Who builds Motorcraft oil filters?
Motorcraft oil filters are not produced by a single company; Ford contracts multiple manufacturers to supply Motorcraft products, and the builder varies by model, year, and region.
In some markets, industry sources have identified suppliers such as Mann+Hummel and Mahle as being involved in producing Motorcraft filters under contract, while other parts are sourced from different OEMs. Ford does not publish a complete, global list of partner manufacturers for all Motorcraft filters.
Understanding Motorcraft's sourcing model
Motorcraft is Ford’s official parts brand, covering maintenance items like oil filters, air filters, and spark plugs. Rather than manufacturing all items in-house, Ford partners with external filter manufacturers under contract to meet Ford’s specifications and performance standards. The result is a consistent set of performance expectations across markets, even though the exact builder can change over time or by product line.
Why the supplier can vary
Global supply chains, regional manufacturing capabilities, and evolving partnerships mean different facilities may produce the same Motorcraft part for different regions or model years. This can affect where the item is manufactured and which OEM name appears on the packaging.
Common suppliers associated with Motorcraft filters
Several major OEMs are commonly cited in industry references as being involved in producing Motorcraft filters, though the official, comprehensive list is not publicly published by Ford. The following names are often mentioned in compatibility guides and aftermarket references, depending on the market and specific part number:
- Mann+Hummel
- Mahle
- Other regional or contract manufacturers (vary by part number and market)
The exact manufacturer for a given Motorcraft oil filter can differ by region and part designation, so it’s important to verify the specific supplier for your vehicle’s filter.
How to verify the builder for your Motorcraft filter
If you need to confirm the exact manufacturer for your filter, follow these steps:
- Locate the part number printed on the filter itself or on its packaging.
- Consult Ford’s official Motorcraft catalog or service literature for that part number to see the listed supplier.
- Check the packaging or retailer listing for any mention of the manufacturer; note that some listings may refer to the part number alone.
- When in doubt, contact Ford Customer Service or your local Ford dealer for confirmation specific to your vehicle and market.
In practice, owners who purchase through authorized dealers or official Ford catalogs are more likely to receive a filter that matches Ford’s intended specifications, regardless of which OEM produced it.
What this means for maintenance and purchases
For most drivers, the key takeaway is that Motorcraft filters are designed to meet Ford’s performance specifications, but the actual producer may vary. When replacing your oil filter, use the correct Motorcraft part number for your vehicle and purchase from reputable sources to ensure compatibility and performance. If you’re chasing a specific supplier (for warranty or restoration reasons), verify the part’s listed manufacturer before purchase.
Summary
Motorcraft oil filters are not tied to a single in-house manufacturer. Ford uses multiple contract suppliers to produce Motorcraft filters, with the exact builder differing by part number and region. Common names that appear in industry references include Mann+Hummel and Mahle, but the official supplier for a given filter can vary. To be sure you get the correct filter, rely on Ford’s part catalogs or consult a trusted dealer, and check the packaging for the listed manufacturer when possible.
Are Napa Gold filters still made by WIX?
Correct. I went on the shelf. And started ing filters from the shelf. And the Car Quest that I have they actually are still Wix filters. But the new ones.
What oil filters does Ford use?
Tested and retested under extreme conditions, Motorcraft filters are also the only filters recommended for Ford, Lincoln and Mercury vehicles. Helps protect against engine wear by screening out abrasives, such as carbon, sand, dust and bits of metal.
Where are Ford Motorcraft filters made?
Motorcraft filters are made in various locations, including the USA, Mexico, and China, and are manufactured by different companies like Purolator (which is owned by Mann+Hummel) and potentially others. There isn't one single country of origin for all Motorcraft filters, as their production location can vary by part number and even the specific product batch.
- Varying origins: While some Motorcraft filters are made in the USA, others are now manufactured in Mexico or China, according to customer reports and product listings.
- Different manufacturers: Purolator is a known manufacturer for Motorcraft filters, but the filters are also produced by other companies. Purolator is owned by the German company Mann+Hummel.
- Conflicting information: It's common for customers to find different "Made in" stamps on the same part number over time, and some may even be confused with counterfeits.
- Check the part: To know for sure, you should always check the "Made in" information printed on the specific filter you are purchasing.
Is a Motorcraft oil filter good?
Yes, Motorcraft oil filters are generally considered good, especially for Ford, Lincoln, and Mercury vehicles, as they are made to OEM specifications and designed to work with the vehicle's specific engine. While they may not always be the top-rated in cut-open tests compared to some aftermarket options with superior pleating, they are a reliable, recommended choice that protects against engine wear and provides peace of mind for owners who want to use genuine parts.
Pros of using Motorcraft oil filters
- OEM specifications: They are designed to meet the exact specifications of Ford vehicles, ensuring they work correctly with the engine.
- Engine protection: They are designed to screen out abrasives like sand, dust, and metal bits to protect the engine from wear.
- Recommended for Ford vehicles: They are the only filters specifically recommended by Ford for their vehicles.
- Peace of mind: Using an OEM part provides the assurance that you are using a part made specifically for your vehicle.
Potential considerations
- Cut-open filter tests: Some independent tests have noted that while Motorcraft filters perform well, some aftermarket brands may have superior pleating or construction in other areas.
- Not always the cheapest: As an OEM part, they may sometimes be more expensive than some aftermarket alternatives.
