What Size Socket Do You Need for an Oil Change?

There isn’t one universal size. Most oil drain plugs take a 13–17 mm six-point socket (14 mm and 15 mm are especially common), some trucks and European models use 19–24 mm, and a few plugs use SAE sizes like 1/2″ or 5/8″. Oil filter housings often need 24–36 mm sockets, while spin-on filters typically use cup wrenches such as 64 mm 14-flute. Always verify your exact size in the owner’s manual or service data.

Why There Isn’t a Single Socket Size

Oil drain plug and oil filter hardware vary by automaker, engine family, and even model year. Manufacturers choose different head sizes, materials, and sealing methods (crush washers, O-rings), and some use cartridge-style filter housings with large hex caps while others use spin-on filters that require a cup wrench sized by diameter and flute count. Because of this variation, the correct tool depends on your specific vehicle.

Common Drain Plug Socket Sizes

While you should confirm the exact size for your vehicle, the sizes below cover the overwhelming majority of passenger vehicles and light trucks. Use a six-point socket to reduce the risk of rounding, and note that some plugs use internal hex (Allen) or Torx heads instead of a standard bolt head.

• Metric hex (most common): 13 mm, 14 mm, 15 mm, 17 mm, 19 mm, 21 mm, 22 mm, 24 mm
• SAE hex (less common on modern vehicles): 1/2″, 9/16″, 5/8″, 3/4″
• Internal hex (Allen): 6 mm, 8 mm, 10 mm
• Torx/internal star (on some European models): T45, T50

If you’re unsure between two sizes, start with the smaller six-point socket; it should fit snugly with minimal play. Avoid 12-point sockets on stubborn plugs, as they can round off the head more easily.

Common Oil Filter Tool Sizes

Oil filter tooling depends on whether your engine uses a cartridge housing (a reusable cap you unscrew) or a spin-on filter (a metal canister). Cartridge housings are sized by the hex on the cap, while spin-on filters use cup-style wrenches sized by diameter and flute count. An adjustable strap or band wrench can work in a pinch, but a correctly sized tool is less likely to slip.

• Cartridge filter housing hex sockets: 24 mm, 27 mm, 30 mm, 32 mm, 36 mm
• Spin-on filter cup wrenches (diameter/flutes): 64 mm (14-flute), 65/67 mm (14-flute), 74/76 mm (14- or 30-flute)
• Alternatives: Adjustable strap/band wrench, pliers-style filter wrench (use carefully to avoid crushing)

Match both the diameter and the flute count on cup wrenches. Many Japanese makes use 64 mm 14-flute; other common sizes vary by brand and filter supplier. Always verify against the filter on your vehicle.

How to Find Your Exact Size

Because hardware varies, the most reliable approach is to confirm your specific vehicle’s requirement before you loosen anything. Use the following steps to identify the correct socket or wrench with confidence.

1. Check the owner’s manual or factory service manual for drain plug and filter tool specs.
2. Look up your vehicle on a reputable service database or parts retailer site (by year/make/model/engine).
3. Measure the fastener: use calipers on the head (across flats) or note the filter’s diameter/flutes.
4. Test-fit gently with a six-point socket; it should be snug with no wobble.
5. If replacing the drain plug or filter cap, buy the OEM part; the spec is usually listed.

Verifying the size in advance helps prevent rounding the plug, cracking a plastic filter cap, or creating leaks from improper reassembly.

Quick Tips and Torque Guidance

Using the right tools is only part of the job—proper technique and torque are essential to avoid leaks or damage. Keep these tips in mind when you change your oil.

• Prefer six-point sockets and hand tools; avoid impact guns on drain plugs or filter housings.
• Typical drain plug torque is in the 20–30 ft-lb (27–40 N·m) range for many aluminum pans; larger engines/trucks can be higher. Always follow the factory spec.
• Replace the crush washer or O-ring if required; many leaks trace back to reusing old seals.
• Warm the engine briefly so oil flows, but don’t work on a hot exhaust or scalding oil.
• Clean and inspect threads; start bolts by hand to avoid cross-threading.
• For cartridge housings, lightly oil the O-ring and torque the cap to spec; for spin-on filters, tighten per manufacturer guidance (often hand-tight plus a partial turn).

Following these practices will make removal easier, protect threads and seals, and reduce the chance of drips after the service.

Summary

The socket size for an oil change depends on your vehicle: most drain plugs use 13–17 mm (with 14 mm/15 mm very common), some go up to 19–24 mm or use SAE equivalents, and a minority use internal hex or Torx. Oil filter tools vary too—cartridge housings often need 24–36 mm sockets, while spin-on filters typically take cup wrenches like 64 mm 14-flute. Confirm the exact size via your manual or measurement, use a six-point socket, replace sealing washers, and torque to spec for a clean, leak-free service.

What size ratchet for car maintenance?

1/2 inch – 1/2″ sockets are generally used for nuts and bolts from around 10mm and up. A 1/2″ drive socket can apply enough force to undo all nuts on a car. There are also 3/4″ and 1″ ratchets but these are used on trucks, tanks and industrial machinery.

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 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.