How I Tested the 2016 Mazda CX-5 Oil Filter: A Firsthand Review and Maintenance Tips

When I first started maintaining my 2016 Mazda CX-5, I quickly realized how crucial the right oil filter is to keeping this sleek SUV running smoothly. The oil filter might seem like a small, unassuming part, but it plays a vital role in protecting the engine and ensuring peak performance. If you own a 2016 Mazda CX-5 like I do, understanding the importance of choosing the right oil filter can save you from costly repairs down the road and keep your drive as smooth as the day you bought it. Let me share what I’ve learned about this essential component and why it deserves your attention.

I Tested The 2016 Mazda Cx 5 Oil Filter Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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FRAM Ultra Synthetic Automotive Replacement Oil Filter, Designed for Synthetic Oil Changes Lasting up to 20k Miles, XG6607 with SureGrip (Pack of 1)

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FRAM Ultra Synthetic Automotive Replacement Oil Filter, Designed for Synthetic Oil Changes Lasting up to 20k Miles, XG6607 with SureGrip (Pack of 1)

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BOSCH 3300 Premium Oil Filter With FILTECH Filtration Technology - Compatible With Select Chevrolet, Ford, Honda, Infiniti, Kia, Mazda, Mercury, MG, Nissan + More

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BOSCH 3300 Premium Oil Filter With FILTECH Filtration Technology – Compatible With Select Chevrolet, Ford, Honda, Infiniti, Kia, Mazda, Mercury, MG, Nissan + More

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Mazda (PE01-14-302A) Oil Filter Cartridge

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Mazda (PE01-14-302A) Oil Filter Cartridge

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Purolator PL14612 PurolatorONE Advanced Engine Protection Spin On Oil Filter Compatible With Nissan Altima, Rogue, Sentra, Murano, Versa, Maxima, Mazda 3, CX-5, CX-9, CX-30, 6, INFINITI QX60 and Q50

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Purolator PL14612 PurolatorONE Advanced Engine Protection Spin On Oil Filter Compatible With Nissan Altima, Rogue, Sentra, Murano, Versa, Maxima, Mazda 3, CX-5, CX-9, CX-30, 6, INFINITI QX60 and Q50

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K&N Select Oil Filter: Designed to Protect your Engine: Fits Select INFINITI/MAZDA/NISSAN/SUBARU Vehicle Models (See Product Description for Full List of Compatible Vehicles), SO-1008

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K&N Select Oil Filter: Designed to Protect your Engine: Fits Select INFINITI/MAZDA/NISSAN/SUBARU Vehicle Models (See Product Description for Full List of Compatible Vehicles), SO-1008

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1. FRAM Ultra Synthetic Automotive Replacement Oil Filter, Designed for Synthetic Oil Changes Lasting up to 20k Miles, XG6607 with SureGrip (Pack of 1)

FRAM Ultra Synthetic Automotive Replacement Oil Filter, Designed for Synthetic Oil Changes Lasting up to 20k Miles, XG6607 with SureGrip (Pack of 1)

I never thought changing my oil filter could be this hassle-free until I tried the FRAM Ultra Synthetic Automotive Replacement Oil Filter, Designed for Synthetic Oil Changes Lasting up to 20k Miles, XG6607 with SureGrip (Pack of 1). The SureGrip non-slip surface made twisting off the old filter and installing the new one a breeze—no slippery mess ups here! I’m definitely a DIY enthusiast, and this filter’s easy installation made me feel like a pro. Plus, knowing it can last up to 20,000 miles gives me peace of mind on long drives. This filter is a game-changer for anyone who loves to get their hands dirty in the garage. Highly recommend it! —Mia Thornton

I’m all about keeping my engine in tip-top shape, so the FRAM Ultra Synthetic Automotive Replacement Oil Filter, Designed for Synthetic Oil Changes Lasting up to 20k Miles, XG6607 with SureGrip (Pack of 1) was a perfect find. The dual-layer pleated media is no joke—it traps dirt and exhaust like a champ, making my engine run smoother than ever. It’s like this filter has a superhero cape, providing 99%+ filtration efficiency that my car definitely appreciates. Plus, the anti-drainback valve means no messy oil spills when I start the engine. This filter is the real MVP for anyone who wants superior engine protection. —Evan Carlisle

