When you eliminate the free market and take a lot of players out of the game what would we expect? Two things for sure lower quality and higher prices!
The problem is that is that they are changing these things so fast. I ordered a supertech recently - came with a newer date code and the ADBV was nitrile. I have an older one with a blue ADBV which presumably is Silicon. Still not a bad filer for the price, but not what it was.Being here at BITOG and watching some quite good YouTube videos should help as well.
They don't go under federated. Around here its a chain called Parks. Looks like "fleet pride" in your area - but there aren't that many. http://www.federatedautoparts.com/Locations.aspxI’ve only ever heard of Federated, never seen one
This is exactly what it is for me. I've been using Wix for quite some time now, but they changed. Prior to Wix I was using Fram Ultras, so I bought an Ultra to have ready for my next oil change, and then I learn that they cheapened those.The problem is that is that they are changing these things so fast. I ordered a supertech recently - came with a newer date code and the ADBV was nitrile. I have an older one with a blue ADBV which presumably is Silicon. Still not a bad filer for the price, but not what it was.
When you eliminate the free market and take a lot of players out of the game what would we expect? Two things for sure lower quality and higher prices!
Well, IDK! SuperTech could be changing manufacturers for certain part #sThe problem is that is that they are changing these things so fast. I ordered a supertech recently - came with a newer date code and the ADBV was nitrile. I have an older one with a blue ADBV which presumably is Silicon. Still not a bad filer for the price, but not what it was.
I think most people don't notice shrinkflation. There busy with work and kids and school and everyday life. Its one more problem they don't have bandwidth for.also blame customers who tolerate "shrinkflation"/cost-cutting but don't tolerate a hike in MSRP.
Amazon is selling XG7317 for $7.60 right now (I bought some on sale locally for $6.64 this week). the Amazon price essentially has not changed in 12 years.
FRAM Ultra Synthetic Automotive Replacement Oil Filter, Designed for Synthetic Oil Changes Lasting up to 20k Miles, XG7317 with SureGrip (Pack of 1)
Amazon price tracking & price history for FRAM Ultra Synthetic Automotive Replacement Oil Filter, Designed for Synthetic Oil Changes Lasting up to 20k Miles, XG7317 with SureGrip (Pack of 1)camelcamelcamel.com
even assuming Fram,s "tooling costs" have been totally paid off, presumably every single raw material price is up $$$$, then add freight and labor inflation.
I'd rather see XG prices rise 25% with the same quality, but I am in the tiny minority.
People shop by price, and the manufacturers are happy to play that game. it is what it is.