What Size Wrench Do You Need for a 2008 Honda CR‑V Oil Drain Plug?

You’ll need a 17 mm wrench or 17 mm socket to remove the oil drain plug on a 2008 Honda CR‑V. The factory (OEM) drain bolt uses a 17 mm hex head; torque it to 29 lb‑ft (39 N·m) and replace the 14 mm aluminum crush washer during reinstallation.

Why the 17 mm Wrench Fits the 2008 CR‑V

Honda’s third‑generation CR‑V (2007–2011) with the K24 engine uses an M14‑1.5 drain bolt that has a 17 mm hex head from the factory. This specification is consistent across Honda service information and parts guides for the model year. A 6‑point 17 mm socket is preferred to prevent rounding the bolt head, especially on older fasteners.

When the Size Might Differ

If the drain plug has been replaced with an aftermarket bolt, the head size can vary (some use 19 mm). You can verify by test‑fitting a 17 mm socket first. While 11/16 in. is close to 17 mm, it’s not a precise match and can increase the risk of rounding—stick with the correct metric size.

Recommended Tools and Key Specs

The following list covers the tools and consumables that make this job cleaner and safer, and it highlights the important torque and washer details owners often overlook.

• 17 mm 6‑point socket (or 17 mm box‑end wrench)
• 3/8‑in. drive ratchet and an extension (optional)
• Torque wrench capable of 20–50 lb‑ft
• New 14 mm aluminum crush washer (Honda spec, M14)
• Drain pan and shop rags
• Nitrile gloves and eye protection
• Brake cleaner or degreaser (to clean residual oil)

Using the correct socket and a torque wrench helps avoid damage to the bolt and oil pan threads, while a fresh crush washer ensures a proper seal and prevents drips.

Torque and Washer Details

Reinstall the OEM drain bolt to 29 lb‑ft (39 N·m). Always replace the 14 mm aluminum crush washer; it deforms to seal and is not meant for reuse. Clean the mating surfaces on the oil pan and bolt head before tightening for a consistent, leak‑free seal.

Quick Procedure Overview

These steps outline where the 17 mm wrench comes into play and how to button up the job correctly; consult your owner’s manual for oil grade and capacity.

1. Warm the engine briefly so the oil flows; shut it off and let it cool a few minutes.
2. Safely raise and support the vehicle if needed; remove the oil fill cap to aid draining.
3. Position the drain pan under the oil pan drain bolt.
4. Use a 17 mm socket or wrench to break the drain bolt loose and remove it by hand.
5. Allow oil to fully drain; clean the bolt and install a new 14 mm crush washer.
6. Thread the bolt by hand to avoid cross‑threading; torque to 29 lb‑ft (39 N·m).
7. Refill with the specified oil and check for leaks around the drain bolt.

Following these steps with the proper tool and torque will help prevent stripped threads, leaks, and rework.

Common Pitfalls and Tips

A 12‑point or worn socket can round the bolt—use a 6‑point 17 mm. If the bolt head is already damaged, a bolt extractor socket may be required. Never overtighten to “feel”; rely on a torque wrench, and never reuse a flattened crush washer.

Summary

For a 2008 Honda CR‑V, the oil drain plug takes a 17 mm wrench or socket, tightened to 29 lb‑ft (39 N·m) with a new 14 mm aluminum crush washer. Using the correct size tool and torque—and replacing the washer—are the keys to a clean, leak‑free oil change.