Nissan OEM Oil Filter Comparison: 15208-65F1A vs 15208-65F1B vs 15208-65F1E

Introduction

Nissan OEM oil filters have changed over the past few years. For owners of the 2023 Nissan Rogue, three different part numbers have been used: 15208-65F1A, 15208-65F1B, and 15208-65F1E. Each represents a different generation of the filter, and each has its own manufacturing story.

The original filter that shipped with the vehicle was the 15208-65F1A, made in Japan by a German company called Mallay. In 2024, the part number changed to 15208-65F1B, still made by Mallay in Japan. Most recently, the filter available at dealers ends with an E, and this version is made in Mexico by a company called Goner, which supplies auto parts and chemical products to manufacturers in Mexico and the US.

Why the Part Number Changed

Nissan has substituted the original filter with new part numbers over the past three years. This is not unusual for OEM parts, as manufacturers update suppliers and production locations. The practical question for owners is whether the newer filter maintains the same quality as the original.

The 15208-65F1A and 15208-65F1B filters appear identical in construction. Both are made by Mallay in Japan. The newer 15208-65F1E filter has a different design, but the overall quality appears comparable.

Inside the Filters: Construction and Design

To understand the differences, each filter was cut open and examined. The base plates on all three filters are about the same weight and feel hefty. The drain hole stamping looks similar across all three, despite appearing larger on one at first glance.

All three filters use a silicone anti-drain back valve, which helps maintain oil pressure when the engine is off. The filter housing thickness appears to be about the same for all three.

Filter Element Differences

The filter elements show the most noticeable differences. The two Mallay filters have a synthetic fiber end cap, while the Goner filter uses a metal end cap. This difference appears on both ends of the element.

The pleat count also differs. The Mallay filters have 41 pleats, while the Goner filter has 49. However, the Mallay filter element is taller, so the additional pleats on the Goner filter do not necessarily mean more surface area.

The filter media itself feels different. The Mallay element is thinner and feels more like cardboard, while the Goner element is thicker and feels more fibrous. The center tube design also differs, with the Goner filter using a different perforation pattern, though oil can flow through both designs.

Bypass Valve: A Critical Safety Feature

The bypass valve is a safety mechanism designed to ensure the engine receives constant lubrication. If the filter becomes completely clogged or the oil is too thick under high pressure, the spring-loaded bypass valve opens, allowing oil to flow around the filter element.

All three filters have a bypass valve, which is essential. On the Mallay filters, the bypass valve sits at the bottom of the filter element and is one piece with the metal plate. On the Goner filter, the bypass valve is situated on the middle end cap of the filter element. Both designs serve the same purpose.

Which Filter Should You Buy?

At local Nissan dealers, the 15208-65F1A and 15208-65F1B filters are no longer available. The only filter currently sold is the 15208-65F1E. Because the older filters were made in Japan, they may still be available overseas, but in the US, the newer Mexican-made filter is the one to find locally and online.

Conclusion

All three Nissan OEM oil filters are solidly constructed and include the critical bypass valve. The two Mallay filters are essentially identical, while the Goner filter uses a different design with a thicker, more fibrous element and metal end caps. The quality of the newer filter appears just as good as the original. For most owners, the 15208-65F1E is the practical choice since it is the one currently available.