12-15 year-old oil filters. Still good?

Cleaning up the garage today and found a couple of filters that I bought long ago when I could physically change my own oil. I'm guessing they were purchased around 2008-2010. Boxes were in good shape and the plastic seals were both intact. They look in brand new condition....but I am concerned that the filtering medium may be breaking down from age. Would you still use these if it were your 2006 truck?

 

Yup

 

Provided that they aren't Fram filters, I would use 'em.

 

There would be no reason for Fram filters to be any better/worse than any other filter of that same age. In fact, if the filter was an original Fram Ultra then it would actually be better than most filters due to it having synthetic media with superior micron rating.

 

I've been using Fram for decades. It seems that some think they're comparable to a rolled up tube sock when it comes to filtering. Lol, you do you.
Yes, I'd use them.

 

Yes, I would use them without hesitation.

 

The only issue with older rubber is it shrinks, it 100% needs to be lubed before you use it.

 

I wouldn't. The adhesive holding the paper media pleats together may have broken down. The paper may disintegrate after the first heat cycle. Hell, it may have been designed this way, for the media to be biodegradable.

 

I'd contact the filter manufacturer engineering dept. and ask their advice.

It may be fine, or it may destroy your engine.

 

we're talking about oil filters right?
I buy oem filters by the case of 10 and change the oil/filter once a year... last filter in case is at least 10 years old by then... never had an issue. I always lube the rubber gasket.

 

Would use them provided they were in original box or wrap and not water damaged.

Have used filters older than that on vehicles, tractors, ATVs, etc. with never an issue.

 

Climate plays a role in shelf life. New oil filters don't cost that much.

 

Thank you all for your time in posting. Excellent points made both ways. You guys rock!

 

I personally would not use them, yes they’re probably good but is it worth the chance, not to me, not for $15

 

They're probably fine 25 years later

if oil filters in general had any tendency to fail in long shelf life storage (>15 years) we (the internet) would have probably heard about it by now

 

I'll take them even if they are Frame units.

Many Commercial lawn mowers use the same filter. If they are #3614, they fit lots of small engines.

 

You could use them, but then change your oil change interval from 10k to 5k or 5k to 3k and then send a sample off to Blackstone, and then compare that against a few filter then depending on what brand of oil you use and viscosity report back. Keep us posted.

 

Only put 3-4,000 on my truck each year. My truck is my weekend hunting and fishing vehicle. I usually have my oil change done every fall with my state inspection. I'm old, so I don't have the stomach to go 10,000 between oil changes.

 

Good question - but for such a cheap (but critical component), doesn’t make logical sense to risk it if material breakdown has occurred.

People also say the FUEL filter is a lifetime part and not to bother with it yet the pic below is after 140k miles on my 3rz that was a Reno truck…..

Point being: always good to error on the side of caution out of love for these trucks.