The PureOne's are about $6, depending on where you shop. They have a high quality anti-drainback valve, and a higher number of pleats than standard filters.

 

the element material is just as important- if not more so- than the number of pleats of the element.

 

The "by-pass valve" is what I was referring to. The mechanic I talked to called it a resevoir because it functions as a holding space (i.e. resevoir) for oil within the filter so there is always oil immediately available when you start the engine. Because as max2k1 states: Obviously I'm not referring to the oil pan, but it looks like you figured that out in your following post, Altersys. What I'm still wondering is if the oem filters have a "by-pass valve", since pretty much all filters have an anti-drainback valve (except for the really, really cheap ones). Also, if Infiniti recommends only using the Nissan filters, is there really that much to gain by using anything else? Thanks again for all your input everyone.

 

Yes - Most OEM Nissan filters have a by-pass valve. Not sure about this particular one - but the ones before this had it - so I see no reason why this one would be any different.

 

That's the filter I got from the dealer for my 1st oil change. However, the filter that came from the factory was 15208-65F08. Last digit is different, but they look identical to me. Anybody know the difference? Just curious.

 

Fram is crap. Wix FTW. Or Amsoil filter if you really wanna treat your baby right (more $$).

 

Both K&N and Mobil 1 filters are manufactured by Champion Labs. both filters are almost identical in design and are considered the best filters by many reviewers. Amsoils new EA filters are also extremely good. I get my Amsoil stuff through a guy on maxima.org who sells at dealer cost which saves us a ton of money. I get all of my Nissan parts from Dave B at Southpoint Nissan in Texas. I'll dig up his number and post as well. Dave B's prices are the absolute best and his shipping and customer service are top notch. I read where someone stated that the OEM filters aren't good. That is not correct. Nissans filters are extremely well made filters and present a good value. Amsoil, Mobil 1 and K&N filters are better. I prefer Amsoil oils and Mobil 1 filters.

 

Dave Burnette's number is 888-254-6060

 

Your awesome! Dave is the best. I ordered some parts for my Titan and he had just replaced someones rear differential. He cleaned up the heat sink and shipped it to me for free! The part alone was over $100 at the time.