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If you own a Cadillac CTS, the oil filter housing plays a key role in engine oil circulation and sealing. A failing housing can cause leaks, pressure loss, and messy oil changes, so choosing the right replacement matters for reliability and engine health. This guide presents seven shortlisted oil filter housings selected for fitment, sealing performance, and serviceability. Each pick was evaluated against common failure modes and maintenance needs to help you find the most appropriate option for your driving habits and repair approach.
Looking for other parts? See all Cadillac CTS parts & accessories.
Top Picks at a Glance
| Best Reviewed A top-rated pick with lots of positive feedback | MAHLE Original GS33747 Engine Oil Filter Housing Seal Kit |  |
| Most Popular A crowd favorite that many people choose with confidence | liriuda Aluminum Oil Filter Housing and Oil Cooler Kit (Full Aluminum) |  |
| Best Quality Built to a higher standard if you want something more solid | liriuda Aluminum Engine Oil Cooler and Oil Filter Housing Assembly with Sensors |  |
| Best Budget The cheapest option that still gets the job done reliably | A ABSOPRO Engine Oil Filter Housing Cover Cap (Replacement for 12583470) |  |
| Most Sold A high-volume bestseller chosen again and again | LEMASSON Oil Cooler Filter Housing Assembly with Gasket and Cap |  |
| Best Value for Money The sweet spot between price and what you get | Dorman Oil Filter Housing Assembly (917-047) |  |
| Best Overall The best all-around choice for most situations | KLN Performance Aluminum Engine Oil Filter Housing with Oil Cooler |  |
1. MAHLE Original GS33747 Engine Oil Filter Housing Seal Kit
| Brand | MAHLE Original |
|---|---|
| Material | Oe Equivalent |
| Model | GS33747 |
| Manufacturer | MAHLE Original |
This MAHLE GS33747 kit supplies the seals needed when replacing an oil filter housing to restore a reliable oil-tight connection. Typically used during repair of a leaking housing, the kit includes OE-equivalent materials and comes packaged to confirm part completeness before opening. In practice the gasket fits precisely and is engineered to meet factory specifications, which helps eliminate persistent oil seepage that can stain components and reduce engine bay cleanliness. Installers note the material is durable and pliable, resisting deterioration over time. Expect the job to require careful reassembly and correct torque on housing fasteners; in some Cadillac engine layouts access can be tight and reinstalling surrounding parts may be fiddly. The kit does not include new housing bolts or a filter element, so you may need extra fasteners or parts depending on your repair plan. For anyone tackling a housing gasket replacement, the MAHLE kit offers a reliable, factory-style sealing solution that addresses common leak sources without extensive modification.
Best for: A reliability-focused buyer who prioritizes durable, factory-quality replacement parts to stop oil leaks and extend service intervals on their Cadillac CTS.
Less Ideal for: DIYers who want a complete repair kit with fasteners and a filter included or users seeking a simple, no-fuss plug-and-play solution.
- Factory-quality, OE-equivalent sealing material for reliable leak repair
- Packaged in a shrink-wrapped tray so you can verify contents before installation
- Durable, pliable gasket material that resists deterioration over time
- Precise fit reported to stop oil filter housing leaks on affected engines
- Does not include replacement housing bolts or additional hardware that some repairs require
- Installation can be awkward in confined engine bays and benefits from correct torque and experience
Verdict Choose this MAHLE seal kit when you want a factory-quality gasket to stop oil filter housing leaks and restore reliable sealing on a Cadillac CTS.
2. liriuda Aluminum Oil Filter Housing and Oil Cooler Kit (Full Aluminum)
| Compatible with Vehicle Type | Car, Sports Utility Vehicle, Truck, Van |
|---|---|
| Material Type | Aluminum |
| Manufacturer Part Number | 926-959, 926-876, 5184294AC |
| OEM Equivalent Part Number | 68310865AB |
This kit replaces the factory oil filter housing and oil cooler with a full-aluminum assembly intended to stop leaks and improve durability compared with plastic housings. It arrives pre-assembled and includes the aluminum cooler, aluminum housing and cap, an oil filter, pressure and temperature sensors, multiple gaskets, O-rings, and mounting bolts so you can install it as a single unit. The reinforced 7075-style aluminum construction should resist corrosion and heat better than plastic, which reduces the chance of repeat failures and frequent replacements. Buyers report the kit fits like the original and simplifies replacement because it contains the necessary seals and fasteners. Watch for two practical issues: some users found the supplied O-ring size inconsistent with factory parts so confirming seal fit is wise, and a few reported a sensor in the kit was faulty requiring reuse of the OE sensor. If you prioritize a one-package swap that upgrades the housing material, this kit makes the job easier, but double-check sensors and sealing parts during installation.
