Too many folks believe that the lifespan of a filter is a fixed asset, based solely on its own attributes. That is a false presumption. Construction and holding capacity and efficiency all play into the decision. But that's not the entire storyline.
The general state of cleanliness and contribution of contamination rate from the engine are a MAJOR player here. A reasonably clean engine, that runs clean, simply isn't going to task any filter greatly. So in many circumstances, 15k miles on even a EG Fram or Classic Puro isn't a stretch. A MC filter can easily run 15k miles on a clean engine, as most can.
Also, construction will play into this, but perhaps not a greatly as some would believe. ADBV material may often reduce rattle at start up, during really long FCIs, but I have yet to see any clear evidence that a failing ADBV actually shifts wear rates; the UOAs simply don't back this up. Wear rates FALL as the OCI goes up, indicating that even a failing ADBV has little effect except on the ears. If you have a UOA (preferrably more than one) that disproves this statement, then by all means, bring it forth! Otherwise, except the facts over your auditory-bias and get over it.
The filter makers have to rate their filters for the consideration of worst case condition keeping in mind their warranty concerns. Hence, they presume a filthy engine that is poorly maintained, and then take into account just how much risk they want to accept for warranty purposes. BTW - despite what most think, limited warranties are about protecting the MAKER, not the USER of products.
Any good engine can easily run 15k miles on a "normal" filter.
Any poor engine can easily overload a "premium" filter in 5k miles.
You guys need to quit looking at only one-half of the equation; quit prophesizing about the filter as if it's the ONLY contributor. The filter REACTS to the overall environment; it does not create the running conditions.
Agreed and admittedly, the relative state of ANY filter will be a reaction to the overall capacity of the filter. I do understand and commit to this. Even on a dirty engine, a premium filter will likely last longer. It's all relative. But that is my point here; there is not just one set duration for FCI for every conceiveable condition; they are all unique.
Quit acting like any filter discussed has only one FCI lifespan, as if it's a fixed constant. Rather, understand it's a variable that plays into the overall O/FCI decision, and it's reactive to the conditions present.
Some of you get this; most don't.
