A strong engine like the 5.7 HEMI needs the correct oil filter to protect its power and performance. Many truck and SUV owners ask what oil filter does a 5.7 HEMI take because the wrong size or type can reduce oil flow and engine protection.
The 5.7L HEMI V8 appears in popular vehicles such as the Ram 1500, Dodge Charger, and Jeep Grand Cherokee. Each model year may require a specific filter design, thread size, and gasket diameter.
Manufacturers often recommend filters like Mopar MO-899 or equivalent high-quality options that match factory specs. Oil capacity and oil type also play a role in selecting the best filter for your setup.
This guide explains the correct oil filter options, compatible part numbers, and tips that help you keep your HEMI engine clean, smooth, and ready for every mile.
What Oil Filter Does a 5.7 HEMI Take?
The 5.7 HEMI is one of the most well-known V8 engines in America. Ram trucks, Dodge cars, and Jeep SUVs use this engine for strong power and towing. Good maintenance keeps this engine healthy for many years.
Oil and oil filter changes matter a lot. Clean oil protects the engine from wear. The oil filter removes dirt, carbon, and metal particles. A small filter does a big job.
Many owners ask one simple question. What oil filter does a 5.7 HEMI take? The answer depends on the model year and engine design. This guide explains everything in clear and simple words.
Two Main Oil Filter Types for 5.7 HEMI
The 5.7 HEMI uses two different oil filter styles:
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Spin-on oil filter (older models)
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Cartridge oil filter (newer models)
The year of your vehicle decides which one you need.
Spin-On Oil Filter (Older 5.7 HEMI Engines)
Early 5.7 HEMI engines, mostly from 2003 to around 2012 in many vehicles, use a spin-on filter. This type has a metal outer case. You screw it directly onto the engine.
Common Spin-On Part Numbers
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Mopar MO-090
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Fram PH16
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Wix 51515
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Purolator L14670
These filters share similar thread size and gasket diameter. Most use:
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Thread size: 3/4″-16
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Gasket outer diameter: around 2.7 inches
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Height: about 3.4 inches
These filters contain an internal bypass valve and anti-drainback valve. The anti-drainback valve keeps oil inside the filter after shutdown. This helps prevent dry starts.
Dry starts cause engine wear. Oil must reach moving parts fast.
Cartridge Oil Filter (Newer 5.7 HEMI Engines)
Newer 5.7 HEMI engines use a cartridge-style oil filter. This design removes the metal outer can. The filter element sits inside a plastic housing on top of the engine.
Most Ram 1500 models from 2013 and newer use this type.
Common Cartridge Part Numbers
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Mopar MO-339
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Mopar 05038041AA
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Fram CH11665
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Wix 57060
Cartridge filters include:
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Filter element
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New O-rings
The O-ring seals the housing cap. You must replace it every time. Old O-rings cause leaks.
Why Ram Switched to Cartridge Filters?
Cartridge filters offer several benefits:
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Less waste metal
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Easier inspection of old filter
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Top-mounted access
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Cleaner oil changes
Top-mounted design reduces oil spills. You remove the filter from above the engine. Many truck owners like this setup.
Oil Capacity of 5.7 HEMI
Most 5.7 HEMI engines require:
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7 quarts of oil with filter change
Some models with oil coolers may require slightly more.
Oil grade usually includes:
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5W-20 for many earlier models
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5W-30 for some newer versions
Oil cap and owner manual show the correct viscosity.
Wrong oil weight can affect fuel economy and engine wear.
Filtration Efficiency and Micron Rating
Oil filters remove small particles. These particles measure in microns.
Human hair measures about 70 microns. Engine wear particles can measure 10 to 40 microns.
Most quality oil filters capture:
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95% or more of particles at 20 microns
Better filtration helps protect:
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Camshaft
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Lifters
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Bearings
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Timing chain
The 5.7 HEMI uses hydraulic lifters. Clean oil keeps them working smoothly.
