The Dorman oil filter housing for the Jeep JK is an aftermarket replacement designed to fix the common plastic cracking issue. If you own a 2007-2018 Jeep Wrangler JK, you have likely heard about or experienced the dreaded oil filter housing leak. The factory plastic unit is known to become brittle over time, leading to cracks and oil loss. This article covers everything you need to know about the Dorman replacement, including installation, benefits, and common questions.
You do not need to be a master mechanic to swap this part. With basic tools and some patience, you can save hundreds of dollars in labor costs. Let us walk through why the Dorman housing is a smart upgrade for your JK.
Dorman Oil Filter Housing Jeep Jk
The Dorman oil filter housing for the Jeep JK is a direct-fit replacement that addresses the plastic failure problem head-on. Unlike the OEM unit, which is made of plastic, Dorman uses a reinforced composite material. This design resists cracking from heat cycles and engine vibration.
Many Jeep owners report that the Dorman housing outlasts the original part by years. It comes with all necessary gaskets and O-rings, so you do not need to buy extra components. The housing also includes a metal insert for the oil filter cap threads, reducing the chance of stripping.
Why The Factory Housing Fails
The original oil filter housing on the Jeep JK is made from plastic. Over time, heat from the engine causes the plastic to become brittle. Small cracks form, usually around the coolant passages or the filter cap threads. Once a crack appears, oil leaks out, often pooling on top of the engine or dripping onto the exhaust.
Common symptoms of a failing housing include:
- Oil smell inside the cabin
- Visible oil leaks around the filter area
- Low oil pressure warnings
- Check engine light related to oil pressure
If you notice any of these signs, inspect the housing immediately. Driving with a leak can lead to engine damage.
Dorman Vs. OEM: Key Differences
Choosing between Dorman and the factory Mopar housing comes down to durability and cost. The OEM part costs more and still uses plastic. Dorman offers a stronger material at a lower price point.
Here is a quick comparison:
- Material: Dorman uses reinforced composite; OEM uses plastic
- Threads: Dorman has metal thread inserts; OEM has plastic threads
- Price: Dorman is typically 30-40% cheaper than OEM
- Warranty: Dorman includes a limited lifetime warranty
For most JK owners, the Dorman housing is the better value. It fixes the root cause of the failure without breaking the bank.
Tools And Parts Needed For Installation
Before you start, gather the necessary tools and supplies. You will need:
- Socket set (metric, 10mm, 13mm, 15mm)
- Torque wrench
- Oil filter wrench or cap
- Drain pan
- New oil and filter
- Coolant (if you disturb the coolant lines)
- Dorman oil filter housing (part number 926-959 for most JK models)
Make sure you have a clean workspace. The job takes about 2-3 hours for a first-timer.
Step-By-Step Installation Guide
Follow these steps carefully. Work slowly to avoid breaking any plastic connectors.
- Disconnect the battery. This prevents accidental shorts or engine starts.
- Drain the oil. Remove the oil drain plug and let the oil flow into a pan.
- Remove the air intake tube. Unclip the tube from the throttle body and air box.
- Disconnect the coolant lines. Use a clamp tool to remove the hoses from the housing. Expect some coolant spillage.
- Unbolt the old housing. There are three bolts holding it in place. Use a 10mm socket.
- Remove the old gasket. Clean the mounting surface with a rag.
- Install the new Dorman housing. Place the new gasket and bolt the housing in. Torque to 18 ft-lbs.
- Reconnect coolant lines. Push the hoses back on and secure with clamps.
- Reinstall the air intake tube. Clip everything back in place.
- Add new oil and filter. Fill with the recommended oil (5W-20 or 5W-30 for most JK engines).
- Bleed the cooling system. Run the engine with the radiator cap off to remove air pockets.
- Check for leaks. Inspect all connections after the engine warms up.
Take your time with step 6. Any leftover gasket material can cause a leak.
Common Mistakes To Avoid
Even experienced DIYers make errors during this job. Here are pitfalls to watch for:
- Over-tightening bolts. The housing is strong, but you can strip threads if you go too far.
