What Size Socket Do You Need for an Oil Change?

You won’t find a single, universal socket size for every oil change. Most passenger vehicles use a drain plug that takes a 13–19 mm socket (with 14 mm, 15 mm, and 17 mm the most common), while some older domestic vehicles use SAE sizes like 9/16″, 5/8″, or 3/4″. The exact size depends on your make, model, engine, and even the type of oil filter system, so checking your owner’s manual or measuring the plug is the surest method. Below are the typical sizes and how to confirm what you need.

Why There Isn’t One Universal Size

Oil drain plug heads and oil filter housings vary by manufacturer, engine family, and even production year. Most modern cars use metric hardware, but older or heavy-duty domestic vehicles may use SAE. Some vehicles also use internal hex (Allen), Torx, or even a square-drive recess instead of a traditional hex head. On top of that, cartridge-style oil filter housings often need a large socket, while spin-on filters typically require a cap wrench measured by diameter and flute count rather than a socket size.

Common Drain Plug Socket Sizes

Here are the sizes you’re most likely to encounter for engine oil drain plugs on modern vehicles, along with examples to guide expectations. Always verify for your specific engine, as there are exceptions.

• 13 mm: Seen on some European models and smaller domestic cars.
• 14 mm: Common on Toyota/Lexus, Nissan/Infiniti, Hyundai/Kia, and many Asian makes.
• 15 mm: Widespread on GM and Ford trucks/SUVs and many domestic sedans.
• 16 mm: Occasional on European applications (less common overall).
• 17 mm: Frequent on Honda/Acura, Subaru, and some BMW applications.
• 18–19 mm: Found on some VW/Audi and certain trucks or larger engines (19 mm more typical than 18 mm).
• SAE 9/16″, 5/8″, 3/4″: Present on older domestic vehicles and some trucks.
• Square-drive recess (3/8″ or 1/2″): Some plugs accept the ratchet drive directly, no socket required.
• Internal hex (Allen), often 8 mm or 10 mm: Used on certain European pans and specialty plugs.

If your plug doesn’t match these, measure across the flats with a caliper or test-fit carefully with a 6-point socket to avoid rounding. Manufacturers sometimes change hardware mid-generation, so year-to-year differences happen.

Oil Filter Housing and Cap Wrench Sizes

Depending on your vehicle, you may need a socket for a cartridge-style oil filter housing or a cap-type wrench for a spin-on filter. These are different from the drain plug size and are often much larger.

• Cartridge filter housing hex sizes: Commonly 24 mm, 27 mm (widely used on Toyota/Lexus V6/V8 and some four-cylinders), 32 mm (BMW/Mini and some GM Ecotec), and 36 mm (seen on various European and some Ford/Mercedes applications).
• Spin-on filter cap wrenches: Specified by diameter and flute count (for example, 64 mm, 14-flute is common for many Toyota/Lexus spin-on filters). These take a socket or wrench to turn the cap tool.

Match the tool to your filter type: cartridge housings need the correct large socket; spin-on filters often need the proper cap wrench size and flute count for a secure grip.

How to Confirm the Right Size Quickly

Use this quick process to identify the right socket and tool for your oil change without guesswork.

1. Check your owner’s manual or service information: It often lists drain plug size, torque spec, and filter type.
2. Measure the plug: A simple digital caliper across the flats (AF) will tell you the exact socket size if the manual doesn’t.
3. Test-fit a 6-point socket: Start with the likely sizes (14, 15, 17 mm) and ensure a snug fit with no play.
4. Look for special heads: If the plug has a square recess or internal hex, use the appropriate drive/Allen bit.
5. Identify your filter system: Cartridge housings usually need 24–36 mm sockets; spin-on filters often need a cap wrench (e.g., 64 mm 14-flute).
6. Have a new washer ready: Many vehicles use a crush washer (aluminum/copper). Replace it to prevent leaks.
7. Torque to spec: Typical drain plug torque is around 20–30 ft-lb (27–40 N·m), but always follow the vehicle specification, especially for aluminum pans or plastic/composite plugs that require much lower torque or a specific replacement procedure.

This approach prevents damage to the plug or oil pan and ensures a leak-free seal on reassembly.

Torque and Washer Notes

Over-tightening is a common mistake. While many steel pans with steel plugs land near 20–30 ft-lb, some engines—especially with aluminum pans, plastic drain plugs, or composite filter housings—spec significantly lower torque or one-time-use components. Replace crush washers when specified, and for newer systems (e.g., certain Ford plastic drain plugs or canister housings), follow the exact factory procedure and torque value.

Examples by Popular Models

The following examples reflect what’s commonly observed in service bays. Verify by year/engine and owner’s manual, as variations exist.

