I own a 2009 Dodge Journey with the 3.5L V-6. Even though it only has about 7,500 miles, the air filter is pretty filthy, with almost all light being blocked, and noticable black marks and debris visible. This concerns me a little bit, as I don't live or drive through dirt roads or anything like that, but that isn't the point of concern right now...
So, I pick up a FRAM Tough Guard air filter for my application. It didn't fit. Next, I pick up a NAPA Gold air filter. It doesn't fit! Here's the problem -
The rubber seal on both the FRAM and the NAPA is too thick. The airbox lid will not close down so that I can get it locked with the metal clamps. I compared both to the stock, factory Chrysler filter. Dimensionally, they're the same size. However, on the Chrysler filter, the seal is "stepped down", and much thinner around the outside edge. It seats perfectly in the airbox. I've already ruined the FRAM and NAPA filters because I tried cutting down the rubber on each to try and make them fit. Needless to say, it didn't work. At this point, I guess I'm stuck having to buy another filter from the dealership. Has anyone had any experience like this? Is this poor design by the aftermarket filter manufacturers, or is Chrysler to blame for making an airbox that is so particular? I have never had something so simple be so aggravating!
So, I pick up a FRAM Tough Guard air filter for my application. It didn't fit. Next, I pick up a NAPA Gold air filter. It doesn't fit! Here's the problem -
The rubber seal on both the FRAM and the NAPA is too thick. The airbox lid will not close down so that I can get it locked with the metal clamps. I compared both to the stock, factory Chrysler filter. Dimensionally, they're the same size. However, on the Chrysler filter, the seal is "stepped down", and much thinner around the outside edge. It seats perfectly in the airbox. I've already ruined the FRAM and NAPA filters because I tried cutting down the rubber on each to try and make them fit. Needless to say, it didn't work. At this point, I guess I'm stuck having to buy another filter from the dealership. Has anyone had any experience like this? Is this poor design by the aftermarket filter manufacturers, or is Chrysler to blame for making an airbox that is so particular? I have never had something so simple be so aggravating!