Principal Skinr
Member
The Mopar part# is MO-349. I think it's the same on the 17 too. :yup:
I won't lie, I was a little concerned to see that. It looked as if the element were crushed - as in, it was the wrong filter and too long. I actually took a moment to make sure the bird cage wasn't damaged like we've seen on JK's.
That's normal for the Mopar filter to be contorted like that. Go to Wal Mart and open a few of them. I opened three and they were all that way. If someone has one that is not contorted, then it likely came from an alternative supplier, or they are not consistent. I strongly suspect the Mopar is made by Purolator, as theirs are identical in every way. It really should not be a problem, although it does look abnormal.
I run a Fram Ultra Guard. It filters better, longer, and the pleats are backed by a metal framework. It is rated to 20,000 miles and will come out as straight as new. It has a rating of 99% filtration of particles down to 20 microns, which is best in the industry. Even the Mobil 1 filter, which is constructed the same way as the Fram Ultra Guard, doesn't filter that well, at 99% filtration down to 30 microns. The Mobil 1 filter is a very good option, too, but runs about 15 bucks, versus the Fram's 12. Another great option, for probably around 6 bucks is a basic Fram. There are some other good fiters out there, too.
If you don't want to sweat over it, just keep running the Mopars. They'll do fine and that 3.6 should last a very long time with them. The good news is that you can look the filter over after each oil change and really see how it holds up.