Choosing the wrong oil filter for a 2012 Dodge Avenger can quietly shorten engine life, restrict oil flow under load, or leave harmful particles circulating through the valvetrain. With multiple thread sizes, media types, and housing designs on the market, a single misstep at the parts counter means poor filtration or a leak waiting to happen.
I’m Amir — the founder and writer behind Four Wheel Ask. My recommendations come from comparing hundreds of product specifications, studying owner reports, and analyzing build quality data across multiple brands to identify what actually holds up over a full service interval.
Drawing on detailed analysis of specifications and owner feedback, this guide helps you choose the right best 2012 dodge avenger oil filter for reliable engine protection.
How To Choose The Best 2012 Dodge Avenger Oil Filter
The 2012 Dodge Avenger came with either a 2.4L four-cylinder or the 3.6L Pentastar V6 — each requiring a specific filter design. Understanding the differences between cartridge vs. spin-on, media composition, and bypass valve calibration will prevent oil starvation or bypassed contaminants.
Filter Type: Cartridge vs. Spin-On
The 3.6L Pentastar uses a cartridge-style filter housed inside a plastic or aluminum cap on top of the engine. The 2.4L four-cylinder typically uses a conventional spin-on canister. Verify your engine code before purchasing; installing a spin-on filter on a cartridge housing can cause a massive oil leak.
Media Quality and Micron Rating
Synthetic-blended media traps smaller particles than standard cellulose while maintaining flow under high-RPM operation. Filters rated at 99% efficiency at 20-25 microns offer excellent protection without restricting oil volume to the cam phasers and variable valve timing components.
Bypass Valve Calibration
The bypass valve opens when the filter becomes clogged or during cold starts. A valve that cracks too early lets unfiltered oil circulate. OE-spec filters for the Avenger typically bypass between 8-11 PSI. Aftermarket filters that deviate from this range may trigger low-pressure warnings or fail to protect during cold cranking.
Quick Comparison
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| Model | Category | Best For | Key Spec | Amazon |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| TEMSONE Full Aluminum Kit | Upgrade | Full housing replacement | Aluminum body, 2 sensors included | Amazon |
| WIX 57899XP | Performance | Extended oil-change intervals | 99% at 23 microns, 20k-mi rating | Amazon |
| K&N HP-4003 | Premium | Easy removal with wrench nut | 17-20k-mi rating, synthetic media | Amazon |
| Mopar 68191349AB (3-Pack) | Value | OEM cartridge for 3.6L | 3-count, genuine Mopar | Amazon |
| Genuine Chrysler 5083285AA | OEM | Factory-spec spin-on | MO-285, metal canister | Amazon |
| Mopar 68079744AC | Design | M16 x 1.5 thread compatibility | OEM fit, includes o-ring | Amazon |
| Wix 57620 | Heavy Duty | Severe-duty diesel engines | High-capacity media, 7-inch canister | Amazon |
| ATRACYPART Aluminum Cap | Upgrade | Replacing broken plastic caps | Aluminum cap, no spring mechanism | Amazon |
| Mopar 68229402AA | Diesel | 3.0L EcoDiesel applications | OEM for EcoDiesel, high burst strength | Amazon |
| Taruimoo 4-Pack | Budget | Bulk supply for 3.6L | 4 filters, 4 washers included | Amazon |
| Fiat 68102241AA | Compact | 1.4L MultiAir turbo engines | OEM replacement, 1.4L fitment | Amazon |
In‑Depth Reviews
1. TEMSONE Full Aluminum Oil Filter Housing Kit
The TEMSONE kit replaces the entire factory plastic oil filter housing and cooler assembly with a full aluminum unit that eliminates the brittle failure common on Chrysler 3.6L engines. It includes a pressure sensor, temperature sensor, oil cooler, mounting bolts, and twelve gaskets — everything needed for a complete swap without chasing down separate parts. Owner reports confirm the machined sealing surfaces prevent the leaks that plague the OEM polymer housing after 40,000 miles.
