Fram Ph6607 Fits What Vehicle

Alright, let's dive into the Fram PH6607 oil filter. You’ve probably heard about it, maybe even seen it on the shelf, but figuring out exactly what vehicles it fits can be a bit of a puzzle. This article will break it down, going beyond just a simple "fits/doesn't fit" and explaining why it fits certain applications, the specifications you should be looking for, and some crucial things to keep in mind before slapping it on your engine.

Understanding the PH6607 Specifications

Before we get into specific vehicle makes and models, let's dissect the key specifications of the Fram PH6607. This will give you a solid foundation for understanding its compatibility.

Thread Size: 20mm x 1.5 - This refers to the diameter and thread pitch of the threaded connection on the filter. It needs to perfectly match the thread on your engine's oil filter adapter. A mismatch here can lead to leaks or even damage to the threads.
Outer Diameter (OD): Approximately 3 inches - This is the width of the filter canister. Ensure there's enough physical space around the oil filter adapter on your engine to accommodate this diameter.
Height: Approximately 3.4 inches - This dictates how far the filter extends downwards from the mounting point. Again, check for adequate clearance to avoid contact with other components like exhaust pipes or suspension parts.
Gasket OD: Around 2.5 inches - This is the outer diameter of the rubber gasket that seals the filter against the engine block.
Gasket ID: Around 2.2 inches - This is the inner diameter of the rubber gasket.
Burst Pressure: Typically around 275 PSI - This indicates the maximum pressure the filter can withstand before rupturing. While you shouldn't experience pressures anywhere near this high during normal operation, it's a measure of the filter's structural integrity.
Micron Rating: This is where things get a bit trickier. Fram doesn't always explicitly state the micron rating for all their filters in a easily accessible manner. The PH6607, as a standard "Extra Guard" filter, likely has a nominal micron rating somewhere in the 20-30 micron range. This means it filters out particles of that size and larger with a reasonable degree of efficiency. Higher-end filters, like those in Fram's Ultra Synthetic line, will have much finer filtration capabilities. We will discuss this later.
Anti-Drainback Valve (ADB): Yes, the PH6607 includes an anti-drainback valve. This is a crucial component that prevents oil from draining back into the oil pan when the engine is off. This ensures that oil is readily available to lubricate the engine during startup, reducing wear.
Bypass Valve: Yes, the PH6607 incorporates a bypass valve. This valve opens if the filter becomes clogged (e.g., due to excessive dirt or cold oil). When open, the oil bypasses the filter element entirely, preventing oil starvation to the engine. While unfiltered oil is better than no oil, it's a sign that your filter needs changing urgently. The bypass valve pressure setting is usually in the 8-11 PSI range.

Common Vehicle Applications

The Fram PH6607 is a very common filter, fitting a wide range of vehicles, primarily Asian makes. Here are some of the most frequent applications:

Honda/Acura

This is a major application. Many Honda and Acura vehicles from the late 1990s through the 2010s use this filter size. This includes, but is not limited to:

Honda Civic (most models, especially those *without* the larger K-series engine)
Honda CR-V (most models)
Honda Accord (4-cylinder models)
Honda Element
Acura Integra
Acura RSX
Acura TSX

Important Note: Always double-check your owner's manual or a reliable parts catalog (like those from RockAuto or the Fram website) to confirm compatibility for your specific year and model. Even within the same model, engine variations can require different filters.

Nissan/Infiniti

Several Nissan and Infiniti models also utilize the PH6607, including:

Nissan Sentra (most models)
Nissan Altima (4-cylinder models)
Nissan Maxima (some older models)
Nissan Rogue (some models, especially older ones)
Infiniti G20
Infiniti I30

Again, verification is crucial. Nissan, in particular, has used different filter sizes across their model range.

Subaru

While Subaru has its own traditionally specified blue filter, the PH6607 can sometimes be used as an alternative, *especially* on older models. However, exercise caution here. The pressure relief valve settings may differ, which could, in theory, affect oil pressure. Always consult Subaru-specific forums or a trusted Subaru mechanic before using a non-OEM filter. If you have any doubt, it is better to stick with the Subaru OEM filter or a filter specifically designed as a compatible replacement.

Other Applications

The PH6607 can also fit certain models from other manufacturers, including:

Hyundai (some models)
Kia (some models)
Mazda (some models - particularly older ones)

The key takeaway: Don't rely solely on a general list. Always verify fitment using a reputable parts catalog or your vehicle's owner's manual. Just because it screws on doesn't mean it's the right filter!

Important Considerations and Potential Issues

Even if the PH6607 physically fits your vehicle, there are some critical factors to consider:

Filter Quality: The Fram PH6607 is generally considered a standard, entry-level filter. It's perfectly adequate for normal driving conditions and standard oil change intervals. However, if you drive aggressively, tow frequently, or use synthetic oil with extended drain intervals, you might want to consider upgrading to a higher-quality filter with better filtration efficiency and more robust construction. Look at Fram's higher tier filters or other brands like Mobil 1, K&N, or Royal Purple. These often use synthetic media for superior filtration and durability.
Oil Pressure: As mentioned earlier, the bypass valve pressure setting can vary slightly between different filters. While a small difference is usually not a major concern, a significant discrepancy could affect oil pressure. If you notice any unusual oil pressure readings after switching to the PH6607, investigate further.
Thread Engagement: Ensure the filter threads engage fully with the engine's oil filter adapter. If the threads feel loose or you can't tighten the filter properly, do not use it. This could lead to leaks and engine damage.
Clearance: Double-check that the filter has adequate clearance around it. Contact with other components can cause vibrations, damage the filter, or even lead to leaks.

Upgrading Your Filter

If you're looking for a step up in filtration and durability from the PH6607, consider these options:

Fram Ultra Synthetic (XG series): These filters offer significantly improved filtration efficiency and are designed for use with synthetic oils and extended drain intervals. Look for the XG6607, which is the equivalent of the PH6607 in the Ultra Synthetic line.
Other Premium Brands: Mobil 1, K&N, Royal Purple, and Amsoil all offer high-quality oil filters with excellent filtration capabilities and robust construction. Be sure to check their respective parts catalogs for compatible filters for your vehicle.

When choosing a premium filter, pay attention to the micron rating and the filter media type. Synthetic media filters typically offer superior filtration and durability compared to traditional cellulose filters.

Final Thoughts

The Fram PH6607 is a widely used oil filter with a broad range of applications, particularly in Honda, Nissan, and Acura vehicles. However, always verify fitment using a reliable parts catalog or your vehicle's owner's manual. Consider your driving conditions and oil change intervals when choosing a filter, and don't hesitate to upgrade to a higher-quality filter for improved performance and engine protection. Remember, taking the time to choose the right filter is a small investment that can pay off big in the long run by extending the life of your engine. If you are unsure, consulting with a trusted mechanic is always a good idea.