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If you drive a Dodge Durango, the oil filter housing plays a key role in keeping engine oil flowing cleanly and preventing leaks that can lead to engine damage. Choosing the right housing matters because fit, sealing surfaces, and material durability affect oil pressure, maintenance ease, and long-term reliability. This guide shortlists the top options for Dodge Durango oil filter housing replacements and explains the criteria used to evaluate them, including fitment accuracy and gasket sealing performance. Read on to see the features we prioritized and which housings met our editorial standards.
Looking for other parts? See all Dodge Durango parts & accessories.
Top Picks at a Glance
| Best Reviewed A top-rated pick with lots of positive feedback | YITHSWAY Aluminum Engine Oil Cooler and Filter Housing Assembly (3.6L) |  |
| Most Popular A crowd favorite that many people choose with confidence | Somusen Aluminum Engine Oil Filter Housing Kit with Oil Cooler and Sensors |  |
| Best Quality Built to a higher standard if you want something more solid | WZUMLAP Full Aluminum Engine Oil Cooler Filter Housing Kit |  |
| Best Budget The cheapest option that still gets the job done reliably | MOTOKU Aluminum Engine Oil Cooler and Filter Housing (with Filter) |  |
| Most Sold A high-volume bestseller chosen again and again | YITHSWAY Aluminum Engine Oil Cooler and Filter Housing Adapter for 3.6L V6 |  |
| Best Value for Money The sweet spot between price and what you get | GAOBEN 926-876/926-959 Aluminum Engine Oil Filter Housing with Oil Cooler |  |
| Best Overall The best all-around choice for most situations | MNJWS Aluminum Oil Filter Housing and Oil Cooler Kit for 3.6L Pentastar Engines |  |
1. YITHSWAY Aluminum Engine Oil Cooler and Filter Housing Assembly (3.6L)
| Material | Aluminum |
|---|---|
| Product Grade | Replacement Part |
| Automotive Fit Type | Vehicle Specific Fit |
| Position | Front |
This YITHSWAY assembly replaces the fragile plastic oil cooler/filter housing on 3.6L engines with a machined aluminum unit designed to resist heat and corrosion. It comes as a largely preassembled kit with the oil cooler, filter housing, an oil filter, pressure and temperature sensors, multiple O-rings and gaskets, and mounting bolts so you can swap it in without sourcing extra parts. In practice the aluminum construction reduces the risk of warping and leaks that commonly affect the factory plastic housings, and several installers report trouble-free fits and functioning sensors after installation. For reliability-oriented owners this product lowers the chance of repeat failures and oil loss, but expect a moderately involved install that may require following torque specs and reusing the correct oil filter for your vehicle. As an aftermarket part it is a budget-friendly substitute for a factory-quality replacement, though long-term durability compared with OEM factory replacements will depend on installation care and operating conditions.
Best for: Reliability-focused owners who prioritize a stronger, longer-lasting replacement over repeated repairs and want a mostly complete kit to restore proper oil cooling on a 3.6L Durango.
Less Ideal for: Owners seeking an exact factory-sourced part or those who prefer dealer-installed replacements should consider OEM options or professional installation services.
- Machined aluminum construction reduces heat-related warping and corrosion risk compared with plastic housings
- Ships as a near-complete kit including sensors, gaskets, filter, and mounting hardware for a one-stop replacement
- Many users report direct, correct fitment and functioning sensors out of the box
- Includes extra gaskets and seals to simplify installation and reduce need to buy additional parts
- Aftermarket part so long-term lifespan versus factory replacement is not guaranteed
- Installation can be moderately complex and requires correct torque and proper oil filter selection
Verdict A robust, budget-friendly aluminum replacement that reduces leak and warp problems from the plastic housing and arrives ready for installation.
2. Somusen Aluminum Engine Oil Filter Housing Kit with Oil Cooler and Sensors
| Brand | Somusen |
|---|---|
| Material | Aluminum |
| Thread Size | M16 x 1.5 |
| Automotive Fit Type | Vehicle Specific Fit |
This Somusen kit replaces the factory plastic oil filter housing with a one-piece aluminum assembly that combines the oil cooler, filter cap, and sensor ports. It is intended as a direct vehicle-specific replacement for 2011–2016 Dodge Durango 3.6L engines and is typically used when the plastic housing cracks or leaks. The aluminum construction and multi-plate cooler design aim to reduce oil temperature and resist the cracking that plagues the original plastic units. The kit ships with sensors, an oil filter, and basic seals so a DIY owner can swap the unit in a single service session. Practical benefits include improved durability, integrated cooling which can help engine longevity, and fewer future coolant or oil leaks when installed correctly. Important limitations are inconsistent quality of the supplied sensors and gaskets according to user reports, which means you may need to reuse OEM sensors and buy higher-quality seals to avoid error codes or leaks. Some installers reported additional troubleshooting or replacement of the supplied sensors to clear engine codes after installation.