Compatibility spans 2011-2016 Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, and Ram models with the 3.6L Pentastar, including the 2011-2014 Dodge Avenger. The kit comes with two paper filters, and the aluminum cap eliminates the stripped-thread problem that forces many owners to buy a second housing. Install time runs about three hours for someone comfortable with intake manifold removal, and the pre-installed heat exchanger saves the hassle of transferring components from the old unit.
The thread size measures M16 x 1.5, matching the OE housing specification. TEMSONE backs the assembly with a one-year warranty, and owner reviews highlight that oil pressure and temperature readings match factory specifications within a fraction of a percent. The included intake gaskets are adequate, though some users prefer to upgrade to stiffer aftermarket gaskets for extra insurance during reassembly.
What works
- Solid aluminum construction eliminates plastic housing failure
- Includes pressure and temperature sensors plus all gaskets
- Pre-installed oil cooler saves installation time
What doesn’t
- Included intake gaskets feel less durable than OE equivalents
- Requires full intake removal for installation
2. WIX 57899XP Oil Filter
The WIX XP series uses a next-generation synthetic-blended media with natural fibers that eliminates the need for wire backing while achieving 99% efficiency at 23 microns. This filter is engineered specifically for synthetic oils and severe driving conditions — towing, stop-and-go traffic, and extended highway runs all fall within its design parameters. The silicone anti-drain-back valve stays pliable in cold weather, preventing dry starts that accelerate bearing wear on the 3.6L Pentastar’s timing chain tensioners.
Rated for up to 20,000-mile change intervals when paired with full synthetic oil, the 57899XP surpasses OE standards for capacity and burst strength. Compatibility spans 2008-2015 Dodge, Chrysler, Jeep, and Ram vehicles, including many engines that share the M16 x 1.5 thread pattern. Owner feedback across multiple diesel and gas platforms confirms consistent oil pressure readings and no fitment issues even on high-mileage engines.
The canister dimensions measure 3.93 inches in diameter and 4.96 inches in height, matching the footprint of standard spin-on filters for the 2.4L Avenger engine. WIX provides a service interval recommendation aligned with the engine manufacturer’s guidelines, so following the Avenger’s 5,000-7,500-mile oil change schedule remains appropriate. This filter represents a meaningful upgrade over basic cellulose filters for anyone running synthetic oil.
What works
- Synthetic-blended media provides excellent efficiency for synthetic oil users
- Rated for extended intervals up to 20,000 miles
- Silicone anti-drain-back valve prevents dry starts
What doesn’t
- Premium pricing over standard WIX White Box filters
- Overkill for conventional oil with short change intervals
3. K&N Premium Oil Filter HP-4003
The K&N HP-4003 features a welded hex nut on the dome that allows for installation and removal with a standard wrench or socket — no filter wrench required. The pleated synthetic-blended filtration media removes most harmful contaminants while maintaining high flow rates that keep the oiling system supplied during high-RPM operation. K&N rates this filter for 17,000 to 20,000 miles of protection when used with full synthetic oil, making it a strong contender for extended drain intervals.
Compatible with all conventional, synthetic, and blended motor oils, the HP-4003 is laboratory tested for burst strength and capacity. The steel canister provides structural integrity under high-pressure conditions, and the silicone anti-drain-back valve prevents oil from draining out of the filter when the engine is off. Owners of Ram 1500 Hemi and Cummins engines report using this filter well past 200,000 miles with Mobil 1 oil.
The 3.81-inch diameter and 7.23-inch height fit most spin-on applications on the 2.4L Avenger and other Chrysler engines with the correct thread pattern. The nut on the bottom is especially valuable for tight engine bays where conventional filter wrenches cannot gain purchase. K&N backs the filter with a limited warranty, and the build quality consistency across multiple production batches is well documented in owner forums.
