The Ultimate NAPA Oil Filter Cross Reference Guide

2025-11-12

Navigating the world of oil filters can be complex, but using a ​NAPA oil filter cross reference​ simplifies the process immensely. This guide provides a comprehensive, easy-to-use reference to help you find the exact NAPA Oil Filter equivalent for your vehicle, regardless of the brand you currently use. The core principle is straightforward: NAPA filters, including the premium ​NAPA Gold​ and the standard ​NAPA Silver​ lines, are high-quality alternatives to other major brands. By the end of this article, you will be able to confidently cross-reference filters from Fram, Motorcraft, Bosch, K&N, WIX, and many more to their corresponding NAPA part number, ensuring your engine receives the protection it needs.

​Understanding NAPA Oil Filter Lines: Gold vs. Silver​

NAPA primarily offers two main lines of oil filters: Gold and Silver. Understanding the difference between them is the first step in making an informed decision.

The ​NAPA Gold​ oil filter is the premium option. It is manufactured by WIX Filters, a respected name in the filtration industry, and is known for its high performance and durability. Key features of a NAPA Gold filter typically include a robust spin-on design, a heavy-duty canister that resists dents and damage, and advanced filtering media. This media is designed to trap a high percentage of harmful contaminants while maintaining optimal oil flow. Many NAPA Gold filters also incorporate a silicone anti-drainback valve. This valve is crucial because it prevents oil from draining out of the filter when the engine is off. This ensures that the moment you start your engine, oil pressure is built immediately, reducing wear on engine components during those critical first seconds. For most modern engines, especially those operating in severe conditions or for owners who practice extended oil change intervals, the ​NAPA Gold​ is the recommended choice.

The ​NAPA Silver​ oil filter is the standard, economical option. It provides reliable protection for standard driving conditions and is perfectly adequate for vehicles that adhere to regular oil change schedules. While it may not have all the premium features of the Gold filter, such as the high-capacity media or the silicone anti-drainback valve, it is still a well-constructed filter that meets or exceeds the vehicle manufacturer's basic requirements. The NAPA Silver is an excellent choice for older vehicles or for situations where budget is a primary concern, but you still want the assurance of the NAPA name.

​Why Cross-Reference? The Importance of a Correct Fit​

Using the correct oil filter is not a mere suggestion; it is a critical aspect of vehicle maintenance. An incorrect filter can lead to serious engine problems. The primary reasons for using an accurate cross-reference are fitment, flow rate, and bypass valve settings.

​Fitment​ is the most obvious concern. The filter must screw onto the engine's mounting plate correctly. The thread size and pitch must be a perfect match. Furthermore, the gasket must seat properly against the engine block to prevent high-pressure oil leaks, which can be dangerous and lead to engine failure.

​Oil Flow Rate​ is a less obvious but equally important factor. Each engine is designed to operate with a specific oil pressure. The filter's internal design and media density create a resistance to oil flow. A filter that is too restrictive can starve the engine of oil, while one that is not restrictive enough may allow oil to flow through without being properly filtered. Reputable aftermarket filters like NAPA are engineered to match the flow characteristics of the original equipment filters.

The ​Bypass Valve​ is a safety feature built into every oil filter. If the filter becomes clogged with contaminants (for instance, if you go far beyond your oil change interval), the increased oil pressure will cause this valve to open. This allows unfiltered oil to bypass the clogged filter element and still circulate through the engine, preventing oil starvation. While this means the oil is unfiltered, it is better than having no oil flow at all. This valve is calibrated to open at a specific pressure. Using a filter with an incorrect bypass valve setting can cause it to open prematurely, constantly allowing dirty oil to circulate, or open too late, risking oil starvation. NAPA filters are designed with the correct bypass valve pressure for each application.

​How to Use This NAPA Oil Filter Cross-Reference​

The tables below are organized by popular filter brands. To find your NAPA equivalent, locate the brand and part number you are currently using or that is listed in your owner's manual. Then, find the corresponding NAPA Gold and NAPA Silver part numbers. It is always best practice to double-check the fitment by comparing the specifications of the filters or consulting with a professional at a NAPA Auto Parts store before installation.

