What Size Socket Is an Oil Drain Plug?

Most oil drain plugs aren’t one-size-fits-all; the most common socket sizes you’ll encounter are 13 mm, 14 mm, 15 mm, 17 mm, and 19 mm (metric), or 1/2″, 5/8″, and 3/4″ (SAE). Many Japanese cars use 14 mm or 17 mm, U.S. makes often use 13 mm or 15 mm, and some European models use 17 mm or an internal hex (6–8 mm) or Torx. Always confirm your vehicle’s specification in the owner’s manual or by measuring the plug head before turning a wrench.

Why There Isn’t One Universal Size

The socket size for an oil drain plug depends on the plug’s head design (external hex, internal hex/Allen, Torx, or specialized plastic/composite plugs) and the manufacturer’s engineering choices. Even within a brand, sizes can vary by engine and model year. Head size also doesn’t always correlate to thread size (for example, an M14 plug may have a 14 mm thread but a 17 mm head), so visual confirmation or reference to official specs is key.

Common Socket Sizes by Vehicle Type and Brand

The following are widely encountered socket sizes mechanics report across popular brands and segments. Treat these as common, not guaranteed, and verify on your specific engine.

• Japanese brands: Frequently 14 mm (Toyota, many Nissan) or 17 mm (Honda, Subaru, Mazda). Some models use internal hex (6–8 mm) on specific engines.
• Korean brands: Often 17 mm on Hyundai and Kia gasoline engines; a few variants may differ by engine family.
• American brands: Commonly 13 mm or 15 mm on Ford, GM, and Stellantis (Chrysler/Jeep/Dodge). Older vehicles may use SAE 1/2″, 5/8″, or 3/4″. Larger trucks can use bigger hex heads.
• European brands: BMW frequently 17 mm hex or 8 mm internal hex; VW/Audi often 19 mm hex or a 6–8 mm internal hex or Torx (e.g., T45) on newer plastic drain plugs; Mercedes-Benz varies (commonly 13–14 mm hex or internal hex on some engines); Volvo and PSA typically 13–17 mm hex depending on engine.
• Motorcycles/small engines: Commonly 12 mm, 14 mm, or 17 mm hex; some use 6–8 mm internal hex.

These patterns help you prepare the right tools, but always confirm on the vehicle. Many plugs also require a new crush washer (aluminum or copper) each oil change to ensure proper sealing.

How to Identify the Correct Socket Quickly

Use this simple approach to ensure a proper fit and avoid rounding the plug or damaging the oil pan.

1. Check official info: Consult the owner’s manual or service manual for plug head size and torque spec.
2. Measure the head: Use a caliper or test-fit box-end wrenches to identify the across-flats dimension; prefer a 6-point socket for better grip.
3. Confirm drive type: Some plugs use an internal hex (6–10 mm) or Torx (often T45/T50), or even a plastic/composite plug with a specific tool.
4. Prepare the sealing hardware: Verify if your plug uses a crush washer or O-ring and have a replacement on hand.
5. Test gently: Start with the suspected size and apply steady pressure; if there’s play, step down a size to avoid rounding.

Taking a minute to verify the exact interface saves time and prevents costly damage to aluminum pans or specialty plugs.

Torque and Washer Tips

Correct torque and a fresh sealing washer are just as important as the right socket. Over-tightening can strip threads; under-tightening can cause leaks. When in doubt, follow your vehicle’s service spec. Typical ranges for passenger vehicles are as follows (always verify for your engine):

• M12 drain plugs: about 20–25 lb-ft (27–34 Nm)
• M14 drain plugs: about 25–30 lb-ft (34–40 Nm)
• M16 drain plugs: about 30–35 lb-ft (40–47 Nm)
• SAE 1/2″–5/8″: roughly 20–35 lb-ft, depending on plug/pan design

Many Japanese makes specify replacing the aluminum or copper crush washer at each oil change; some modern European plastic drain plugs are single-use with integrated seals and specific torque. Always follow the service procedure for your engine.

Tools to Have on Hand

Keeping a small selection of sockets and drivers on hand will cover nearly all oil drain plugs you’ll encounter.

• 6-point metric sockets: 12–19 mm (focus on 13, 14, 15, 17, 19 mm)
• SAE sockets: 1/2″, 5/8″, 3/4″
• Hex (Allen) sockets: 6 mm, 8 mm, 10 mm; Torx drivers: T45/T50 for certain European plugs
• Torque wrench covering roughly 10–80 lb-ft (14–108 Nm)
• New crush washer or replacement plug as specified; drain pan, gloves, and shop rags

With this kit, you’ll be equipped for most passenger cars, crossovers, and light trucks.

Examples From Popular Models (typical, verify for your engine)

These examples reflect common shop experience for recent model years but can vary by engine and year—always confirm with documentation or measurement.

• Toyota Camry/Corolla: commonly 14 mm hex head
• Honda Civic/Accord: commonly 17 mm hex head (use new aluminum crush washer)
• Subaru Outback/Forester: commonly 17 mm hex head
• Ford F-150 (gas engines): commonly 15 mm hex head; some models vary
• Chevrolet Silverado 1500 (gas): commonly 13 mm hex head on many V8 pans
• VW Golf/GTI (MQB): often 19 mm hex or a single-use plastic plug needing Torx/hex, depending on part
• BMW 3 Series: often 17 mm hex or 8 mm internal hex, depending on engine family
• Hyundai/Kia 2.0–2.4 GDI: often 17 mm hex head
• Jeep Wrangler 3.6 Pentastar: commonly 13 mm hex head

Use these as starting points only. Engine variants, aftermarket plugs, or updated parts can change the required tool.

Summary

There’s no single “correct” socket size for oil drain plugs. Most passenger cars use 13–19 mm (especially 14 mm and 17 mm) or 1/2″–3/4″ in SAE, while some European models require internal hex or Torx drivers. Confirm your vehicle’s spec, use a 6-point socket for a snug fit, replace the crush washer or single-use plug as required, and torque to the manufacturer’s value to avoid leaks or damage.

What tool should you use to loosen the oil pan drain plug?

Play. So let’s go ahead open it up really quick. Yeah we’re going to use some tin snips why. Not cuts right through. There. And there we go just a little flexible dongle deal thingy.

What size socket for an 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 wrench do I need to remove the drain plug for an oil change for a 2008 Honda CRV?

And then we want to make sure stick a drain bucket underneath. Let it drain. Out this oil doesn’t look too. Bad. It’s still get a little bit of color to it.

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.