What Size Socket Is Needed for an Oil Change?

There isn’t one universal socket size. Most passenger cars use a 14 mm socket for the oil drain plug, but common sizes range from 13–19 mm (and sometimes 1/2″–3/4″ SAE). For cartridge-style oil filter housings, expect 24–36 mm sockets, or a 64 mm, 14‑flute cap wrench for many spin-on filters. Always confirm for your specific vehicle in the owner’s manual or service information.

Why There Isn’t a Single “Standard” Size

Oil drain plugs and filters vary by automaker, engine family, and even model year. Some vehicles use external hex drain plugs, others use internal hex (Allen) or Torx-style plugs, and a growing number use plastic service plugs with quarter-turn mechanisms. Oil filters can be spin-on cans that need a cup-style wrench, or cartridge housings that require a large hex socket. Because of this diversity, the safest approach is to verify your exact size before loosening anything.

Common Drain Plug Socket Sizes by Brand/Region

The following guide highlights typical oil drain plug sizes seen in the field. Treat these as common patterns—not guarantees—and verify on your specific vehicle.

• Honda, Toyota, Nissan, Hyundai, Kia: Frequently 14 mm external hex.
• Mazda, Subaru: Commonly 14–17 mm external hex (many Subarus are 17 mm).
• GM (Chevrolet, GMC, Buick, Cadillac): Often 15 mm external hex on gasoline models; some use internal hex.
• Ford/Lincoln: Often 13 mm or 15 mm external hex; some late-model pans use plastic quick-release drain plugs (no socket), and a few use internal hex.
• Chrysler/Jeep/Ram/Dodge: Commonly 13–16 mm external hex depending on engine; heavy-duty trucks can be larger.
• Volkswagen/Audi: Often 19 mm external hex or 6–8 mm internal hex; some newer pans use plastic service plugs.
• BMW/MINI: Frequently 17 mm external hex or 8 mm internal hex, depending on engine and pan design.
• Mercedes-Benz: Often 13–17 mm external hex or 8 mm internal hex; some models drain from the filter housing instead.
• Trucks and diesels (various brands): Can run large, roughly 19–24 mm or 7/8″, and may use internal hex or specialty plugs.

These trends can help you prepare the right tools, but the only definitive answer is the spec for your exact engine and oil pan part number.

Oil Filter Housing and Cap Wrench Sizes

Oil filters come in two common formats: spin-on cans that often need a cup-style “cap” wrench sized by diameter and flutes, and cartridge-style housings with a large hex molded into the cap. Here are the sizes you’re most likely to encounter.

• Toyota/Lexus canister (spin-on cap or canister housing): 64 mm, 14‑flute cap wrench is extremely common.
• BMW/MINI cartridge housings: 36 mm socket for the filter cap on many engines.
• Mercedes-Benz cartridge housings: Often 27 mm socket for the cap (varies by engine family).
• GM Ecotec (1.4T/1.5T/2.0/2.4 and similar): Commonly 32 mm socket for the cartridge cap.
• Ford EcoBoost and Duratec variants: Frequently 27 mm socket for the cartridge cap (engine-dependent).
• Chrysler/Dodge/Jeep/Ram 3.6L Pentastar: Typically 24 mm socket for the cartridge cap.
• Volkswagen/Audi 1.8/2.0 TSI/TFSI: Often 32 mm socket for the cartridge cap (application-dependent).
• Subaru spin-on: 65 mm, 14‑flute cap wrench fits many OE spin-on filters.

Filter tooling varies more than drain plugs. If you’re buying a cap wrench or large socket, match it to your engine code and year to avoid rounding or cracking a plastic cap.

What You Should Have in Your Oil-Change Tool Kit

If you service different vehicles—or just want to be ready—these tools cover most modern oil changes.

• Metric sockets: 13, 14, 15, 17, 19 mm (six-point, shallow and deep if possible).
• SAE sockets: 1/2″, 9/16″, 5/8″, 3/4″, 7/8″ for older or larger domestic applications.
• Large metric sockets for filter caps: 24, 27, 30, 32, 36 mm (as needed for your engine).
• Cap wrenches: 64 mm/14‑flute and 65 mm/14‑flute; optionally 74 mm/14‑flute for some larger spin-ons.
• Bits: 6 mm and 8 mm hex (Allen), plus Torx (e.g., T40/T45) for internal plugs on some European models.
• Ratchets and torque wrench: 3/8″ and 1/2″ drive, with a torque range that covers roughly 10–100 lb‑ft (14–135 N·m).
• New drain plug washer/crush washer (aluminum or copper as specified), and a replacement plug if the head is worn.

With this assortment, you’ll be equipped for most passenger cars, crossovers, and light trucks, including a mix of domestic, Asian, and European models.

How to Identify the Right Size on Your Vehicle

If you don’t know your size, it’s quick to confirm before you commit to loosening the plug or cap.

1. Check documentation: Look in the owner’s manual or OEM service information for plug and filter specs.
2. Inspect the plug: Wipe it clean and measure the head across the flats with calipers, or test-fit sockets by hand to find a snug, wobble-free fit.
3. Verify drive type: Determine if it’s an external hex, internal hex (Allen), Torx, or a plastic quarter-turn plug that needs a specific tool.
4. Confirm filter style: Identify spin-on vs. cartridge. For spin-on, count flutes and measure diameter; for cartridge, measure the hex on the cap.
5. Test carefully: Use a six-point socket and moderate hand pressure to ensure the tool engages fully without slipping.

Taking a minute to confirm the tool fit prevents rounding fasteners and cracking plastic filter caps—two of the most common DIY pitfalls.

Torque and Best Practices

Most passenger-car drain plugs tighten in the 20–30 lb‑ft (27–40 N·m) range, but always follow the factory specification for your engine and oil pan material. Use a new crush washer where specified, and avoid over-tightening—especially on aluminum pans and plastic filter caps. A six-point socket provides the most secure grip. After refilling oil, run the engine briefly, check for leaks at the plug and filter, then re-check level once the vehicle sits for a minute on level ground.

Summary

The socket size for an oil change depends on your specific vehicle. Most drain plugs fall between 13–19 mm—14 mm being very common—and many cartridge filter housings use 24–36 mm sockets, while popular spin-on filters take a 64–65 mm, 14‑flute cap wrench. Verify your sizes in the manual or by careful test-fit, use a six-point socket, replace the crush washer, and torque to spec to ensure a clean, leak-free service.

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.

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. 

Do I need a ratchet for oil change?

All you really need is a jack and depending on how the drain plug is setup a box wrench or socket plus rachet. Filters shouldn’t need a wrench that is if the person before didn’t tighten it down with the hand of God.