Best for: Convenience-driven buyers who want a single, ready-to-install replacement that upgrades the housing material and includes most required parts to minimize trips to the parts store.
Less Ideal for: Shoppers who need guaranteed factory sensors or those who prefer buying only OEM-sourced components separately should consider alternatives or plan to reuse factory sensors.
- Full assembled aluminum housing and cooler reduces risk of plastic cracking and improves heat resistance.
- Includes pressure and temperature sensors plus oil filter, gaskets, O-rings, and mounting bolts for a single-package replacement.
- Uses reinforced aluminum construction for better corrosion resistance and longer service life than plastic housings.
- Reports of fitment matching factory mating points make installation more straightforward for experienced DIYers or techs.
- Some supplied O-rings may be undersized compared with factory seals and might need replacement.
- A small number of buyers reported a faulty temperature sensor in the kit requiring swapping with the vehicle sensor.
Verdict A convenient, full-aluminum, all-in-one replacement kit that reduces plastic-housing failures but inspect seals and included sensors before final installation.
3. liriuda Aluminum Engine Oil Cooler and Oil Filter Housing Assembly with Sensors
| Compatible Engine | 3.6L Pentastar V6 |
|---|---|
| Material Type | Aluminum |
| Included Components | Oil cooler, oil filter housing, cap, pressure and temperature sensors, gaskets and bolts |
| Automotive Fit Type | Vehicle Specific Fit |
This liriuda kit replaces the plastic oil filter housing with a reinforced aluminum oil cooler and preinstalled oil filter housing assembly, plus included oil pressure and temperature sensors, gaskets, bolts, and caps for a single-package swap. It is intended to prevent the warping and leaks associated with the original plastic housings and is typically used when the factory unit is leaking or as an upgrade for improved heat and corrosion resistance. The aluminum construction and included sensors mean fewer parts to source and a faster install for a technician, and many buyers report leak-free operation after installation. Potential limitations are sensor fitment and access; metal sensors can be bulkier to install and some users needed extra disassembly to reach the mounting location, and a few reported defective sensors requiring replacement. Expect stronger, longer-lasting hardware compared with the original plastic housings but be prepared to verify the supplied sensors before finishing reassembly on vehicles with tight engine bay access.
Best for: Performance-oriented buyers who prioritize durable, long-lasting engine cooling components and want a robust upgrade over factory plastic parts to reduce future failure risk.
Less Ideal for: Drivers seeking a plug-and-play replacement without any possibility of extra labor to access sensor ports or those who prefer sourcing OEM sensors separately to avoid potential sensor issues.
- Aluminum construction resists heat and corrosion better than factory plastic housings.
- Comes preassembled with oil pressure and temperature sensors to reduce parts sourcing.
- Includes comprehensive gaskets, O-rings, bolts, and cap for one-stop replacement.
- Designed as a direct, vehicle-specific replacement to simplify installation.
- Some supplied sensors have been reported faulty and may need swapping before reassembly.
- Metal sensor housings can require extra disassembly or clearance in tight engine bays during installation.
Verdict A durable aluminum, preassembled oil cooler and housing kit ideal for buyers wanting a performance-grade replacement, but check the supplied sensors during install.
4. A ABSOPRO Engine Oil Filter Housing Cover Cap (Replacement for 12583470)
| Compatible with Vehicle Type | Car |
|---|---|
| Closure Type | Twist-On |
| Material Type | Metal |
This metal engine oil filter housing cover cap is a budget replacement meant to restore a tight seal on cartridge-style oil filter assemblies. It installs in place of the factory cap when servicing the oil filter cartridge and is typically swapped each oil change to help prevent leaks and retain oil in the housing. The part is sold as a single cover cap and is described as metal with a twist-on closure for a secure fit. Practical benefits include straightforward fitment to compatible Cadillac CTS 2.8L/3.0L/3.6L model years listed and a construction intended to meet factory-quality standards at a lower price than dealer parts. Limitations are that this is a non-OEM aftermarket part, so finish and long-term durability may vary compared with factory replacements, and professional installation is recommended to ensure the sealing O-ring seats correctly. Buyers should also confirm exact engine and year fit before installing.
