The Wix 51348 is a spin-on oil filter that fits specific Chrysler, Dodge, and Jeep models from the 1980s through early 2000s

The Wix 51348 is a standard spin-on filter — the kind you twist off and twist back on by hand. It was manufactured to fit Chrysler Corporation vehicles, primarily older Dodge trucks and Jeeps with small-block engines. Before you buy one, you need to confirm your vehicle's year, make, model, and engine size, because this filter does not fit every vehicle with those brand names.

The filter itself is about 3.5 inches tall and 2.75 inches in diameter, with a standard 3/4-inch-16 thread size that matches the filter head on compatible engines. Wix is a major filter manufacturer owned by Mann+Hummel, and the 51348 is one of their older part numbers still available through some retailers and salvage suppliers.

Key Takeaways

  • The Wix 51348 fits specific Chrysler, Dodge, and Jeep models from roughly 1980 to 2005, so you must verify your exact vehicle before ordering.
  • You can find your vehicle's correct filter by checking your owner's manual, calling a Chrysler dealer parts department, or using an online filter cross-reference tool with your VIN.
  • Installation takes about 10 minutes: drain the old oil first, unscrew the old filter, clean the filter head, and hand-tighten the new one until the rubber gasket touches, then turn it three-quarters of a turn more.
  • The 51348 is an older part number, so availability varies — you may find it through salvage yards, eBay, or specialty suppliers rather than major auto parts chains.

How to confirm the 51348 fits your vehicle

The fastest way is to look in your owner's manual under "Maintenance" or "Specifications." The manual will list the correct filter part number for your engine. If you do not have the manual, you can order a reprint from Chrysler or find a free PDF online by searching your vehicle's year, make, and model plus "owner's manual."

A second option is to call a Chrysler, Dodge, or Jeep dealer parts department. Give them your vehicle identification number (VIN), which is on your dashboard at the base of the windshield on the driver's side, or on your registration. The parts clerk will tell you the correct filter in seconds. This is free and takes one phone call.

A third option is to use an online filter cross-reference tool. RockAuto, FCP Euro, and Amazon all have search functions where you enter your year, make, and model, and the site shows you compatible filters. These tools are usually accurate, but always double-check the part number against your manual or a dealer before ordering an older part number like the 51348.

Step-by-step installation of the Wix 51348

Start by warming up your engine for two or three minutes, then turn it off and wait five minutes. Warm oil flows faster and drains more completely. Locate the oil drain plug underneath the engine — it is a bolt with a hex head, usually 15 or 17 millimeters. Place a drain pan underneath it, unscrew the plug by hand or with a wrench, and let the old oil drain completely into the pan. This takes about five minutes.

While the oil drains, locate the oil filter. On most Dodge trucks and Jeeps that use the 51348, the filter is on the side of the engine block, mounted vertically. Position your drain pan underneath it. Use an oil filter wrench — a metal band or socket that grips the filter — to unscrew it counterclockwise. If you do not have a filter wrench, you can wrap an old towel around the filter for grip, but a wrench is faster and safer. Once the filter is loose, unscrew it by hand and set it aside.

Wipe the filter head — the metal surface where the old filter was mounted — with a clean rag. Remove any old rubber gasket material or debris. Take your new Wix 51348 filter and explore a thin coat of fresh oil to the rubber gasket around the top. This helps the gasket seal properly and makes removal easier next time.

Screw the new filter onto the head by hand until the rubber gasket just touches the metal surface. Then turn it an additional three-quarters of a turn. Do not use a wrench — hand-tight is correct. Over-tightening can damage the gasket and make the filter hard to remove later. Reinstall the drain plug, tighten it firmly but not with all your strength, and wipe up any spilled oil.

Where to find the Wix 51348 today

The 51348 is an older part number, so it is not stocked by most chain auto parts stores like AutoZone or O'Reilly. Your best sources are online marketplaces like eBay, where you can often find new old stock or recently removed filters from salvage vehicles. RockAuto sometimes carries it, and specialty suppliers that focus on vintage Chrysler products may have it in stock.

If you cannot find the 51348, ask a Chrysler dealer or use a cross-reference tool to find a modern equivalent. Wix and other manufacturers have updated their numbering over the years, and a newer filter with the same thread size and gasket diameter will work. The important specifications are the 3/4-inch-16 thread size and a height and diameter that fit your engine's filter head.

What to do with the old filter

Do not throw an old oil filter in the trash. Oil filters contain residual oil and are considered hazardous waste in most places. Take the old filter to an auto parts store — most accept used filters for free, and some offer a small core credit if you bought the new filter from them. You can also take it to a quick-lube shop or a municipal hazardous waste collection day.

Many retailers will accept the old filter without requiring proof of purchase, though calling ahead to confirm their policy saves a trip. Some shops charge a small fee if you did not buy the replacement filter from them, but this is uncommon. Proper disposal protects groundwater and keeps hazardous materials out of landfills.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different Wix filter number if I cannot find the 51348?

Yes, as long as the replacement has the same thread size (3/4-inch-16) and fits your filter head without hitting other engine parts. Contact a Chrysler dealer or use an online cross-reference to find a modern Wix number that works for your vehicle. Never force a filter onto the head if it does not fit smoothly.

How often should I change the oil filter?

Most vehicles need an oil filter change every 3,000 to 7,500 miles, depending on your engine type and oil viscosity. Check your owner's manual for the exact interval for your vehicle. Many people change the filter every time they change the oil, which is a safe practice.

What if the old filter is stuck and will not unscrew?

Tap the filter wrench with a hammer to break the seal, or try wrapping a rubber band around the filter for extra grip. If it is still stuck, spray penetrating oil around the base where the filter meets the head, wait 15 minutes, and try again. As a last resort, carefully puncture the filter with a screwdriver to drain remaining oil, then unscrew it.

Is the Wix 51348 better than other filter brands?

Wix is a reputable manufacturer, but many other brands like Fram, Motorcraft, and Bosch make filters that fit the same vehicles. The most important thing is using the correct part number for your engine. Any quality filter from a major manufacturer will protect your engine adequately.