Are all Honda drain plugs the same size?
Not all Honda drain plugs are the same. The size varies by model, engine type, and the function of the plug (engine oil, transmission, or coolant), so there is no single universal size across the brand.
Why plug sizes vary across Honda models
Honda uses different drain plugs for different systems and generations. The head size (the tool you use to turn the plug) and the thread pitch can change from one engine family to another, and even within the same model across years. Some plugs require a washer or crush gasket, and torque specifications can differ based on the plug and the component it seals. Because there isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution, always verify the correct plug for your exact vehicle.
Engine oil drain plugs
The engine oil drain plug is typically located on the oil pan. Across Honda’s lineup, the plug head size and thread pitch vary by engine family and year. Many engines use a metric thread and a washer seals the drain, with a torque spec provided in the service manual. Always use the correct plug and seal to prevent leaks or stripping.
Transmission drain plugs
Automatic and manual transmissions use different drain plugs, and their head shapes and thread patterns differ by transmission design and model year. Using the wrong size can damage the plug or the transmission casing, so consult the precise specification for your transmission before servicing.
Coolant drain plugs
Certain Honda models have coolant drain plugs on the radiator or engine block to facilitate flushing. These plugs are not standardized across all models and may require different tools or sizes. Refer to the service manual for the exact plug size, location, and torque/bleed procedure.
How to identify the correct size for your Honda
To avoid errors and damage, use the following approach to determine the right drain plug size for your vehicle.
Before using the list, determine which plug you need and then verify against official sources or via in-person inspection.
- Identify the drain you’re servicing (engine oil, transmission, or coolant) since each system uses its own plug type.
- Consult the owner's manual, a Honda official parts catalog, or a reputable auto parts retailer for your exact model/year and engine/transmission code to confirm the plug size and thread pitch.
- Inspect the current plug or bring it to a parts counter to match the head size with a socket size and confirm the thread pitch and washer requirement.
- When replacing, use the correct washer or seal and apply the torque spec specified for that plug and system to avoid leaks or damage.
Conclusion: There is no universal drain plug size for all Honda vehicles. Always verify for your specific model, year, and the system you’re servicing. If in doubt, consult a dealer or a qualified mechanic.
Summary
In short, Honda drain plugs are not uniform across the brand. Sizes differ by engine family, model year, and the system being serviced. Always check the vehicle’s manual or a reliable parts catalog, compare the actual plug, and follow the manufacturer’s torque and sealing guidelines to ensure a proper fit and seal.
How do I know what size drain plug I need?
There is no single standard drain plug size, as they vary by vehicle, appliance, and plumbing system. For car engines, you must determine the correct size by finding the vehicle's make and model specifications or by measuring the bolt's thread diameter (e.g., M14 x 1.5) and checking common head sizes (e.g., 17mm or 19mm). For sinks, a common size is 1 ½ inches in diameter, while bathtubs often use the same 1 ½” diameter size.
This video explains how to find the right oil drain plug size for your car: 57sunkertechYouTube · Mar 3, 2021
Car engine drain plugs
- Identify the size: Check your vehicle's owner's manual for the specific thread size, often indicated in a format like M14 x 1.5, where M14 is the diameter in millimeters and 1.5 is the pitch.
- Measure the head: The wrench size needed is the head size (e.g., 17mm, 19mm), which is separate from the thread size.
- Use a parts store: The most reliable method is to tell an auto parts store your vehicle's year, make, and model to get the correct replacement.
- Common measurements: Common head sizes include 17mm, 19mm, and 21mm, but there is no universal size.
Sink and tub drain plugs
- Sinks: A standard size is 1 ½ inches in diameter, but other sizes like 1 ¼ inch, 1 ⅜ inch, and 1 ⅝ inch are also common.
- Bathtubs: The standard size for a tub drain is also 1 ½” in diameter, though this can vary depending on local plumbing codes.
- Measuring a drain: If you need to measure a drain, you should first remove the cover or grate to accurately measure the diameter of the drain hole itself.
This video demonstrates how to measure a sink drain for a new plug: 0:12Affectionate_You_617Reddit · Sep 30, 2022
Are all drain plugs the same?
No, drain plugs are not universal because they vary by vehicle, sink, and bathtub make, model, and year due to differences in thread size, diameter, and design. While there are some "universal" repair plugs available for specific situations like stripped threads, you must verify the correct size and specifications for your particular drain to ensure a proper fit and prevent leaks.
Car oil drain plugs
- Not standard: Oil drain plugs are not universal. Each car manufacturer uses different designs for their oil pans, which requires a specific plug for a secure seal.
- Requires specific fitment: Using the wrong size can cause oil leaks. It's best to get a plug with the same characteristics as the original equipment (OE) plug.
- How to find the right one: Check your owner's manual or use a parts lookup tool. You can also measure the diameter of your current plug's threads to find the correct size (e.g., M12).
- "Universal" repair plugs: These exist for situations where the threads are damaged. They are designed to fit a range of sizes (e.g., M12 to M18) but can sometimes lack clearance in certain vehicles, so you must still check for proper fit and clearance.
Sink and bathtub drain plugs
- Not standard: Sink and tub drain plugs also come in different sizes and types, so there is no one-size-fits-all option.
- How to find the right one:
- For sinks, standard pipe sizes are typically 1 to 1141 and one-fourth114 inches, but you should measure the drain hole and pipe to be sure.
- Bathtub stoppers often fit drains that are 1.5 to 2 inches in diameter, but some may be non-standard.
- "Universal" plugs: Some products are marketed as universal and may be adjustable to fit a range of common sizes, but it's always best to measure your drain before buying.
What size is a Honda drain plug?
The most common Honda drain plug size is M14-1.5, but it is best to verify the exact size for your specific vehicle model and year. Many Honda models use this standard metric size, which has a 14mm diameter and a 1.5mm thread pitch. The corresponding head size for this plug is often 17mm.
- Standard size: M14-1.5 is the most frequent thread size for many Honda cars and some motorcycles.
- Head size: The common head size for this plug is 17mm.
- Verification: Always double-check the size for your specific model and year before purchasing a new drain plug or washer, as there can be exceptions.
13sHonda oil drain plug part number, size and torque specYouTubeThe Wrench Wiz · 2y 1:53Honda Oil Drain Plug Torque and Washer Size GuideTikTokte_videos · 1y 0:29Honda Oil Drain Plug Size and Change GuideTikTokte_videos · 2y (function(){
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What size thread is a Honda Civic drain plug?
M14-1.5"
Notes: Engine Oil Drain Plug. M14-1.5" Thread Size.
