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Choosing the right Dodge Journey oil filter housing matters because the housing affects oil flow, sealing, and long-term engine health. A poorly fitting or leaking housing can cause oil loss, pressure problems, and costly repairs, while a correctly matched housing restores proper sealing and serviceability. This guide covers seven shortlisted oil filter housings that meet common fitment and durability expectations. We evaluated each option for fit accuracy, seal reliability, and build quality to help you narrow choices before installation. Read on for what mattered in our selection and the key factors to check when you replace the housing.
Looking for other parts? See all Dodge Journey 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 (926-959) |  |
| Most Popular A crowd favorite that many people choose with confidence | Somusen Aluminum Engine Oil Cooler and Filter Housing Kit |  |
| Best Quality Built to a higher standard if you want something more solid | Somusen Full Aluminum Engine Oil Filter Housing Kit with Oil Cooler and Sensors |  |
| Best Budget The cheapest option that still gets the job done reliably | GlymXia Aluminum Engine Oil Cooler & Filter Housing Kit (3.6L) |  |
| Most Sold A high-volume bestseller chosen again and again | YITHSWAY Aluminum Engine Oil Cooler and Oil Filter Housing Adapter (3.6L) |  |
| Best Value for Money The sweet spot between price and what you get | GAOBEN Aluminum Engine Oil Filter Housing with Oil Cooler (926-876 / 926-959) |  |
| Best Overall The best all-around choice for most situations | MNJWS Aluminum Oil Filter Housing and Oil Cooler Kit for 3.6L Pentastar |  |
1. YITHSWAY Aluminum Engine Oil Cooler and Filter Housing Assembly (926-959)
| Material | Aluminum |
|---|---|
| Product Grade | Replacement Part |
| Automotive Fit Type | Vehicle Specific Fit |
| Position | Front |
This YITHSWAY assembly combines the oil cooler, filter housing and sensors into a single replacement unit aimed at fixing leaks and cooling issues on 3.6L vehicles. It is typically used as a direct swap for a failing plastic housing: the kit arrives with the cooler, housing, a preinstalled oil filter, temperature and pressure sensors, gaskets, O-rings and mounting bolts to simplify installation. The machined aluminum construction improves heat and corrosion resistance compared with plastic housings and should reduce the chance of warping and repeat leaks under heavy use. Practical benefits include the included hardware and sensors so you do not need to track down separate parts, and several owner reports confirm good fit and no leaks after installation. Limitations are that filter compatibility can vary by year and you should reuse or match the original oil filter if needed, and installation can be fiddly with torque and O-ring lubrication required to avoid future leaks.
Best for: Reliability-focused buyers who prioritize a durable, long-lasting replacement over temporary fixes and want a mostly complete kit to restore proper oil cooling on a 3.6L Dodge.
Less Ideal for: Buyers who prefer purchasing only the OEM-branded part from a dealer or who want a simple gasket replacement rather than a full housing swap should consider other options.
- Machined aluminum construction resists heat and corrosion better than plastic housings
- Includes cooler, housing, oil filter, pressure and temperature sensors, gaskets, O-rings and bolts for a complete swap
- Vehicle-specific fit intended to line up with factory mounting points
- Preinstalled components reduce parts hunting and speed up installation
- Multiple user reports of reliable fit and elimination of leaks
- Oil filter supplied may not match the exact filter used on all model years so replacement filter selection may be required
- Installation requires careful O-ring lubrication and correct torque values to prevent leaks
Verdict A robust aluminum replacement assembly that addresses common plastic-housing failures and arrives as a mostly complete kit to restore oil cooling on compatible 3.6L Dodge models.
2. Somusen Aluminum Engine Oil Cooler and Filter Housing Kit
| Brand | Somusen |
|---|---|
| Material | Aluminum |
| Product Grade | Replacement Part |
| Automotive Fit Type | Vehicle Specific Fit |
| Compatible Engines | V6 3.6L |
This Somusen kit replaces the factory plastic oil filter housing with an all-aluminum oil cooler and housing assembly that integrates the oil cooler, oil filter location, and sensor ports. It is intended for use as a vehicle-specific replacement on the 2017–2018 Dodge Journey V6 3.6L and is typically installed when the original housing leaks or the cooler becomes clogged. Notable features include a multi-layer aluminum cooler core, an aluminum housing to reduce crack-prone plastic failures, and supplied gaskets, O-rings, sensors, and an oil filter. In practice the kit gives a sturdier long-term solution and improved cooling potential compared with the plastic unit, and many DIYers report straightforward fitment when following service procedures. Important limitations are variable supplied sensor and gasket quality, so many installers choose to reuse OEM sensors or buy OEM-quality seals to avoid engine codes and leaks. Installation can be time consuming and may require bleeding coolant and careful gasket seating, but the result is a more robust housing that can reduce repeat failures common on the original plastic parts.