Best for: Convenience-minded Durango owners who want a long-lasting replacement that reduces the chance of repeat repairs and prefer a kit that bundles most parts for a single install.
Less Ideal for: Owners who expect a guaranteed drop-in, worry-free swap without sourcing any OEM seals or sensors or those who prefer OEM-branded replacement parts backed by dealer support.
- All-aluminum housing and cooler reduce risk of the common plastic housing crack and coolant/oil leaks
- Includes oil cooler, oil filter cap, basic gaskets, and sensors for a mostly complete replacement
- Multi-plate cooler design aims to lower oil temperature and extend oil and engine life
- Vehicle-specific fit for 2011–2016 Dodge Durango 3.6L simplifies installation planning
- Supplied sensors and gaskets have inconsistent quality and may trigger faults or leaks
- Some users report early failures or the need to replace supplied components with OEM parts
Verdict A cost-effective aluminum upgrade for 2011–2016 Dodge Durango 3.6L that reduces the risk of plastic housing failures but often requires swapping in OEM-quality sensors and seals for reliable operation.
3. WZUMLAP Full Aluminum Engine Oil Cooler Filter Housing Kit
| Brand | WZUMLAP |
|---|---|
| Model | Aluminum Engine Oil Filter Adapter Housing |
| Exterior | Machined |
| Manufacturer Part Number | 926-959,68105583AF |
This WZUMLAP kit replaces the factory oil filter housing and integrated oil cooler with a full-aluminum unit intended to stop leaks and resist cracking. It is used where the stock plastic housing is prone to failure from heat, pressure, or overtightening during service. The kit includes a new gasket set and gloves for a cleaner installation and is presented as a direct fit for the specified Dodge models. The machined aluminum construction should improve long-term durability and stable oil cooling compared with plastic housings, while the included seals and tested unit aim to simplify a plug-and-play swap. Buyers report occasional fitment quirks with sensor connectors and that some supplied seals can be slightly thinner than originals, which may require swapping a sensor or using replacement intake seals during installation. Expect a stronger housing and fewer oil-leak worries but be prepared to address minor fitment details on some engines during the install.
Best for: Performance-oriented Dodge owners who prioritize durability and want a stronger, longer-lasting upgrade over factory plastic housings to reduce oil-leak risk under spirited driving or heavy use.
Less Ideal for: Drivers looking for a direct, zero-touch swap with every factory connector and exact OEM seal dimensions may prefer dealer parts or kits that guarantee identical sensor connectors and seal thicknesses.
- Full-aluminum machined housing reduces risk of cracking and oil leaks versus plastic originals
- Includes gasket kit and gloves to simplify installation and reduce mess
- Designed as a direct replacement for the listed Dodge applications so no major modifications are required
- Unit is 100% tested before delivery to help ensure functional reliability
- Some sensor connectors may not match the vehicle harness and could require swapping the original sensor or using a plug
- Supplied intake seals reported slightly thinner than OEM on some installations requiring replacement seals
- May require careful installation to keep thin seals seated in place and avoid repeat work
Verdict A durable aluminum upgrade for Dodge models that eliminates plastic-housing failures but may need minor sensor or seal adjustments during installation.
4. MOTOKU Aluminum Engine Oil Cooler and Filter Housing (with Filter)
| Brand | MOTOKU |
|---|---|
| Item model number | 68365925AA |
| Compatible engine | 3.6 V6 Pentastar (listed applications include Durango 2011-2015) |
| Includes | Oil cooler, filter housing, oil filter and seals |
This MOTOKU assembly replaces the plastic oil cooler and filter housing with an all-aluminum unit that integrates the oil cooler, housing and a replacement filter for Pentastar 3.6 engines used in Dodge Durango models. It installs in the same location as the factory part and provides a more robust metal construction intended to resist the cracking and leaks common with plastic housings. Buyers use it during a repair or when preventing future failures; the package ships with gaskets and an oil filter so the swap is straightforward for a DIYer or independent shop. Reviewers report good fitment on 3.6 engines and note the aluminum construction improves long-term durability, though one should verify the oil pressure sensor fitment since some users reused their original sensor. Expect standard installation steps and careful sealing of O-rings to avoid leaks. This is a budget-friendly alternative to dealer replacement that prioritizes material quality and value while requiring you to check sensor compatibility during installation.