Best for: Budget-conscious owners prioritizing an affordable, functional replacement cap for routine oil service on a Cadillac CTS with a cartridge-style filter system.
Less Ideal for: Owners seeking an exact factory-sourced part or maximum long-term durability should consider OEM replacements or higher-end aftermarket branded caps instead.
- Direct replacement fit for listed Cadillac CTS 2.8L/3.0L/3.6L model years.
- Metal construction marketed to resist corrosion compared with plain plastic caps.
- Twist-on closure designed to provide a secure seal for the cartridge oil filter housing.
- Sold individually for an inexpensive way to address leaks without replacing the whole housing.
- Aftermarket non-OEM part so material quality and long-term wear can vary from factory parts.
- O-ring may not be included with all listings so buyers should confirm seal components are present.
- Manufacturer recommends professional installation which adds labor cost for DIY-averse owners.
Verdict A low-cost, metal aftermarket replacement cap that gives a practical leak-fix for Cadillac CTS cartridge oil filters but is not a factory part.
5. LEMASSON Oil Cooler Filter Housing Assembly with Gasket and Cap
| Manufacturer | LEMASSON |
|---|---|
| Model | Oil Cooler Filter Housing Assembly |
| Exterior | Machined |
| Position | Front Inner |
This LEMASSON oil cooler filter housing assembly replaces the factory housing and integrates the oil cooler and filter mounting into one unit. It is intended for direct replacement use on the listed 1.4L turbo vehicles and comes with a gasket and cap to simplify installation. The part is machined aluminum for corrosion resistance and is described as meeting OEM-standard fit and performance, which should help restore proper oil cooling and pressure control after a failed housing. In practice it is a typical bolt-in replacement used when the original housing leaks, cracks, or the integrated cooler fails. Buyers report straightforward fitment in many cases, though at least one report mentions a leak where the housing mates, which underscores the need for careful sealing and correct torque during installation. This part offers a cost-effective alternative to dealer parts but may require careful inspection and proper installation to avoid oil leaks or fit issues that would require rework.
Best for: Risk-averse mainstream buyers who prioritize restoring reliable, factory-style operation without experimental modifications and who prefer straightforward replacements that match original parts.
Less Ideal for: Drivers seeking a performance upgrade or custom solution should consider aftermarket performance coolers or professional-installed options instead; also avoid if you cannot verify fitment for your exact vehicle variant.
- Designed to match listed factory part numbers for direct replacement fit.
- Machined aluminum construction resists corrosion and handles high underhood temperatures.
- Includes gasket and cap to simplify replacement and reduce parts hunting.
- Marketed to OEM standard which helps ensure compatibility with original mounting points.
- Some customers reported oil leakage at the mating surfaces, indicating possible sealing or assembly sensitivity.
- Not backed by a manufacturer warranty or explicit coverage information in the listing.
Verdict A budget-friendly, factory-style replacement housing that can restore oil cooling function if installed carefully, but verify sealing and fit to avoid leaks.
6. Dorman Oil Filter Housing Assembly (917-047)
| Compatible with Vehicle Type | Car, Sports Utility Vehicle |
|---|---|
| Product Grade | Performance Part |
| Material Type | Metal (Housing), Cellulose/Synthetic (Filter Media) |
| OEM Equivalent Part Number | 9194659 |
This Dorman oil filter housing is a direct replacement intended to restore a failed or cracked factory housing. It installs in place of the original housing, houses the oil filter element, and re-establishes the factory sealing surfaces to stop leaks caused by damaged caps. The part is made from metal with a cellulose/synthetic filter media and is presented as a performance-grade replacement engineered for durability. In use it behaves like the factory component and several owners report straightforward fit and easy installation when the housing matches the vehicle variant. Important limitations: fitment varies across GM 3.0L V6 applications so you must confirm compatibility with your vehicle and check the housing base/boss design against your original since some users needed minor modification or an alternate center bolt. Also the housing requires correct torque on installation to avoid cracking since it is aluminum. For a practical buyer looking to fix a leak without paying dealer prices this unit provides reliable value when fit is confirmed.
