What oil filter fits a 2015 Chevy Equinox

The 2015 Chevy Equinox uses a Fram PH8A or equivalent oil filter, depending on which engine your vehicle has. Most 2015 Equinoxes came with either a 2.4-liter four-cylinder or a 3.0-liter V6 engine, and both use the same filter size and thread pattern. You can confirm which engine you have by checking your owner's manual or looking at the engine block itself — the V6 is noticeably larger and sits lower in the engine bay.

The PH8A is a spin-on filter, meaning it screws directly onto the engine block rather than sliding into a cartridge housing. This is the most common filter type for modern Chevrolets and is widely available at auto parts stores, big-box retailers, and online. Other brands make equivalent filters — Mobil 1 M1-110, Bosch 3330, and Purolator PL14610 all work in the 2015 Equinox — but they must have the same thread size and bypass valve rating.

Key Takeaways

  • The 2015 Chevy Equinox uses a Fram PH8A spin-on oil filter regardless of whether it has the 2.4L or 3.0L engine.
  • You can buy equivalent filters from other brands as long as they have the same thread pattern and bypass valve rating, which the parts store can verify.
  • The filter sits on top of the engine block and takes about five minutes to remove and install once you drain the old oil.
  • Changing the filter at the same interval as your oil — typically every 5,000 to 7,500 miles — keeps your engine clean and extends its life.

Where the filter is located on your Equinox

On the 2015 Equinox, the oil filter mounts on top of the engine block, roughly in the center. You can see it from above without removing any major parts, though you may need to move the air intake tube slightly to get your hand in comfortably. The filter is easier to access if you first warm up the engine for a minute or two — warm oil drains faster and the filter housing expands slightly, making it easier to unscrew.

Before you start, place a drain pan underneath the filter. When you unscrew the old filter, a small amount of oil will spill out even after you've drained the main tank. The drain pan catches this and prevents a mess on your driveway or garage floor.

How to remove and install the filter

Use an oil filter wrench — a metal band or cup that grips the filter and lets you turn it with a ratchet or by hand. Loosen the old filter by turning it counterclockwise until it spins freely, then unscrew it by hand. Let any remaining oil drip into the pan for a minute before setting the old filter aside.

Wipe the filter mounting surface on the engine block with a clean cloth or paper towel. Any old oil residue or debris left behind can prevent the new filter from sealing properly. Then explore a thin layer of new oil to the rubber gasket on the new filter — just enough to coat it lightly. This helps the gasket seat correctly and makes removal easier next time.

Screw the new filter on by hand until the gasket touches the mounting surface, then turn it an additional three-quarter turn. Do not use the filter wrench to tighten it — hand-tight is correct. Over-tightening can damage the gasket and cause leaks. Start the engine and let it run for a few seconds, then turn it off and wait a minute before checking the oil level on the dipstick.

Choosing between filter brands

Fram, Mobil 1, Bosch, and Purolator are all mainstream brands that meet or exceed the specifications your Equinox needs. The main differences are price and longevity. Fram and Purolator filters are usually the least expensive and work well for standard oil change intervals. Mobil 1 and Bosch filters cost more but are designed to last longer and filter more particles, which can be worth it if you drive in dusty conditions or tow frequently.

Synthetic oil filters — usually marked on the box — are designed to work with synthetic motor oil and last longer between changes. If you use conventional oil, a conventional filter is fine. If you switch to synthetic oil, you can use either type of filter, but a synthetic filter is a better match. Check your owner's manual to see what oil type Chevrolet recommends for your specific engine.

When to change your oil filter

Change your oil filter every time you change your oil. For a 2015 Equinox with conventional oil, that's typically every 5,000 to 7,500 miles, depending on your driving habits and what the owner's manual says. If you use synthetic oil, the interval may stretch to 7,500 or even 10,000 miles. Check your manual for the exact recommendation for your engine.

Changing the filter at the same time as the oil ensures that fresh oil flows through a clean filter. If you change the oil but leave an old filter in place, the new oil picks up particles and sludge from the old filter, which defeats the purpose of the oil change. Over time, a clogged filter forces oil to bypass the filter element entirely, which means unfiltered oil circulates through your engine.

What to do with the old filter

Most auto parts stores will take your old oil filter for free when you buy a new one, even if you didn't purchase the oil there. Some recycling centers also accept oil filters. Never throw an oil filter in the trash — it contains residual oil and should be recycled or disposed of at a facility that handles hazardous waste.

If you're changing the oil yourself, drain as much oil as possible from the old filter before taking it in. Place it in a plastic bag to prevent any remaining oil from leaking in your car or on the store floor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different filter size if I can't find the PH8A?

No. The filter size, thread pattern, and bypass valve rating must match your engine's specifications. Using the wrong size can cause leaks, poor oil flow, or engine damage. If you can't find a PH8A, ask the parts store for equivalent filters — they can look up what works for your vehicle's year, make, and engine size.

How often do I really need to change the filter?

Every time you change your oil. For a 2015 Equinox, that's typically every 5,000 to 7,500 miles with conventional oil, or up to 10,000 miles with synthetic. Check your owner's manual for the exact interval for your engine. Skipping filter changes shortens engine life because old filters become clogged and allow unfiltered oil to circulate.

What if oil leaks from the new filter after I install it?

The most common cause is over-tightening. The gasket only needs to be compressed enough to seal — usually three-quarter turn after it touches the mounting surface. If you tightened it more than that, you may have damaged the gasket. Remove the filter, wipe the mounting surface clean, and install a new filter, tightening only by hand to the correct point.

Is synthetic oil filter better than conventional?

Synthetic filters are designed to trap smaller particles and last longer, which is useful if you use synthetic oil or drive in very dusty conditions. For standard driving with conventional oil, a conventional filter works fine and costs less. The filter type should match your oil type for best results, but either will work.