TSB: FL-2010-04-01

AMSOIL Technical Service Bulletin

Date: 4/16/10

Revision: 8/23/10

Product Description: AMSOIL Ea15K13 Oil Filter

Subject: Honda/Acura/Chrysler Imports/Ford Probe/Nissan/Infiniti/Mazda/Mercury Villager/Mitsubishi/Saturn Applications

OBJECTIVE:

Inform customers of an issue regarding the oil sensor tripping in 2001-2010 Honda and 2002-2010 Acura vehicles.

ISSUES:

A small number of customers with affected vehicles have reported their vehicles’ oil pressure lights have illuminated prior to reaching the end of the AMSOIL-recommended 25,000-mile change interval.

TECHNICAL DISCUSSION:

To protect the engine, the OEM engineered the oil pressure sensor to trigger the oil light when there is insufficient oil pressure to maintain an adequate level of protection. Each filter is equipped with a by-pass valve, so when the filter is at or close to capacity, the engine is continually supplied with adequate lubrication oil, although unfiltered. However, if the filter reaches maximum capacity, the level of restriction can become significant enough to trigger the oil pressure warning light. In extreme situations, oil starvation can occur. Premature oil filter capacity can be attributed to a number of factors such as poor air filtration, a leaking air intake system or excessive contaminants being produced in the combustion process.

RECOMMENDATION:

AMSOIL recommends changing the EaO13 Oil Filter according to OEM-recommended intervals in the following applications:

  • 2001-2010 Honda
  •  2002-2010 Acura
  • 1992-2006 Chrysler imports
  • 1993-1997 Ford Probe
  • 1996-2010 Nissan/Infiniti
  • 1971-2000 Mazda
  • 1999-2000 Mercury Villager
  • 1990-2010 Mitsubishi
  • 2004-2007 Saturn

Customers using an Ea15K13 Oil Filter beyond the OEM recommended interval in any of the listed applications are advised to change the filter at the earliest opportunity. If the oil light is triggered, change the filter immediately to avoid damage.

AMSOIL also offers MANN ML1008 and WIX 51356 oil filters as alternatives to the EaO13 Oil Filter. AMSOIL recommends changing the MANN ML1008 at 7,500 miles and the WIX 51356 at the OEM-recommended interval.

Note: In gasoline-fueled vehicles, AMSOIL Extended Life”XL” Synthetic Motor Oils are recommended for 10,000-mile (16000KM)/six month oil change intervals, or longer where stated by vehicle manufacturers or indicated by electronic oil life monitoring systems. AMSOIL OE Motor Oils are recommended for the intervals stated by the vehicle manufacturer or indicated by the oil life monitoring system. Change aftermarket, OEM or AMSOIL Ea Oil Filter at every oil change.