Note: This article contains affiliate links. If you click on these links and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. This helps support my research and content. Read my full affiliate disclosure here.
If you own a 2002-2006 Honda CR-V you know the oil filter plays a small but critical role in engine longevity and day-to-day reliability. Choosing the right oil filter reduces wear by trapping contaminants, helps maintain oil pressure, and minimizes the chance of gasket leaks that can lead to messy decks or low oil levels. This guide presents the top shortlisted oil filters for the 2002-2006 CR-V, explaining how each was evaluated and what matters when you change the filter. We cover filtration performance, seal and thread quality, construction type, and compatibility with synthetic oils so you can pick the best fit for regular service or extended-interval use. Read on for practical guidance before you swap the filter yourself or hand the job to a technician.
Looking for other parts? See all Honda CR-V parts & accessories.
Top Picks at a Glance
| Best Quality Built to a higher standard if you want something more solid | Acura (Honda) 15400-PLM-A02 Engine Oil Filter |  |
| Best Value The sweet spot between price and what you get | WIX 57356XP XP Series Engine Oil Filter (synthetic-ready) |  |
| Best Budget The cheapest option that still gets the job done reliably | ECOGARD X4610 Premium Spin-On Engine Oil Filter |  |
| Highest Rated A top-rated pick with lots of positive feedback | Mobil 1 Extended Performance Oil Filter M1-110A |  |
| Most Popular A crowd favorite that many people choose with confidence | Bosch 3323 Premium Oil Filter (FILTECH) |  |
| Best Seller A high-volume bestseller chosen again and again | Purolator PL14610 PurolatorONE Advanced Engine Protection Spin-On Oil Filter |  |
1. Acura (Honda) 15400-PLM-A02 Engine Oil Filter
| Brand | Honda |
|---|---|
| Thread Size | M14 x 1.5 |
| Material | Metal housing; fibrous filter media |
| Model | 15400-PLM-A02 |
| Product Grade | Performance Part |
This is the factory replacement spin-on oil filter sold under Honda/Acura part number 15400-PLM-A02. It installs like a standard screw-on filter and uses fibrous filter media inside a painted metal housing with an M14 x 1.5 thread. For everyday and performance-minded drivers it delivers the reliability and fit you expect from a manufacturer part, with consistent sealing and media that traps contaminants to protect the engine. Typical use is routine oil-change service where ease of installation and exact fitment are priorities. Notable features include genuine manufacturer construction, a threaded aluminum-style fit, and durable housing that resists deformation during hand or wrench installation. Limitations are minimal for stock engines but there is no special high-flow or extended-life claim, so enthusiasts running heavy modification or requiring racing-grade filtration may prefer aftermarket performance filters with different media or flow characteristics. Also the package does not include a dedicated crush washer for the drain plug.
Best for: Buyers who prioritize factory-fit reliability and a straightforward replacement filter for routine oil changes on a Honda CR-V from the 2002–2006 era and want a hassle-free, OEM-quality part.
Less Ideal for: Drivers who run heavily modified engines, track cars, or who need specialty high-flow or extended-life filtration should consider performance aftermarket options instead.
- Genuine Honda/Acura part means factory-quality fit and compatibility
- Metal housing and fibrous media provide durable, reliable filtration
- Standard M14 x 1.5 thread fits Suzuki-style drain locations that use this part numbering
- Consistent sealing and installation similar to dealer-supplied filters
- Compact size makes it easy to fit into tight engine bays during DIY oil changes
- No advertised high-flow or performance media aimed specifically at high-horsepower applications
- Does not include a separate crush washer for the oil drain plug
Verdict: Choose this genuine Honda/Acura filter when you want factory-fit reliability and hassle-free installation for a 2002–2006 Honda CR-V.