Best for: Budget-conscious owners seeking a durable, lower-cost replacement for the Durango Pentastar 3.6 oil filter housing who prioritize material durability over dealership pricing.
Less Ideal for: If you want an exact plug-and-play unit with every sensor preinstalled or prefer dealer parts with factory support, consider a factory-source replacement instead.
- All-aluminum construction replaces weaker plastic housings for improved durability.
- Includes an oil filter and necessary seals for a single replacement job.
- Designed to match factory mounting points for direct fit on Pentastar 3.6 applications.
- Frequently reported as a cost-effective substitute to dealer parts.
- Some sensors or fittings may not be preinstalled and can require reusing the vehicle’s original sensor for a proper fit.
- Proper installation and careful O-ring seating are required to prevent leaks.
- Not promoted with vehicle-specific warranty information.
Verdict A cost-effective aluminum replacement that upgrades the Durango 3.6’s plastic housing for better durability, with a few installation checks needed for sensors.
5. YITHSWAY Aluminum Engine Oil Cooler and Filter Housing Adapter for 3.6L V6
| Material | Aluminum |
|---|---|
| Thread Size | M16 x 1.5 |
| Automotive Fit Type | Vehicle Specific Fit |
| Manufacturer Part Number | 68105583AF |
This aluminum oil cooler and filter housing adapter replaces the common plastic unit on Chrysler 3.6L V6 engines and is offered as a direct-fit replacement for Dodge Durango models in the specified years. It combines the oil cooler, filter housing, pressure and temperature sensors, gaskets, O-rings, and mounting hardware so you can swap the assembly in one service session. The machined aluminum construction improves heat and corrosion resistance compared with the factory plastic housing and reduces the chance of the cracking and leaks that often plague these engines. Included sensors and gaskets simplify installation, and reviewers report straightforward fitment and no leaks when installed correctly. Expect to follow normal torque and sealing procedures and to bleed any cooling or oil systems as required after installation. This is an aftermarket replacement part, so buyers should confirm part numbers and compare sensor pinouts before installation if their Durango has nonstandard factory options.
Best for: Risk-averse mainstream buyers who prioritize reliability and want to replace a failing plastic housing on a Dodge Durango with a more durable, ready-to-install aluminum assembly.
Less Ideal for: Drivers seeking an OEM-branded factory part or those who prefer dealer-installed replacements should consider factory-sourced alternatives.
- Aluminum construction reduces overheating and corrosion compared with plastic housings
- Ships as a complete kit with filter, sensors, gaskets, O-rings, and mounting bolts for one-step replacement
- Vehicle-specific fit for Chrysler 3.6L V6 applications simplifies installation
- Machined exterior and preinstalled parts cut install time and lower risk of missing components
- Aftermarket part so fitment verification against factory part numbers is recommended before ordering
- Not a direct statement of lifetime durability compared with higher-end OEM-metal replacements
Verdict A practical aluminum upgrade for Dodge Durango 3.6L V6 engines that replaces the fragile plastic housing with a complete, ready-to-install kit to reduce leaks and repeated repairs.
6. GAOBEN 926-876/926-959 Aluminum Engine Oil Filter Housing with Oil Cooler
| Material | Aluminum |
|---|---|
| Thread Size | M16 x 1.5 |
| Product Grade | Replacement Part |
| Automotive Fit Type | Vehicle Specific Fit |
This GAOBEN aluminum oil filter housing replaces the common plastic housing used on 3.6L Dodge and Chrysler engines and integrates the oil cooler, filter cap interface, and sensor ports into a single unit. It is installed where the factory housing sits and is used to stop oil leaks caused by warped or cracked plastic housings. Notable features include a machined aluminum body, included seals and sensors in many kits, and M16 x 1.5 thread fittings for sensor ports. In practice the aluminum construction reduces the risk of future cracking and leaks and reviewers report dry installations and straightforward swaps when the correct variant is chosen. Limitations: some buyers found sensor plug shapes or clip fits differed from their vehicle harness and had to reuse factory sensors or modify clips, so careful verification of sensor fitment is required before install. Also the cap may still be plastic on some configurations. For a practical owner wanting a durable, lower-cost repair compared with a factory replacement, this unit addresses the usual leak points effectively while requiring attention to sensor compatibility during installation.
