at least for my 22re they are. the parts guy swears they are the same, but they even have a different part number now. i think i'm gonna switch filters. what do you suggest with conventional motor oil?

 

That is true they have swithed. The the ones from Japan probably are better, though they are more expensive and hard to find. However I've learned that Lexus dealerships are using the ones from Thailand as well, and if they use them, they must be pretty good. Toyota supplies the V6 and V8 oil filters ending in D1 and D3 to the dealers in the US only from what I gather.

For those of us still under factory powertrain, I would make sure to stick with the Yota Filters, just in case there is an engine problem.

I've heard Mobil makes good oil filters, I've had good luck with FRAM as well.