I know that most of us use the fleece-type filter element when we change oil in the Crossfire. But if I remember correctly, the last time I looked into this, the fleece-type filter element is typically only specified for the SRT-6 model on most website look-ups. The paper-type element is recommended for all Crossfires equipped with the NA engine. I'm one that uses the fleece-type filter element, but others here have used the paper-type and still get good results & performance.

Choice of filter element also depends somewhat on driving habits/style and oil change interval service. If one is a oil changer that follows a strict interval of 6 months (or less), than the paper-element is probably fine. If you're one that adheres to the FSS monitored interval of 7000 miles (and I do), than one might need the fleece-type element. For me, a 7000 mile oil change is about every 2 years.

Stop & go traffic versus highway miles will also have a bearing on oil change interval. Typically, stop & go traffic will put more stress on the motor that constant highway speed. One might perform an oil change more often if your Crossfire is a daily driver with a lot of stop & go driving. This driving style could have a bearing on which filter type to use.

Does anyone know of a difference in filtration rating or efficiency between the paper & fleece filter elements? M-B really stipulates that the primary driver between paper & fleece is more related to the monitoring system & oil grade. Fleece for MMS used on MYs 2005+; paper for FSS MYs 1998-2004). And the monitoring system drove the oil change interval. Since 2005, M-B states that oil changes can be completed out to 30,000 km (18,600 miles) but a fleece-type filter element is required along with 229.5 synthetic grade oil (not sure I would go that long w/o an oil change). The Crossfire uses the FSS system, requires 229.3 grade oil, and M-B states that the paper element is adequate.

My $0.02. Probably more than $0.02.

 

I have also seen postings about this but according to this chart the Mobile 1 5W-40 does NOT have MB approval rating.

https://mobiloil.com/~/media/amer/us...guide-2016.pdf

 

I recall some reports of the paper element filters deteriorating.

 

Interesting chart - Thanks for sharing. Attached is another document that lists approved oils. And keep in mind the Mobil 1 5w-40 oil listed is two different versions (SuperSyn & ESP).

 

Went back to the garage yesterday, they are going to drain it and replace oil with the 0w 40, lots of apologies from them.

Maybe it would have been fine as it is but I will feel a lot happier when it is changed.

Lesson learned, do it myself next time!

 

Good for you! If you feel this is a reputable service facility, then just buy the oil & filter prior & take it with you. Then all you pay for is the labor for the oil change. I've even taken a small plastic trash bag and told the shop to put all the empty oil bottles inside when done. I'll take care of disposing of empty bottles. Keeps them from charging me an "environmental" fee for getting rid of the empties.

Later,

 

Spend the $70-$100 on a "topsider" oil suction device and you won't even need to jack it up !
( try to get one that holds at least 8 liters so you don't have to empty it halfway through )

 

Got a link?

 

My 2004 owner's manual states "Only use synthetic engine oils, approved to MB 229.3 or

MB 229.5, such as Mobil 1 SAE 0W-40." So the requirement (for warranty coverage and acceptable operation, etc.) isn't that I use Mobil 1 0W-40 or some 5W-40 that the shop says is a replacement or compatible. The requirement is that I use an engine oil that is approved to MB 229.3 or 229.5. On those lists there are 0W-30, 0W-40, 5W-40, 5W-50, 5W-30, and 10W-40 products. And, worldwide there are more than 200 products that are approved. There's probably little need to deviate from approved 0W-40 or 5W-40 oils which are readily available, and probably provide the best blend of overall performance, but if MB is telling you that Mobil 1 FS 5W-30 is approved, for example, there is probably no major issue in using it. On the 229.3 list in particular there may even be some oils that are synthetic blends which might not totally agree with what is stated in the owner's manual.

 

Good to hear.
did you find out what oil they put in.
Regular 5w40 or Mobil 1 synthetic 5w40?

 

https://bevo.mercedes-benz.com/bevolisten/229.5_en.html