[FelineFreddie]

The TSB is hardly a glowing recommendation for using Subaru-supplied “alternate OEM” oil filters, IMO…

 

[FelineFreddie]

Why would anyone buy those filters when the black Japanese filters are available on Amazon and EBay? Expensive, yes, but quality usually is. When the warranty is up, there are many high quality filters out there for purchase.

Why even go that far?

If in the USA, The Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act specifically mandates that manufacturers can’t force owners to use OEM parts, such as filters, and it’s the manufacturer’s responsibility to prove a third party part caused damage before denying warranty services.

There are several quality aftermarket filter manufacturers to choose from, with proven track records. The filters the OP purchased were probably made by the lowest bidder on the contract…and it shows.

But, To Each His Own…

 

[FelineFreddie]

That’s why I suggested going with a quality (reputable brand that sells millions of filters annually) filter in order to avoid that possibility.… Not to mention the fact that a product (filter) seeing high usage and market acceptance isn’t likely to get an owner in such a position in the first place.

But you make a valid point…

 

[FelineFreddie]

Evidently, there’s a shortage of the standard blue OEM filters normally used by dealerships, and a substitute filter has been contracted by Subaru. Some folks question the quality of that replacement filter, and it could be the reason the dealership used a non-OEM filter.

Then again, not every dealership uses OEM filters for oil changes unless requested by the customer, so that could also be a reason.

My suggestion… call the dealership and ask why…

 

[FelineFreddie]

My suggestion here… Google is your friend in finding out this type of information.

 

[FelineFreddie]

Here’s a YouTube video analysis…as I understand it, Federated Auto Parts filters are made by Premium Guard.