​Major Brand Cross-Reference to NAPA Filters​

  • ​Fram to NAPA Cross Reference​
    Fram is one of the most common filter brands. Here are some popular equivalents:

    • Fram PH8A -> NAPA Gold 1515
    • Fram PH2 -> NAPA Gold 1348
    • Fram PH16 -> NAPA Gold 1381
    • Fram XG2 -> NAPA Gold 21342 (Note: The NAPA Gold is a direct equivalent to Fram's extra guard line. For their high-performance synthetic media filters, the NAPA Platinum series would be a closer match).

  • ​Motorcraft to NAPA Cross Reference​
    Motorcraft is the original equipment supplier for Ford vehicles.

    • Motorcraft FL1A -> NAPA Gold 1515
    • Motorcraft FL-400S -> NAPA Gold 1365
    • Motorcraft FL-820S -> NAPA Gold 7068

  • ​Bosch to NAPA Cross Reference​

    • Bosch 3300 -> NAPA Gold 1348
    • Bosch 3323 -> NAPA Gold 1365
    • Bosch 72161 -> NAPA Gold 7068

  • ​K&N to NAPA Cross Reference​
    K&N filters are known for their high-flow design and nut on the bottom for easy removal.

    • K&N HP-1001 -> NAPA Gold 1069
    • K&N HP-1002 -> NAPA Gold 1348
    • K&N HP-2003 -> NAPA Gold 1365
    • K&N HP-3001 -> NAPA Gold 1515

  • ​WIX to NAPA Cross Reference​
    This is the simplest cross-reference because NAPA Gold filters are manufactured by WIX. The part numbers are often very similar or identical in specification, though the number itself may differ. For example:

    • WIX 51056 -> NAPA Gold 1056
    • WIX 51394 -> NAPA Gold 1394
    • WIX 51515 -> NAPA Gold 1515

  • ​ACDelco to NAPA Cross Reference​
    ACDelco is a common OEM supplier for General Motors vehicles.

    • ACDelco PF61 -> NAPA Gold 1069
    • ACDelco PF46 -> NAPA Gold 1381
    • ACDelco PF48 -> NAPA Gold 1048

  • ​Mopar to NAPA Cross Reference​
    For Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, and Ram vehicles.

    • Mopar 5281090 -> NAPA Gold 7013

  • ​Purolator to NAPA Cross Reference​

    • Purolator PL10241 -> NAPA Gold 1041
    • Purolator PL14610 -> NAPA Gold 1381
    • Purolator PL30001 -> NAPA Gold 1365

​Comprehensive NAPA Filter Number List​

For quick reference, here is a list of some of the most popular NAPA Gold and Silver filters and their common applications.

  • ​NAPA Gold 1010 / Silver 1100: A very common filter for many 4-cylinder and 6-cylinder engines from Honda, Toyota, Subaru, and others.
  • ​NAPA Gold 1042 / Silver 1142: Frequently used in older GM V6 and V8 engines.
  • ​NAPA Gold 1069 / Silver 1169: Common for many GM 4-cylinder and 6-cylinder engines (replaces AC Delco PF61).
  • ​NAPA Gold 1348 / Silver 1134: A widely used filter for many Ford 4-cylinder, 6-cylinder, and small V8 engines (replaces Motorcraft FL-1A in some older applications, but always check specifications).
  • ​NAPA Gold 1365 / Silver 1136: The standard filter for many modern Ford V6 and V8 engines (replaces Motorcraft FL-820S).
  • ​NAPA Gold 1381 / Silver 1138: Common for a wide range of vehicles, including many GM V6 engines and Toyota trucks.
  • ​NAPA Gold 1515 / Silver 1151: A large-capacity filter for older Ford, GM, and Chrysler V8 engines, as well as many industrial and small engine applications.
  • ​NAPA Gold 7068 / Silver 17068: Used in many modern Chrysler Pentastar V6 engines and other applications.

​Vehicle-Specific NAPA Oil Filter Guide​

While cross-referencing from a brand you know is effective, you can also find the correct NAPA filter directly for your vehicle. Here are examples for some of the most popular vehicles on the road.

  • ​Toyota Camry (4-cylinder, 2015-2020)​: NAPA Gold 1069 or Silver 1169.
  • ​Honda Civic (1.5L Turbo, 2016-2021)​: NAPA Gold 7013 or Silver 17013.
  • ​Ford F-150 (5.0L V8, 2015-2020)​: NAPA Gold 1365 or Silver 1136.
  • ​Chevrolet Silverado (5.3L V8, 2014-2018)​: NAPA Gold 1381 or Silver 1138.
  • ​Ram 1500 (5.7L Hemi, 2010-2018)​: NAPA Gold 7013 or Silver 17013.

