Major OE Supplier Closes - Backorder Alert

The bankruptcy of First Brands Group, one of the largest global automotive aftermarket suppliers, is creating significant disruption across the automotive parts supply chain. The company filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in September 2025.

As part of the restructuring and liquidation process, several divisions and manufacturing facilities have been shut down, including the Champion Laboratories filtration plant, a major producer of oil, fuel, and heavy-duty filters. The closure eliminates a key source of filtration products supplied to both OEM programs and the automotive aftermarket.

The impact will likely be felt throughout the automotive industry. OEMs such as Ford and General Motors are directly affected; the company’s collapse could disrupt vehicle production and service parts availability.

For new car dealerships, the most immediate effect will be potential shortages and longer lead times for service parts such as oil, air, and cabin filters that were previously sourced through First Brands’ filtration divisions and related suppliers. This could increase parts costs, reduce availability of OE-equivalent filters, and force dealerships and service departments to seek alternative suppliers.

At Total Automotive, we’re proactively expanding our filter inventory and securing additional supply options to keep your parts room stocked. In the event of backorders, priority allocation will go to active customers who have been consistently purchasing filters from us. Explore our Exact Match Filter program below to secure the coverage you need and avoid costly gaps in your parts inventory. For personalized recommendations or to place an order, reach out directly to your Total Automotive sales representative. 1-800-450-7750