- Forgetting to prime the oil system. Crank the engine a few times with the fuel pump fuse pulled to build oil pressure.
- Using the wrong coolant. The JK uses OAT coolant. Mixing types can cause sludge.
- Not replacing the oil filter cap. The Dorman housing includes a new cap. Use it, as the old one may have damaged threads.
If you make a mistake, do not panic. Most issues are fixable with a little patience.
Performance And Durability Of The Dorman Housing
After installing the Dorman oil filter housing, many JK owners notice immediate improvements. Oil leaks stop, and the engine runs more reliably. The reinforced material handles heat better than the stock plastic.
Long-term tests show that Dorman housings last 50,000 miles or more without issues. Some users report over 100,000 miles on their replacement. The metal thread inserts are a big reason for this longevity. They prevent the common problem of stripped threads when changing the oil filter.
One thing to note: the Dorman housing is not aluminum. It is a composite material that is stronger than plastic but lighter than metal. This is intentional, as aluminum can expand and contract differently than the engine block, causing leaks.
Customer Reviews And Feedback
Online forums and review sites are full of positive feedback for the Dorman housing. Jeep JK owners praise its ease of installation and reliability. Common compliments include:
- “No more leaks after 30,000 miles”
- “Fit perfectly, no modifications needed”
- “Saved me $400 compared to dealer repair”
Some users mention that the housing can be tricky to align during installation. Take your time and use a mirror to see the bolt holes if needed. Overall, the product has a 4.5-star average rating across major retailers.
Cost Comparison: Dorman Vs. Other Options
Replacing the oil filter housing does not have to be expensive. Here is a cost breakdown:
- Dorman housing: $80-$120
- OEM Mopar housing: $150-$200
- Aluminum aftermarket housing: $200-$350
- Dealer labor: $300-$600
If you do the work yourself, the Dorman option is the most cost-effective. Even if you pay a mechanic to install it, the total cost is still lower than using OEM parts.
Where To Buy The Dorman Housing
You can find the Dorman oil filter housing at most auto parts stores. Online retailers like Amazon, RockAuto, and Summit Racing also carry it. Check the part number for your specific JK model year. Most 2007-2018 Wranglers use part 926-959, but verify with your VIN.
Look for sales or coupon codes to save extra money. Some stores offer free shipping on orders over a certain amount.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is The Dorman Oil Filter Housing Better Than The OEM One?
Yes, for most JK owners. The Dorman housing uses stronger materials and includes metal thread inserts. It costs less and has a lifetime warranty. The only downside is that it is not aluminum, but the composite material works well in this application.
How Long Does A Dorman Oil Filter Housing Last On A Jeep JK?
Many owners report 50,000 to 100,000 miles without issues. Proper installation and regular oil changes help extend its life. Avoid over-tightening the filter cap to prevent thread damage.
Can I Install The Dorman Housing Myself?
Yes, if you have basic mechanical skills. The job takes a few hours and requires common tools. Follow the step-by-step guide above. If you are unsure, watch a video tutorial or ask a friend for help.
Does The Dorman Housing Fix The Coolant Leak Issue?
Yes, the Dorman housing includes new coolant passages and O-rings. If your original housing was leaking coolant, the replacement should stop it. Make sure to bleed the cooling system after installation.
What Oil Filter Should I Use With The Dorman Housing?
Use a standard oil filter for the Jeep JK 3.6L or 3.8L engine. The Dorman housing accepts most aftermarket filters. Stick with a reputable brand like Mobil 1, Wix, or Mopar.
Final Thoughts On The Dorman Oil Filter Housing For Jeep Jk
Replacing the oil filter housing on your Jeep JK is a smart move if you are dealing with leaks. The Dorman oil filter housing for the Jeep JK offers a reliable, affordable fix. It eliminates the plastic cracking problem and gives you peace of mind.
Take your time during installation. Use the right tools and torque specs. Check for leaks after the first drive. With proper care, your Dorman housing will serve you well for many miles.
If you have any doubts, consult a professional mechanic. But for most DIYers, this is a rewarding project that saves money and improves your Jeep’s reliability.