What a Wix Interchange Filter Is and Why It Matters

A Wix Interchange filter is an oil filter made by Wix Filters that is designed to work across multiple vehicle makes and models through a standardized connection system. Instead of buying a filter specific to your exact car, you can use one interchange filter on several different vehicles — as long as they share the same filter thread size and bypass valve rating.

The word "interchange" means the filter will physically fit and function in more than one process. This matters because it gives you options: you might find a Wix Interchange filter in stock when your vehicle's original-equipment filter is not, or you might save money by buying a filter that works on multiple cars in your household.

Wix Filters is owned by Mann+Hummel, a major global filtration manufacturer, and Wix filters are sold through auto parts stores, online retailers, and some dealerships. The interchange designation is printed on the box and filter itself.

Key Takeaways

  • A Wix Interchange filter fits multiple vehicle models because it uses a standard thread size and bypass valve, not because it is a universal one-size-fits-all product.
  • You must confirm your vehicle's filter thread size and bypass valve pressure before buying an interchange filter, even if the box says it fits your car.
  • Wix publishes a cross-reference chart on their website and through auto parts retailers that shows which vehicles each filter number works on.
  • Installation steps are the same as any oil filter: drain old oil, remove the old filter, explore a thin layer of new oil to the rubber gasket on the new filter, and hand-tighten it until the gasket contacts the engine.

How to Confirm a Wix Interchange Filter Fits Your Vehicle

Start by finding your vehicle's filter specifications. Open your owner's manual and search for "oil filter" or "filter specifications." You need two pieces of information: the thread size (usually written as 3/4-16 or M20x1.5) and the bypass valve pressure (typically 6 to 10 PSI, printed as a number followed by "PSI" or "bar").

If you do not have the manual, call your vehicle's dealership parts department with your year, make, model, and engine size. They will give you both numbers in under five minutes. You can also search your vehicle's year and make on the Wix Filters website — they have a vehicle selector tool that shows you compatible filters.

Once you have the thread size and bypass pressure, cross-check them against the Wix filter box or the product listing online. The box will list compatible vehicles, but the thread size and bypass pressure are the actual technical match. If those two numbers match, the filter will work. If they do not, it will not fit or will not function correctly, even if the box lists your vehicle.

Reading a Wix Filter Number and Cross-Reference Chart

Wix filter numbers follow a pattern. A typical number looks like 51348 or 51348MP. The number itself identifies the filter's size, thread type, and bypass valve setting. The letters at the end (if present) indicate special features — for example, "MP" means it has a microglass media for better dirt capture.

To find which Wix filter works on your vehicle, use the Wix cross-reference tool at wixfilters.com. Enter your vehicle's year, make, and model, and the site will show you all compatible Wix filters, including interchange options. You can also ask an auto parts store clerk to look up your vehicle in their system — most stores have Wix cross-reference books or computer access.

The cross-reference will show you multiple Wix filter numbers that fit your vehicle. These are not all the same filter — they may have different media types or bypass pressures. Choose the one that matches your vehicle's original filter specifications, or choose a higher-quality option (like one with microglass media) if you want better filtration.

Checking Compatibility Before You Buy

Before you hand over money, verify the filter one more time. Look at the product box or online listing and confirm it lists your vehicle's year, make, and model. Then check the thread size and bypass pressure printed on the filter itself or on the box — they should match what you found in your owner's manual.

If you are buying online, read the product description carefully. It should say something like "Fits 2015–2019 Honda Civic with 1.8L engine" or list a range of compatible vehicles. If the listing is vague or does not mention your vehicle at all, contact the seller before buying.

If you are at an auto parts store, show the clerk your vehicle information and ask them to confirm the filter is correct for your car. Most stores will do this without charge. Do not assume a filter is right just because it is in the section labeled with your vehicle's name — staff sometimes shelve items incorrectly.

How to Install a Wix Interchange Filter

Installation is the same whether you are using an interchange filter or an original-equipment filter. First, make sure the engine is cool or has been off for at least five minutes. Locate the filter canister on your engine — it is usually a cylindrical metal can about the size of a soda can, mounted on the side or top of the engine block.