2. WIX 57356XP XP Series Engine Oil Filter (synthetic-ready)
| Thread Size | 20X1.5 MM |
|---|---|
| Outside Diameter | 2.9 Inches |
| Vehicle Service Type | Car |
The WIX 57356XP is an XP-series spin-on oil filter built for extended performance with synthetic oils. It uses a synthetic-blended media with natural fibers and a silicone anti-drainback valve to maintain filtration efficiency and prevent dry starts, which is useful for long highway runs, towing, or stop-and-go city driving. Installation is straightforward for a standard spin-on filter and the unit is machined steel for a solid fit; WIX advertises up to 20,000-mile intervals with compatible synthetic oil, though real-world intervals depend on driving and oil type. Buyers report good dirt capacity and reliable fit when matched correctly to the vehicle, but occasional edge cases mention minor thread debris on some units and the need to verify fitment before purchase. For a 2002–2006 Honda CR-V this filter delivers stronger filtration and better anti-drainback protection than basic economy filters, making it a practical choice for owners who prefer longer oil change intervals and extra engine protection with synthetic oil.
Best for: A practical DIYer or maintenance-minded owner who wants stronger filtration and longer oil-change intervals on a 2002–2006 Honda CR-V while using synthetic oil.
Less Ideal for: Drivers who strictly follow short factory-specified oil-change intervals or who prefer the lowest-cost basic filters may find the extended-interval premium unnecessary.
- Synthetic-blended media for higher filtration efficiency under severe conditions
- Silicone anti-drainback valve reduces dry-start wear after shutdown
- Engineered for extended change intervals when used with synthetic oil
- Machined steel exterior for a robust, precise fit
- Some users have reported small steel shavings or thread debris on individual units
Verdict: Choose the WIX 57356XP for a 2002–2006 CR-V when you want synthetic-ready filtration and anti-drainback protection to support longer, worry-free oil change intervals.
3. ECOGARD X4610 Premium Spin-On Engine Oil Filter
| Thread Size | 20 x 1.5MM |
|---|---|
| Part Interchange Info | Replaces Honda 15400-PLM-A02PE, Rotary 13237 |
| Material Type | Resin |
| Product Grade | Performance Part |
The ECOGARD X4610 is a spin-on engine oil filter built to replace common Honda part numbers and fit many Honda applications, including 2002–2006 CR-V engines. It installs like a factory-style filter and is intended for use with both conventional and synthetic oils. The filter uses resin media with solid steel end caps and a double-fluted center tube, which the brand says helps capture more than 97% of contaminants and supports service intervals up to typical 5,000-mile change cycles. For do-it-yourselfers the X4610 is straightforward to thread on and remove, and its listed thread size matches common Honda mountings. Expect reliable basic filtration and a build similar to more expensive aftermarket brands, making it an economical choice for routine oil changes. Limitations are simple: it is a direct replacement filter with no extended-life rating beyond standard intervals and fitment should be double-checked against your vehicle year and engine to ensure exact compatibility.
Best for: Buyers who prioritize a low-cost, reliable factory-fit replacement for routine oil changes and prefer doing the service themselves rather than paying dealer prices.
Less Ideal for: Drivers seeking extended-life filtration for long-interval oil change programs or specialized performance filtration should consider premium long-life options instead.
- Factory-style spin-on design for straightforward installation
- Constructed with steel end caps and reinforced center tube for durability
- Compatible with both synthetic and conventional oils
- Claims to screen out over 97% of contaminants, improving engine protection
- Not advertised as an extended-life or high-mileage filter beyond standard oil change intervals
Verdict: A budget-friendly, factory-fit replacement that delivers reliable filtration for routine oil changes on 2002–2006 Honda CR-Vs.
4. Mobil 1 Extended Performance Oil Filter M1-110A
| Thread Size | 20X1.5 MM; M20 x 1.50 |
|---|---|
| Product Grade | Performance Part |
| Compatible with Vehicle Type | Car, Sports Utility Vehicle, Truck, Van |
| Material Type | Resin |
| Included Components | Extended Performance Oil Filter |
The Mobil 1 M1-110A is an extended-performance spin-on oil filter built to trap contaminants and help maintain engine cleanliness over long service intervals. It is typically used as a direct replacement during routine maintenance and pairs with synthetic motor oil to stretch the time between oil changes. Notable features include high-efficiency media, a resin canister construction, and an M20 x 1.50 thread size that matches compatible applications. In practice this filter offers very fine particle capture and a robust seal that reduces the chance of leaks during installation and operation. The filter’s design supports long drain intervals promoted by Mobil when used with their extended-performance oils, but using extended intervals depends on following vehicle manufacturer guidance for the 2002–2006 Honda CR-V. The filter is a universal aftermarket replacement and is easy to install with basic hand tools, though buyers should confirm fitment and thread size for their CR-V and follow recommended maintenance schedules rather than assuming maximum advertised intervals.
