I'd find a different advance auto, mine had no limit to the filter cost/added monies thing. Also, look to see if an online order (with pick up at the local store) would not have any restrictions on the filter price (as it IS a MOBIL1 promo, not an advance auto promo), and about the taking back of the M1 filter, it is against the terms of the deal but if a store does it who's to say different? Reason why the online order thing was because the store did not have the filter in stock, it was a special order, and when you upchannel to a csu rep they have the power to make it happen without added cost. So, the advance auto deal you still get the 5.1qt bottle and a 20 buck (last I checked) filter, and the filter sure was a breeze to install (given many do not like the 'paper' filter though) it is a pretty good deal. Oh, you also can swap the filter for a filter of another vehicle you have (but the savings isn't as good). Lots of options, just take advantage of the oil deals!