Best for: Convenience-driven Journey owners who want a long-term replacement that minimizes future failures and prefer a single kit that replaces the entire housing and cooler in one service visit.
Less Ideal for: If you prefer a plug-and-play OEM swap without checking supplied sensors or seals, this kit may require extra parts and time and is not the best choice.
- All-aluminum housing and cooler core for greater resistance to heat and cracking than plastic units
- Integrated oil cooler and filter housing replaces multiple components in a single unit
- Vehicle-specific fit for 2017–2018 Dodge Journey V6 3.6L simplifies installation alignment
- Includes gaskets, O-rings, sensors, and an oil filter so you receive a complete replacement kit
- Supplied sensors and some gaskets have inconsistent quality and may trigger error codes
- Installation is moderately involved and requires coolant draining and careful sealing
- Some buyers report early failures with certain units, so extra-quality seals or sensors are advisable
Verdict A sturdier aluminum replacement that fixes the weak plastic housing failure point for Dodge Journey 3.6L engines, though buyers should plan to fit OEM-quality seals and possibly sensors during installation.
3. Somusen Full Aluminum Engine Oil Filter Housing Kit with Oil Cooler and Sensors
| Material | Aluminum |
|---|---|
| Product Grade | Performance Part |
| Automotive Fit Type | Universal Fit |
| Compatible Engines | 3.2L and 3.6L 6‑cyl (2011–2016) |
This Somusen kit replaces the fragile factory plastic oil filter housing with a cast aluminum housing and integrated oil cooler, and it ships with sensors, gaskets, O-rings, and an oil filter. For the 2011–2016 Dodge Journey 3.2L and 3.6L, it is used as a direct replacement to stop coolant or oil leaks and add improved cooling capacity via an 8-layer plate cooler design. Installation is typically a DIY or shop job that requires draining oil and coolant and careful sealing of O-rings; several owners recommend fitting OEM-quality seals and sensors rather than the included ones to avoid error codes. The aluminum construction resists cracking and should outlast the original plastic part, and the integrated cooler can help keep oil temperatures down under load. Some buyers report sensor or gasket quality issues and a few had electrical fault codes until they swapped sensors, so expect to budget time or parts for a trouble-free install. For a performance-minded Journey driver this kit offers stronger construction and better cooling at a lower cost than dealer replacements if fitted correctly.
Best for: Performance-oriented Dodge Journey owners who prioritize durability and improved oil cooling and are comfortable doing a careful DIY install or working with a shop to upgrade the factory housing.
Less Ideal for: Drivers who want a guaranteed drop-in, zero-hassle replacement without replacing supplied sensors or seals should consider a factory-quality aftermarket unit accompanied by OEM sensors and gaskets.
- All-aluminum housing reduces risk of cracking compared with factory plastic units
- Integrated oil cooler uses multi-layer plate design to lower oil temperature under load
- Includes sensors, gaskets, O-rings, and an oil filter for a near-complete replacement package
- Widely reported to fit 2011–2016 Dodge Journey 3.2L and 3.6L with correct bolt locations
- Included sensors and seals are reportedly lower quality and may trigger engine codes
- Some buyers experienced early failures or needed to replace supplied O-rings with OEM parts
- Installation can be time-consuming and may require rework if original-quality sensors are not used
Verdict A stronger aluminum upgrade that improves oil cooling for 2011–2016 Dodge Journey 3.2L/3.6L engines but plan to fit OEM-quality seals and possibly sensors for trouble-free operation.
4. GlymXia Aluminum Engine Oil Cooler & Filter Housing Kit (3.6L)
| Manufacturer | GlymXia |
|---|---|
| Model | Engine Oil Cooler and Oil Filter Housing Assembly |
| Exterior | Machined |
| Position | Front |
This GlymXia kit replaces the factory plastic oil filter housing on the 3.6L Dodge Journey with a machined aluminum assembly and a preinstalled oil filter. It includes the oil cooler, housing, cap, pressure and temperature sensors, seals, gaskets and mounting hardware so a single unit swap covers the whole service. In real-world use the aluminum construction should resist the cracking and leaking that plagues the plastic housings, and reviewers report straightforward installation and good fitment on 3.6L V6 engines. The preinstalled filter and full gasket set make it convenient for a DIY install or quick mechanic turnaround. Limitations are that this is a direct-fit replacement rather than an upgraded cooling capacity design, and buyers should ensure sensor compatibility and torque specs at installation to avoid leaks. For budget-focused owners seeking a durable factory-replacement alternative, this kit provides tangible long-term value compared with repeated plastic housing failures.
