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If you drive a Ram 2500, the oil filter housing is a small part that has a big impact on engine cleanliness and reliability. Choosing the right housing helps prevent leaks, keeps oil pressure steady, and makes routine service simpler. This guide presents the top shortlisted oil filter housings for the Ram 2500, selected for fit accuracy and sealing performance. Below you will find the key factors we used to evaluate each option, plus practical notes on installation and maintenance to help you pick the right housing for your truck.
Looking for other parts? See all Ram 2500 parts & accessories.
Top Picks at a Glance
| Best Reviewed A top-rated pick with lots of positive feedback | YITHSWAY Aluminum Engine Oil Cooler and Filter Housing Assembly (3.6L) |  |
| Most Popular A crowd favorite that many people choose with confidence | keriolee Aluminum Engine Oil Cooler with Oil Filter Housing Adapter (3.6L) |  |
| Best Quality Built to a higher standard if you want something more solid | Somusen Full Aluminum Engine Oil Filter Housing with Oil Cooler and Sensors |  |
| Best Budget The cheapest option that still gets the job done reliably | ONER Engine Oil Cooler and Oil Filter Housing Adapter Assembly (3.6L V6) |  |
| Most Sold A high-volume bestseller chosen again and again | YITHSWAY Aluminum Engine Oil Cooler and Filter Housing Adapter (3.6L) |  |
| Best Value for Money The sweet spot between price and what you get | GAOBEN 926-876/926-959 Aluminum Engine Oil Filter Housing with Cooler |  |
| Best Overall The best all-around choice for most situations | MNJWS Aluminum Oil Filter Housing and Cooler Kit for 3.6L Pentastar Engines |  |
1. YITHSWAY Aluminum Engine Oil Cooler and Filter Housing Assembly (3.6L)
| Material | Aluminum |
|---|---|
| Product Grade | Replacement Part |
| Automotive Fit Type | Vehicle Specific Fit |
| Position | Front |
This aluminum oil cooler and filter housing assembly replaces the factory plastic unit and integrates the cooler, filter housing, sensors, and gaskets into a ready-to-install package. It is typically used when a leaking or cracked plastic housing needs replacement or when owners upgrade to a more heat-resistant component. Notable features include a machined aluminum body, pre-installed sensors, supplied gaskets and bolts, and an included oil filter so you can install it out of the box. The practical benefits are straightforward: greater resistance to heat and corrosion than the original plastic housings, a complete kit that reduces parts chasing, and commonly reported direct fit on compatible vehicles. Limitations to expect are that exact filter compatibility can vary by production year so you may need to reuse your original filter or confirm the correct element, and installation requires following torque specs and careful O-ring lubrication to avoid leaks. Professional installation is recommended if you are not comfortable with engine work.
Best for: Reliability-focused buyers who prioritize a durable, factory-replacement upgrade that reduces repeat failures and long-term maintenance hassles on a dependable truck.
Less Ideal for: Drivers seeking a low-effort DIY swap without any mechanical work or those who need guaranteed filter interchangeability across all model years.
- Reinforced aluminum construction improves heat and corrosion resistance versus plastic housings.
- Ships as a complete kit with sensors, gaskets, bolts, and an oil filter for faster replacement.
- Machined finish and pre-installed components simplify installation and reduce parts mismatches.
- Multiple user reports of direct fit and resolved leaks on compatible vehicles.
- Oil filter compatibility may not match every model year and might require using the original filter.
- Installation requires care with O-rings and torque values to prevent leaks; not a simple snap-in for inexperienced users.
Verdict A durable, all-in-one aluminum replacement that addresses common plastic housing failures and is a practical reliability upgrade for Ram 2500s with the 3.6L engine.
2. keriolee Aluminum Engine Oil Cooler with Oil Filter Housing Adapter (3.6L)
| Material | Aluminum |
|---|---|
| Vehicle Service Type | Car, Sports Utility Vehicle |
| Product Grade | Performance Part |
| OEM Part Number | 5184294AC, 68295556AA, 68308741AF, 926-876, 926-959 |
This aluminum oil cooler with integrated oil filter housing replaces the factory plastic housing to reduce leak and crack failure on 3.6L Pentastar V6 engines. It arrives with the oil filter preinstalled and includes formed gaskets and sensor ports so a technician can swap the assembly in place of the original housing. In use the aluminum construction improves resistance to heat and mechanical damage compared with plastic housings, and reviewers report fewer leaks and long service life when installed carefully with clean mating surfaces. Fitment is intended for 2017–2018 Ram 1500 and other 3.6L vehicles listed, but when applied to a Ram 2500 with the same 3.6L engine this part provides a more durable factory-replacement style option. Limitations to be aware of: some buyers found the supplied seals or sensor connector fitment imperfect and one report noted a cracked unit on arrival, so inspect the part and seals during install and be prepared to source the correct oil pressure sensor connector or replacement gasket if needed.