Best for: Practical optimizers who prioritize fixing a leaking factory part affordably and prefer a reliable replacement that restores function without unnecessary extras for routine maintenance.
Less Ideal for: Buyers seeking a guaranteed direct fit for models not listed or those unwilling to compare the replacement to their original housing should look for vehicle-specific dealer parts or consult a specialist.
- Direct replacement designed to match original fit and function for specified GM vehicles
- Durable metal construction intended to resist cracking from normal use
- Performance-grade replacement that restores sealing and stops oil leaks
- Backed by a manufacturer with aftermarket parts experience and a limited lifetime warranty
- Fit is application-specific and may require verifying the housing base and center bolt style before purchase
- May need careful torque during installation to avoid damage to the aluminum housing
Verdict A cost-effective, durable replacement for stopping oil leaks on compatible GM vehicles if you confirm the housing base and center-bolt style match your Cadillac CTS variant before buying.
7. KLN Performance Aluminum Engine Oil Filter Housing with Oil Cooler
| Material | Aluminum |
|---|---|
| Thread Size | M16 x 1.5 |
| Vehicle Service Type | Car, Sports Utility Vehicle, Truck |
| Product Grade | Replacement Part |
This KLN Performance aluminum oil filter housing replaces the common plastic housing and integrates an oil cooler, filter cap, temperature and pressure sensor ports, and a full seal kit so it is ready for installation. In practice it serves as a direct replacement assembly that reduces the risk of the plastic housing cracking and leaking while restoring oil cooling function. The package includes the oil filter, multiple o-rings and gaskets, and sensor fittings so you can swap the assembly in a single repair. Users report generally good fit and durable aluminum construction, though a minority experienced leaks around the oil stem after installation, so careful gasket seating and torque of fittings is important. It supports factory-type service routines but may require using the 2014+ style oil filter and confirming sensor compatibility with your vehicle. This is a practical, longer-lasting upgrade for owners who want a one-piece replacement with cooler and hardware included.
Best for: Buyers seeking a balanced, long-term upgrade to the factory housing who prioritize durability and convenience when servicing their Cadillac CTS.
Less Ideal for: Drivers who prefer to keep strictly original factory parts or who are uncomfortable verifying sensor and filter fitment during installation should consider alternatives or professional installation.
- Aluminum construction reduces risk of cracking compared with plastic housings.
- Includes oil cooler, oil filter, temperature and pressure sensor ports, and necessary gaskets for a single replacement job.
- Comes with multiple o-rings and gaskets plus sensors to simplify installation and avoid sourcing parts separately.
- Reported to fit vehicle-specific patterns and restore oil cooler function reliably in most installs.
- Some users reported leakage around the oil stem requiring rework or return.
- May require swapping to the 2014+ style oil filter and checking sensor fitment for full compatibility.
Verdict A convenient, factory-replacing aluminum housing with cooler and hardware included that upgrades durability over plastic but requires care verifying filter and sensor compatibility.
Choosing the Right Cadillac CTS Oil Filter Housing: Key Factors to Consider
Fitment and Compatibility
Correct fitment ensures the housing aligns with engine mounting points, oil passages, and sensor ports. A housing that fits precisely reduces the risk of stress on fasteners and prevents misalignment that can cause leaks or oil pressure issues.
Compatibility also affects access during routine maintenance. A housing that matches the Cadillac CTS engine layout will allow standard tools to reach the filter and associated sensors without extra modification or disassembly.
Gasket and Seal Quality
Gaskets and seals are the most common leak points on an oil filter housing. Higher-quality elastomers resist heat, oil degradation, and compression set, which helps maintain a consistent seal over time.
A robust sealing design reduces the chance of slow leaks that may be hard to detect. Consider housings that use replaceable gaskets or well-protected seal grooves to simplify future maintenance and repairs.
