What socket size do you need for an oil change?

Most passenger cars use a 13mm, 14mm, 15mm, 17mm, or 19mm socket for the oil drain plug, but the exact size varies by vehicle; many Asian brands are 14mm or 17mm, many domestic brands are 15mm, and some European models use 19mm or internal hex (6mm/8mm) or Torx. Oil filter housings may require 27mm, 32mm, or 36mm sockets (for cartridge-style filters) or a cup-style filter wrench sized by diameter and flute count. Check your owner’s manual or service data for your exact model.

Why there isn’t a single socket size

Drain plug hardware differs by manufacturer, engine family, and oil pan material. Even within one brand, sizes can change by model year or engine option, and some European pans use internal hex or Torx instead of a conventional hex-head bolt. That’s why confirming by manual, spec sheet, or measurement is the safest approach.

Most common drain plug socket sizes

The following are the most frequently encountered socket types and sizes for oil drain plugs on modern passenger vehicles. Keeping these on hand covers the majority of DIY oil changes.

• Metric hex sockets: 13mm, 14mm, 15mm, 17mm, 19mm
• Internal hex (Allen) sockets: 6mm, 8mm (common on some European oil pans)
• Torx: T45 or T50 (used on select European plastic/composite pans and service plugs)
• SAE hex sockets (older domestics): 1/2″, 9/16″, 5/8″, 3/4″

Use six-point sockets to reduce rounding risk and confirm the fit is snug before applying torque. If it wiggles or rocks, step up or down a size.

Common oil filter socket/wrench sizes

Depending on your engine, you’ll remove either a cartridge-style housing (takes a large socket) or a spin-on canister (best removed with a cup wrench sized by diameter and flute count).

• Cartridge housings (socket over a hex on the cap): 27mm, 32mm, or 36mm are common sizes
• Spin-on filter cup wrenches (by diameter/flutes):
  – 64mm, 14-flute (many Toyota/Lexus)
  – 74mm, 14-flute (many Mercedes/VW)
  – 76–86mm cups in 14–16 flutes (various makes)
• Strap/band or pliers-style filter tools: useful when cup size is unknown

Choose a cap wrench that fully engages the filter’s flutes; slipping tools can crush the canister or damage a plastic cartridge cap.

How to identify your exact size quickly

If you don’t know your vehicle’s size, these steps will help you find it confidently and avoid damage.

1. Check the owner’s manual or OEM service information; many list the drain plug head size and torque.
2. Look up the drain plug (and washer) by VIN or engine code in a dealer or reputable parts catalog; note thread and head size.
3. Measure the bolt head across flats with calipers and match to the nearest socket; for internal hex, measure the internal hex size.
4. Test-fit a six-point socket by hand before applying force; it should be snug without play.
5. Verify whether the plug is an external hex, internal hex (Allen), Torx, or a special plastic service plug.
6. Confirm the crush washer type and size (aluminum or copper) so you can replace it during reassembly.

Taking a minute to verify the exact fit prevents rounded fasteners and stripped oil pan threads—costly mistakes on aluminum pans.

Typical torque ranges and crush washers

Correct torque and a fresh washer are as important as the right socket size. Here are common ranges; always defer to your vehicle’s spec.

• M12 drain plug: about 25–30 lb-ft (34–40 N·m)
• M14 drain plug: about 25–35 lb-ft (34–47 N·m)
• M16 drain plug: about 30–40 lb-ft (40–54 N·m)
• Crush washers: single-use aluminum or copper; replace every oil change to ensure a proper seal

Use a torque wrench, especially on aluminum pans or plastic service plugs with torque limiters. Over-tightening can strip threads or crack housings.

Quick brand-by-brand expectations (verify for your exact model)

These are common patterns, not guarantees. Engine options, model years, and aftermarket parts can change the required size.