Best for: Budget-conscious owners who prioritize durability and a one-piece replacement to avoid repeated failures and repair costs on a Dodge Journey 3.6L.
Less Ideal for: Owners looking for a higher-capacity aftermarket oil cooling solution or those wanting vehicle-specific performance tuning should consider performance-oriented alternatives.
- Machined aluminum construction reduces risk of cracking and leaks compared with plastic housings
- Complete kit includes oil cooler, housing, cap, preinstalled filter, sensors, seals, gaskets and bolts
- Preinstalled oil filter and included seals simplify installation and cut shop time
- Reported to fit 3.6L applications without modification, easing direct replacement
- Not a performance-upgrade cooler; cooling capacity appears equivalent to factory design
- Requires correct sensor transfer and proper torque during install to prevent leaks
Verdict A budget-friendly aluminum replacement kit for the Dodge Journey 3.6L that trades repeated plastic-housing repairs for a more durable, ready-to-install assembly.
5. YITHSWAY Aluminum Engine Oil Cooler and Oil Filter Housing Adapter (3.6L)
| Material | Aluminum |
|---|---|
| Thread Size | M16 x 1.5 |
| Vehicle Service Type | Car |
| Product Grade | Replacement Part |
This YITHSWAY aluminum oil cooler and oil filter housing adapter is a direct-replacement assembly for Chrysler 3.6L engines and comes as a complete kit with filter, sensors, seals, gaskets, and mounting hardware. It is intended to replace the common plastic housing on vehicles like the Dodge Journey 3.6L and is typically used when the original housing cracks or leaks. The machined aluminum construction offers better heat and corrosion resistance than plastic, reducing the chance of repeat failures and oil leaks. Included temperature and pressure sensors and preinstalled gaskets simplify installation and reduce parts hunting. Buyers should note this is an aftermarket part rather than a factory unit so fit and sensor calibration should be checked during installation and cooling-system bleeding may be necessary. The kit covers the usual repair scenario and gives a durable upgrade over the plastic housings, but expect to follow proper torque and sealing procedures to avoid installation-related leaks.
Best for: Risk-averse mainstream buyers who want a longer-lasting, lower-maintenance replacement for the known-fault plastic housing on their Dodge Journey 3.6L and prefer a ready-to-install kit that addresses the common leak failure.
Less Ideal for: Shoppers seeking an exact factory-source part or professional service centers that prefer OEM numbered components for warranty and parts-tracking purposes.
- Machined aluminum construction improves heat and corrosion resistance compared with plastic housings.
- Includes oil filter, pressure and temperature sensors, O-rings, gaskets, and mounting bolts for a one-kit replacement.
- Vehicle-specific fit for Chrysler 3.6L engines commonly found in Dodge Journey, reducing fitment guesswork.
- Preinstalled seals and supplied hardware speed up installation and lower the chance of missing parts.
- Aftermarket product so minor fitment or sensor differences versus factory parts are possible.
- Requires proper cooling system bleeding and torquing during installation to ensure leak-free operation.
Verdict A practical, more durable aluminum upgrade to the Dodge Journey 3.6L plastic oil filter housing that arrives as a complete installation kit.
6. GAOBEN Aluminum Engine Oil Filter Housing with Oil Cooler (926-876 / 926-959)
| Material | Aluminum |
|---|---|
| Thread Size | M16 x 1.5 |
| Automotive Fit Type | Vehicle Specific Fit |
| Product Grade | Replacement Part |
This GAOBEN aluminum oil filter housing replaces the common plastic housing and built-in oil cooler on 3.6L Dodge engines, addressing the typical cracking and leaking failure. Intended for installation where the factory housing failed, it is used the same way as the original: swap the assembly, reinstall sensors and gaskets, and reconnect oil lines. Key features are an all-aluminum machined body, included gaskets and sensors in many kits, and a factory-style thread size for fittings. In practice the aluminum construction reduces the risk of future warp and leakage and reviewers report successful leak fixes after installation. Expect straightforward compatibility checks and careful sensor fitment because some buyers had to reuse factory sensors or trim connectors to get perfect electrical mating. Installation is involved and can be messy since it is an engine-level repair, but for a practical owner wanting a long-term fix the upgraded metal housing offers better durability than the plastic original.
