If you’ve ever stood in the auto parts aisle scratching your head over an oil filter number, you’re not alone. A friend once called me from the parking lot of a Canadian Tire asking, “Hey, does the L10241 oil filter fit my car or not?” That moment inspired this article. Because figuring out what the L10241 oil filter fits shouldn’t feel like solving a puzzle. Let’s break it down together, simply and clearly.
Whether you’re a first-time DIY oil changer or someone who’s curious if the L10241 oil filter works with your car, this article will walk you through everything—without the jargon. Think of this as friendly advice from someone who’s been there. Ready? Let’s pop the hood and dive in.
What is the L10241 Oil Filter?

In simple terms, an oil filter keeps your engine healthy by removing dirt, sludge, and metal particles from the motor oil. Without it, you’re basically letting your engine bathe in grime.
Here’s what makes the L10241 oil filter special:
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Thread Size: 3/4-16
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Gasket Diameter: ~2.75 inches outer
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Height: ~3.5 inches
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Bypass Valve: Yes (around 8-11 psi)
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Anti-drain back valve: Yes (keeps oil from draining out when the engine is off)
These specs make it a perfect fit for many 4-cylinder and V6 engines, especially in older American and Japanese cars.
L10241 Oil Filter Fits These Car Brands and Models
Let’s get to the heart of it: L10241 oil filter fits what car exactly? Well, it fits a wide range of vehicles. If you’re driving a model from Ford, Mazda, Chrysler, Jeep, Hyundai, or Kia, there’s a good chance this filter is compatible.
Here’s a table listing popular vehicles where the L10241 oil filter is a match:
Make | Model | Engine Size | Year Range |
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Ford | Ranger | 2.3L, 3.0L | 1989–2008 |
Ford | Escort / ZX2 | 2.0L | 1991–2003 |
Mazda | B-Series Pickup | 2.2L, 2.5L | 1994–2001 |
Jeep | Wrangler | 2.5L | 1991–2002 |
Chrysler | PT Cruiser | 2.4L | 2001–2010 |
Hyundai | Elantra | 1.6L, 2.0L | 1996–2006 |
Kia | Sephia / Spectra | 1.8L, 2.0L | 1995–2004 |
Dodge | Neon | 2.0L | 1995–2005 |
Ford | Focus | 2.0L | 2000–2004 |
Mazda | Protege | 1.8L, 2.0L | 1995–2003 |
Note: Always double-check with your owner’s manual or a parts lookup tool. Even a small change in trim or engine type can make a difference.
So, if you’ve got one of those cars parked in your driveway, there’s a solid chance the L10241 oil filter is right for you.
How I Discovered the L10241 the Hard Way
Let me tell you a quick story. I once owned a 2002 Mazda Protegé. Great car. One weekend, I decided to change the oil myself. I picked up a random oil filter, thinking, “They’re all the same, right?” Wrong. The threads didn’t match, and I had to drive back with oil-stained hands and a bruised ego.
That’s when I first found out about the L10241 oil filter. I went to a small local parts shop, and the guy behind the counter nodded and handed me one. “Try this—fits your Mazda like a glove.” And he was right. That filter screwed on perfectly. No leaks. No weird noises. Just smooth running.
Since then, I always check part numbers. And I always recommend the L10241 to friends with older compact cars.
Why the L10241 is Still Popular Today
Even though cars have evolved a lot, the L10241 oil filter hasn’t gone out of style. Why? Because many of the engines it’s compatible with are still on the road. From college students driving old Civics to off-roaders loving their old-school Wranglers, this filter sticks around.
It’s also budget-friendly. You’ll often find it for under $6—especially under house brands like SuperTech at Walmart. And it offers a solid level of protection for its price. Think of it as a reliable, no-frills filter for everyday driving.
Plus, the fact that it’s interchangeable with filters like:
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Fram PH3614
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STP S3614
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Bosch 3330
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Motorcraft FL-400S
…means you’ll never be stuck without options. You can walk into almost any store, and they’ll have something equivalent to the L10241 oil filter.
Performance & Quality: Is It Good Enough?
Let’s be honest—this isn’t a high-performance racing filter. If you’re driving a turbocharged sports car, you might want a premium synthetic filter. But for daily drivers, the L10241 gets the job done.
Most versions have:
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Multi-fiber media that captures dirt particles
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Bypass valves to prevent oil starvation
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Anti-drain back valves to keep oil in the filter
I’ve personally used it on my daily car for over five years. I change my oil every 5,000 km and have never had a problem. No clogs. No strange engine sounds. Just peace of mind.
If you’re someone who keeps up with regular oil changes, this filter is a smart choice. Simple, cheap, effective.
What Happens If You Use the Wrong Oil Filter?
Now here’s something a lot of folks overlook. Using the wrong oil filter isn’t just a minor mistake—it can seriously damage your engine. I once knew a guy who slapped on a filter that looked “close enough.” A week later? His engine was knocking like a woodpecker in a steel drum.
