2.3L Oil Filter Issue

[markus3]

So I went to buy my oil filter for 2005 2.3L. What the heck is this? We have some cartridge filter? I can't believe it isn't a spin on! The 2.3L Focus is, so I assumed this would be the same. Is there any way of getting a spin on adapter (Focus maybe)? I feel like I'm changing my 1969 Triumph oil with this method! This filter doesn't look like it would stop anything! Any ideas?

FRAM CH9641

 

[dajiggalo]

So I went to buy my oil filter for 2005 2.3L. What the heck is this? We have some cartridge filter? I can't believe it isn't a spin on! The 2.3L Focus is, so I assumed this would be the same. Is there any way of getting a spin on adapter (Focus maybe)? I feel like I'm changing my 1969 Triumph oil with this method! This filter doesn't look like it would stop anything! Any ideas?

FRAM CH9641

Yes, the Mazda3 uses a cartridge filter. Yes, it is possible to modify it, so it can use a spin-out filter. Just search the forum (I believe it was first posted on the Mazda6 board but the Mazda6 has the same 2.3L engine so it should'nt be a problem).

 

[TomH]

http://www.mazda6tech.com/articles/how-to/convert-the-6i-cartridge-filter-to-a-spin-on-3.html

I've already done this to our 05 5 door and will HIGHLY recommend it to anyone who wants quick and easy oil changes. IMHO, the stock cartridge setup SUCKS!

 

[Forrest]

Check with your dealer about the warranty before you do the swap. One of the online retailers selling the conversion kit is saying it will void the engine warranty.

I personally don't mind the cartridge system.

 

[TomH]

Check with your dealer about the warranty before you do the swap. One of the online retailers selling the conversion kit is saying it will void the engine warranty.

The warranty can be voided ONLY if the damage/defect was caused by the spin-on filter block, and the burden of proof is on Mazda to prove this. Example, if your taillamp needs to be replaced because of a defect, Mazda cannot deny the warranty on the taillamp just because you changed the filter block.

Like the OP said, the Focus 2.3 comes with the spin-on setup from the factory, why Mazda had to give us this lame cartridge setup is beyond me.

 

[mobomelter]

mazda could void your warranty if anything went wrong with your engine. remember its their warranty and there isn't much you can do about it. for example lets say (Worst case scenario) your oil pan gets a hole in it somehow and the engine seizes. mazda would probably blame it on your filter setup because they don't want to pay out.

 

[TomH]

So basically what I'm seeing is that a lot of folks want to do the spin-on conversion, but are scared this will void the warranty. I say, don't be! Like I said, this setup comes stock on both the MZ3 2.0 engine and all versions of the Ford Focus. The chances of this conversion DIRECTLY causing any kind of engine problems are very slim-to-none, if done correctly. In fact, someone who is not familiar with the overly complicated cartridge setup may cause damage unknowingly by not installing the cartridge, cover, and/or o-rings correctly thereby causing leaks.

For DIY oil changers, a spin on filter is your best friend, quick and painless! Not to mention the spin on filters are much cheaper.

 

[goldwing2000]

I changed mine and I'm much happier.

Like Tom said, you have more of a chance of screwing something up with the crazy cartridge than you do with a spin-on. If you crack that plastic cap or pinch one of the o-rings and all your oil comes out, you're SOL. I feel much safer with a conventional filter.

 

[markus3]

So how do you buy the adapter (dealer?)? Is it cheaper through Mazda or Ford? Should I buy a 2.0 Mazda3 adapter or a 2.3 Focus adapter? Is the 2.0 Focus adapter the same as the 2.3 Focus? How much $ are we talking? Are the bolts easy to get to for adapter removal? Any hints on known issues when doing the conversion?

 

[TomH]

So how do you buy the adapter (dealer?)? Is it cheaper through Mazda or Ford? Should I buy a 2.0 Mazda3 adapter or a 2.3 Focus adapter? Is the 2.0 Focus adapter the same as the 2.3 Focus? How much $ are we talking? Are the bolts easy to get to for adapter removal? Any hints on known issues when doing the conversion?

The link I posted above should answer all your questions.

 

[markus3]

I didnt get the link.............

 

[goldwing2000]

I didnt get the link.............

It's in post #3 on this thread. (scratch)

 

[fkmp5]

Check with your dealer about the warranty before you do the swap. One of the online retailers selling the conversion kit is saying it will void the engine warranty.

The warranty can be voided ONLY if the damage/defect was caused by the spin-on filter block, and the burden of proof is on Mazda to prove this. Example, if your taillamp needs to be replaced because of a defect, Mazda cannot deny the warranty on the taillamp just because you changed the filter block.

isn't that what Forrest was getting at??

 

[goldwing2000]

isn't that what Forrest was getting at??

Not exactly. Installing the parts won't automatically void your warranty. Only if those parts cause the failure.

Since the parts most people are installing are Mazda Factory parts and the installation is unbelievably simple, it would be difficult to prove such a thing (unless the installer is a complete buffoon).

 

[Forrest]

Not exactly. Installing the parts won't automatically void your warranty. Only if those parts cause the failure.

Since the parts most people are installing are Mazda Factory parts and the installation is unbelievably simple, it would be difficult to prove such a thing (unless the installer is a complete buffoon).

I can't seem to find that site again. It was one of those dealer sites selling Mazda parts and accessories.

The site clearly indicated that installing the conversion kit would void the engine warranty. I'm sure you could split hairs with them if push came to shove. All I was saying was check with your dealer first to be on the safe side, even have your dealer do the conversion if it's that big a deal.

 

[Loose]

Complete buffoon!

Since the parts most people are installing are Mazda Factory parts and the installation is unbelievably simple, it would be difficult to prove such a thing (unless the installer is a complete buffoon).

(crazy)

 

[TomH]

(crazy)

Not crazy at all. GW2000 isn't kidding when he said that swapping out the filter blocks was simple. If you can do your own oil changes and other simple maintenence, the conversion is a piece of cake!

 

[Loose]

(unless the installer is a complete buffoon).

Please read under my name title "Registered Buffoon" This was intended as a j/k.

I to have converted and recommend it.

 

[TomH]

Please read under my name title "Registered Buffoon" This was intended as a j/k.

I to have converted and recommend it.

Thanks! Didn't catch that one. (cool)

 

[Loose]

Thanks! Didn't catch that one. (cool)

It's all good Tom.