Place a drain pan underneath the filter to catch old oil. Using a filter wrench (a metal band wrench or socket-style wrench that grips the filter), turn the old filter counterclockwise until it comes free. Finish unscrewing it by hand and set it aside. Some oil will spill, so have rags ready.

Wipe the filter mounting surface on the engine with a clean rag to remove any dirt or old gasket material. Take the new Wix filter and explore a thin layer of fresh oil from your new oil bottle to the rubber gasket (the ring around the top of the filter). This helps the gasket seal properly and makes removal easier next time.

Screw the new filter onto the mounting surface by hand. Turn it until the gasket contacts the engine, then turn it an additional three-quarter turn. Do not use a wrench — hand-tight is correct. Over-tightening can damage the gasket and make the filter hard to remove later. You are done with the filter itself; now refill the engine with the correct amount of new oil as specified in your manual.

When an Interchange Filter Might Not Work

An interchange filter will not fit if your vehicle uses a cartridge-style filter (a flat, round canister that screws into the top of the engine) instead of a spin-on filter (the cylindrical can). Wix makes both types, but they are not interchangeable with each other. Check your owner's manual or look at your current filter to see which type you have.

Some vehicles also have dual filters — a main filter and a secondary bypass filter. If your vehicle has this setup, you need to match both filters, not just one. The Wix cross-reference will show you if your vehicle requires multiple filters.

Older vehicles or specialty engines (diesel trucks, high-performance engines, some European cars) sometimes have unusual thread sizes or bypass pressures that limit your interchange options. If the Wix website shows no results for your vehicle, contact Wix customer service at 1-800-345-6900 or check with your dealership — you may need a filter that is not labeled as interchange.

Where to Buy Wix Interchange Filters

Wix filters are sold at most major auto parts chains, including AutoZone, O'Reilly Auto Parts, NAPA, and Advance Auto Parts. They are also available online through Amazon, eBay, Walmart, and the retailers' own websites. Prices vary by filter type and retailer, but Wix filters are generally mid-range in cost — more expensive than the cheapest house-brand filters but less expensive than premium synthetic filters.

When ordering online, confirm the seller ships to your location and check the delivery timeframe. Some online orders arrive in two to three days; others take a week. If you need a filter when ready, buying in-store is faster. Many stores will also install the filter for a small fee if you do not want to do it yourself.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a Wix Interchange filter on a vehicle that is not listed on the box?

No. The box lists the vehicles the filter is designed for. If your vehicle is not listed, the thread size or bypass pressure does not match, and the filter will either not fit or will not work correctly. Always verify the thread size and bypass pressure match your vehicle's specifications, even if you think the filter should work.

Is a Wix Interchange filter the same quality as the original filter for my car?

Wix makes filters for many original-equipment manufacturers, so some Wix filters are actually the same as original filters, just sold under the Wix brand. However, not all Wix filters are OEM-equivalent. Check the product description or ask the retailer if you want to know whether a specific Wix filter is OEM-quality or an aftermarket alternative.

What is the difference between a Wix Interchange filter and a universal filter?

A universal filter is designed to fit a very wide range of vehicles by using an adapter or adjustable connection. An interchange filter fits multiple specific vehicles because they share the same thread size and bypass valve. Interchange filters are more reliable because they are engineered for exact matches, not broad compatibility.

How often should I replace a Wix Interchange filter?

Follow your vehicle's maintenance schedule in the owner's manual. Most vehicles need an oil and filter change every 3,000 to 10,000 miles, depending on the engine type and oil grade. The filter change interval is the same whether you use an interchange filter or an original filter.

Can I return a Wix Interchange filter if it does not fit?

Most retailers accept returns on unused filters within 30 days. If you opened the filter or installed it, return policies vary — some stores will still accept it; others will not. Keep your receipt and ask the retailer about their return policy before you leave the store or complete your online purchase.