Wix 51088 Engine Oil Filter

WIX 51088 Engine Oil Filter

The WIX 51088 engine oil filter is built for dependable oil filtration in everyday driving and severe service conditions. It is a spin-on lube filter with enhanced cellulose media, a 21-micron rating, and an anti-drainback valve for added protection at startup.

Compatible With select BMW 325i, Mercedes-Benz 190E and 300E applications, plus other listed Volkswagen and Mercedes-Benz models, this filter is a direct OE-style service part for routine oil changes. The WIX 51088 is also cross-referenced with NAPA Gold Filters 1088 for the same application.

Key Features

• Spin-on lube filter design for standard oil filter service
• Enhanced cellulose media for efficient contaminant capture
• Anti-drainback valve helps reduce dry starts after shutdown
• 21-micron filtration rating for fine particle control
• Bypass relief valve setting: 30
• Flow rate: 7-9 GPM
• Burst pressure: 280
• Thread size: 3/4-16

Detailed Description

WIX 51088 is engineered for conventional, synthetic, and synthetic-blended motor oils, following OE vehicle manufacturer service intervals. It is suited for normal commuting as well as severe-duty use such as stop-and-go traffic, short trips, dirt roads, construction sites, and interstate driving. The filter is designed to trap more dirt and contaminants than Protec in severe conditions, while maintaining a practical balance of capacity and efficiency.

For vehicles such as the BMW 325i, Mercedes-Benz 190E, and Mercedes-Benz 300E, this filter supports regular maintenance where consistent oil cleanliness matters. The part number 51088 is also listed across multiple OE and aftermarket references, making it a useful match when replacing an existing spin-on filter by specification.

What It Helps Address

• Oil contamination from dust, soot, and wear particles
• Dry engine starts after extended service intervals
• Reduced filtration performance in stop-and-go driving
• Maintenance needs for severe-duty driving conditions
• OE oil filter replacement on listed BMW, Mercedes-Benz, and Volkswagen applications

Installation Notes and Tips

Verify thread size, gasket sealing surface, and overall dimensions before installation. This filter measures 4.704 inches in height with a 2.983-inch outer diameter and a closed inner diameter top. Follow the vehicle manufacturer’s oil change interval and use the correct oil specification for the engine.

Fits 1982-1988 BMW 528e, N/A; fits 1984-1987 BMW 325e, N/A; fits 1986-1987 BMW 325es, N/A; fits 1987-1993 BMW 325i, N/A; fits 1987-1991 BMW 325is, N/A; fits 1988-1991 BMW 325iX, N/A; fits 1989-1990 BMW 525i, N/A; fits 1985 Mercedes-Benz 190E, N/A; fits 1986 Mercedes-Benz 190E, N/A; fits 1987-1989 Mercedes-Benz 190E, N/A; fits 1990-1991 Mercedes-Benz 190E, N/A; fits 1992-1993 Mercedes-Benz 190E, N/A; fits 1986-1987 Mercedes-Benz 300E, N/A; fits 1988-1992 Mercedes-Benz 300E, N/A; fits 1990-1993 Mercedes-Benz 300TE, N/A; fits 1990-1991 Mercedes-Benz 300SE, N/A; fits 1990-1991 Mercedes-Benz 300SEL, N/A; fits 1987-1989 Mercedes-Benz 260E, N/A; fits 1988-1989 Mercedes-Benz 300CE, N/A; fits 1988-1989 Mercedes-Benz 300SE, N/A; fits 1988-1989 Mercedes-Benz 300SEL, N/A; fits 1988-1989 Mercedes-Benz 300TE, N/A; fits 1995-1996 Volkswagen Caravelle, N/A; fits 1998 Volkswagen Pointer, N/A; fits 2000-2009 Volkswagen Pointer, N/A; fits 2002 Volkswagen Derby, N/A; fits 2003 Volkswagen Derby, N/A.

Quality Assurance

WIX publishes laboratory test performance data for this filter family, including dirt-holding and efficiency results referenced to ISO testing standards. The 51088 is built to support OE-recommended oil service intervals and severe-condition use cases.