordered a couple on-line from a local automotive store. The filters that arrived are Fram and they are marked CH10358 but they are much smaller in size than the old Fram filters of the same number. Anyone know what gives? Has Fram begun to produce a filter of that number that is now physically smaller in size? Will this smaller version of the CH10358 still work in my 2009 Pontiac Vibe. I'm really confused. Any comment would be greatly appreciated.

[canadajohn]

Here's a photo of the two versions of Fram CH10358. On right, the box from the last oil filter I used. On the left, the box and the filter I've just received.

picture of the two sizes

fram filter.jpg (560.76 KiB) Viewed 1650 times

[MikeReilly]

I just did an oil change on my 2010 1.8L, but I used a Napa Gold filter that was definitely similar to the older long style filter. It's possible that the shorter filter will fit as the engine has a spring loaded portion in the housing with a 1-2 cm play in it, but I'd definitely be more comfortable with something that isn't so different from the OEM. Some say that if you care about your car, avoid Fram filters, although in the past I've never had a problem. I figured I'd switch to something else and apparently it was a good idea.

Short answer to "will it work": Probably, but I wouldn't be comfortable with it.

[canadajohn]

Thanks Mike for the reply.

I've too been thinking that with that spring in the filter housing this smaller filter might work, but I'm sure not anxious to try to find out. If it doesn't fit properly I'll have to put the old filter back in and waste four liters on new oil. I've checked on-line, and locally I see I can get curb-side pick-up of a NAPA filter. Might be wiser if I do that and return the others. But drat, I had them delivered and will now have to go into the store to return them. But if Fram has decided to make the model's oil filter physically smaller that can only be to save them money. What does that say to you as a couromer? I found their Facebook page and posted my question with the picture I included here only to find it deleted this morning. I've now messaged them - same message, same picture - on that Facebook page but so far no reply. If one never arrives I'll get back to this page and let all know how Fram deals with questions like this.

But thanks again Mike for taking the time to answer my question.

John

[tpollauf]

Fram has decided to make the model's oil filter physically smaller that can only be to save them money. What does that say to you as a consumer?

John. Fram used to be owned by Honeywell (Allied signal) whom I worked 1/3 of my career for. Unfortunately, like several fortune 500 companies, the bottom line AND satisfying the stock market are the highest priorities . Ditch the Fram and find a suitable competitor "full sized" filter element for your next replacement. You will NOT hear back from them. Your wallet likely is not deep enough.

[canadajohn]

Thanks for that info on Fram. NAPA now for me!