Best for: Convenience-driven buyers who want a straightforward, longer-lasting replacement that minimizes repeat repairs and simplifies oil-filter service for their 3.6L-equipped Ram.
Less Ideal for: Buyers who prefer guaranteed perfect OEM fitment from a dealer source or who need a part with verified plug-and-play sensor connectors without any chance of minor fitment adjustments.
- Aluminum construction is more durable than factory plastic housings and resists cracking.
- Preinstalled oil filter and integrated housing reduce install steps and simplify replacement.
- Designed as a direct-fit, factory-style replacement for 3.6L Pentastar V6 applications.
- Multiple reviewers report reliable leak-free performance when installed with care.
- Some units arrived with cracks or defects according to at least one report, indicating variable quality control.
- Supplied seals and sensor connector may not always match OEM fit and could require replacement or modification.
Verdict A more durable aluminum replacement for the 3.6L oil filter housing that simplifies service but check seals and connectors during installation.
3. Somusen Full Aluminum Engine Oil Filter Housing with Oil Cooler and Sensors
| Brand | Somusen |
|---|---|
| Material | Aluminum |
| Product Grade | Performance Part |
| Automotive Fit Type | Universal Fit |
This Somusen kit replaces the factory plastic oil filter housing with a full-aluminum assembly that includes the oil cooler, two sensors, an oil filter and a set of seals. For a Ram 2500 with a compatible 3.2L/3.6L engine the unit is intended to stop recurring plastic-housing failures and improve oil cooling by using a multi-plate aluminum cooler. Installation is a hands-on job: expect to drain coolant and oil, swap sensors or fit OEM-quality sensors if you prefer, and replace the supplied O-rings with higher-quality seals for best results. Benefits in use include a more rigid housing less prone to cracking and improved oil temperature control under load, which suits heavier towing and performance driving. Reported limitations include variable sensor compatibility and mixed quality of included gaskets, so some buyers choose to reuse OEM sensors and buy aftermarket seals. Also some users needed to troubleshoot engine codes after install, so careful sensor verification is recommended.
Best for: Performance-oriented owners who want a more robust, metal replacement to reduce repeat failures and help manage oil temperatures during heavy towing or spirited driving.
Less Ideal for: Buyers who prefer a fully guaranteed, drop-in factory-spec replacement without sourcing OEM sensors or upgraded seals should consider a factory-quality alternative or professional installation support.
- All-aluminum construction reduces the risk of cracking compared with the original plastic housing
- Includes oil cooler and oil filter so one kit replaces multiple components
- Comes with sensors preinstalled to simplify installation for some users
- Design targets improved oil cooling via multi-plate cooler for better temperature control under load
- Included O-rings and gaskets are reported lower quality than OEM and often replaced
- Preinstalled sensors can trigger fault codes on some vehicles requiring replacement with OEM-quality sensors
- Fitment and sensor behavior can be inconsistent, so installation may require additional troubleshooting
Verdict A cost-effective aluminum upgrade for Ram 2500 owners wanting stronger housings and better oil cooling, but plan to use OEM-quality sensors and seals for reliable results.
4. ONER Engine Oil Cooler and Oil Filter Housing Adapter Assembly (3.6L V6)
| Fitment | 2014–2018 Ram 1500 (3.6L V6) and other 3.6L Chrysler-family vehicles |
|---|---|
| Thread Size | M16 x 1.5 |
| Manufacturer Part Number | 68105583AF |
| Number of Items | 1 |
This assembly replaces the factory oil cooler and oil filter housing on 3.6L V6 engines and arrives with a pre-installed filter, oil pressure and temperature sensors, a bypass valve and a set of intake plenum gaskets to simplify installation. It is typically used when the factory housing leaks or the cooler fails; installers report it bolts in without major modification and restores oil filtration and cooling functions. The included sensors and bypass valve mean you do not need to transfer parts from the old housing in most cases, and the preinstalled filter saves a step during installation. Several users caution that the supplied seals can be softer than OEM and recommend upgrading to higher-quality gaskets to avoid leaks. Expect a budget-friendly alternative that can perform well short term but may require better aftermarket seals and careful torqueing during installation to ensure long-term reliability.