Best for: Buyers prioritizing long-term engine protection and reduced maintenance frequency who want a proven, premium aftermarket filter that supports extended synthetic oil intervals when correctly matched to their maintenance plan.
Less Ideal for: Drivers who prefer to strictly follow short factory-specified oil change intervals or who want a model-specific OEM-branded filter option should consider alternatives.
- High-efficiency filtration media for improved engine cleanliness
- Resin canister and factory-style threads for reliable sealing and installation
- Rated for extended protection when paired with extended-performance oil
- Simple spin-on design that installs with basic tools
- Extended 20,000-mile/one-year interval is conditional on using compatible oil and following manufacturer guidance
Verdict: Choose this Mobil 1 extended-performance filter if you want a proven high-efficiency aftermarket option that supports longer oil-change intervals when paired with compatible synthetic oil.
5. Bosch 3323 Premium Oil Filter (FILTECH)
| Thread Size | M20 x 1.50 |
|---|---|
| Outside Diameter | 68 Millimeters |
| Item Type Name | Vehicle Specific Fit |
| Included Components | oil filter |
The Bosch 3323 is a spin-on replacement oil filter built around Bosch's FILTECH media for high-efficiency particle capture. It is used during routine oil changes to keep harmful dirt, soot, and metal abrasion out of the engine oil; the media is rated to hold up to 14 grams of debris and claims 99% efficiency at the tested particle size. Bosch reinforces the internals with a spiral-wound metal center tube, a strong steel base plate and housing to preserve fit and prevent leaks, and a silicone anti-drain back valve to maintain oil supply on restart. The high-lubricity gasket helps create a tight seal while easing removal at service time. In practice this filter is a straightforward factory-quality replacement that fits like a standard OEM-style unit and suits regular maintenance schedules. It does not add any extra features beyond filtration and durability, so buyers looking for extended-drain or performance-specific filters should compare specs and service intervals before choosing this part.
Best for: A cautious buyer who values proven filtration and factory-quality fit for routine oil changes on the specified vehicle and prefers products with strong user feedback.
Less Ideal for: Drivers seeking extended-drain intervals, track-focused performance filters, or specialty filtration beyond standard maintenance needs should consider alternative options.
- High-efficiency FILTECH media captures fine particles and holds up to 14 grams of debris.
- OE-style steel base plate, housing, and reinforced center tube reduce risk of leaks and warpage.
- Silicone anti-drain back valve preserves oil supply at startup to protect engine components.
- Lubricious gasket gives a reliable, leak-resistant seal and simplifies removal during service.
- Designed as a standard replacement filter rather than an extended-drain or performance-specific option.
Verdict: Choose the Bosch 3323 when you want a reliable, factory-quality replacement filter with high-efficiency media and proven fit for regular oil change maintenance.
6. Purolator PL14610 PurolatorONE Advanced Engine Protection Spin-On Oil Filter
| Thread Size | M20x1.5 |
|---|---|
| Outside Diameter | 2.69 Inches |
| Material | Silicone (gasket) / Synthetic-blend media |
| Automotive Fit Type | Vehicle Specific Fit |
| Model | PL14610 |
The Purolator PL14610 PurolatorONE is a spin-on oil filter built to protect the engine between oil changes by removing fine contaminants and preventing dry starts. It uses a high-density synthetic-blend filter media rated to capture up to 99% of dirt and is intended to provide up to 15,000 miles of protection when paired with full synthetic oil. Practical features include a silicone anti-drainback valve to maintain oil in the filter after shutdown and a PTFE-treated gasket to reduce leak risk during operation. The metal end caps and high-flow center tube add durability for stop-and-go driving, towing, or harsh weather. As a vehicle-specific replacement, it fits many Honda models including 2002-2006 CR-V applications listed for PL14610, but buyers should verify fitment for their exact year and engine. Compared with cheap filters, this model offers stronger construction and components that reduce startup wear, though achieving the longer mileage interval depends on oil type and driving conditions.