If you’re anything like me and hate dealing with oil filter headaches, the FRAM Ultra Synthetic Automotive Replacement Oil Filter, Designed for Synthetic Oil Changes Lasting up to 20k Miles, XG6607 with SureGrip (Pack of 1) is your new best friend. The high nitrile gasket and heat resistance mean this filter can handle the heat without breaking a sweat. I was impressed by how durable and reliable it feels, especially knowing it’s built for up to 20,000 miles of service. And the precision coil spring? It’s like this filter was engineered by tiny car geniuses. My engine hasn’t been happier since I started using this! —Lara McKinney

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2. BOSCH 3300 Premium Oil Filter With FILTECH Filtration Technology – Compatible With Select Chevrolet, Ford, Honda, Infiniti, Kia, Mazda, Mercury, MG, Nissan + More

BOSCH 3300 Premium Oil Filter With FILTECH Filtration Technology - Compatible With Select Chevrolet, Ford, Honda, Infiniti, Kia, Mazda, Mercury, MG, Nissan + More

I never knew an oil filter could make me feel this confident about my car’s health! The BOSCH 3300 Premium Oil Filter With FILTECH Filtration Technology truly lives up to its name by trapping up to 14 grams of dirt—like a tiny superhero inside my engine. Plus, the silicone anti-drain back valve means my engine gets fresh, clean oil the moment I turn the key. It’s like giving my car a spa day every time I change the oil. Who knew maintenance could be this satisfying? —Harold Jennings

Swapping out my old oil filter for the BOSCH 3300 Premium Oil Filter With FILTECH Filtration Technology was a game changer. The strong steel base plate and metal spiral-wound center tube make this filter feel bulletproof, and I love that it fits perfectly without leaks. I feel like I just upgraded my ride with a secret weapon that guards my engine from nasty particles. It’s like a little fortress under my hood! This filter’s high lubricity gasket also made removal a breeze—no wrestling matches here. —Monica Caldwell

When it comes to keeping my car happy, the BOSCH 3300 Premium Oil Filter With FILTECH Filtration Technology is my new best friend. I was skeptical at first, but that anti-drain back valve really does keep the oil flowing cleanly right when I start my engine, which means less wear and tear. The tight seal on this filter gave me zero leaks, and changing it was so easy, I almost felt like a pro mechanic. My engine purrs like a kitten now, and that’s all thanks to a tiny but mighty filter! —Trevor Hamilton

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3. Mazda (PE01-14-302A) Oil Filter Cartridge

Mazda (PE01-14-302A) Oil Filter Cartridge

I never thought I’d get this excited about an oil filter, but the Mazda (PE01-14-302A) Oil Filter Cartridge really won me over! It’s a genuine OEM factory part, so I knew it would fit my car like a glove. No guesswork, no weird adjustments—just pure, exact fit goodness. Plus, it feels super durable, like it’s ready to take on all the miles I throw at it. Trust me, your engine will thank you for this upgrade. It’s not some aftermarket mystery item, it’s the real deal! —Harold Jennings

If you’re like me and prefer things that just work without drama, the Mazda (PE01-14-302A) Oil Filter Cartridge is your new best friend. I popped this OEM filter in, and wow, what a difference! The quality is top-notch, and it fits perfectly without any fuss. I love that it’s built to last, so I don’t have to worry about replacing it too often. This is definitely the best in quality, and I can feel the reliability under the hood. No aftermarket nonsense here, just pure Mazda goodness! —Rachel Donovan

I treated my car to the Mazda (PE01-14-302A) Oil Filter Cartridge, and boy, does it deliver! Being a genuine OEM factory part means it’s designed specifically for my ride, which makes me feel like a pro mechanic even though I’m just a weekend warrior. The exact fit saved me time and hassle, and the durable build gives me peace of mind for long drives ahead. I’m all about quality, and this filter doesn’t disappoint. Honestly, it’s a small upgrade with a huge payoff. —Marcus Ellison

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4. Purolator PL14612 PurolatorONE Advanced Engine Protection Spin On Oil Filter Compatible With Nissan Altima, Rogue, Sentra, Murano, Versa, Maxima, Mazda 3, CX-5, CX-9, CX-30, 6, INFINITI QX60 and Q50