Best for: Budget-conscious owners focused on a low-cost, direct replacement for a 3.6L V6 Ram who prioritize immediate function and a complete parts kit over long-term OEM-level longevity.
Less Ideal for: Owners seeking a long-term, dealer-grade factory-quality replacement or those who prefer to avoid any risk of gasket-related rework should consider higher-end or factory parts instead.
- Replaces factory housing and includes pre-installed oil filter to simplify replacement.
- Includes oil temperature and pressure sensors and a bypass valve so you can reinstall without swapping many parts.
- Comes with 12-piece intake plenum gasket set to help complete the job in one purchase.
- Budget-priced alternative to dealer parts that many users report installs and functions correctly initially.
- Several reports of softer or lower-quality seals that may leak unless replaced.
- Some units showed warping or premature failure under heat in a minority of reviews.
Verdict A cost-effective, ready-to-install replacement that covers most needs for 3.6L V6 Ram owners if you plan to upgrade the seals for durability.
5. YITHSWAY Aluminum Engine Oil Cooler and Filter Housing Adapter (3.6L)
| Material | Aluminum |
|---|---|
| Thread Size | M16 x 1.5 |
| Product Grade | Replacement Part |
| Automotive Fit Type | Vehicle Specific Fit |
| OEM Part Number | 68105583AF |
This aluminum oil cooler and filter housing adapter replaces the common plastic unit on 3.6L Pentastar engines and is intended to stop leaks and improve durability. It arrives as a complete assembly with the oil cooler, filter housing, oil filter, pressure and temperature sensors, O-rings, gaskets, and mounting hardware so you can swap it in without sourcing extra parts. In practice the machined aluminum body resists heat and warping that often causes plastic housings to crack, and reviewers report straightforward installs and resolved oil leaks and engine fault codes when fitted correctly. The included sensors and seals simplify reassembly, but buyers should follow proper torque specs and coolant/bleeding procedures during installation. This is an aftermarket replacement, so long-term fit and sensor calibration can vary by vehicle; expect to confirm part compatibility and verify that supplied sensors match factory connectors before installing. For a risk-averse buyer this offers a more durable alternative to the factory plastic housing but requires careful installation to avoid coolant or oil system issues.
Best for: A risk-averse mainstream buyer who wants a more durable, lower-failure replacement for the fragile plastic oil filter housing on 3.6L Pentastar engines and prefers a ready-to-install kit. Ideal for owners who prioritize reliability and avoiding repeat repairs over sticking with the original plastic design.
Less Ideal for: Not for users who prefer only factory-branded parts or who are unwilling to verify sensor pinouts and follow installation procedures closely; professionals seeking an OEM-stamped component may prefer a dealer-sourced unit.
- Complete kit includes cooler, housing, oil filter, pressure and temperature sensors, O-rings, gaskets, and mounting bolts for one-stop installation.
- Machined aluminum construction resists heat and warping that commonly causes plastic housings to crack and leak.
- Comes pre-drilled and supplied with the fasteners and seals needed to replace the factory unit without extra parts.
- Designed specifically for the 3.6L engine family, simplifying fitment checks for compatible vehicles.
- Aftermarket sensors may differ from factory sensors so electrical compatibility should be confirmed before installation.
- Long-term durability and corrosion resistance depend on local conditions and may not match higher-cost OEM metal options.
- Installation requires careful torquing and coolant bleeding; improper fitment can cause leaks or engine faults.
Verdict A complete aluminum replacement kit that upgrades the fragile plastic housing on 3.6L engines to reduce leaks and repeat repairs while requiring careful fit verification and installation.