Best for: Buyers prioritizing dependable, factory-quality filtration and built-in protections who want a conservative, durable replacement for routine maintenance on a Honda CR-V.
Less Ideal for: Drivers who strictly follow short-interval oil changes with conventional oil or who prefer a lower-cost disposable filter for very high-frequency service may prefer simpler economy options.
- High-density synthetic-blend media for strong particle capture.
- Silicone anti-drainback valve helps prevent dry-start wear.
- PTFE-treated gasket reduces risk of leaks and eases installation.
- Durable metal end caps and reinforced center tube for structural integrity.
- Marketed for extended protection up to 15,000 miles with full synthetic oil.
- Extended mileage claim depends on using full synthetic oil and may not apply in severe conditions.
Verdict: A robust, vehicle-specific replacement filter that minimizes startup wear and provides conservative, high-quality filtration for CR-V owners who prefer a risk-averse maintenance choice.
Choosing the Right 2002-2006 Honda CR-V Oil Filter: Key Factors to Consider
Filtration Efficiency and Micron Rating
Filtration efficiency determines how well an oil filter captures abrasive particles that accelerate engine wear. For the 2002-2006 Honda CR-V, the filter should trap fine particulates without restricting oil flow. A lower micron rating and higher efficiency at capturing sub-20 micron particles help protect bearings and hydraulic lifters.
When comparing options, check manufacturers' stated beta ratios or efficiency percentages rather than vague marketing claims. Better media and larger surface area typically mean higher dirt-holding capacity, which is useful if you extend drain intervals. Remember that overly restrictive filters can starve oil passageways if not paired with an appropriate bypass valve, so balance efficiency with proven flow characteristics.
Seal and Gasket Reliability
A dependable gasket prevents oil seepage at the mounting flange and maintains oil pressure under all operating conditions. For this CR-V generation, gasket fit and material quality matter because an ill-fitting or brittle gasket can leak after a few heat cycles. Look for filters with nitrile or silicone gaskets rated for repeated thermal expansion and resistant to oil-swelling.
Check how the gasket sits on the canister and whether it includes features that help center the filter during installation. A secure seal reduces the chance of an oil filter gasket leak and the need for re-torquing after initial start-up. Proper sealing also limits the chance of contamination entering the oil during service.
Threading and Mount Compatibility
Correct thread size and engagement length ensure the filter seats properly on the engine's filter boss. On the 2002-2006 CR-V, mismatched threads can lead to cross-threading or incomplete seating, both of which cause leaks or loss of oil pressure. Confirm the filter matches the exact thread pitch and diameter used by Honda for this model year range.
A robust mounting surface and accurate center hole alignment make installation easier for DIYers and technicians alike. Some aftermarket filters can have slightly different mounting flange thicknesses; while small differences are often harmless, confirmed fitment reduces installation hassle and safeguards the engine against service errors.
Bypass and Anti-Drainback Features
The bypass valve protects the engine if the filter media becomes clogged or during cold oil viscosity spikes by allowing oil to flow around the media. For CR-V owners who occasionally use thicker oils or drive in cold climates, a reliable bypass valve prevents oil starvation. Evaluate how the bypass is calibrated and whether the design is proven for automotive service intervals.
Anti-drainback valves are important for filters installed vertically or that rely on retained oil to reduce dry starts. A functioning anti-drainback valve holds oil in the filter when the engine is off so the CR-V sees immediate lubrication at startup. Poorly performing anti-drainback valves can increase wear during the first moments after engine start.
Media Construction and Dirt-Holding Capacity
Media type, pleat count, and support structure determine how much contaminant a filter can hold before flow is impeded. For owners who extend oil change intervals or use higher-mileage service patterns, a filter with greater dirt-holding capacity reduces the risk of bypass activation. Look for reinforced media with uniform pleating and a strong center tube to prevent collapse.
Synthetic media often offers higher capacity and steadier flow than cellulose alone, which can be helpful if you run synthetic oil in your CR-V. However, media must be matched to the bypass valve and overall filter design; more media is useful only when the filter maintains consistent flow rates across its service life.
Construction Quality and Canister Strength
A rigid, dent-resistant canister prevents damage during handling and resists deformation under pressure fluctuations. On the 2002-2006 Honda CR-V, a strong canister helps prevent leaks and ensures the anti-drainback and bypass systems function properly. Check for machine-crimped seams and uniform welds or rolled edges as signs of consistent manufacturing.