Best for: Practical owners who want a durable, cost-effective repair that stops recurring oil leaks without paying dealer prices and prefer a long-term upgrade over a like-for-like plastic replacement.
Less Ideal for: Drivers who prefer dealer parts and warranty coverage or those unwilling to handle a moderate DIY engine repair should consider alternatives or professional installation.
- Aluminum machined body reduces risk of cracking and oil leaks compared with factory plastic housings
- Includes gaskets and often sensors for a near-complete replacement kit
- Vehicle-specific fit targeted to 3.6L Dodge applications including the Journey, simplifying selection
- M16 x 1.5 thread size matches common factory fittings for straightforward hose and sensor connections
- Some sensor connectors may not match exactly and can require swapping the original sensor or minor modification
- Installation is labor-intensive and requires draining oil and working in a confined engine area
- Not a direct warranty substitute so longevity depends on correct installation and sensor compatibility
Verdict If your Dodge Journey 3.6L is leaking from the plastic housing, this aluminum replacement is a durable, budget-friendly upgrade that often stops leaks but check sensor fitment before installation.
7. MNJWS Aluminum Oil Filter Housing and Oil Cooler Kit for 3.6L Pentastar
| Material | Aluminum |
|---|---|
| Thread Size | M16 x 1.5 |
| Vehicle Service Type | 3.6L Pentastar (Dodge Journey listed) |
This MNJWS kit replaces the factory plastic oil filter housing on 3.6L Pentastar engines with a reinforced aluminum unit and integrated oil cooler. For Dodge Journey owners the part addresses a common leak point by using a heat-resistant, corrosion-resistant housing that carries the oil filter, oil cooler and sensor ports in one assembly. It ships with seals, bolts and an oil filter to simplify a do-it-yourself swap or a shop installation. In practice the aluminum construction resists warping that can cause leaks on older plastic housings and reviewers report straightforward fitment and leak resolution when installed on 3.6L vehicles. Be aware some of the included sensors or the small oil filter supplied may not match every vehicle; installers sometimes reuse the original sensor or replace the supplied filter to avoid compatibility and flow concerns. A professional install is recommended if you will rely on a shop warranty because some garages will not warranty labor when third-party parts are supplied.
Best for: Balanced all-round buyers who want a long-lasting, practical upgrade to the stock plastic housing on their 3.6L Journey and prefer a solution that fixes leaks and reduces future maintenance.
Less Ideal for: Drivers who must maintain dealer parts and labor warranty coverage or who prefer to only install factory-brand components should consider alternate sources.
- Aluminum construction reduces heat-related warping and improves long-term durability compared with factory plastic housings.
- Direct-replacement design for 3.6L Pentastar engines simplifies installation and includes seals and hardware.
- Includes oil filter and mounting bolts so the kit is nearly ready to install out of the box.
- Many buyers report the part stops leaks and fits correctly on compatible vehicles.
- Included sensors or the supplied oil filter may not match every vehicle and sometimes must be reused or replaced.
- Some users reported receiving a faulty sensor that required replacement after installation.
- Using a third-party housing can void or complicate shop labor warranties when a professional replaces the part.
Verdict A durable aluminum replacement that reliably cures leak-prone plastic housings on 3.6L Journey engines, but check sensor and filter compatibility before installation.
Choosing the Right Dodge Journey Oil Filter Housing: Key Factors to Consider
Fitment and Compatibility
Correct fitment is the most important factor because the housing must align precisely with the engine block oil passages, mounting points, and filter orientation. A housing that does not match factory mounting locations can cause stress on fasteners or misaligned oil passages, which raises the risk of leaks or filter damage.
When evaluating fit, check bolt hole spacing, the position of oil inlet and outlet ports, and overall profile so the housing does not interfere with adjacent components. Accurate fit reduces the need for modifications during installation and ensures the oil filter seals properly against the housing.
Sealing Surfaces and Gasket Quality
The sealing surface design and the included gasket determine how effectively the housing prevents oil leaks. Flat, smooth sealing faces and a gasket material matched to engine oil and temperature ranges help maintain a reliable seal over time.
Inspect whether the housing uses an integrated O-ring, a replaceable gasket, or a multi-layer seal and confirm the gasket compresses evenly. Poor gasket seating or uneven sealing surfaces often leads to slow leaks and can be difficult to diagnose until oil pressure is affected.