Best for: Practical optimizers who prioritize durable, cost-effective repairs and want to replace a leaky factory plastic housing with a more robust metal unit to avoid repeat jobs.
Less Ideal for: Drivers who prefer buying dealer-only factory parts or who do not want to troubleshoot sensor plug differences should consider looking at dealer options or verified exact-fit alternatives.
- Aluminum machined body reduces risk of cracking and oil leaks compared with plastic housings
- Vehicle-specific design intended to match factory mounting and hose locations for the 3.6L platform
- Often ships with seals and accessory parts needed for installation
- Includes sensor ports with standard M16 x 1.5 threads for common sensor replacements
- Positive user reports of long-term leak resolution after installation
- Some sensor connector shapes or clip interfaces do not match every harness, requiring reuse of old sensors or minor modifications
- Oil filter cap on some kits may remain plastic rather than aluminum
- Fitment requires careful part-number match to specific Dodge/Chrysler models to avoid mismatches
Verdict A budget-friendly, more durable aluminum replacement that fixes common oil-leak failures on 3.6L Dodge/Chrysler engines if you verify sensor fitment before install.
7. MNJWS Aluminum Oil Filter Housing and Oil Cooler Kit for 3.6L Pentastar Engines
| Material | Aluminum |
|---|---|
| Thread Size | M16 x 1.5 |
| Vehicle Service Type | Dodge Durango 3.6L and other Chrysler 3.6L models |
| Number of Items | 1 |
This MNJWS kit replaces the plastic oil filter housing on 3.6L Pentastar engines with a reinforced aluminum assembly that combines the oil filter housing and oil cooler. It installs as a direct replacement and is intended to stop common leaks and improve heat resistance compared with the factory plastic unit. The kit ships with seals, bolts and an oil filter so you can perform the swap in a home garage or at a shop. In real use owners report the aluminum housing resists warping and often eliminates drip leaks at the housing area, and the included fasteners and gaskets speed reassembly. Some users found the included sensors or oil filter incompatible with certain model years and swapped back their original sensors or used a higher-quality oil filter. If you supply the part to a shop be aware some shops may decline warranty on the labor for aftermarket parts. Overall this is a practical, cost-saving replacement for the Durango's recurring plastic-housing leak problem, provided you verify sensor fitment before installation.
Best for: Balanced owners who prioritize a durable, longer-lasting fix for the recurring oil filter housing leaks on the Dodge Durango 3.6L and want a practical aftermarket upgrade that saves money over dealer parts.
Less Ideal for: Drivers who prefer only dealer-sourced parts or who need fully guaranteed shop warranty coverage for parts and labor should consider factory replacement options instead.
- Reinforced aluminum construction reduces heat warping and improves durability over factory plastic housings.
- Includes seals, bolts and an oil filter to simplify installation and reduce additional purchases.
- Direct-replacement design fits 3.6L Pentastar engines for Dodge Durango and other Chrysler 3.6L applications.
- Many owners report it stops leaks and restores proper oil routing when installed correctly.
- Some supplied sensors or the included oil filter may not match every model year and can require reusing the original parts.
- A few users reported a defective sensor arriving with the kit, which required replacement and extra labor cost.
- Using an aftermarket part can lead some repair shops to refuse warranty on related labor.
Verdict A cost-effective, more durable aluminum replacement that fixes common Durango 3.6L housing leaks but verify sensor and filter compatibility before installation.
Choosing the Right Dodge Durango Oil Filter Housing: Key Factors to Consider
Fitment and Mounting Accuracy
Precise fitment matters because an oil filter housing must align exactly with the engine block and accessory ports. If bolt holes, mounting faces, or fluid passages are even slightly off, installation can be difficult and can stress fasteners or mating surfaces.
Correct fit reduces installation time and lowers the risk of leaks caused by uneven gasket compression. When assessing housings, verify that the part maps to the Dodge Durango engine variant and that mounting points match factory locations to avoid adaptors or modifications.
Sealing Surface and Gasket Compatibility
The quality of sealing surfaces and the design of the gasket or O-ring are critical to preventing oil filter housing leaks. Flat, smooth mating faces and properly sized grooves for seals help ensure even compression and long-term sealing performance.
Consider whether the housing accepts a replaceable gasket or integrated seal and whether aftermarket gasket materials are readily available. A housing that accommodates the correct gasket design will be easier to service and less likely to develop weeping over time.
Material Strength and Resistance to Cracking
Housings are typically made from aluminum or high-strength plastics, and material choice affects durability. Repeated thermal cycling and engine vibration can lead to stress fractures in weaker materials or poor casting.
