Wix maintains a cross reference system that matches their filter part numbers to filters from other manufacturers, so you can find a Wix equivalent for almost any filter your vehicle needs

A Wix cross reference is a lookup tool that shows which Wix oil filter corresponds to a filter made by another brand — Fram, Motorcraft, Purolator, AC Delco, or others. Instead of searching by your vehicle's year, make, and model, you start with a filter you already know works, then find the Wix part number that does the same job. This matters because Wix filters are often cheaper than name-brand equivalents, and cross referencing lets you confirm they're truly interchangeable before you buy.

The cross reference works because oil filters are built to the same industry standards. A filter that fits your engine and removes the same micron size of particles as another brand's filter is functionally equivalent, even if the housing looks different. Wix publishes these equivalencies so you don't have to guess whether a cheaper filter will actually work in your vehicle.

Key Takeaways

  • Wix cross reference charts match Wix part numbers to filters from Fram, Motorcraft, Purolator, AC Delco, and other brands so you can find a compatible Wix filter.
  • You can search by the original filter's part number, your vehicle's year and make, or by browsing Wix's online cross reference tool on their website.
  • Cross referenced filters must have the same thread size, bypass valve setting, and micron rating to be truly interchangeable.
  • Wix filters are typically less expensive than major brand equivalents when you use the cross reference to confirm compatibility.

Where to find the Wix cross reference tool online

Wix publishes their cross reference lookup on their official website under a section usually labeled "Cross Reference" or "Find Your Filter." You can access it directly without creating an account. The tool lets you search three ways: by entering the competitor's part number, by selecting your vehicle's year and make, or by browsing a list of brands to compare.

The search-by-part-number method is fastest if you already know what filter your vehicle uses. You type in a Fram part number, Motorcraft number, or any other brand's code, and the tool returns the matching Wix part number and confirms the specifications match. If you don't have a part number, entering your vehicle information pulls up all the filters that fit your engine, then shows you the Wix equivalent for each one.

Third-party retailers like RockAuto and Amazon also display cross reference information in their product listings, though the Wix website itself is the authoritative source. Some auto parts stores like AutoZone and O'Reilly will cross reference a filter for you over the phone or in person if you bring in the original part number.

How to read a Wix cross reference result

When the tool returns a match, you'll see the Wix part number first, followed by the competitor's part number. Below that are the specifications: thread size (usually 3/4-16 or M20x1.5), bypass valve opening pressure (measured in PSI), and micron rating (how small the particles are that the filter catches). These numbers must match between the Wix filter and the original filter for them to be truly interchangeable.

The thread size determines whether the filter physically screws onto your engine. A 3/4-16 thread won't fit an M20x1.5 opening, even if everything else matches. The bypass valve pressure matters because if it opens too early, unfiltered oil reaches your engine during cold starts. The micron rating — usually 10, 20, or 25 microns — affects how much dirt the filter traps before it clogs. A cross reference result that shows different numbers in any of these three categories means the filters are not equivalent, and you should not substitute one for the other.

Wix also lists the filter's collapse rating and anti-drainback valve type in their detailed specifications. These are less critical for most drivers, but they confirm the filter is engineered for your engine's oil pressure and flow rate.

Common Wix cross references for popular vehicles

Wix filter 51356 is the cross reference for a Fram PH3593 and fits most Ford F-150s from 2009 onward. Wix 51515 matches the Motorcraft FL2051 used in many Ford Fusions and Escapes. For Chevrolet trucks, Wix 51348 is equivalent to the AC Delco PF2232. These are examples only — your specific vehicle may use a different filter, so always verify using the cross reference tool rather than assuming these match your engine.

Wix publishes a full cross reference chart as a downloadable PDF on their website, organized by brand. If you prefer to search offline or need to reference multiple filters at once, this PDF is faster than the online tool. The PDF is updated periodically, so check the publication date to make sure you're using current information.

Why cross referencing matters for filter quality

Not all filters with the same thread size are equivalent. A filter that fits your engine but has a lower micron rating or a weaker bypass valve can allow dirt to reach your engine or fail to protect it during cold starts. Cross referencing ensures you're getting a filter that meets the same performance standards as the original, not just one that physically screws on.

Wix is owned by the same parent company as Napa, and Wix filters are OEM suppliers for several vehicle manufacturers. This means many Wix filters are built to the same specifications as the filters that came on your vehicle from the factory. When you cross reference a Wix filter to your original filter, you're often getting the same filter under a different brand name.

Counterfeit filters are sold online, particularly on marketplaces like eBay and Amazon. Buying directly from Wix's website or from authorized retailers like RockAuto, Napa, or your local auto parts store reduces this risk. A cross reference result from the official Wix tool gives you confidence that the part number you're buying is genuine.

What to do if the cross reference shows no match

If you search for a filter and the Wix tool returns no result, it usually means Wix doesn't make a filter for that specific process. This can happen with older vehicles, specialty engines, or filters designed for non-automotive equipment. In this case, you have two options: contact Wix customer service directly to ask if a cross reference exists, or search for a different brand's equivalent that Wix does make.

Some vehicles use multiple filter options depending on the engine size or model year. If your first search returns nothing, try searching by your vehicle's year and make instead of by part number. This shows all the filters Wix makes for your vehicle, and you can then verify which one matches your engine's specifications in your owner's manual.

Wix customer service can be reached through their website and will cross reference a filter if you provide the original part number or your vehicle's VIN. Response times vary, but they typically answer within one business day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a Wix filter if the cross reference shows a different thread size?

No. Thread size must match exactly. A filter with the wrong thread size won't screw onto your engine, and forcing it can damage the threads. Always verify that the cross reference result shows the same thread size as your original filter before purchasing.

Is a Wix filter as good as the original brand?

When cross referenced correctly, yes. Wix supplies filters to vehicle manufacturers and meets the same performance standards as major brands. The cross reference ensures the Wix filter has the same micron rating, bypass valve pressure, and thread size as the original, making it functionally equivalent.

What if I can't find my original filter's part number?

Search the Wix cross reference by your vehicle's year, make, and model instead. This shows all compatible filters, and you can then match the specifications to your owner's manual or the filter currently on your engine. If your current filter is still installed, you can read the part number directly off its housing.

Do I need to change my oil differently if I use a Wix filter?

No. A cross referenced Wix filter works exactly like the original filter, so your oil change interval and procedure remain the same. Follow your vehicle's maintenance schedule regardless of which brand of filter you use.

Where should I buy a Wix filter after cross referencing?

Authorized retailers like Napa, RockAuto, Walmart, and your local auto parts store all carry Wix filters. Buying from these sources reduces the risk of receiving a counterfeit filter. Wix's website also lists authorized distributors by region if you want to verify a retailer before purchasing.