​Step-by-Step Guide to Changing Your Oil and Filter​

Once you have the correct NAPA filter, proper installation is key.

  1. ​Gather Supplies: You will need new engine oil (check your owner's manual for type and quantity), your new NAPA oil filter, a wrench or socket for the drain plug, an oil filter wrench, a drain pan, gloves, and safety glasses.
  2. ​Prepare the Vehicle: Park on a level surface and engage the parking brake. For added security, chock the rear wheels. Run the engine for a few minutes to warm the oil, which will help it drain more completely. Then, turn off the engine.
  3. ​Drain the Oil: Locate the oil drain plug underneath the engine. Place the drain pan directly beneath it. Using the correct socket or wrench, loosen the drain plug. Once loose, carefully unscrew it by hand, being prepared for hot oil to flow immediately. Push the plug away from the hole as you remove it to avoid the oil stream. Allow the oil to drain completely.
  4. ​Remove the Old Oil Filter: Move the drain pan under the oil filter. Use an oil filter wrench to loosen the old filter. It will be full of oil, so handle it carefully. Tip the open end of the old filter into the drain pan to empty it. Wipe the filter mounting surface on the engine block clean with a rag.
  5. ​Install the New NAPA Filter: Take your new NAPA filter and dip your finger in some fresh oil. Smear a thin layer of oil on the rubber gasket of the new filter. This ensures a good seal and prevents the gasket from sticking. Screw the new filter onto the engine by hand until the gasket makes contact. Then, tighten it an additional three-quarter turn by hand. Do not use the filter wrench for tightening, as this can damage the gasket.
  6. ​Reinstall the Drain Plug and Add Oil: Once the oil has finished draining, reinstall the drain plug. Be careful not to over-tighten it. Now, under the hood, remove the oil fill cap and add the new, clean oil. Use a funnel to avoid spills. Add about one quart less than the required amount.
  7. ​Check for Leaks and Final Level: Start the engine and let it run for about a minute. While it's running, look under the vehicle at the drain plug and the new oil filter for any signs of leaks. Turn off the engine, wait a minute for the oil to settle, and then check the dipstick. Add oil as necessary to bring the level to the full mark. Reinstall the oil fill cap.

​Troubleshooting Common Oil Filter Issues​

Even with a high-quality NAPA filter, issues can arise if there are mistakes during installation.

  • ​Oil Leak from the Filter Base: This is almost always caused by an improper seal. The most common reasons are: a) the old filter's gasket stuck to the engine block and the new filter was installed on top of it, creating a double gasket; b) the new filter's gasket was not lubricated with oil and was pinched during installation; or c) the filter was not tightened sufficiently. To fix this, double-check that the old gasket is removed, lubricate the new gasket, and hand-tighten firmly.
  • ​Low Oil Pressure Light Flickers at Idle: If this happens after an oil change, it could indicate that the filter is the wrong type and is too restrictive, or that there is an issue with the filter's anti-drainback valve. However, it is more likely that the incorrect viscosity of oil was used, or the oil level is low. First, recheck the oil level and the oil type. If those are correct, the filter itself may be defective, which is rare with NAPA filters but possible.
  • ​Engine Makes Noise on Startup: This can be a sign that the oil filter's anti-drainback valve has failed or is not functioning correctly, allowing oil to drain out of the filter and the engine's galleries overnight. This causes a brief moment of oil starvation upon startup. If you are using a NAPA Silver filter and experience this, upgrading to a NAPA Gold filter with its superior silicone anti-drainback valve often resolves the issue.

​Conclusion: Confidence Through the Right Cross-Reference​

Using a reliable ​NAPA oil filter cross reference​ empowers you to maintain your vehicle with confidence. The NAPA brand, particularly the Gold line manufactured by WIX, represents a tier of quality that meets or exceeds most OEM specifications. By following the charts and guidelines provided in this article, you can effortlessly transition from any major filter brand to a NAPA filter, ensuring optimal engine protection, performance, and longevity. Always remember to dispose of your used oil and old filter responsibly at a designated collection center. Proper maintenance, starting with the correct oil filter, is the most effective way to protect your vehicle investment.

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