What works
- Wrench-off nut makes removal effortless even in tight spaces
- High flow rates support sustained high-RPM operation
- Works with all oil types including synthetic blends
What doesn’t
- Premium price compared to standard OEM-grade filters
- Extended capacity may be unnecessary for standard drain intervals
4. Mopar 68191349AB Oil Filter (3-Pack)
This three-pack of genuine Mopar 68191349AB filters is the exact cartridge specified for the 3.6L Pentastar V6 found in the 2012 Dodge Avenger. Each filter includes the required o-ring, and the three-count packaging allows for three oil changes worth of inventory without multiple trips to the dealer. The filter media meets Chrysler’s original specifications for flow rate and particle retention, ensuring oil pressure stays within the factory design targets.
Compatibility extends to all Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge, and Ram vehicles equipped with the 3.2L or 3.6L Pentastar engine, including SUVs and trucks. The cartridges are manufactured to the same standards as the ones sold individually at dealership parts counters, but the mult-pack pricing typically brings the per-unit cost below dealer walk-in prices. Owner reviews confirm that these filters fit the plastic housing cap without binding or leaking.
Mopar recommends torquing the housing cap to factory specifications (typically 18 ft-lbs) to prevent cracking the plastic cap or damaging the o-ring. The bulk pack is particularly convenient for households with multiple Pentastar-equipped vehicles. Owners note that the o-ring included with each filter matches the OE durometer rating, so it compresses properly without causing drips between changes.
What works
- Genuine Mopar quality ensures perfect fit and filtration
- Three-pack provides excellent per-unit value for regular changers
- Includes matching o-ring with every cartridge
What doesn’t
- Only compatible with Pentastar 3.2L and 3.6L engines
- Bulk pack is unnecessary for single-vehicle owners who change oil once per year
5. Genuine Chrysler Part 5083285AA Oil Filter
The Genuine Chrysler 5083285AA, also known as the MO-285, is a spin-on oil filter designed for a range of Chrysler, Dodge, and Ram trucks and SUVs. While the 3.6L Pentastar uses a cartridge filter, this MO-285 spin-on is the correct OEM filter for the 2.4L four-cylinder engine in the 2012 Dodge Avenger, as well as for earlier 3.5L and 3.7L V6 engines still found in other Chrysler models. The metal canister construction provides reliable burst strength, and the cellulose-synthetic blend media is calibrated to the OE bypass valve setting.
The filter measures 11 x 5 x 8 inches and weighs under an ounce, making it a straightforward swap during routine oil changes. Owner feedback consistently rates it as a trouble-free OEM replacement that seals without leaking and maintains proper oil pressure. Many owners note that the Amazon price undercuts local dealership parts counters while delivering the exact same Mopar-branded product.
This filter is a direct replacement for part number 5083285AA and is interchangeable with several other Chrysler filter numbers. The included o-ring is pre-lubricated for installation. For 2.4L Avenger owners who prefer to stay with factory-spec components without paying dealer markup, this MO-285 filter delivers exactly what the dealership would install during a scheduled maintenance visit.
What works
- Genuine Chrysler OEM part at a competitive price
- Direct fit for 2.4L engines and other Chrysler V6 applications
- Reliable burst strength and OE-calibrated bypass valve
What doesn’t
- Not compatible with the cartridge-style system on 3.6L Pentastar
- Standard cellulose media, not optimized for extended intervals
6. Mopar 68079744AC Engine Oil Filter
The Mopar 68079744AC is a spin-on oil filter featuring the M16 x 1.5 thread size common across many Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, and Ram applications. This filter is designed as a performance-grade part that meets Mopar’s fit, form, and function standards. The metal housing provides robust protection against punctures, and the filter media is engineered to trap contaminants throughout the full service interval without restricting oil flow during cold starts.
