Wix 46990 Engine Crankcase Breather Element

Wix 46990 Engine Crankcase Breather Element

The Wix 46990 engine crankcase breather element is a synthetic breather filter built for light-duty emission control applications. It helps maintain cleaner crankcase ventilation on a range of GM and GM-related vehicles, including Chevrolet S10, GMC Sonoma, Buick Century, and Pontiac Grand Am applications.

With a compact 1.380-inch height, 4.000-inch width, and closed inner diameter top, this Wix breather filter is sized for direct replacement use where the original crankcase breather element is specified. The Wix 46990 is also cross-referenced to common aftermarket and OE numbers for the same application.

Key Features

• Engine crankcase breather element for emission control service
• Synthetic media material for filtration-focused crankcase ventilation
• Breather filter style with closed inner diameter top
• Light-duty design for passenger vehicle applications
• Compact dimensions: 1.380 in. height and 4.000 in. width
• Direct replacement for select Chevrolet, GMC, Buick, Oldsmobile, Cadillac, and Pontiac models

Detailed Description

Wix 46990 is an engine crankcase breather element used in emission control systems to help manage airflow through the crankcase while filtering incoming air. Filtration is central to keeping maintenance-sensitive components closer to their intended operating condition, and this breather filter uses synthetic media to support that role. It is listed for a broad range of vehicles, including Fits 1987-1993 Chevrolet S10, Fits 1991-1993 GMC Sonoma, Fits 1987-1992 Buick Century, and Fits 1990-1991 Pontiac Grand Am. This part cross-references FRAM BA3803 and Purolator AB3133 for the same application.

What It Helps Address

• Dirty or restricted crankcase breather filtration
• Unstable crankcase ventilation caused by a worn breather element
• Maintenance replacement for emission control filter service
• Fitment matching for OE-style replacement needs on GM platforms
• Airborne contamination entering the crankcase ventilation path

Installation Notes and Tips

Verify the original part number and housing dimensions before installation. This breather element is listed for N/A position applications, so match it to the existing crankcase breather location on the vehicle. Confirm fitment for your exact year, make, and model before ordering, especially on Chevrolet S10, GMC Sonoma, Buick Century, and Pontiac Grand Am applications. Use clean mating surfaces and inspect the breather housing for debris or damage during service.

Quality Assurance

Wix filtration products are built around maintenance-focused filtration standards and are used across a wide range of automotive service applications. The 46990 follows the brand’s emphasis on filtration as a core part of keeping equipment closer to new condition over time.