Material Strength and Resistance to Cracking
Housings can be made from various metals or composite materials, and those materials must withstand thermal cycling and vibration. Materials prone to stress cracking will often fail near bolt holes or fluid passages, causing sudden leaks.
Choose a housing material and construction method known for toughness in engine bay conditions. Reinforced designs and corrosion-resistant coatings help extend service life in environments with heat and road contaminants.
Sealing Design and Oil Pressure Integrity
Beyond the gasket, the overall sealing architecture affects how well the assembly maintains oil pressure and prevents bypass. Properly designed oil passages and mating surfaces reduce turbulence and avoid localized wear that can create leak paths.
A housing that preserves oil flow characteristics helps keep pressure readings stable and prevents premature filter bypass or starvation under load.
Ease of Installation and Serviceability
An accessible housing makes routine oil filter changes quicker and less error-prone. Features such as clear port locations, straightforward fastener access, and compatibility with common tools reduce labor time and the chance of installation errors.
Service-friendly designs that allow gasket replacement without full assembly removal are beneficial for do-it-yourself mechanics and professional shops alike.
Sensor and Port Integration
Many oil filter housings incorporate ports for pressure sensors, temperature sensors, or venting. Secure, well-sealed sensor ports prevent oil seepage and ensure reliable sensor readings.
Evaluate how sensor fittings are integrated and whether the housing provides standardized threads and O-ring seats to maintain a leak-free connection and long-term sensor reliability.
FAQ
What are common signs of a failing oil filter housing on a Cadillac CTS?
Common signs include visible oil under the engine area near the housing, fluctuating oil pressure readings, and the smell or sight of oil in the engine bay. You may also notice decreased oil level between changes. These symptoms often point to gasket degradation, hairline cracks, or loose fasteners.
Can I replace the oil filter housing myself?
Many owners can replace the housing with basic mechanic tools and a service manual for torque specs and sequence. The job usually involves draining oil, removing connected lines or sensors, and carefully swapping gaskets. If you are uncomfortable with torque requirements or sensor handling, a technician can perform the task to avoid leaks or sensor damage.
How long should a replacement housing last before showing problems?
Lifespan varies with material quality and operating conditions, but a well-made housing typically lasts many years under normal use. Heat cycling, aggressive driving, and exposure to contaminants can shorten service life. Regular inspections during oil changes help catch early signs of deterioration.
What causes an oil filter housing to crack?
Cracking often results from a combination of thermal stress, repeated vibration, and material fatigue. Over-tightening fasteners or impact damage during service can also initiate fractures. Choosing a housing designed for durability and following correct installation torque helps reduce cracking risk.
Do I need new seals or gaskets when replacing the housing?
Yes, you should use new gaskets or seals whenever the housing is replaced. Reusing old seals increases the chance of leaks because elastomers compress and degrade over time. Fresh sealing components ensure a reliable mating surface and help maintain oil integrity.
How can I identify the correct part number for my Cadillac CTS oil filter housing?
Identify the correct part number by checking your vehicle identification information and the engine configuration, then cross-reference service documentation or manufacturer parts catalogs. Ensure the part listing explicitly states compatibility with the Cadillac CTS engine layout to avoid fitment issues.
How We Chose the Best Cadillac CTS Oil Filter Housing
We focused on criteria that most affect long-term performance and user experience with Cadillac CTS oil filter housings. Key filters included fitment precision to the CTS engine mounting points, gasket and seal quality to prevent leaks, material durability against cracking and heat cycling, and serviceability for routine oil changes. We also considered manufacturing tolerances that affect oil pressure readings and ease of access for common maintenance tasks. Products that required extensive modification, lacked clear fitment specification for the Cadillac CTS, or used unverified sealing materials were excluded. The final list prioritizes housings that balance reliable sealing, straightforward installation, and resistance to common failure patterns in this application.
Our full evaluation process is outlined in our review methodology.
Conclusion
When selecting an oil filter housing for a Cadillac CTS, prioritize fitment accuracy, seal quality, and material durability. Those factors most directly influence leak prevention, oil pressure stability, and long-term reliability. Consider how easy the housing makes routine service and whether sensor ports are well integrated. Balancing sealing performance with serviceability will help you choose a housing that minimizes future repairs and keeps engine oil systems functioning properly.
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