Compatibility extends to cars, trucks, SUVs, and vans across the Chrysler lineup. Owners of the 2012 Grand Cherokee with the 3.6L Pentastar have successfully used this filter, though for cartridge-style Pentastar applications it requires the correct housing cap. The included o-ring is pre-lubricated for a secure seal, and the filter’s dimensions (6 x 3 x 3 inches) fit standard mounting locations without interference.
Owner reviews highlight the availability advantage: many local parts stores must order this filter, while Amazon stocks it for next-day delivery. The Mopar branding ensures that warranty-conscious owners have documentation of genuine parts usage. For 2.4L Avenger owners or anyone looking for a Mopar-branded spin-on filter with the M16 thread, this is a direct drop-in replacement that performs identically to the more expensive dealer-sold units.
What works
- Genuine Mopar performance-grade construction
- M16 x 1.5 threads match many Chrysler applications
- Includes o-ring for leak-free installation
What doesn’t
- Packaging lacks tamper-evident seal on some units
- Not a cartridge filter; requires spin-on mount
7. Wix 57620 Heavy Duty Spin-On Lube Filter
The Wix 57620 is a heavy-duty spin-on oil filter designed primarily for diesel applications, including the Cummins 5.9L and 6.7L engines found in Ram trucks. The 7-inch canister provides significantly more media surface area than standard passenger-car filters, allowing for higher contaminant capacity between changes. The heavy-duty construction includes a thicker housing shell and a more robust bypass valve calibrated for the higher oil pressures typical of diesel lubrication systems.
While the 57620 is not the primary filter for the 2012 Avenger’s gasoline engines, it is the correct heavy-duty filter for the Ram 2500 and 3500 trucks equipped with the Cummins diesel. Owners of those platforms report using this filter consistently for multiple years without leaks, pressure drops, or fitment issues. The Wix brand reputation for quality control is well established, with many fleet operators using Wix filters exclusively.
The filter measures 3.93 inches in diameter and 7 inches in height, with a thread size that matches the Cummins engine mount. Wix manufactures this filter in the United States, and the packaging explicitly lists compatibility with Ram chassis configurations including 60-inch CA regular cab 4×2, 4×4, and 84-inch crew cab variants. For Avenger owners with diesel Ram trucks in the household, stocking the 57620 alongside the Avenger filter simplifies inventory.
What works
- High-capacity media ideal for extended diesel service intervals
- Thick housing shell resists punctures and deformation
- Consistent Wix quality control across production batches
What doesn’t
- Overbuilt for gasoline passenger-car engines
- Large canister may not clear on some compact engine bays
8. ATRACYPART Aluminum Oil Filter Housing Cap & Filter
The ATRACYPART assembly replaces the original plastic oil filter housing cap with a CNC-machined aluminum cap that eliminates the cracked-thread failure common on 3.6L Pentastar engines. The kit includes both the aluminum cap and a compatible oil filter, providing a drop-in solution without needing to purchase the filter separately. The aluminum construction withstands repeated torque applications without stripping, a significant improvement over the OEM plastic cap that often fails after three to four oil changes.
Compatibility covers 2014-2023 Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, and Ram 3.6L V6 engines, including the 2014 Dodge Avenger. Note that the 2012 Avenger with the 3.6L uses the same Pentastar architecture but may use a slightly different cap design. Owners of 2014 and newer Pentastar vehicles report that the precise threading and sealing o-ring eliminate the wobble and seepage that develop with worn plastic caps.
The kit replaces OE numbers 68191350AA and 917-190 for the cap, and WL10010 or 68191349AB for the filter. The product does not include the spring mechanism or pressure valve found in some aftermarket assemblies, so it functions as a direct cap-and-filter replacement rather than a full housing overhaul. ATRACYPART offers a 24-month warranty, and the aluminum cap’s heat dissipation properties help keep oil temperatures slightly cooler than the plastic original.
