New 2026 Explorer Active

[hardcore302]

Hello! I just got a 2026 Explorer Active for my wife (2.3). We've had a 2020 and a 2022. She loves them. I see that the 2025+ models use a different oil filter for some reason. Could you guys please suggest some good filters (preferably with part numbers) for this car? Thanks!

 

[GaryMX5]

Select micro guard from O"reilly's

 

[Hirev]

The newer fords 2.3 went with the newer filter that GM has been using on some of their engines since 2014 or so. One of the big changes was going to a 22 PSI oil filter bypass relief valve setting. Some German autos have been using a 22 PSI oil filter bypass relief valve setting give or take a tiny bit before GM. My 2018 chevy takes a PF64 I think this is what your 2.3 is going to take.... but check on it. The filter from Fram is XX12060 and the Super Tech ST12060.

The problem I found is many overseas filters do not list the specification for their filter bypass relief valve setting. Some overseas filter makers show the same number for my 2007 Corvette that takes a PF48 as my 2018 chevy. The PF48 is like the PF64 except it has a lower filter bypass relief valve setting. So I think some overseas filters are not right. for the bypass specification . Oh and congratulations on the new Explorer.

 

[grasscutter]

O'Reilly MicroGard Select MSL10290

 

[KCJeep]

That’s not a typical Ford size at all. Interesting. Wonder why the switch on an established engine?

Anything PG made would be a top choice.

 

[DCDG]

Hello! I just got a 2026 Explorer Active for my wife (2.3). We've had a 2020 and a 2022. She loves them. I see that the 2025+ models use a different oil filter for some reason. Could you guys please suggest some good filters (preferably with part numbers) for this car? Thanks!

You're most likely best off using the OE filter especially if the bypass is set higher than run of the mill after-market filters I ran into this with my wife's new Nissan VC-T engine Fram's are much lower some ranging between 11 & 17 PSI. And if I recall Nissan is somewhere around 36 PSI.

 

[Slick 55]

Carquest Premium

 

[hardcore302]

Thank you for the replies so far.

 

[MNgopher]

That’s not a typical Ford size at all. Interesting. Wonder why the switch on an established engine?

Anything PG made would be a top choice.

The 2.3 is a new engine starting in 2025 in the Explorer, 2024 Mustang, 2025 Ranger, etc... Same displacement, but different engine now with dual injection.

 

[hardcore302]

The 2.3 is a new engine starting in 2025 in the Explorer, 2024 Mustang, 2025 Ranger, etc... Same displacement, but different engine now with dual injection.

Ahh, I didn't realize.

 

[hardcore302]

After consideration I went with an STP S12060XL. Now I gotta pick the oil!