Choose a housing constructed from a material rated for engine compartment temperatures and one with robust wall thickness at stress points. Look for housings with reinforced mounting bosses and quality machining to reduce the chance of cracking under normal operating conditions.
Port and Passage Design
Oil flow passages and port locations influence oil pressure and filtration efficiency. A housing with well-designed internal passages minimizes flow restrictions and ensures the filter element receives a steady supply of oil at the correct pressure.
Check that ports align with existing oil lines and that passage diameters match factory expectations. Poorly designed passages can create turbulence or restriction, which may affect lubrication and long-term engine health.
Serviceability and Access to Filter Element
Routine maintenance is easier when the housing design allows straightforward access to the filter element and service seals. Consider how the housing sits in the engine bay and whether common tools can reach mounting fasteners and the filter cap.
A housing that simplifies filter changes reduces service time and the chance of installation errors. Features like captive bolts, accessible filter caps, and clear seal grooves all contribute to better long-term ownership experience.
Compatibility With OEM Part Numbers
Matching OEM part numbers or documented direct-fit replacements reduces ambiguity during purchase and installation. Confirming part number compatibility helps ensure the housing will integrate with the Durango's existing sensors, lines, and mounting hardware.
Avoid parts that list vague vehicle fitment. A housing that references the correct Dodge Durango part number minimizes the risk of mismatched ports or incorrect thread sizes and simplifies sourcing replacement gaskets and seals.
FAQ
What are common signs of a failing oil filter housing on a Dodge Durango?
Common signs include visible oil leaks around the housing, low oil pressure warnings, and oil smell in the engine bay. You may also notice oil residue on nearby components or decreasing oil levels between changes. If you observe these symptoms, inspect the housing, seals, and mounting surfaces before assuming the filter itself is at fault.
Can I replace an oil filter housing myself?
Many owners can replace an oil filter housing with basic mechanical skills and the right tools, but access may be limited depending on engine layout. Ensure the engine is cool, drain the oil as needed, and follow proper torque specs for fasteners. If you are uncomfortable with seal seating or torque procedures, seek professional help to avoid leaks.
How important is using the correct gasket or seal when installing a housing?
Using the correct gasket or seal is crucial because improper seals often cause leaks even when the housing fits correctly. Match the gasket material and profile to the housing design, and replace any seals removed during service. Proper seal installation and even bolt torque are essential for long-term leak-free performance.
Why would an oil filter housing crack or fail prematurely?
Cracking can result from material defects, excessive overtightening of fasteners, or repeated thermal and mechanical stress. Poor-quality castings or thin sections at mounting points are more vulnerable. Choosing a housing with robust construction and following correct installation torque can reduce the risk of premature failure.
Does the oil filter housing include the filter element and seals?
In many cases the housing is sold separately from the filter element and some seals, though configurations vary. Check part descriptions to see which components are included. If seals or gaskets are not included, plan to purchase them separately to ensure a complete, leak-free installation.
How do I find the correct part number for my Durango's oil filter housing?
Locate your vehicle identification details and consult the manufacturer parts catalog or service manual to match the correct part number to your engine variant. Dealer parts departments and official documentation list the exact part numbers needed to ensure proper fit and compatibility.
How We Chose the Best Dodge Durango Oil Filter Housing
We focused on factors that directly affect durability and serviceability on the Dodge Durango. Our evaluation prioritized precise OEM-compatible fitment so bolt patterns and mounting points align without modification. We assessed sealing integrity by looking at housing surfaces and gasket design to reduce the chance of oil leaks. Material and manufacturing quality were considered to resist cracking and warping under engine heat and pressure. Ease of maintenance was weighed, including access to the filter element and the ability to replace seals or gaskets during routine service. Finally, we looked at the availability of correct part numbers and compatibility with common engine variants for the Durango. We excluded housings that required drilling, adapter plates, or significant modification to install. Units intended only for racing applications or heavy modification were not considered. The resulting list emphasizes housings that balance correct fit, reliable sealing, durable construction, and straightforward maintenance for typical street-driven Dodge Durango vehicles.
Our full evaluation process is outlined in our review methodology.
Conclusion
When selecting a Dodge Durango oil filter housing, prioritize correct fitment to your engine variant and a housing that accepts the proper gasket or seal. These elements directly influence leak prevention and oil system reliability. Balance material durability, clear oil passage design, and serviceability when weighing options. Focusing on those factors will help you choose a housing that minimizes maintenance headaches and reduces the risk of oil leaks or premature failure.
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