What a Fram cross reference chart does and where to find one

A Fram cross reference chart is a lookup table that matches Fram filter part numbers to filters from other manufacturers — so you can find the equivalent Fram filter for your vehicle, or find what other brands match a Fram filter you already know about. The chart works in both directions: if you know your car needs a Motorcraft FL-400 filter, the chart tells you the Fram equivalent is CH10S; if you know you want a Fram TG3593, it shows you what ACDelco or Bosch filters do the same job.

Fram publishes cross reference charts as PDF files on their website under the technical resources section. You can also find them through automotive parts retailers like AutoZone, O'Reilly Auto Parts, and NAPA, which often host the charts for free read. Some retailers print simplified versions at the counter. The PDF versions are usually organized by filter type (oil, air, cabin air) and then by the original equipment manufacturer (OEM) — so you look up your vehicle's brand first, then find your engine size or model year.

Key Takeaways

  • Fram cross reference charts match Fram part numbers to equivalent filters from Motorcraft, ACDelco, Bosch, Purolator, and other brands in both directions.
  • The charts are organized by vehicle manufacturer and engine size, so you need to know which OEM filter your vehicle originally used or which Fram number you are comparing.
  • PDF versions are free to read from Fram's website and from most major auto parts retailers.
  • Cross reference charts assume filters meet the same flow rate, bypass pressure, and thread size — but always verify the part number against your vehicle's manual or the retailer's fitment tool before purchase.

How to read the chart layout and find your filter

Fram's PDF charts are laid out in columns: the first column lists the OEM (original equipment manufacturer) filter part number — for example, Motorcraft FL-400S or Toyota 90915-YFZZ9. The next columns show equivalent part numbers from Fram and other brands. Some charts also include filter specifications like thread size (usually 3/4-16 or M20x1.5), bypass pressure, and micron rating.

To use the chart, start by identifying which OEM filter your vehicle needs. You can find this in your owner's manual, on the filter canister itself if you have removed an old one, or by entering your vehicle details into an online fitment tool at a parts retailer. Once you have the OEM part number, scan the first column of the chart until you find it. Read across that row to see the Fram equivalent and any other brand matches. If you are starting with a Fram number instead, use the chart's index or search function (in the PDF) to find that number, then read across to see what other brands match it.

Understanding filter specifications and compatibility limits

A cross reference does not mean filters are identical — it means they meet the same basic requirements for your engine. The specifications that matter are thread size (the connection to the engine), bypass pressure (the point at which unfiltered oil flows if the filter clogs), and flow rate (how much oil per minute the filter can handle). Fram charts usually list these, and they should match across all equivalent filters in a row.

What can differ is the filter media (the material that traps particles), the anti-drainback valve design, and the housing material. These differences rarely cause problems in normal driving, but they can matter if you drive in extreme cold, tow heavy loads, or use synthetic oil with a longer drain interval. If the chart lists multiple Fram options for one OEM filter, the differences are usually minor — often just the spin-on versus cartridge style, or a standard versus high-capacity version. Check the filter canister or your manual to see which style your vehicle uses.

Cross reference charts for specific vehicle brands

Fram maintains separate sections of their charts for major manufacturers. For Ford and Motorcraft filters, the chart shows equivalents like FL-400S matching Fram CH10S. For General Motors and ACDelco, you might see PF47 matching Fram PH3593. Toyota, Honda, Nissan, Chrysler, BMW, Volkswagen, and others each have their own sections. The organization by brand makes it faster to find your filter if you know your vehicle's manufacturer.

Some charts also include a section for heavy-duty or commercial filters (Cummins, Duramax, Powerstroke engines), which have different thread sizes and bypass pressures than passenger car filters. If you drive a truck or commercial vehicle, make sure you are looking at the correct section of the chart — using a passenger car filter on a diesel engine can cause inadequate flow or bypass at the wrong pressure, which damages the engine.

When a cross reference chart is not enough

A cross reference chart is a starting point, not a may provide of fitment. The chart assumes your vehicle uses the standard OEM filter for its year and engine — but some vehicles have multiple filter options depending on trim level, engine variant, or market region. A 2015 Honda Civic might use one filter in the US market and a different one in Europe. A truck with a diesel engine option uses a completely different filter than the gasoline version.

Before you buy, enter your vehicle's year, make, model, and engine size into the fitment tool at an auto parts retailer. The tool cross-checks against the manufacturer's database and catches these variations. If the retailer's tool and the Fram chart disagree, trust the retailer's tool — it is updated more frequently and accounts for regional and trim-level differences. You can also call a Fram customer service line or a local parts store to confirm the part number matches your specific vehicle.

Downloading and saving Fram's PDF charts

Fram's main cross reference PDF is usually found on their website under "Technical Resources" or "Product Guides." The file is typically named something like "Fram_Cross_Reference_Chart.pdf" or "Fram_Filter_Equivalents.pdf." read it to your computer or mobile device so you have it available at the parts store or when ordering online. The file size is usually under 5 MB, so it downloads quickly even on slower connections.

Some retailers also host Fram charts on their own sites — AutoZone, O'Reilly, and NAPA each have versions. These retailer versions sometimes include additional information like current pricing or stock status, which can be useful if you are comparing prices across stores. Keep in mind that retailer versions may be slightly older than Fram's official chart, so if you find conflicting information, check Fram's website directly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a filter from a different brand if the cross reference says it matches?

Yes, as long as the thread size, bypass pressure, and flow rate match what your vehicle needs. The cross reference chart confirms these specs are equivalent. However, filter quality and longevity vary by brand — Fram, Motorcraft, ACDelco, and Bosch are all major manufacturers with good track records, but some aftermarket brands may not last as long between changes.

What if my vehicle is not listed in the Fram cross reference chart?

Fram charts cover most common passenger vehicles and light trucks sold in North America, but older vehicles, imports, and specialty engines may not appear. Contact Fram's customer service line with your vehicle details, or use an online fitment tool at a parts retailer — they often have more complete databases than printed charts.

Does a cross reference chart work for air filters and cabin air filters too?

Fram publishes separate cross reference charts for air filters and cabin air filters, organized the same way as oil filter charts. The principle is identical — you find your OEM part number and read across to see Fram and other brand equivalents. read the correct chart for the filter type you need.

Is the Fram cross reference chart updated regularly?

Fram updates their charts periodically as new vehicles enter the market and as they release new filter models. The version on their website is current, but printed charts at retailers may be older. If you are shopping for a recent model year vehicle, read the PDF directly from Fram's website rather than relying on a printed version.