What is the torque on the drain plug on a Honda CRV?
The drain plug torque for most Honda CR‑V engines is about 29 N·m (22 ft‑lb). However, the exact value can vary by year and engine, so always verify the specification in your vehicle’s manual or service documentation.
Understanding the correct torque is essential for a reliable oil change. The CR‑V has used multiple engines across generations, and Honda’s official manuals specify precise values to protect the oil pan threads and ensure a proper seal. Below, you’ll find typical guidance and a practical path to confirm the exact figure for your model.
Typical drain plug torque for the Honda CR‑V
Before reviewing specific numbers, note that the following figure is the most commonly cited baseline across many CR‑V generations. Always cross-check with your exact year and engine to avoid damage or leaks.
- 29 N·m (22 ft‑lb) — common baseline for modern CR‑V engines, including many 1.5L turbo and 2.0/2.4L variants used in recent years.
In practice, this value is widely adopted as the standard for many CR‑V oil drain bolts, particularly in models from the last decade. If your owner’s manual or service manual lists a different number for your specific year and engine, follow that specification precisely. Use a new sealing washer as required and ensure threads are clean before torquing.
Verifying the exact specification for your CR‑V
To be absolutely certain you’re using the correct torque for your model year, consult these sources. The exact value can vary with engine type and production changes.
- Owner’s manual: Look under Specifications or Maintenance for “Oil drain bolt torque.”
- Honda service manual or official service portal: The precise torque is listed in the Oil System or Engine section for your engine code.
- Dealer or certified repair shop: If you’re unsure, a technician can confirm the torque using the vehicle’s VIN and service bulletin history.
If you’re performing a DIY oil change, use the commonly cited baseline of 29 N·m (22 ft‑lb) as a starting point, but do not exceed the value shown in your manual. After tightening, run the engine and inspect for leaks around the drain plug, then recheck torque if needed after the oil has circulated.
Tightening and maintenance tips
These best practices help ensure a reliable seal and protect your engine’s oil system during maintenance.
- Always install a new sealing washer (crush washer) if your model uses one. Reusing a old washer can compromise the seal.
- Clean the drain plug threads and the oil pan drain hole before reinstalling.
- Use a properly calibrated torque wrench and tighten gradually to the specified torque. Do not “feel” by hand alone.
- Avoid over-tightening, which can strip threads or damage the oil pan. If the plug feels difficult to tighten before the spec is reached, back off and re-torque carefully.
- After an oil change, run the engine, check for leaks around the drain plug, and recheck torque if the oil level has been disturbed.
Special considerations
Some engines or service bulletins may specify a slightly different value or a specific washer type. If your vehicle has a unique configuration or if you’ve had recent maintenance history (e.g., a pan replacement), always default to the exact figure published for your engine code and year.
Bottom line: for most Honda CR‑V models, 29 N·m (22 ft‑lb) is the standard target. Confirm the precise spec for your year and engine to avoid leaks or thread damage, and follow proper tightening procedures to ensure a lasting seal.
Summary
The engine oil drain plug on a typical Honda CR‑V is torqued to about 29 N·m (22 ft‑lb). While this serves as a reliable baseline, the exact torque can vary by year and engine type. Always consult the owner’s manual or official service documentation for your specific vehicle, use a new washer, and tighten with a torque wrench to the specified value. Following these steps helps prevent leaks and protects the engine’s oil system during oil changes.