Oil Pressure and Filter Design
The 5.7 HEMI runs typical oil pressure between:
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25 to 65 PSI
Oil pressure changes based on engine speed and temperature.
Each oil filter includes a bypass valve. This valve opens if the filter clogs. Oil still flows to the engine.
Without this valve, oil flow could stop. That would cause damage.
High-quality filters use strong internal metal cores. Weak filters may collapse under pressure.
Vehicle Models with 5.7 HEMI
Many vehicles use this engine:
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Ram 1500
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Dodge Charger
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Dodge Challenger
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Chrysler 300
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Jeep Grand Cherokee
Police and performance versions may have slight changes. Always check by VIN number.
Two trucks from the same year may use different filter styles if engine updates occurred mid-year.
Oil Change Interval for 5.7 HEMI
Normal driving conditions:
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Change oil every 5,000 to 7,500 miles
Severe driving conditions:
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Frequent towing
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Short trips
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Hot climate
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Heavy loads
Change oil every 4,000 to 5,000 miles in these cases.
Many newer models include an oil life monitoring system. The dashboard shows a reminder.
Still, manual checks help.
Common Oil Filter Problems in 5.7 HEMI
Some owners report these issues:
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Cracked plastic filter housing (cartridge models)
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Over-tightened housing cap
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Missing O-ring
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Wrong filter length
Over-tightening causes damage. The housing cap usually requires about 18 to 25 ft-lbs of torque. Use a torque wrench.
Never guess tightness.
OEM vs Aftermarket: What Is the Difference?
OEM Mopar filters match factory design. Engineers test them with the engine.
Aftermarket brands also test their filters. Many meet or exceed factory standards.
Key factors to compare:
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Filtration efficiency
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Anti-drainback valve material (silicone lasts longer than rubber)
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Bypass valve rating
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Build quality
Cheap filters may save money today but cost more later.
Engine repair costs much more than a filter.
How to Confirm the Correct Oil Filter?
Follow these steps:
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Check owner manual
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Confirm engine size is 5.7L
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Look up by VIN number
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Match part number exactly
Parts store systems usually ask:
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Year
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Make
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Model
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Engine size
Accuracy prevents leaks and damage.
Step-by-Step Oil Filter Change (Cartridge Type)
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Park on level ground
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Warm engine for 3–5 minutes
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Turn off engine
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Remove oil cap
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Drain oil from oil pan
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Open filter housing cap
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Remove old filter element
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Replace O-ring
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Install new filter
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Tighten to proper torque
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Add 7 quarts of oil
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Start engine and check for leaks
Simple process. Take your time.
Why Regular Oil Filter Changes Matter?
The 5.7 HEMI produces strong power. High power creates heat. Heat breaks down oil faster.
Dirty oil causes:
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Sludge buildup
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Stuck lifters
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Low oil pressure
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Engine knocking
Clean oil and fresh filter reduce these risks.
Many 5.7 HEMI engines reach 200,000 miles with proper care.
Maintenance matters more than brand.
FAQs
Does every 5.7 HEMI use the same oil filter?
No. Older models use spin-on filters. Newer models use cartridge filters. Check by year and VIN.
How tight should I install the oil filter?
Spin-on filters require hand tightening plus about three-quarters turn. Cartridge housing needs correct torque, usually around 18–25 ft-lbs.
Can I reuse the old O-ring?
No. Replace the O-ring every time. Old seals leak.
What oil works best with the 5.7 HEMI?
Many models use 5W-20. Some use 5W-30. Follow the oil cap or manual.
How long does a 5.7 HEMI engine last?
Many engines last 200,000 miles or more with proper oil and filter changes.
Conclusion
The 5.7 HEMI uses either a spin-on oil filter or a cartridge oil filter depending on model year. Most newer engines use cartridge types like Mopar MO-339.
Older engines often use spin-on filters like Mopar MO-090. Oil capacity usually sits around 7 quarts. Regular oil and filter changes protect engine parts and extend engine life.