• Toyota/Lexus: 14mm drain plug head on many models; cartridge filters often use a 64mm, 14-flute cup
• Honda/Acura: 17mm drain plug head common; M14 crush washer; torque ~29 lb-ft
• Nissan/Infiniti: 14mm drain plug head frequent on M12 plugs
• Subaru: 17mm drain plug head common; M14 crush washer
• Hyundai/Kia: 17mm drain plug head on many models
• Mazda: 17mm typical on many engines
• Ford: often 15mm (some 13mm); select engines use plastic drain plugs or special service plugs
• GM/Chevrolet: frequently 15mm on many gas engines; cartridge caps vary (27–32mm common)
• VW/Audi: 19mm external hex or internal 6mm/8mm Allen; some use Torx service plugs
• BMW/MINI: 17mm external hex on many models; some use 8mm internal hex; cartridge caps often 36mm
• Mercedes-Benz: commonly 13–14mm external hex or internal hex on some applications; many use 74mm, 14-flute cup for spin-on filters
• Full-size trucks/diesels: vary widely from 13mm up to 24mm; confirm by engine family (e.g., Cummins/Duramax/Power Stroke)

Use these as starting points only; confirm your exact engine’s specification before loosening anything.

Minimal toolkit that covers most oil changes

With the following tools, you can handle most passenger-vehicle oil changes confidently.

• Metric six-point socket set (10–19mm), plus 6mm and 8mm Allen sockets
• Torx bits (T45/T50) for certain European pans
• 3/8″ drive ratchet, short extension, breaker bar, and a torque wrench
• Oil filter cup wrench(es) or a quality strap/band wrench
• New crush washer matched to your drain plug thread
• Drain pan, funnel, gloves, rags/cardboard, and safety glasses
• Jack, stands or ramps, and wheel chocks if you need undercar access

This compact kit prevents rounding, over-torque, and mess—and speeds up the job.

Safety and best-practice tips

These simple practices help you avoid injuries and leaks and extend the life of your oil pan threads.

• Warm the engine briefly so oil flows but is not scalding hot
• Support the vehicle with rated stands or ramps—never rely on a jack alone
• Use six-point sockets and correct-size tools; avoid adjustable wrenches on drain plugs
• Replace the crush washer and clean the sealing surface before reinstalling the plug
• Torque to spec, wipe down, then run the engine and inspect for leaks
• Dispose of used oil and filters at a recycling center or parts store

Following these steps reduces the chance of stripped threads, underbody spills, or post-service drips.

Summary

There isn’t one universal socket for an oil change. Most drain plugs use 13mm, 14mm, 15mm, 17mm, or 19mm sockets, while some European models require 6mm/8mm internal hex or Torx. Cartridge filter housings often take 27mm, 32mm, or 36mm sockets, and many spin-on filters need a size-specific cup wrench. Verify your exact size via the owner’s manual or parts catalog, use a six-point socket and a torque wrench, and replace the crush washer 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 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 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 bolt is needed to change oil?

There isn’t a single “oil change bolt size” because sizes vary by vehicle. To find the correct size for your car, you must identify the specific drain plug bolt head size for your vehicle’s make and model. You can typically use a socket wrench set with common metric sizes like 14mm, 15mm, 17mm, or 19mm. If you don’t know the size, you can buy a vehicle-specific part or use a tool to measure the bolt, such as digital calipers, but a wrench that is too small can strip the head. 
How to Find the Right Size

1. Check Your Vehicle’s Owner’s Manual: Opens in new tabYour manual will often have the specific size of the drain plug. 
2. Consult an Auto Parts Store: Opens in new tabTell the store your vehicle’s year, make, and model, and they can look up the correct size. 
3. Measure the Bolt: Opens in new tabIf you have calipers or a ruler, you can measure the width of the bolt head to determine its diameter. 
4. Test Common Socket Sizes: Opens in new tabIf you don’t know the size, you may have to try the common metric socket sizes in the 14mm to 19mm range. 

Important Tips

• Use the Correct Tool: Use a socket or wrench that fits the bolt head snugly to avoid stripping it. 
• Replace the Washer: Always use a new crush washer when reinstalling the drain plug to prevent leaks. 
• Use a Proper Socket: For best results, use a 6-point socket, as these provide a more secure grip than 12-point sockets and reduce the risk of stripping.