The supposed benefits of using a larger filter are debatable. The points many use in favor of them aren't necessarily backed by facts (or fluid dynamics). Some cases it's done simply for logistical reasons, i.e. 1-2 filters for ALL models across many years. Honda does this, for example. Nissan/Infiniti has used one of two filters for many years. Other times a common engine is used in different models but no one wants to keep track using filter "x" on one model and filter "y" on a different model so they use a common filter as well. Then you run into fitment or clearance issues so the default is go with the smaller one.

 

I have never had fittment issues with the M1-110 filter. It is as you say, Nissan uses the M1-108 on passenger cars and the M1-110 on Trucks (I don't know about Titan V8, I assume it's the same as the Armada). However, the 108 and 110 interchange with no issues. The 110 is only 5/8" longer.

 

I can only speculate that at some point in the lifetime of the VQ-series engine, at least when used in cars (vs trucks, SUVs, etc), the oversize filter (M1-108, Fram xx7317, etc) didn't fit well so they went with the smaller one across the board for consistency.

 

Nissan has pretty much only used 2 filters since the late 90s/00s. The 65F00 (aka M1-108) is used on 4 and 6 cylinder engines. The 9E000 (aka M1-110) is used on their V8s. Was pretty interesting to find out my JDM SR20DET uses the same filter as my VQ. Makes keeping a stash of filters easier.

 

My 2011 V6-4.0 in my Frontier specs a M1-110

268,000 trouble free miles

 

I've kinda noticed that anything bigger than 3.5/3.7 gets the larger filter spec'd. Not 100% sure but it seems to be the case.

 

Better replace the rad ASAP.

 

Rad is fine because I changed the coolant every 60,000 miles. Mine did not have the problem with the transmission cooler ethers did.

 

Interesting! I'm about to separate the two, just Incase. For me, an ounce of prevention is worth an pound of cure.