What size socket is the oil pan plug?

It depends on the vehicle: most modern passenger cars use a 13–17 mm socket for the oil drain plug, with 14 mm (Toyota/Nissan/Mazda) and 17 mm (Honda/Subaru) among the most common; many GM and Ford models use 15 mm, and some vehicles use internal hex (6–8 mm) or Torx, while a few domestic applications fit 5/8″ SAE. Check your owner’s manual or measure the plug head to be certain.

Why there isn’t one “standard” size

Automakers use different plug designs, materials, and thread sizes across engines and model years. European brands sometimes opt for internal hex or Torx fasteners; several newer vehicles have plastic oil pans with quarter‑turn plastic plugs that don’t use a conventional socket; and aftermarket quick‑drain valves change the interface entirely. That’s why a quick lookup for your specific year, make, model, and engine—or a physical measurement—is the most reliable approach.

Common oil drain plug socket sizes by brand

The following brand-by-brand snapshot reflects typical patterns seen in service manuals and shops. Individual models and engines can differ, so treat this as a starting point rather than a guarantee.

• Toyota/Lexus: Often 14 mm external hex on many gas models; some use internal hex on specific engines.
• Honda/Acura: Frequently 17 mm external hex; replace the aluminum crush washer at each change.
• Subaru: Commonly 17 mm external hex on many boxer engines.
• Nissan/Infiniti: Often 14 mm external hex on recent gas engines.
• Mazda: Typically 14 mm external hex on most Skyactiv gas engines.
• Hyundai/Kia: Commonly 17 mm or 14 mm external hex depending on engine family.
• Ford/Lincoln: Frequently 13 mm or 15 mm external hex on metal pans; some newer models use a plastic, quarter‑turn drain plug that does not require a standard socket (or may have a molded cap around ~19 mm).
• Chevrolet/GMC/Buick/Cadillac: Often 15 mm external hex on many V6/V8 gas engines; some trucks/SUVs vary.
• Volkswagen/Audi: Mix of 19 mm external hex, 6–8 mm internal hex, or Torx (e.g., T45) on plastic pans; application-specific.
• BMW/Mini: Frequently 17 mm external hex on older metal pans; some engines use 8 mm internal hex; many specify new crush washers or one-time-use plugs.
• Mercedes-Benz: Varies; 13 mm external hex and 8 mm internal hex are both seen; many engines are designed for top-side oil extraction and may limit the need to remove the plug.
• Dodge/Ram/Chrysler/Jeep: Commonly 13–15 mm external hex on gas engines; larger sizes possible on heavy-duty/diesel applications.
• Diesel pickups (Ford Power Stroke, Ram Cummins, GM Duramax): Often larger heads (e.g., 19 mm) or internal hex; torque specs and washers differ—verify per engine.
• Motorcycles/ATVs: Wide variation, often 12–17 mm external hex or internal hex; always check the service manual.

Use these patterns as guidance only. Variations within a brand are common, and mid-cycle changes or aftermarket parts can alter the required tool.

How to quickly confirm the right size

If you don’t have the exact spec handy, these quick checks will save time and prevent rounded fasteners.

1. Check the owner’s manual or factory service manual for the drain plug specification and torque.
2. Measure the plug head across the flats with a caliper; match that to the closest six-point socket.
3. Test-fit sockets by hand only; a correct size seats fully with minimal play. Avoid forcing a loose fit.
4. Identify the drive type: external hex vs. internal hex (Allen, commonly 6–8 mm) or Torx (e.g., T45) on some European and plastic pan designs.
5. Inspect for aftermarket quick-drain valves (e.g., Fumoto, ValvoMax), which use a lever or a different attachment instead of a socket.

Confirming before you apply torque prevents damage to the plug, pan threads, and sealing surfaces, and ensures you have the correct replacement washer or plug on hand.

Removal and installation tips

The right technique matters as much as the right socket. These practices reduce the chance of leaks, stripped threads, or rounded heads.

