If you landed here searching for a Ford CX-5 oil filter size and part number cross reference, you're probably mid-maintenance or about to be. Getting the right filter matters the wrong size won't thread on properly, the wrong part number means wasted trips to the store, and using an ill-fitting filter can cause oil leaks or engine damage. One quick clarification before we go further: the CX-5 is actually manufactured by Mazda, not Ford. People often mix this up because Ford and Mazda shared engineering partnerships for years. If you own a Mazda CX-5, you're in the right place. Everything below covers the exact oil filter specs and cross-referenced part numbers you need.
What oil filter does the Mazda CX-5 use?
The oil filter you need depends on your CX-5's model year and engine. Mazda has used two main engine types across the CX-5 lineup the 2.0L SkyActiv-G and the 2.5L SkyActiv-G (including the turbo variant added in 2019). The filter type also changed over the years.
- 2013–2016 CX-5 (2.0L and 2.5L): Spin-on oil filter with M20 x 1.5 thread size. This is the traditional canister-style filter most people are familiar with.
- 2017–2024 CX-5 (2.0L, 2.5L, and 2.5L Turbo): Cartridge-type (element-style) oil filter. You replace just the filter element inside a reusable housing, not the entire can.
Knowing which type your engine uses is the first step. A spin-on and a cartridge filter are completely different parts you can't swap one for the other.
What is the oil filter size and thread spec?
For the 2013–2016 spin-on filter, the specs are:
- Thread size: M20 x 1.5
- Gasket outer diameter: Approximately 65mm
- Filter height: Around 70–75mm (varies by brand)
- Wrench size (hex nut): Not applicable most spin-on filters for this application use a gripper or strap wrench for removal
For the 2017+ cartridge-style filter, the dimensions relate to the element itself rather than a threaded canister. The housing cap typically requires a 27mm socket for removal. Always confirm the element diameter and O-ring size match your specific year.
Cross-reference chart: part numbers by brand
This is where most people need help. Your local auto parts store might not always stock the OEM Mazda filter, but equivalent aftermarket filters work just as well when the specs match. Here's a cross-reference for the 2013–2016 spin-on filter commonly used on the CX-5 SkyActiv engines:
- Mazda OEM: PE01-14-302
- WIX: 57002
- Fram: PH6607 (standard) / TG6607 (synthetic)
- Purolator: PL14610
- Bosch: 3312
- Mobil 1: M1-108A
- K&N: HP-1008
- Mann-Filter: W 68/3
- ACDelco: PF1237
For the 2017+ cartridge-style element, common cross-references include:
- Mazda OEM: PY8W-14-302
- WIX: 57002 (check application some sources list 57880 for later years)
- Bosch: F00E369884
- Mann-Filter: HU 7019 z
- MicroGard: MGL57002
Note: Part numbers can vary slightly by manufacturer and model year. Always confirm the number matches your exact VIN or year/trim before purchasing. If you also need to know how much oil to put in after the change, check our guide on how many quarts the CX-5 takes.
Why do people cross-reference oil filter numbers?
Cross-referencing saves you time and money in a few real situations:
- The OEM filter is out of stock. Instead of waiting, you look up the equivalent from WIX, Fram, or Bosch and grab what's on the shelf.
- Price differences. A Mann-Filter or WIX equivalent often costs less than the dealer part while meeting the same filtration specs.
- Switching brands. Some drivers prefer synthetic-media filters over standard cellulose. Cross-referencing helps you find the synthetic option in the right size.
- Buying online. Sites like Amazon or RockAuto use part numbers more than vehicle fitment sometimes. Having the number makes searching faster.
What are the most common mistakes when choosing a CX-5 oil filter?
Here's what we see people get wrong most often:
- Confusing model years. The 2016 and 2017 CX-5 use different filter styles (spin-on vs. cartridge). Buying the wrong type because you assumed they're the same is the number-one error.
- Assuming "Ford CX-5" filters exist. Since Mazda builds this vehicle, look for parts listed under Mazda. Ford parts databases won't return results for a CX-5.
- Ignoring the O-ring or gasket. For cartridge filters, the O-ring that seals the housing cap should be replaced every time. Most kits include it cheap filters sometimes don't.
- Not checking the drain-back valve spec. The CX-5's SkyActiv engine has tight oil-flow tolerances. A filter without the correct anti-drain-back valve pressure can cause dry-start issues on cold mornings.
- Over-tightening spin-on filters. Hand-tight plus about ¾ turn on the gasket is the standard. Cranking it too tight makes removal a nightmare and can crush the gasket, causing leaks.
Which oil filter brands hold up best for the CX-5?
This comes down to filter media quality and construction. Based on independent cut-open tests and owner feedback across CX-5 forums:
- WIX and Mann-Filter consistently show solid construction, good bypass valve calibration, and proper gasket fit.
- OEM Mazda filters are reliable and always the safe choice, though pricier.
- Fram Ultra Synthetic (TG line) uses synthetic media and gets decent reviews for extended drain intervals.
- Bosch filters are widely available and generally well-made for the price.
Cheap no-name filters from dollar bins or unknown online sellers are where problems show up poor gasket rubber, loose end caps, and inconsistent media density. Saving $3 on a filter isn't worth a $3,000 engine repair.
If you want to match the filter with the right oil type, our breakdown of the recommended engine oil type and viscosity for the CX-5 covers that in detail.
Where can I verify the part number fits my specific CX-5?
The most reliable ways to confirm fitment:
- Check your owner's manual. It lists the OEM filter number in the maintenance section.
- Use the auto parts store lookup. Enter your year, make (Mazda), and model on sites like AutoZone, O'Reilly, or RockAuto. They filter results by vehicle.
- Call the dealer parts counter. Give them your VIN, and they'll pull the exact OEM number. You can then cross-reference from there.
- Cross-reference databases. WIX, Fram, and Mann-Filter all have online tools where you enter one part number and get equivalents from other brands.
How often should the CX-5 oil filter be replaced?
Mazda recommends changing the engine oil and filter every 7,500 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first, under normal driving conditions. If you drive mostly in heavy traffic, dusty areas, or short trips, cut that interval to 5,000 miles. A quality filter can physically last beyond 7,500 miles, but the oil it's filtering starts breaking down so changing both together is the standard practice.
For the full maintenance picture oil capacity, filter location, and drain plug torque specs see our complete CX-5 oil filter guide.
Quick checklist before you buy
- Confirm your exact model year 2013–2016 uses spin-on; 2017+ uses cartridge
- Match the thread size or element dimensions to your engine variant (2.0L, 2.5L, or 2.5L Turbo)
- Cross-reference the OEM number against at least one aftermarket brand to verify compatibility
- Check if the kit includes a new O-ring or gasket don't reuse old seals
- Buy from a reputable source counterfeit filters are real, especially on marketplace sites
- Pair it with the correct oil viscosity the CX-5 SkyActiv engine runs best on 0W-20 (check your manual for your year)
Tip: Before draining the oil, loosen the old filter slightly first. On the spin-on models, the filter sits at an angle that makes oil spill when you remove it. Having a drain pan positioned correctly saves a mess. For cartridge models, crack the housing cap with the 27mm socket before draining residual oil in the housing will flow down to the pan when the cap is loose.
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