I thought it would be useful to recap recomended oil filters for the 3.5L 2k2-2k3 other than the new, smaller Nissan OEM filter and perhaps summarize the benefits of one versus the other(i.e., ability to filter, bypass valve location). Several of us have tried alternatives including the STP6941 and Purolator 24468 Premium Plus and the standard filter replacement for the 3.0L 2k-2k1 Max.
Personally, I would like to use something larger than the Nissan OEM filter on my 2k3 but am unsure which ones have been thoroughly tested, fit properly, flow at least as well as the Oem and are recommended. Bill/others, would appreciate your input.

 

this is what he said in the general forum when I asked a similar question...


Cliff Notes for VQs:

Dino oil:
Castrol GTX 5W/30
Drain Interval: 5k

Synthetic oil:
Mobil 1 5W/30
Drain interval: 10k with 5k oil filter change

Oil Filters:
Nissan OEM
STP S6941 (at AutoZone)


Why do you want a larger filter? If you read around here about filters you'll find the size of the filter isn't as important as the medium inside. That's why a larger filter isn't always better, and can be much worse. Go for quality, man, not diameter or price. Appearance can be deceiving.

 

http://forums.max-world.org/index.php?act=ST&f=37&t=230

http://forums.maxima.org/showthread....ghlight=L24458



L24458 is working perfectly for me. I will be changing it out in a week or so and definately will use another one.

 

Agree with quality but perhaps one could obtain enhanced filtering with a high quality but larger filter. There are high quality filters available like Mobil 1, Amsoil, Purolator and Bosch. What models in these filters fit the 2k2-2k3 Max in an oversize replacement? For example, some say to use the Mobil 110 while other say the 108 is the better size. Also, there are differences in by-pass valve placement and opening psi. I think it would useful to know more. BTW, The STP 6941 mentioned is an oversize filter replacement.

 

Does the Purolator L24468 have a top/dome or baseplate mounted by-pass valve? I know the PureOne filters have the top by-pass and that(and it being a little too restrictive in flow) is why I have purchased filters by Mobil, Bosch and Nissan when I owned my '99 Max. Also, does anyone know if the Nissan OEM filter has the by-pass valve in the top dome area or the baseplate?

 

I don't know anything about the L24468. I said about 10 times already that I have been using the L24458 and it does have a valve on it. Go to the store and look these filters over for yourself and pick the one you would feel most comfortable with.

 

I cannot tell by looking at a filter if I am comfortable with it and I don't believe I have asked you 10 times if this filter has a top or baseplate bypass. There are folks out there that might have a Purolator master catalog or know the location of the bypass and/or bypass opening psi on the Premium Plus line of filters(i.e., the L24468). For example, I understand that the Mobil 1, Bosch and STP filters have the baseplate bypass(as they are all made by Champion).
In any event, thanks for the recommendation and I did indeed read it on another post when I did a search on this subject. I do believe there is a lot more information that can be had on other alternatives, their specs, what fits in an oversize filter, etc.
From the other posts, all I can tell is the STP6941 and the Purolator L24468 are recommended as alternatives to the Nissan OEM.

 

Correction....Purolator L24458 is what I meant in my above posts, not the L24468. Sorry.