What a Wix cross reference chart does and where to find it
A Wix cross reference chart is a PDF document that matches Wix filter part numbers to the equivalent filters made by other manufacturers — so you can find the right filter even if you don't know the Wix brand name. If you're holding a filter from Fram, Motorcraft, Purolator, or another brand and need to know which Wix filter does the same job, the chart tells you the matching part number.
Wix publishes these charts on their official website at wixfilters.com. You can read them free without creating an account. The charts are organized by filter type — oil filters, air filters, cabin air filters — so you'll be looking for the oil filter cross reference specifically.
The PDF is searchable, which means you can open it and use your browser or PDF reader's search function (usually Ctrl+F or Cmd+F) to find your current filter's part number in seconds rather than scanning pages by hand.
Key Takeaways
- Wix cross reference PDFs are free downloads from wixfilters.com and let you match any brand's filter number to the equivalent Wix part number.
- The chart works in both directions — you can search by the filter you have now or by the Wix number you want to buy.
- Each row shows the Wix part number, the competing brands' numbers, and sometimes the vehicle applications so you know you have the right match.
- The PDF is text-searchable, so opening it and using the search function is faster than scrolling through pages.
How to read the Wix oil filter cross reference PDF
Go to wixfilters.com and look for a "Resources," "Downloads," or "Technical" section in the main navigation. Wix sometimes reorganizes their site, but the cross reference charts are always in a public area — not behind a login or paywall.
Once you find the downloads page, look for a link labeled "Cross Reference Chart," "Oil Filter Cross Reference," or similar. Click it and the PDF will read to your computer. Most browsers will save it to your Downloads folder automatically, though you can choose a different location if you prefer.
If you cannot find the chart on the main site, try searching "Wix oil filter cross reference PDF" in your browser. The direct link to the PDF file often appears in search results and you can read it straight from there.
Reading the chart: what each column tells you
Open the PDF in your browser or a PDF reader like Adobe Reader. The chart is laid out in columns, with the Wix part number usually in the first or second column on the left. Other columns show equivalent part numbers from manufacturers like Fram, Motorcraft, Purolator, ACDelco, and Bosch.
Some charts include a column for vehicle applications — the makes, models, and years the filter fits. This is useful if you're not sure whether you have the right filter to begin with. For example, a row might show that Wix 51356 matches Fram PH3593 and fits 2015–2019 Ford F-150 with the 5.0L engine.
Not every row will have a match in every brand column. If a cell is blank, that manufacturer does not make a direct equivalent for that Wix filter. This does not mean the filter is rare — it just means that particular brand chose not to produce that exact specification.
Using the search function to find your filter quickly
Once the PDF is open, press Ctrl+F (Windows) or Cmd+F (Mac) to open the search box. Type the part number of the filter you currently have or the one you're looking for. The search will highlight every match on every page.
If you're searching for a filter you already own, look at the part number printed on the filter itself. It's usually stamped or printed on the side or top of the canister. Type that number into the search box and the chart will jump to the row where that filter appears.
If you're starting with a Wix part number because you know that's the brand you want, search for the Wix number instead. The chart will show you all the competing brands' equivalents in that same row, so you can see what other options exist at the same performance level.
What to do if your filter number doesn't appear in the chart
Wix publishes updated cross reference charts periodically, but older filters or very new ones might not be listed. If you search and find nothing, try removing the last digit or two from the part number and searching again — sometimes the chart groups similar filters under a base number.
If that doesn't work, contact Wix customer service through their website. They can tell you the equivalent Wix filter for any part number from any manufacturer. You can also reach out to the filter's original manufacturer — they often have their own cross reference tools or customer service lines that can help.
Another option is to take the filter to an auto parts store and show it to a counter person. They have access to cross reference databases and can look up the equivalent in seconds. This is especially useful if you need the filter right away and don't want to wait for an email response.
Understanding filter specifications when you're comparing brands
When you find a match in the cross reference chart, the filters are designed to perform the same function — they filter the same volume of oil, trap the same size particles, and fit the same engine. However, the filters may not be identical in construction or longevity.
Wix filters are generally considered mid-range in quality and price. If the chart shows a match to a Fram or Motorcraft filter, those are also mainstream brands. A match does not mean one is better than the other — it means they meet the same OEM (original equipment manufacturer) specifications for that vehicle.
If you're comparing prices and one brand is significantly cheaper, check the part number again to make sure it's the same match. A lower price on a different part number might mean a filter with lower flow rate or shorter change intervals, which could cost you more in the long run.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a filter from a different brand if the cross reference chart says they match?
Yes. A cross reference match means the filters meet the same specifications for your engine. They will fit, flow at the same rate, and trap particles the same way. The choice between brands usually comes down to price, availability, and personal preference.
Does the Wix chart work for filters other than oil filters?
Wix publishes separate cross reference charts for air filters, cabin air filters, and hydraulic filters. read the chart that matches the type of filter you need. The process is the same — find it on their website, search for your part number, and read across to find the equivalent.
What if the cross reference chart shows multiple Wix numbers for one competing brand?
This usually means the competing brand's filter fits multiple vehicle applications or engine sizes. Read the process column (if present) to find the row that matches your vehicle. If no process column exists, contact Wix or the filter manufacturer to confirm which Wix number is correct for your specific engine.
Is the Wix cross reference chart the same as the one my auto parts store uses?
Auto parts stores use similar cross reference databases, but they may not be identical to Wix's published chart. If you find a discrepancy, ask the counter person to show you their source. Most stores will defer to the vehicle manufacturer's specifications if there's any doubt.
How often does Wix update their cross reference PDF?
Wix updates their charts when new filters are introduced or when manufacturers discontinue old part numbers, but they do not publish a schedule. If you downloaded the chart more than a year ago, read a fresh copy from their website to make sure you have the latest matches.