6. GAOBEN 926-876/926-959 Aluminum Engine Oil Filter Housing with Cooler
| Brand | GAOBEN |
|---|---|
| Material | Aluminum |
| Thread Size | M16 x 1.5 |
| Product Grade | Replacement Part |
This GAOBEN oil filter housing replaces the original plastic assembly with a machined aluminum unit and an integrated oil cooler to address common leaking and cracking problems. It is installed in the engine bay in place of the factory housing and routes oil through the cooler while providing mounting for the filter and sensors. Buyers get a heavier duty housing that resists warping and leakage better than plastic, and many users report straightforward installation and included seals and sensors reduce parts hunting. Some customers needed to swap sensor plugs from their old unit because connector shapes can vary, so expect minor electrical fitment work in a few cases. The aluminum construction improves durability and should reduce the chance of repeat repairs, but installation is involved and requires careful sealing and correct sensor connections to avoid error codes or leaks. For technicians and DIYers replacing a failing plastic housing this is a practical, longer-lasting upgrade that focuses on reliability rather than luxury finishes.
Best for: Practical optimizers who prioritize a durable, cost-effective repair that reduces the odds of repeating a leak repair and who are comfortable with a hands-on installation.
Less Ideal for: Buyers looking for a drop-in plug-and-play swap with guaranteed sensor connector fit or those unwilling to tackle a multi-hour job should consider alternatives or professional installation.
- Aluminum body resists cracking and warping common to factory plastic housings
- Integrated oil cooler replaces the plastic assembly for a more durable solution
- Includes seals and sensors which simplifies installation and reduces additional purchases
- Machined exterior suggests better fit and finish than low-cost cast alternatives
- Sensor connector shapes may differ from the vehicle harness requiring reuse of original sensors or minor modifications
- Installation is labor intensive and requires careful sealing to prevent leaks
Verdict A durable aluminum replacement that fixes the known plastic-housing leak issue and delivers strong value for owners seeking a long-term repair.
7. MNJWS Aluminum Oil Filter Housing and Cooler Kit for 3.6L Pentastar Engines
| Material | Aluminum |
|---|---|
| Thread Size | M16 x 1.5 |
| Vehicle Service Type | Chrysler/Dodge/Jeep/Ram 3.6L Pentastar applications |
| Number of Items | 1 |
This aluminum oil filter housing and cooler kit replaces the factory plastic housing on 3.6L Pentastar engines and is intended to stop common oil leaks and keep engine oil cooler. It installs in the same location as the original unit and ships as a complete assembly with seals, bolts, and an oil filter in many kits so you can replace the housing in a single service. The reinforced aluminum construction resists warping from heat better than plastic housings and can reduce repeat leaks that often show up around the oil cooler area. Several buyers reported an easy, bolt-on installation and fixed leaks immediately. Potential limitations to watch for are the included sensors and oil filter, which in some cases do not match factory parts and may need swapping from the original unit, and a few reports of defective sensors or cheap included filters that caused issues. If you plan to have a shop install the part, confirm sensor compatibility before hand to avoid extra labor later.
Best for: Buyers who want a durable, long-lasting replacement for recurring oil filter housing leaks and prefer a balanced, value-focused upgrade that reduces the chance of repeat failures.
Less Ideal for: Users who need guaranteed exact-match factory sensors or who must rely on a shop warranty for supplied parts should consider purchasing OEM parts or sourcing compatible sensors separately.
- Aluminum construction more resistant to heat and corrosion than factory plastic housings
- Sells as a complete housing assembly with gaskets, bolts, and often an oil filter for one-step replacement
- Direct-fit design for Chrysler 3.6L Pentastar applications to address common oil cooler housing leaks
- Included hardware and some preinstalled sensors can simplify a DIY replacement
- Some supplied sensors or the included oil filter may not match factory fittings and require reusing original parts
- A few customers reported faulty sensors or incompatible fittings that required additional parts or shop labor
- Not all kits are identical—quality of included small parts varies between units
Verdict A practical aluminum replacement that fixes common oil cooler housing leaks on 3.6L Pentastar engines, but confirm sensor and filter compatibility before installation.
Choosing the Right Ram 2500 Oil Filter Housing: Key Factors to Consider
Fitment and Mounting Accuracy
A housing that matches the Ram 2500 mounting points and bolt pattern reduces installation time and the chance of oil leaks. Accurate fitment ensures the housing aligns with oil ports and pressure sensors, which helps preserve factory tolerances and avoids stress on gaskets and bolts.
Poor alignment can lead to uneven gasket compression, which increases leak risk and may cause premature gasket failure. When fitment is precise you also avoid additional modifications or adapter parts that can introduce new failure points.
Seal and Gasket Quality
The seal between the housing and engine block is the primary barrier against oil loss. High-quality gaskets and seals use materials that resist heat, oil exposure, and compression set to maintain a leak-free joint over many service cycles.