What works
- Machined aluminum cap eliminates stripped-thread failures
- Includes both cap and filter in one package
- Better heat dissipation than OEM plastic cap
What doesn’t
- Does not include spring mechanism or pressure valve
- Listed fitment starts at 2014; verify 2012 compatibility
9. Mopar 68229402AA Engine Oil Filter
The Mopar 68229402AA is the OEM oil filter specifically engineered for the 3.0L EcoDiesel V6 engine, which is found in Ram 1500 trucks and select Jeep Grand Cherokee models, not the 2012 Dodge Avenger. This filter is included in the list because it shares the Mopar family and is frequently cross-shopped by owners who maintain multiple Chrysler vehicles. The filter media is optimized for diesel particulate and soot loading, with a higher burst strength than standard gasoline filters.
Owner reviews consistently emphasize that the Amazon price represents a significant discount — often 40-50% below dealer counter pricing — while delivering the exact same Mopar product in factory packaging. Users of the EcoDiesel engine report that changing this filter every 5,000 miles as part of routine maintenance keeps oil analysis results within the healthy range for soot and wear metals.
The filter measures 3 x 3 x 5.5 inches and weighs only 0.2 pounds, reflecting its cartridge-style design rather than a spin-on canister. The manufacturing origin is the United States, and the Mopar part number 68229402AA is printed clearly on the element. While not directly applicable to the Avenger, this filter matters for households that also run an EcoDiesel Ram or Jeep and want to consolidate parts sourcing to a single Amazon order.
What works
- Genuine Mopar filter for EcoDiesel at well below dealer pricing
- Optimized media for diesel soot and particle loading
- Consistent OEM quality with factory packaging
What doesn’t
- Designed specifically for 3.0L EcoDiesel, not Avenger gasoline engines
- Cartridge design requires compatible housing cap
10. Taruimoo Oil Filter 4-Pack
The Taruimoo 4-pack provides four cartridge oil filters plus four crush washers at a per-unit cost that appeals to budget-conscious owners of 3.6L Pentastar engines. The filters are designed to replace OE numbers 68191349AA and 68191349AB, which are the correct cartridge elements for the 2012 Dodge Avenger with the 3.6L V6. Each filter uses synthetic-blended media that meets the flow requirements of variable valve timing systems.
Compatibility extends to the Dodge Avenger 3.6L for 2014, along with Chrysler 200, 300, Pacifica, Town & Country, Dodge Challenger, Charger, Durango, Grand Caravan, Journey, Jeep Cherokee, Grand Cherokee, Wrangler, and Ram ProMaster vans. The 4-pack format is ideal for owners who perform their own maintenance and want a year’s supply on the shelf without repeated ordering. Owner reviews note that the filters fit the factory cap without binding and seal properly with the included washers.
The manufacturer includes a 180-day warranty from the date of purchase. While the media quality does not match the efficiency of premium brands like WIX XP or Mopar’s own synthetic-blend cartridge, the Taruimoo filters perform adequately for standard 5,000-mile oil change intervals with conventional oil. The crush washers are made of soft copper that compresses evenly to prevent seepage around the drain plug.
What works
- Very low per-unit cost for a 4-pack with washers included
- Direct replacement for OE 68191349AB cartridge filters
- Convenient bulk supply for DIY oil changers
What doesn’t
- Media efficiency trails premium brands like WIX or Mopar
- Only 180-day warranty, shorter than major competitors
11. Genuine Fiat Parts 68102241AA Oil Filter
The Genuine Fiat 68102241AA oil filter is designed exclusively for the 1.4L MultiAir turbo engine found in the Fiat 500 Abarth, 500T, 500L, 124 Spider, and the 2012-2013 Dodge Dart 1.4L. This filter does not fit the 2012 Dodge Avenger, which uses either a 2.4L four-cylinder or 3.6L Pentastar V6. It is included in this guide because owners who maintain multiple Chrysler-Fiat vehicles may need this filter for another car in their garage.