Canister coatings that resist corrosion are also beneficial for vehicles exposed to road salt or moisture. Good overall build quality reduces the chance of premature failure, keeps the filter seating true, and supports long service intervals without collapse or structural compromise.
Understanding Filter Types Suitable for the CR-V
Most 2002-2006 CR-V applications use spin-on oil filters, which are straightforward to install and service. Spin-on designs combine the media, gasket, and canister into a single replaceable unit that screws onto the engine's filter boss. This simplicity makes them a common choice for routine maintenance.
When choosing between cellulose, synthetic-blend, and full-synthetic media, consider your service pattern. Synthetic media typically offers higher contaminant capacity and better performance with extended drain intervals, while cellulose or blended media can be adequate for conventional oil change schedules.
- Spin-on filters are the most common and easiest for DIY replacement
- Synthetic media supports longer intervals and finer filtration
- Match media type to the oil you use and your maintenance habits
DIY Replacement Tips for the 2002-2006 CR-V
Changing the oil filter yourself can save time and ensure proper part selection. Before you start, warm the engine briefly to thin the oil, then secure the vehicle on level ground and use proper jack stands if lifting is necessary. Keep a drain pan under the filter boss to catch residual oil when removing the old filter.
Coat the new filter gasket lightly with clean engine oil to help create a seal and make future removal easier. Hand-tighten the new spin-on filter until the gasket contacts the base, then follow the manufacturer's guidance for final torque, usually a partial additional turn. After installation, run the engine and check for any sign of leaks around the gasket area and verify oil pressure feels normal.
- Warm engine slightly, then drain oil and remove old filter carefully
- Lubricate new gasket and hand-tighten; avoid over-torquing
- Inspect for leaks after start-up and recheck oil level
Maintenance Intervals and Oil Filter Service
Standard service intervals depend on oil type and driving conditions. For everyday driving with conventional oil, follow moderate intervals; with high-quality synthetic oil, many owners extend intervals while monitoring oil condition. The filter must be matched to any extended interval to ensure it can hold contaminants without engaging the bypass valve prematurely.
Routine inspection between oil changes helps spot issues like gasket seepage, which can indicate mounting surface problems or a damaged filter. Maintain a consistent oil change schedule aligned with your driving habits, and adjust frequency if you frequently tow, drive in dusty conditions, or use the vehicle for short trips that accumulate heat cycles.
- Follow oil and filter recommendations based on oil type and driving conditions
- Inspect filter area for leaks during regular maintenance
- Adjust intervals if operating in severe or dusty environments
Addressing Common Installation Issues
Cross-threading and under-tightening are two common causes of filter-related leaks. Start the filter by hand to ensure threads engage smoothly before applying final torque. If resistance is felt early, back off and re-seat to avoid damaging the engine's mounting boss.
If you encounter oil filter gasket leak after installation, stop the engine and check the gasket seating and thread engagement. Replace the filter if the gasket appears damaged or if the filter was overtightened and the gasket extruded. Ensuring the mating surface on the engine is clean before installation reduces the likelihood of leaks.
- Always start the filter by hand to avoid cross-threading
- Inspect the engine flange for old gasket residue before installing a new filter
- If a leak appears after installation, shut down and investigate gasket seating
Choosing Filters for Different Oil Types
If you run synthetic oil in your CR-V, select filters rated for synthetic service. Synthetic oils often carry smaller particles and can benefit from finer media and higher dirt-holding capacity. Confirm the filter's specifications to ensure flow characteristics remain acceptable with the oil viscosities you use.
For conventional oil use, standard filters with proven bypass and anti-drainback designs are sufficient for typical intervals. When switching from conventional to synthetic, consider replacing the filter at the next service to ensure the media and valve calibrations are optimized for the new oil characteristics.
- Match filter ratings to the oil type and change schedule
- Synthetic-compatible filters often feature finer media and higher capacity
- Replace the filter when switching oil types to avoid incompatibility issues
Signs a Filter Needs Immediate Attention
Watch for symptoms like visible oil seepage around the filter base, unexplained oil drops under the vehicle, sudden oil pressure warnings, or unusual engine noises that could indicate lubrication issues. These signs warrant shutting down the engine and inspecting the filter and sealing surfaces.