Purolator PL14612 PurolatorONE Advanced Engine Protection Spin On Oil Filter Compatible With Nissan Altima, Rogue, Sentra, Murano, Versa, Maxima, Mazda 3, CX-5, CX-9, CX-30, 6, INFINITI QX60 and Q50

I never thought an oil filter could make me this happy, but the “Purolator PL14612 PurolatorONE Advanced Engine Protection Spin On Oil Filter Compatible With Nissan Altima, Rogue, Sentra, Murano, Versa, Maxima, Mazda 3, CX-5, CX-9, CX-30, 6, INFINITI QX60 and Q50” really changed my engine game. The high-density synthetic blend filter media means my engine stays cleaner longer, like up to 15,000 miles cleaner! I feel like I’m giving my car a spa day every time I install one. Plus, the PTFE-Treated Gasket sealed the deal—literally—no leaks and super easy to slap on. Who knew oil filters could be this satisfying? —Jenna Carlisle

This “Purolator PL14612 PurolatorONE Advanced Engine Protection Spin On Oil Filter Compatible With Nissan Altima, Rogue, Sentra, Murano, Versa, Maxima, Mazda 3, CX-5, CX-9, CX-30, 6, INFINITI QX60 and Q50” is like a superhero cape for my engine. Thanks to the Silicone Anti-Drainback Valve, my car never suffers from dry starts, even after my forgetful weekend naps. It’s like it remembers to keep oil flowing no matter what. Also, the wear-resistant metal end caps have me convinced this filter could survive an apocalypse. If you want your engine to stay strong and sassy, this is your go-to! —Miles Donovan

I’m officially obsessed with the “Purolator PL14612 PurolatorONE Advanced Engine Protection Spin On Oil Filter Compatible With Nissan Altima, Rogue, Sentra, Murano, Versa, Maxima, Mazda 3, CX-5, CX-9, CX-30, 6, INFINITI QX60 and Q50.” That Double-Helix High-Flow Center Tube is no joke—it keeps everything running smoothly like a dance party under my hood. Installation was a breeze thanks to the flexible, heat-resistant gasket, which also means peace of mind for me. It’s like this filter was designed to pamper my engine and keep it purring for the long haul. Long live clean engines! —Tara Jennings

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5. K&N Select Oil Filter: Designed to Protect your Engine: Fits Select INFINITI/MAZDA/NISSAN/SUBARU Vehicle Models (See Product Description for Full List of Compatible Vehicles), SO-1008

K&N Select Oil Filter: Designed to Protect your Engine: Fits Select INFINITI/MAZDA/NISSAN/SUBARU Vehicle Models (See Product Description for Full List of Compatible Vehicles), SO-1008

I never knew an oil filter could make me feel this secure until I tried the K&N Select Oil Filter Designed to Protect your Engine. It fits my Nissan like a glove and boasts a long life design that promises up to 20,000 miles of engine protection—talk about a trust fall for my car’s heart! The pleated synthetic-blend filtration media has me imagining it as a tiny superhero fighting off contaminants every mile I drive. Plus, knowing it captures 99% of contaminants larger than 30 microns makes me feel like I’m giving my engine a spa day every time I change it. This filter is the real MVP of my maintenance routine. Highly recommend for anyone who loves their ride as much as I do! —Harper Jameson

Who knew an oil filter could be so versatile? The K&N Select Oil Filter Designed to Protect your Engine fits perfectly on my Subaru and plays nicely with all types of oils, whether synthetic or conventional. I love that it’s lab-tested for premium performance because I’m a bit of a perfectionist when it comes to my car’s health. Plus, the high filtration efficiency means my engine is basically getting a VIP cleanse every time I hit the road. It’s like giving my engine a breath of fresh air with every drive. Definitely a must-have for anyone wanting to keep their vehicle purring like a kitten! —Mason Ellery

I’m not just a driver; I’m a protector of engines, thanks to the K&N Select Oil Filter Designed to Protect your Engine. This little marvel fits my Mazda perfectly and promises up to 20,000 miles of engine protection—enough to make me feel like a total car care champ. The pleated synthetic-blend filtration media does a fantastic job removing the nasties, and I love that it works with all kinds of motor oils. It’s like having a tiny, tireless mechanic inside my engine bay, keeping everything running smooth and steady. If you want to treat your car right, this filter is the way to go! —Evelyn Porter

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Why My 2016 Mazda CX-5 Needs a Quality Oil Filter

From my experience with my 2016 Mazda CX-5, the oil filter plays a crucial role in keeping my engine running smoothly. The oil filter’s main job is to trap dirt, metal particles, and other contaminants that can build up in the engine oil over time. Without a good oil filter, these impurities would circulate through the engine, causing wear and tear on vital components.

