SPEARHEAD Engine Air Filter MT-242 — Replacement for 2007–23 Ford, Lincoln & Mazda | OEM fit, High Dust Capacity

The SPEARHEAD Max Thrust MT-242 is a high-capacity replacement engine air filter engineered to restore airflow, trap more dirt, and improve throttle response for select 2007–2023 Ford, Lincoln and Mazda vehicles.

When an engine is starved of clean air it loses efficiency and responsiveness. The SPEARHEAD Max Thrust MT-242 uses a layered, hex-pleat media to increase dust holding capacity while maintaining unrestricted airflow, offering an affordable, do-it-yourself upgrade over many stock filters. This product is manufactured to OEM fit dimensions so installation is straightforward for compatible models including Edge, Explorer, Fusion (3.5L V6), Taurus, Aviator, MKZ, MKX, MKT, MKS, certain Police Interceptor variants, Mazda 6 (3.7L) and CX-9, plus Mercury Sable and others listed in the fitment details.

How does the Max Thrust filter improve engine performance?

The filter improves airflow consistency and reduces the amount of abrasive debris entering the intake, which helps the engine breathe more easily under load. That can translate to more responsive acceleration and steadier operation compared with a clogged or low-capacity stock filter.

• Hex-D pleat design increases usable surface area for better airflow.
• Progressively finer media layers trap small and large particles efficiently.
• Higher dust-holding capacity delays restrictive buildup between changes.

How long will one Max Thrust filter last before replacement?

SPEARHEAD designs the MT-242 for extended service life under normal driving conditions; it can provide effective filtration for up to 15,000 miles depending on driving environment. Severe dust, off-road use, or heavy urban pollution may require earlier inspection and replacement.

• Rated for up to 15K miles under typical conditions.
• Inspect more often if driving in dusty or polluted environments.
• Replace when visible restriction or excessive dirt buildup appears.

Will this filter fit my vehicle and is it easy to install?

The MT-242 is made to OEM dimensions to fit the airbox of many Ford, Lincoln, Mercury and Mazda models from 2007–2023 as specified in the product fitment list. Installation is a straightforward, tool-light task for most owners and can be completed in minutes by following the vehicle’s airbox access steps.

• Direct replacement for specific Edge, Explorer, Fusion (3.5L), Taurus, Aviator, MK series and Mazda models.
• Check the fitment notes for exclusions (e.g., certain hybrid and 3.3L V6 variants).
• Simple swap into the factory airbox—no modifications required.

What makes the Max Thrust different from standard filters?

The combination of a Hex-D pleat profile and multiple finer media layers increases dirt-holding capacity without choking airflow. Compared to ordinary paper filters, the MT-242 balances filtration efficiency and flow to help the engine maintain performance even as the filter accumulates contaminants.

• Approximately twice the dirt-holding capability versus many standard filters.
• Engineered pleat geometry maximizes surface area in the same footprint.
• Maintains air passage even when partially loaded with debris.

Who is this for: The SPEARHEAD Max Thrust MT-242 is aimed at owners of compatible Ford, Lincoln, Mercury and Mazda models who want a reliable, OEM-fit replacement that boosts filtration capacity and preserves airflow. It’s a good choice for do-it-yourselfers, fleet or police vehicle maintainers, and drivers looking to keep higher-mileage engines running more smoothly without complicated modifications. Confirm your vehicle year, engine size and variant against the fitment list before ordering to ensure proper compatibility.