2007 2.4L 2LT with 170,000 miles.
I have noticed that the cartridge oil filter element has collapsed when I go to replace it during the last two oil changes. I have used synthetic 5W30 oil since new and have changed it every 10,000 miles with all highway driving.
The last two filters have been a PartsMaster brand that appear to be identical to the Wix filter.
Has anyone had this issue before?

 

Another photo showing A Wix filter on the top.

 

If this has only happened for the last two oil changes and in both oil changes you used a new to you brand of filters then it is highly likely that it is due to the filters. I would suggest going back to the wix or what ever brand you used before the last two oil changes and see if it happens again. Also try looking into the center of the filters and see if the Wix has internal bracing that the Partsmaster ones do not have.

 

The bracing on the Wix is the same as the PartsMaster.

 

Interesting that I see that this has happened to a stock 2.4l, because the same happened to the hubby's SS when I changed the oil out 2 weeks ago. Friend and I thought that it may have been a vacuum because of the higher compression toys. Well with the pics posted here, I guess that scenario isn't true. This new filter that I put in is a WIX, and I use only Mobil One full Syn.

Friend also mentioned that if you're running with a higher performance HHR, to consider not to wait for the oil change light to come on. 20% -15% oil life is a good point.

 

I missed the 10k oil change frequency. Change the filter at 5k or atleast check it frequently after 5k. It does look very dark and could very well have all the pleats clogged well enough that it is getting hard for the oil to get thru. Otherwise try going back to the previous brand which I am assuming is the Wix.

 

Yep, X 2

 

!0,000...I can't do it, the oil looks bad enough at 5000.

 

Looks like its getting dirty and clogged. This will cause engine wear for sure. Shorten your oil change interval as the others have said.
10,000 miles is sooooo long.....lol

 

This has been discussed in the past.
My opinion is that the filter is collapsing or twisting when you remove it. The filter is stiff and dry when installed, so it holds it's shape. Once it gets soaked with oil, it becomes softer and thus will twist and appear collapsed when you go to replace it.
Try installing a new filter and then taking it right back out. I bet it will retain it's shape.
Just my opinion.