Material Strength and Resistance to Cracking
Housing material affects durability and resistance to thermal cycling and mechanical stress. Cast aluminum or reinforced composites are common, and each has tradeoffs in weight, heat dissipation, and susceptibility to cracking.
Look for designs with ribbing or reinforcement around fastener bosses and thin sections to minimize stress concentrations. Materials and design that resist cracking reduce the chance of sudden coolant or oil loss and extend the service life of the housing.
Thermal Stability and Warp Resistance
Oil filter housings experience frequent temperature changes that can cause warping if materials or tolerances are inadequate. Warp can create gaps between the housing and mating surfaces, leading to slow leaks and uneven gasket compression.
Choose housings engineered to maintain flatness across the sealing flange and that specify thermal tolerance or testing. Consistent flange flatness makes it easier to achieve uniform gasket compression with standard torque values during installation.
Serviceability and Installation Access
Consider how easy it will be to access fasteners, the filter element, and sealing surfaces during routine maintenance. A housing that provides clear access reduces labor time and the chance of incorrect reassembly.
Factor in whether the housing requires special tools, the orientation of drain-back paths, and how the design manages oil when the filter is removed. Easier serviceability helps ensure proper torque on bolts and correct gasket placement, which contributes to long-term leak-free performance.
Manufacturing Tolerances and Quality Control
Tighter manufacturing tolerances ensure consistent performance across production lots and reduce variability in how gaskets compress and how ports align. Quality control practices that minimize porosity, machining blemishes, or material inconsistencies are important for reliability.
A housing built with consistent tolerances will more reliably meet fitment and sealing expectations, lowering the risk of early failures and reducing the need to re-torque or re-seal after initial installation.
FAQ
What are common symptoms of a failing oil filter housing on a Dodge Journey?
Common signs often include visible oil leaks near the filter area, low engine oil pressure warnings, or unexplained oil loss between services. You may also notice oil on adjacent components or a burning oil smell if leaking oil contacts hot parts. These symptoms usually prompt inspection of the housing, gasket, and filter seating.
Can I replace only the gasket instead of the entire oil filter housing?
Sometimes a gasket replacement is sufficient if the housing flange and sealing surfaces are undamaged and flat. However, if the housing shows cracking, warping, or damaged mounting bosses, replacing the entire housing is usually the more reliable option. Inspect the housing carefully before deciding.
How do I check an oil filter housing for cracks or leaks?
Perform a visual inspection for hairline cracks, especially around bolt bosses and thin sections, and look for oil pooling or fresh seepage on the sealing flange. Pressure testing or using a UV dye with a short drive can help locate slow leaks. Ensure fasteners are torqued to specification before concluding the housing is at fault.
Does replacing the oil filter housing require special tools?
Most replacements require common hand tools, a torque wrench, and sometimes a filter wrench for the element. Some installations may need specialty sockets for recessed fasteners or alignment pins. Follow service manual torque specs and procedures to avoid overloading bolts or misaligning the housing.
How long should a properly installed oil filter housing last?
A correctly installed housing made from durable materials and maintained with timely gasket replacements can last many years under normal operating conditions. Longevity depends on factors such as thermal cycling, driving habits, and whether the housing has been exposed to impacts or improper torque during past service.
How We Chose the Best Dodge Journey Oil Filter Housing
We focused on components that meet OEM fit and sealing expectations for the Dodge Journey and that support common service intervals and maintenance tasks. Key evaluation criteria included fitment accuracy to the engine mounting points and oil passages, the quality and compatibility of sealing surfaces and gaskets, resistance to cracking or warping under thermal stress, and overall material durability for long-term service. We also considered ease of installation, including access to the filter and fasteners, and whether designs reduced risk of overtightening or misalignment. Leak resistance under typical operating temperatures and pressures was a major factor, as were manufacturing tolerances that affect consistent gasket compression. Exclusions included units with unclear fit data, housings intended for different vehicle families, and components with documented recurring failures. The final list represents housings that passed these filters and matched the dimensional and sealing needs specific to the Dodge Journey engine application.
Our full evaluation process is outlined in our review methodology.
Conclusion
When choosing a Dodge Journey oil filter housing, prioritize accurate fitment and reliable sealing surfaces to prevent leaks and preserve oil pressure. Balance material durability and resistance to thermal stress with serviceability so future maintenance is straightforward. Be mindful of the tradeoffs between gasket-only repairs and full housing replacement. If the flange, mounting bosses, or the housing body show damage or cracking, replacing the housing avoids repeat failures and simplifies long-term upkeep.
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