Oil filter Fram or OEM Volkswagen

my 5k service on Friday, w/oil change, cost $54 w/filter (I supplied the oil since the dealer didn't stock it, from http://www.1stvwparts.com / for $6.80/ltr.).

I used the oil that is VW507.00 spec and can be bought at the VW dealer (approx retail cost is $7.00 per liter) Oil change capacity is approximately 13 liters. Oil filter part number is shown. I ordered the oil filter cap removal tool from http://www.samstagsales.com for $67.00 plus shipping.

I guess after 24 years and almost 300k miles I should have realized that using Fram filters was a bad idea. I added a factory oil cooler to my GTI to deal with the additional thermal load caused by my turbocharger. I has been very effective in dropping oil temperatures and has not significantly raised my coolant temperatures (I added a cooler fan switch as well), it's a great way to go.

yeah the oem ones arent (THAT) expensive and they work great.

Fram is a good filter, just make sure you get the upgraded one for the car. Use good oil change when scheduled and the filter will do it's job nicely.

Now, whenever I do a cold start the engine rattles like a diesel for about 30 seconds... and then you hear the difference... \"whoosh!\", and then the engine settles right down and idles normally.

The good news is that the Dodge dealer I got it from changed the oil & filter; the bad news is that they used basic Valvoline and a Fram filter.

Indeed, lack a drain back valve in many applications, poor quality, low pleat count, horrible filtration numbers, general poor build quality.

Fram filters do NOT have an anti drain back valve in them.

If you heard strange noises, then you must have been using FRAM