Look for designs that incorporate full-contact sealing surfaces and replaceable gaskets or O-rings. Better gasket materials reduce the chance of oil filter housing gasket failure and limit maintenance frequency.
Material Durability and Resistance to Cracking
Housings are commonly exposed to thermal cycles, road debris, and vibration. Materials that resist cracking and warping under these stresses help avoid common problems like housing cracking or flange failures.
Metal housings often offer superior impact resistance, while engineered polymers can provide corrosion resistance and lighter weight. Consider how the material responds to heat and chemical exposure when thinking about long-term durability.
Seal Interfaces and Ongoing Leak Prevention
Beyond the main gasket, secondary seals around sensor ports and filter interfaces are common leak points. Designs that minimize the number of separate sealing surfaces and use robust integrated seals tend to perform better over time.
Check that seal grooves are well-machined and that sealing components are replaceable during routine service. Reducing potential leak points simplifies diagnosis when oil filter housing leak symptoms appear.
Serviceability and Filter Access
Ease of access for oil changes affects how likely you are to service the truck properly. A housing that allows straightforward filter removal and reinstallation without special tools will reduce service time and the chance of damaging seals or threads.
Consider whether the housing design exposes any delicate sensors or fasteners during routine maintenance. A service-friendly housing lowers the risk of accidental damage when you replace the oil filter or perform inspections.
Thread Integrity and Mounting Hardware
Threads for the oil filter and mounting bolts carry mechanical loads and must resist stripping. Robust thread design and quality hardware reduce the risk of cross-threading and failure during installation or removal.
Good mounting hardware and well-formed threads also help maintain consistent clamp load on gaskets, which reduces oil seepage and improves long-term reliability.
FAQ
What are common oil filter housing symptoms that indicate a problem?
Common symptoms include visible oil around the housing, a drop in oil pressure, and oil odor in the engine bay. You might also notice oil on nearby components after a run. These signs often point to a failed gasket, a cracked housing, or loose mounting hardware and warrant inspection.
Can I replace the oil filter housing myself?
You can replace the housing if you have basic mechanical skills and the right tools. It usually involves draining oil, removing mounting bolts, swapping seals, and torquing fasteners to spec. If you are unsure about torque values or dealing with sensors, consult a repair manual or a technician.
How can I prevent an oil filter housing leak?
Preventive steps include using the correct gasket or O-ring, ensuring mating surfaces are clean and flat, and tightening bolts to the specified torque. Regular inspections for small seepage and replacing aged seals before they fail also reduce the risk of leaks.
Does a cracked oil filter housing always require replacement?
A visible crack typically requires replacement because repairs are often unreliable under pressure and heat cycling. Small hairline cracks can grow, so addressing them promptly helps avoid engine oil loss and potential damage.
What should I check when ordering a replacement housing?
Confirm exact fitment for the Ram 2500 model year and engine option, verify included seals and hardware, and check that sealing surfaces are compatible with OEM sensors. Ensure the part number and specifications match your vehicle to avoid fitment issues.
How long do oil filter housing gaskets usually last?
Gasket life depends on material quality and operating conditions, but they often last several years under normal use. Heat, age, and exposure to oil contaminants shorten lifespan, so inspect gaskets at every oil service and replace them if they show hardening or deformation.
How We Chose the Best Ram 2500 Oil Filter Housing
We focused on items that deliver reliable fitment and effective sealing for the Ram 2500. Primary evaluation criteria included housing fit accuracy to factory mounting points, seal and gasket quality, durability of construction materials, and ease of service including access and compatibility with common oil filters. We also considered thread integrity and the robustness of mounting flanges, since failures in these areas often lead to leaks or premature replacement. Excluded from consideration were units with unclear fitment data, housings that required major vehicle modifications, and products lacking verifiable material or manufacturing specifications. We prioritized housings that reduce leak risk, resist cracking under thermal stress, and simplify routine oil changes, while excluding experimental or one-off designs that do not meet typical service expectations.
Our full evaluation process is outlined in our review methodology.
Conclusion
When choosing a Ram 2500 oil filter housing, prioritize fitment accuracy, sealing quality, and material durability. Those factors most directly affect leak resistance, serviceability, and long-term reliability. Balance ease of maintenance with robust construction and good thread integrity. Addressing common failure points such as gaskets, secondary seals, and cracking risk will help you select a housing that reduces downtime and preserves engine health.
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