What a Wix cross reference chart does

A Wix cross reference chart matches your vehicle's year, make, and model to the correct Wix oil filter part number. Instead of guessing which filter fits your engine, you look up your car's information and the chart tells you the exact Wix filter you need. This matters because oil filters vary by engine size and design — using the wrong one can mean poor filtration, leaks, or damage.

Wix publishes these charts so you can find their filters even if you don't know the part number. The chart works in both directions: you can start with your vehicle details and find the Wix number, or start with a Wix part number and confirm it fits your car.

Key Takeaways

  • Wix cross reference charts match your vehicle's year, make, model, and engine size to a specific Wix oil filter part number.
  • You can access Wix charts through the Wix website, your vehicle's owner manual, or by calling a Wix distributor with your car's information.
  • You need your vehicle's year, make, model, and engine displacement (usually listed on the engine cover or in your manual) to use the chart accurately.
  • If two Wix numbers appear for your vehicle, the difference is usually filter height or flow rate — your manual or mechanic can tell you which one your engine needs.

Where to find Wix cross reference charts online

Wix maintains a searchable database on their official website. Go to wixfilters.com, select "Find a Filter," and enter your vehicle's year, make, and model. The site will return the correct Wix part number and show you the filter's specifications.

You can also find cross reference information through automotive parts retailers like AutoZone, O'Reilly Auto Parts, or NAPA. These sites let you search by vehicle and show you which Wix filters match. Many retailers display the Wix part number alongside competitor brands so you can compare.

Some vehicle forums and repair databases include Wix cross references as well. These are less official but often include notes from mechanics about which filter works best for specific engine variations.

Information you need before using the chart

Start by gathering your vehicle's details. You need the year, make, model, and engine size. The year and make/model are on your registration or driver's license. Engine size (displacement) is usually printed on a sticker under the hood or in your owner's manual — it appears as a number followed by "L" (like 3.5L or 2.0L).

If your vehicle has multiple engine options (common with trucks and SUVs), getting the engine size right is critical. Two identical-year models with different engines need different filters. Your VIN (vehicle identification number) can also narrow this down — a Wix representative or parts counter can decode it if you're unsure.

Reading the chart results

Once you enter your information, the chart returns a Wix part number. This number is what you'll use to order or purchase the filter. The chart also shows the filter's specifications: thread size, bypass valve setting, and sometimes the filter height and flow capacity.

Occasionally a chart will show two Wix numbers for the same vehicle. This usually means one is a standard-height filter and one is a spin-on or cartridge style, or they have different flow ratings for different driving conditions. Your owner's manual will specify which type your engine uses, or you can ask a parts counter to compare the two.

Some charts include cross references to other brands — you might see that Wix 51356 is equivalent to Fram PH3600 or Mobil 1 M1-110. This helps if you're switching brands or checking what you already have on hand.

When the chart shows no match or multiple options

If your exact year and model don't appear, try searching for the year before or after. Manufacturers sometimes use the same filter across model years. If that doesn't work, call a Wix distributor or local parts store with your VIN — they can decode it and find the right filter even if the online chart doesn't show it.

If the chart shows many options, you likely need to narrow down by engine size or body style. A 2015 Ford F-150 with a 3.5L engine needs a different filter than a 2015 F-150 with a 5.0L engine. Double-check your engine displacement before ordering.

Using the part number to order or purchase

Once you have the Wix part number from the chart, you can order online, call a distributor, or visit a parts store. Most auto parts retailers stock common Wix filters or can order them within a day. Wix filters are widely available because they're an original equipment manufacturer (OEM) supplier — many vehicles come with Wix filters from the factory.

When you order, confirm the part number matches what the chart gave you. A single digit difference in the number means a different filter. If you're ordering online, the site should show you a photo of the filter and its specifications — compare these to your chart results to make sure you have the right one.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different Wix filter number if I can't find the one the chart shows?

Not without checking first. A similar-looking Wix number might have a different thread size, bypass pressure, or height, which can cause leaks or poor filtration. Contact Wix customer service or a parts store with both numbers to confirm they're interchangeable before you install it.

What if the Wix chart shows a number but my local store says it's discontinued?

Wix updates their product line regularly. Ask the parts store for a current equivalent — they can cross-reference the old number to a new one. You can also call Wix directly at their customer service line (the number is on their website) and they'll tell you what to use instead.

Do I need the exact engine size, or will "V6" or "V8" work?

You need the exact displacement in liters. "V6" tells you the cylinder count but not the size — a 3.0L V6 and a 3.5L V6 use different filters. Check your owner's manual, the engine cover sticker, or your registration for the precise number.

Can I use the Wix chart for a vehicle I'm buying but don't own yet?

Yes. If you know the year, make, model, and engine size of a vehicle you're considering, you can look it up on the Wix chart right now. This is useful for understanding maintenance costs before you buy.