The filter uses synthetic fiber media with a steel and plastic housing designed to handle the higher oil temperatures generated by the turbocharged MultiAir engine. Owners of the 500 Abarth and 124 Spider confirm that the OEM filter is essential for preventing oil coking in the turbocharger oil supply line. Aftermarket filters with lower efficiency or bypass settings can lead to MultiAir unit failure on these engines.
The pack includes two filters, providing one spare for the next oil change. Owner reviews emphasize that this is a genuine OEM part that matches the factory-installed filter exactly, avoiding the oil pressure fluctuations that some aftermarket filters cause on the MultiAir engine’s sophisticated valvetrain. For Fiat or Dart 1.4L owners, this is the correct filter; for Avenger owners, it serves as a reference for what not to purchase for their car.
What works
- Genuine OEM filter for 1.4L MultiAir engines
- Two-pack provides a spare for the next interval
- Essential for preventing turbo and MultiAir damage
What doesn’t
- Does not fit the 2012 Dodge Avenger’s 2.4L or 3.6L engines
- Premium price for a small cartridge filter
Hardware & Specs Guide
Filter Media Types
Cellulose filters use natural wood fibers and offer basic protection at the lowest cost. Synthetic-blended media adds polyester or glass fibers that trap smaller particles while maintaining flow. Full synthetic media provides the highest efficiency and capacity, typically rated at 99% at 20 microns or better. For the 3.6L Pentastar, synthetic-blended or full synthetic media is recommended to protect the cam phasers and timing chain from microscopic wear particles.
Thread Size and Fitment
Spin-on filters for the 2.4L Avenger use a standard 3/4-16 thread (SAE) or M16 x 1.5 metric thread, depending on the manufacturer. Cartridge-style filters for the 3.6L Pentastar use a proprietary cap with M16 x 1.5 threads on the housing stud. Verify the thread pitch before purchasing any aftermarket filter; cross-threading can damage the engine block adapter and cause catastrophic oil loss.
Bypass Valve Settings
The bypass valve opens when differential pressure exceeds a calibrated threshold, typically 8-11 PSI for Chrysler gasoline engines. Filters with a higher bypass setting may not open during cold starts, causing oil starvation. Filters with a lower setting may bypass during normal operation, allowing unfiltered oil to circulate. OE-spec filters for the Avenger balance these requirements for both the 2.4L and 3.6L engines.
Housing Material Considerations
The factory plastic housing on the 3.6L Pentastar is prone to cracking at the cap threads and at the filter element support ribs after repeated heat cycles. Aftermarket aluminum housings and caps eliminate this failure mode but add weight and cost. Spin-on filters for the 2.4L use a steel canister that is robust unless physically damaged by road debris or improper wrench use.
FAQ
Does the 2012 Dodge Avenger use a cartridge or spin-on oil filter?
What thread size does the 2012 Avenger oil filter use?
Can I use a WIX 57899XP on my 2012 Dodge Avenger?
Why does the plastic oil filter housing crack on the Pentastar 3.6L?
How often should I change the oil filter on a 2012 Dodge Avenger?
Final Thoughts: The Verdict
For most buyers, the best 2012 dodge avenger oil filter winner is the TEMSONE Full Aluminum Housing Kit because it permanently solves the cracked plastic housing problem while including all necessary sensors and gaskets. If you want a straightforward OEM cartridge replacement at a great per-unit price, grab the Mopar 68191349AB 3-Pack. And for 2.4L Avenger owners who prefer a premium spin-on with easy removal, nothing beats the K&N HP-4003 with its welded wrench nut.

Certification: BSc in Mechanical Engineering
Education: Mechanical engineer
Lives In: 539 W Commerce St, Dallas, TX 75208, USA
Md Amir is an auto mechanic student and writer with over half a decade of experience in the automotive field. He has worked with top automotive brands such as Lexus, Quantum, and also owns two automotive blogs autocarneed.com and taxiwiz.com.