• Use a six-point socket and a steady pull rather than an impact tool to avoid rounding.
• Replace the crush washer or sealing gasket each oil change if specified (common on Honda, Toyota, Subaru, many European brands).
• Follow torque specs: typical ranges are about 22–25 ft‑lb (30–34 N·m) for M12 plugs and 25–35 ft‑lb (34–47 N·m) for M14 plugs; plastic drain plugs are often much lower (as low as 7–9 ft‑lb/10–12 N·m). Always defer to the service manual.
• Clean the mating surface and thread the plug in by hand first to avoid cross-threading, then torque.
• If the head is damaged or the plug is one-time-use (common on some European and plastic designs), replace it rather than reusing.

Proper torque and a fresh washer are the two biggest factors in preventing drips and preserving the pan threads over the life of the vehicle.

Need a precise size for your vehicle?

Share the year, make, model, engine size, and (if possible) the VIN, and I’ll provide the exact socket size, washer type/size, and torque spec from current service data.

Summary

There is no single universal oil drain plug socket size. Most passenger vehicles use 13–17 mm external hex—commonly 14 mm (Toyota/Nissan/Mazda), 15 mm (GM/Ford), or 17 mm (Honda/Subaru)—while some applications use internal hex or Torx, and newer plastic pans may have quarter‑turn plugs. Verify via your manual or a quick measurement, use a six-point socket, replace the crush washer, and torque to the manufacturer’s spec to ensure a leak-free service.

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 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 oil pan plug?

There is no universal oil pan socket size; the specific size depends on the vehicle’s year, make, and model, but common sizes include 15mm, 16mm, or 9/16-inch. To find the correct socket, you’ll need to check your vehicle’s manual or visually inspect the drain plug itself, as a proper fit is crucial to avoid rounding the bolt head. 
How to find the right socket size:

1. Check your vehicle’s manual: or a reliable parts website for your specific car. 
2. Visually inspect the drain plug: before you start your oil change. The size of the wrench needed corresponds to the width across the bolt’s flats. 
3. Have a basic metric socket set: on hand, as common sizes range from 10mm to 21mm, with 15mm being a frequent choice. 

Tips for success:

• Use the correct size: A socket that is too small can damage the bolt head, while one that is too large can also cause issues and damage. 
• Use a 6-point socket: This type provides a more secure fit on the bolt head, reducing the risk of stripping. 
• Clean the bolt and pan: Ensure the bolt and surrounding area are clean before reinstalling to maintain a proper seal and prevent future leaks. 
• Consider writing it down: For future reference, note the drain plug size under the hood of your car. 

Are all oil pan drain plugs the same size?

No, not all oil drain plugs are the same size; they vary by vehicle make, model, and year, and even by the specific design of the oil pan. To ensure a proper fit and prevent leaks or damage, you must find the correct drain plug for your vehicle, which can be done by checking the owner’s manual or using an online parts lookup tool. 
Why drain plugs aren’t universal:

• Varying designs: Opens in new tabAuto manufacturers design their vehicles differently, resulting in different oil pans and, consequently, different drain plugs. 
• Thread size: Opens in new tabThe “size” of a drain plug is determined by its bolt diameter and thread pitch (the distance between the threads), for example, M14x1.5. 
• Material and features: Opens in new tabDrain plugs and their associated gaskets also come in different materials (like aluminum, copper, or rubber) to ensure a good seal with the specific oil pan. 

How to find the right drain plug:

1. Consult your owner’s manual: Opens in new tabThis is the best source for the exact specifications of the original equipment (OE) drain plug. 
2. Use a parts lookup tool: Opens in new tabMany auto parts stores and online resources offer a parts lookup service where you can enter your vehicle’s information to find the correct part. 
3. Match the OE plug: Opens in new tabWhen replacing a drain plug, it is best to choose one with the same quality, style, design, and fitment as the original. 

Consequences of using the wrong size: 

• Leaks: An incorrect plug can fail to create a proper seal, leading to oil leaks.
• Damage: A plug that doesn’t fit correctly can damage the oil drain pan’s threads or not seal properly.