STP vs. FRAM Air Filters (5 Main Differences) (2024)

The main component after fuel in the engine is oxygen in the air that supports combustion. Similar to how we place a special emphasis on the type of fuel we use, we also need to ensure the engine receives a clean and steady supply of air to keep the fuel burning efficiently.

Here’s where air filters come in. Air filters are designed specifically with pleated material that removes any dust, debris, sand, insects, and other particles from the air reaching your engine.

When it comes to air filters, they come in different shapes, including circular, cylindrical, and even in panel form, and there are also several brands available in the market that offer premium air filtration for your engine. Two of these brands are STP and FRAM.

If you’re confused about which air filtration system to select for your vehicle, let us take a closer look at each system and compare them so you can make the right choice for your engine.

STP Air Filters

The STP Air Filter is a low-cost, high-quality replacement for the original equipment in your car. It has an electrically charged layer that attracts and collects dust, debris, and any otherparticles when the air flows tothe engine. The air filter includes micropore technology which is specifically designed to keep smaller particles, especially dust and dirt, from entering the engine. The technology is designed to keep out particles as small as 0.3 microns and larger and harmful materialsout of the engine to protect it from damage.

The air filter also comes with a bypass valve that opens when the pressure surpasses 12 psi or83 kPa. This provides a constant inflow of airto your engine while also reducing the burden on the car’scooling system due to excess heat generation.

FRAM Air Filters

FRAM Air Filters have been in the air filtration market for over 85 years, making them a highly popular and reliable choice with a dedicated customer base. These filters are suitable for vehicles of different sizes, including cars, trucks, and even SUVs.

The filters are designed with a wire mesh that is electrostatically charged to maximize its ability to remove dust and debris from the airflow to the engine. The filter’s unique design incorporates a special type of pleating that provides additional surface area for improved airflow and allows for a more efficient filtration process. Additionally, the oil and foam-free design prevent it from clogging up or requiring constant maintenance. The air filter does not need to be cleaned or replaced before 12,000 miles when it comes to maintenance.

The Differences Between STP And FRAM Air Filters

Durability

When it comes to durability, the STP filter might not be the best option as it can wear out quite rapidly. The air filter is constructed of paper which can easily tear and get damaged if any debris entering with the engine’s airflow has sharp edges. Selecting an air filter can be challenging, which is why you should choose one that lasts longer than you’re normal automotive filter.

The FRAM air filter has a greater life expectancy compared to that of the STP filter. FRAM Air filters are made of a synthetic combination of cotton and oil that this capable of filtering out particles less than 10 microns thick, which is more effective compared to the papers used in STP filters. The FRAM air filters are also much better at removing and retaining dust particles making the filter last longer as well. Even though the STP filters come with an effective dust retention system, the FRAM filter’s double filtration surpasses its capabilities.

Pricing

Purchasing an STP air filter is quite cost-effective as it is relatively cheaper when compared to the FRAM air filter. The STP Filter provides a range of benefits such as fuel efficiency and better engine performance, even if its filtration system is not as effective as that of FRAM. However, the price point for FRAM filters are justified as they provide the car with a double filtration system which is more effective in removing dust particles, and it also has a higher quality which makes it last longer; the air filter also improves fuel efficiency and allows for smooth combustion to occur in the engine.

Maintenance

Maintenance is an important aspect of any vehicle, and when it comes to air filtration, you need to ensure you regularly clean and replace your filters to keep your engine running efficiently. When comparing the two filters, the maximum distance covered by the filter is 10,000 miles before it requires any maintenance. Alternatively, with the FRAM air filter, your car can go up to 12,000 miles without requiring any maintenance.

By considering the maximum distance covered without maintenance, you can be aware of the air filter’s capacity to endure dust during the journey, allowing you to travel short or long distances while still receiving the optimum protection from the air filter.

Maintenance for both air filters also is quite different. A FRAM air filter needs oiling during its maintenance session, whereas the STP filter doesn’t. Your FRAM air filter has to be oiled every now and then using a special lubricant to keep it in good working order and prevent it from becoming clogged with dirt and dust particles.

Engine Protection

Both products provide a degree of engine protection, but the FRAM filter is a ground-breaking solution that offers your engine with twofold protection. It cleans and filters the air that enters and exits your car, ensuring that it is clean and debris-free. This translates to improved performance and less wear and tear on the engine and its parts.

Weight

One of the other things that is important to compare is weight, as itaffects compatibility with various devices. With STP, they can goup to 16 ounces inweight.

However, in FRAM, this number is less than halved at7 ounces. When compared to STP, FRAM provides a better option for weightoptimization, so if you’re looking for a lightweight filter,FRAM is the betteroption.