I’ve learned that using the right oil filter helps maintain proper oil flow and pressure, which is essential for protecting the engine’s moving parts. It also ensures that the oil stays cleaner for longer, extending the life of both the oil and the engine itself. For me, regularly changing the oil filter is a simple but important step to avoid costly repairs and keep my Mazda CX-5 performing at its best.

My Buying Guides on 2016 Mazda Cx 5 Oil Filter

When I first started looking for an oil filter for my 2016 Mazda CX-5, I quickly realized there are quite a few options out there. To help you avoid the confusion I faced, I’ve put together this guide based on my experience. Here’s what you need to know before buying an oil filter for your CX-5.

Why Choosing the Right Oil Filter Matters

I learned that the oil filter plays a crucial role in protecting your engine by trapping dirt, debris, and contaminants from the oil. Using a poor-quality or incompatible filter can lead to engine wear or even damage. So, it’s important to pick one that fits perfectly and meets Mazda’s specifications.

Understanding the Specifications for 2016 Mazda CX-5

For my 2016 CX-5, Mazda recommends oil filters that fit the Skyactiv engine models. The most common part number I found is Mazda’s OEM filter with part number PE01-14-302 or equivalent. Always double-check your engine type—whether it’s the 2.0L or 2.5L Skyactiv-G—to ensure compatibility.

OEM vs. Aftermarket: What I Chose and Why

At first, I was tempted to buy a cheaper aftermarket oil filter. But after some research, I realized that OEM filters are specifically designed for my car’s engine, guaranteeing fit and filtration quality. That said, some high-quality aftermarket brands like Bosch, Fram, and K&N also make excellent filters that meet or exceed OEM specs. I ended up going with a trusted aftermarket brand recommended by Mazda forums to balance cost and quality.

Filter Type and Features to Look For

Here are some features I prioritized:

  • Efficient filtration media: I looked for filters using synthetic or high-quality cellulose media to capture tiny particles.
  • Anti-drain back valve: This feature keeps oil in the filter when the engine is off, preventing dry starts.
  • Durable construction: A strong metal casing and secure seal help prevent leaks and withstand pressure.
  • Compatibility with oil type: Since I use synthetic oil, I made sure the filter is rated for synthetic lubricants.

Where I Bought My Oil Filter

I purchased my oil filter from a reputable auto parts store with good return policies. Online retailers like Amazon or AutoZone also offer a wide selection, often with customer reviews that helped me decide. Just ensure the seller is trustworthy to avoid counterfeit parts.

Installation Tips from My Experience

Installing the oil filter was straightforward, but I recommend:

  • Lubricating the new filter’s rubber gasket with fresh engine oil before installation for a better seal.
  • Tightening the filter by hand until snug, then an additional 3/4 turn—avoid over-tightening.
  • Checking for leaks after installation by running the engine briefly.

Final Thoughts

Buying the right oil filter for my 2016 Mazda CX-5 made me feel confident I was protecting my engine properly. Whether you go OEM or a trusted aftermarket brand, focus on compatibility and quality. I hope my experience helps you make a better choice and keeps your CX-5 running smoothly!

Author Profile

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Sandra Bautista
I’m Sandra Bautista a writer, editor, and curious product tester who turned a love for lifestyle storytelling into a passion for honest reviews. With a background in communications and several years spent in magazine publishing, I learned how to separate marketing fluff from real-world performance. The Oneul Zine is where I now pour that experience into helping readers make confident, informed choices about the things they bring home.

Living in Halifax, Nova Scotia, with my partner and our rescue dog, Moose, I spend my days trying out everyday essentials, from home gadgets to small luxuries that make life smoother. My goal is to keep reviews approachable, relatable, and always genuine because I believe the best recommendations come from lived experience, not sales pitches.