I've been using MB filters (Mann) all along and will probably continue to do so but I wondered if anyone has used Mobil 1 oil filters or if they know if there is one that will fit the M103 engine?

TIA,
Bud

Yeah, I used the Mobil1 m1-205 in my 300E. Overall perfect performance but I switched to a Bosch premium oil filter 3421 and I am equally pleased.

Here is the comparison

Mobil 1 Bosch Premium
Content Synthetic Nat/Synthetic
Single Pass Efficiency 98% 98%
Multi Pass Efficiency 96% 93%
Price $12 $6

Bosch Premium is my recomendation. The only difference is 3% in multipass efficiency but Bosch's antidrain back valve is a much more important feature in which the Mobil1 lacks.

The only reason I was interested in the Mobil 1 filter is that it might flow more oil than the other filters and still get the job done. Also, I won't be into extended change intervals but a synthetic filter might last longer than a paper filter.

BTW, it's my understanding that Bosch filters sold in Canada are made by the same people who make the Mobil 1 filter (Champion?).

I would also put a recommendation in for the AMSOIL SDF filters by Amsoil for Synthetic or Non-Synthetic Motor Oils.

I use them on my Honda and Mom's Audi for many years.

www.amsoil.com

I thought MB cars used filter inserts? How do you have an anti-drainback feature on a paper filter?

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Thanks,
Ron Brooks

Filter inserts are used in the diesel cars.

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99 C230K Sport
87 300SDL
81 300SD

I think filter insert technology is dumb. Once you come to take out the oil filter, all the dirty oil just goes into the oil filter housing. Normal oil filters, keeps the oil contained.

Some engines use spin on filters (300E).

Spin on is the way to go. Spin it off and everything remains clean and oil free and the dirty oil stains inside the housing. The reason why MB changed to cartridge is #1 Cost and #2 more filtering area allowing FSS oil changes.

I've had both spin-on and canister insert type filters in my Mercedes Benz over the last 20 years. I personally prefer the insert because it's easier to change. Be that as it may, MB diesels required a large filter and I doubt there is a spin-on big enough to handle it.

I much preferred changing the insert filter in our old 190D than the spin-on in my 300E.

I would think a filter cartridge would be cheaper since it's nothing more than what's inside a spin-on. I like filter cartridges because you don't have handle a hot metal can, just lift it out by the attached handle.

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1999 MB SL500 (110,000 mi)
2004 Volvo V70 2.5T (220,000 mi)
2014 Tesla Model S 85 (136,000 mi)
MBCA member

The hot can actually disperses heat during use acting as a unintentional yet benficiary oil cooler. That is why some companies make heat sinks for spin ons to improve heat dissipation. Looking at the apogee of engines such as the v12 found in the Murcielago, you can see Lamborghini employs a spin-on filter. If its good enough for a 300,000 car, it must be good enough for our MBs. Also spin ons are no longer susceptible to sudden failure situations such as bursting, allowing higher oil pressures. In a spin on, the pressure is accomodated by the walls of the canister but in a spin there is more pressure on the insert.