• Honda Civic/Accord/CR‑V: Often 17 mm drain plug; cartridge or spin-on filter depends on engine/year.
• Toyota Camry/Corolla/RAV4: Frequently 14 mm drain plug; many use a 64 mm, 14-flute cap wrench for spin-on filters or 27 mm socket for cartridge housings on applicable engines.
• Subaru Impreza/Outback/Forester: Commonly 17 mm drain plug; spin-on filters are typical on many models.
• Ford F‑150/Explorer/Escape: 15 mm is common for metal drain plugs; some newer engines use plastic one-time-use plugs or different systems—check procedure.
• Chevrolet/GMC Silverado/Sierra/Equinox: 15 mm is widespread; some small engines may vary.
• VW/Audi: Often 19 mm drain plug on many M14 plugs; some models use internal hex or different heads—verify by engine code.
• BMW/Mini: Many older models use 17 mm drain plugs; cartridge filter housings frequently need a 32 mm socket.
• Mercedes-Benz: Drain plug heads vary (13–14–17 mm or internal hex on some); many engines use cartridge filters needing larger sockets (27–36 mm typical).

If your vehicle isn’t listed or has a different powertrain, default to measuring or consulting the manual—this is the most reliable way to avoid rounding fasteners or under/over-torquing.

Bottom Line

There’s no one-size-fits-all socket for an oil change. Most drain plugs use 13–19 mm, with 14 mm, 15 mm, and 17 mm the most common; older domestics may use 9/16″–3/4″. Cartridge filter housings often need 24–36 mm sockets, while spin-on filters use cap wrenches sized by diameter and flute count. Confirm with your manual or a quick measurement and always torque to spec with a fresh washer when required.

Summary

Expect a 13–19 mm socket for the drain plug (14/15/17 mm most common) and, if applicable, a large 24–36 mm socket for cartridge filter housings or a cap wrench (e.g., 64 mm, 14-flute) for spin-on filters. Because sizes vary by make, model, and year, verify with the owner’s manual or by measuring, and follow the specified torque and washer replacement guidance to prevent leaks or damage.

What size socket is a standard oil drain plug?

There isn’t a single socket size for all oil plugs; the correct size depends on your vehicle’s make, model, and year. Common sizes include 17mm and 14mm for many Japanese and European cars, but you might need to check your vehicle’s specifications or visit an auto parts store for help. A 6-point socket is recommended for better grip to avoid stripping the bolt head. 
How to find the right socket size

1. Check your vehicle’s manual: The most reliable way is to consult your car’s owner’s manual to find the specific drain plug size. 
2. Identify the head type: Most drain plugs have a hex-shaped bolt head. 
3. Measure the bolt head: If you have a socket set, try a few sizes to see which one fits snugly. 
4. Consult an auto parts store: Bring the vehicle information to an auto parts store, and they can look up the specific size for you. 
5. Consider common sizes: While not universal, many Japanese and European cars use metric sizes, with 17mm and 14mm being common. 

Tips for changing the oil plug

• Use a 6-point socket: This type of socket is more effective at gripping the bolt and prevents the head from getting rounded off. 
• Use a 3/8-inch drive socket and ratchet: This is a common size for most DIY oil changes. 
• Have a replacement plug ready: If the old drain plug is worn or stripped, you’ll need a new one to replace it. 

What size bolt is needed to change oil?

There isn’t a single “oil change bolt size” because sizes vary by vehicle. To find the correct size for your car, you must identify the specific drain plug bolt head size for your vehicle’s make and model. You can typically use a socket wrench set with common metric sizes like 14mm, 15mm, 17mm, or 19mm. If you don’t know the size, you can buy a vehicle-specific part or use a tool to measure the bolt, such as digital calipers, but a wrench that is too small can strip the head. 
How to Find the Right Size

1. Check Your Vehicle’s Owner’s Manual: Opens in new tabYour manual will often have the specific size of the drain plug. 
2. Consult an Auto Parts Store: Opens in new tabTell the store your vehicle’s year, make, and model, and they can look up the correct size. 
3. Measure the Bolt: Opens in new tabIf you have calipers or a ruler, you can measure the width of the bolt head to determine its diameter. 
4. Test Common Socket Sizes: Opens in new tabIf you don’t know the size, you may have to try the common metric socket sizes in the 14mm to 19mm range. 

Important Tips

• Use the Correct Tool: Use a socket or wrench that fits the bolt head snugly to avoid stripping it. 
• Replace the Washer: Always use a new crush washer when reinstalling the drain plug to prevent leaks. 
• Use a Proper Socket: For best results, use a 6-point socket, as these provide a more secure grip than 12-point sockets and reduce the risk of stripping. 

What size tool do I need to change oil?

Ratchet and Socket Set
Get a set that includes some metric and SAE sizes, and if you’re starting out, a 3/8” drive should do just fine. Ratchets and sockets also come in 1/4, 1/2″, 3/4″, and 1” drives. Many medium sized kits will include ratchets and sockets in 3/8” and 1/2″ drive.

What socket size do I need for an oil change?

You need a socket wrench (14mm or 15mm), an oil filter wrench, an oil drain pan, a funnel, and a new oil filter.