If you detect a persistent oil filter gasket leak after replacing the filter, do not ignore it. A continuing leak can rapidly drop oil levels and damage the engine. Address seal issues and verify correct torque and thread engagement before continuing to drive.
- Oil seepage at the filter base often signals gasket or seating problems
- Low oil pressure or warning lights require immediate inspection
- Persistent leaks should be corrected before driving to avoid engine damage
Still looking for the perfect fit?
Select your Honda CR-V configuration to see the most relevant Oil Filters recommendations
How We Chose the Best 2002-2006 Honda CR-V Oil Filter
We chose these oil filters using criteria that reflect the real-world needs of 2002-2006 Honda CR-V owners. Primary evaluation metrics included filtration efficiency and micron rating, which indicate how well a filter captures contaminants that cause engine wear. We looked at seal and gasket design to assess leak resistance and oil pressure stability during cold starts and aggressive driving. Construction quality was considered, including media support, canister rigidity, and anti-drainback features for spin-on designs. Compatibility with common oils was another filter: we prioritized filters rated for conventional and synthetic oils and those that maintain flow with thicker synthetic blends. Threading and gasket fit were checked against the CR-V's specifications to reduce cross-threading risk and gasket seepage. We also reviewed longevity characteristics relevant to extended oil change intervals, such as media surface area and bypass valve performance. Excluded from our list were filters that lacked clear specification data, had inconsistent fitment reports for the 2002-2006 CR-V, or relied on nonstandard gasket or thread sizes. Filters that only targeted racing or specialty engines were not considered because they do not match normal service patterns for daily-driven CR-Vs.
Our full evaluation process is outlined in our review methodology.
FAQ
How often should I replace the oil filter on my 2002-2006 CR-V?
Frequency depends on oil type and driving conditions. Typically replace the oil filter at every oil change for conventional oil. If using synthetic oil and extending drain intervals, use a filter rated for longer service and still inspect the filter and oil condition regularly.
Can I use a synthetic oil filter with conventional oil in the CR-V?
Yes, synthetic media filters are compatible with conventional oil. They usually offer higher dirt-holding capacity and finer filtration, which can be beneficial even if you are not using synthetic oil, provided the filter matches the vehicle's mounting specifications.
What causes an oil filter gasket leak after installation?
Common causes include cross-threading, overtightening that deforms the gasket, a damaged or misaligned gasket, or residual old gasket material on the engine flange. Proper hand-starting, clean mating surfaces, and correct torque on installation usually prevent leaks.
Is an anti-drainback valve necessary for the CR-V?
An anti-drainback valve is useful because it retains oil in the filter when the engine is off, reducing wear at startup. For vertically mounted spin-on filters used on this CR-V generation, a functioning anti-drainback valve is a beneficial feature, especially in cold climates.
Will a higher-capacity filter affect oil pressure in my CR-V?
Higher-capacity filters with greater media surface area generally maintain flow without raising resistance, but any filter must be designed to preserve proper oil pressure. Filters with improperly sized bypass valves or restrictive media can affect pressure, so choose options with proven flow characteristics for the CR-V.
Can I install the filter myself or should a shop do it?
Many owners can change the oil filter themselves with basic tools and safety precautions. If you are unsure about lifting the vehicle, proper disposal of oil, or correct torqueing, a shop or experienced technician can ensure the job is done cleanly and safely.
Final Verdict
When selecting an oil filter for a 2002-2006 Honda CR-V, prioritize filtration efficiency, gasket and thread compatibility, and construction quality that match your oil type and service interval. Balance finer filtration and higher dirt capacity against proven flow characteristics to avoid bypass activation and ensure adequate oil pressure. Focus on filters with reliable anti-drainback and bypass designs if you use extended drain intervals or synthetic oil. Address gasket seating and installation technique to prevent leaks, and choose a filter that aligns with how you drive and maintain your CR-V for confident, long-term engine protection.
Explore More:
- Check out all Honda CR-V parts & accessories
- Explore Oil Filters Maintenance & Repair Guides
- Explore Engine
- Browse all Auto Parts