Here’s why using the wrong one is risky:
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Oil leaks: The gasket won’t seal properly if it doesn’t match your car.
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Low oil pressure: The bypass valve might open too early or too late.
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Filter blow-off: In extreme cases, a wrong fit can literally pop off under pressure.
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Dirty oil circulation: If the media isn’t up to spec, dirt goes straight back into your engine.
That’s why the L10241 oil filter is so popular for the vehicles it’s made for—it fits right, seals tight, and keeps oil pressure where it should be. If your car is on that compatibility list, stick with it or its equivalent.
L10241 vs. PH3600: What’s the Difference?
Let’s say you’ve come across both L10241 and PH3600 at the store. They look similar, so what’s the difference?
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PH3600 is slightly longer.
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Both have the same thread size (3/4-16) and similar gasket diameters.
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PH3600 can hold a bit more oil due to its longer body.
So which one should you choose? If you have more space in your engine bay, and you want a little more filtration media, the PH3600 might be a good alternative. But if space is tight—like in some compact sedans or hatchbacks—L10241 is your safe bet.
I actually used a PH3600 once on my old Elantra, thinking the extra capacity was a bonus. It worked fine, but it came a hair too close to the exhaust manifold for comfort. Ever since, I stick with L10241.
How Often Should You Change the L10241 Oil Filter?
Here’s where it gets personal. Everyone’s driving habits are different. But generally speaking:
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For conventional oil, change every 4,000 to 5,000 km.
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For synthetic oil, you can stretch it to 8,000 to 10,000 km.
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If you’re in harsh climates or do lots of short trips? Stay on the lower end.
Personally, I change my oil and L10241 filter every 5,000 km like clockwork. It’s cheap insurance against big repairs. Plus, it gives me an excuse to check my fluids and tires while I’m at it. No harm in a little DIY engine love, right?
L10241 Oil Filter Cross-Reference Table
Here’s a handy cross-reference chart to find filters that are compatible with or equivalent to the L10241 oil filter. Whether your store is out of stock or you prefer a different brand, these will do the trick.
Brand | Compatible Filter |
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Fram | PH3614 |
STP | S3614 |
SuperTech | ST3614 |
Motorcraft | FL400S |
Bosch | 3330 |
Wix | 51348 |
Purolator | L10241 |
ACDelco | PF53 |
These filters are nearly identical in thread size, diameter, and sealing surface. But always check pressure ratings and dimensions just to be sure.
L10241 Oil Filter and Synthetic Oil: Are They Compatible?
Good question. If you’re using synthetic oil, you’ll want to make sure your filter can handle longer intervals and higher flow rates. While the L10241 oil filter is designed primarily for regular oil changes, some newer versions have enhanced filter media that can hold up better with synthetics.
That said, if you’re planning on running synthetic oil for 10,000 km or more, consider upgrading to a premium filter like:
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Purolator Boss
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Wix XP
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Fram Ultra Synthetic
But for normal use? The standard L10241 will still serve you well. I’ve run it with synthetic-blend oil for 7,000 km, and it held up fine. No sludge, no issues.
Where Can You Buy the L10241 Oil Filter?
You can find the L10241 oil filter at most auto parts stores. Here’s where I’ve personally bought them:
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Walmart: Usually stocked as SuperTech ST3614. Super affordable.
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Canadian Tire: Under FRAM PH3614 or STP S3614.
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Amazon: Great for buying in bulk or getting name-brand versions.
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NAPA or AutoZone: Stock higher-end variants like Wix or Purolator.
Prices range from $4 to $10, depending on the brand. I always keep an extra one in the garage, just in case. It’s a small thing, but having it on hand can make oil change day so much smoother.
Real-World Reviews and Personal Feedback
I’m not the only one singing the L10241 oil filter’s praises. Hop on any car forum or Reddit thread, and you’ll see similar stories. People use this filter on their old Rangers, Civics, Neons—you name it. It’s become a bit of a go-to for budget-conscious car lovers.
One Reddit user said, “Used ST3614 on my ’97 Escort for 10 years. Never a single issue.” Another wrote, “Why overpay for brand names when this thing lasts just as long?”
Of course, some folks with newer engines or performance cars go for the high-end stuff—and that’s fine. But for most of us who just want a reliable filter to keep things running smooth, L10241 is still a winner.
Final Thoughts: Is the L10241 Right for Your Car?
Let’s wrap this up. If you’re asking “L10241 oil filter fits what car?”, the answer might just be—yours. Especially if you drive a compact car, pickup, or SUV from the 90s or early 2000s. This filter is tried, tested, and easy on the wallet.
It’s not flashy. It’s not high-tech. But it works. And that’s what matters when you’re counting on your engine every day. So next time you’re browsing that auto aisle, don’t be afraid to grab that L10241 oil filter. Chances are, it’s got your back.