What is the torque on the oil drain plug on a 2016 Honda Civic?

The oil drain plug should be torqued to 29 ft-lbs (39 N·m) to ensure a proper seal and prevent leaks.

This figure appears in Honda’s service data for the 2016 Civic and applies to the common engine configurations from that year, typically assuming a new sealing washer and undamaged threads. Always verify with the factory manual for your exact engine variant or replacement parts.

Understanding the torque specification

The specified torque is what compresses the sealing washer and seats the plug without risking stripped threads or a damaged oil pan. Under-tightening can lead to oil leaks; over-tightening can damage the pan or the threads. Replacing the sealing washer when servicing the drain plug is typically recommended to maintain a reliable seal.

How to apply the torque correctly

To ensure the plug is tightened to spec, follow these steps:

• Gather the right tools, including a calibrated torque wrench and the correct socket for the drain plug; have a new sealing washer ready if your setup uses one.


• Warm the engine briefly to help oil drain more completely, then place a drain pan underneath and loosen the drain plug to allow all oil to drain away.


• Clean the drain plug and the pan threads, and inspect for wear or damage in the threads or plug.


• Install the plug with a new sealing washer (if required), snug it by hand, then torque to 39 N·m (29 ft-lb) using the torque wrench. Avoid overtightening beyond spec.


• Refill the engine with the correct oil, run the engine briefly, and then recheck for leaks and proper oil level once cooled.

Following these steps helps ensure the drain plug is properly torqued to spec, the seal is reliable, and the engine’s oil system remains leak-free.

Notes for accuracy and safety

While 29 ft-lbs (39 N·m) is the typical specification, always confirm the exact value for your particular engine variant and service context in the official manual or with a Honda service professional. If you’re using aftermarket parts or a plug without a washer, follow the guidance provided with those parts and consider consulting a mechanic.

Practical considerations

Some technicians may re-check torque after a short drive or replace the sealing washer as part of routine maintenance. If any sign of leakage is observed after the first drive, inspect the seal and re-torque if necessary, up to the specified value.

Summary

The official drain plug torque for a 2016 Honda Civic is 29 ft-lbs (39 N·m). Use a new sealing washer where required, verify threads are clean and undamaged, and follow the service manual for your exact engine variant. After servicing, check for leaks and correct oil level as part of standard post-service checks.

What is the torque spec for the drain plug on a 2016 Honda Civic?

The 2016 Honda Civic oil drain plug should be torqued to 30 ft-lbs (foot-pounds). It is crucial to use a new washer and tighten the plug to the correct specification to prevent leaks or damage to the oil pan.
 
This video demonstrates how to change the oil and filter on a 2016-2020 Honda Civic: 1mO'Reilly Auto PartsYouTube · Feb 19, 2020

• Torque Specification: 30 ft-lbs (or 40 Nm)
• Important: Always use a new drain plug washer when tightening the plug. 

What is the torque on the oil drain plug on a 2016 Honda CRV?

The 2016 Honda CR-V oil drain plug torque is 30 ft-lbs (foot-pounds). It is crucial to use a new crush washer each time the drain plug is reinstalled and a torque wrench to ensure a proper seal without over-tightening.
 
This video shows how to change the oil in a 2012-2016 Honda CR-V, including tightening the drain plug: 1mFixin To Do It AllYouTube · Jun 5, 2025

• Torque spec: 30 ft-lbs. 
• Important: Always replace the crush washer with a new one to prevent leaks and damage to the oil pan threads. 
• Tool: Use a torque wrench to tighten the drain plug to the specified torque value. 

How much oil does a 2016 Honda Civic 1.8 take?

A 2016 Honda Civic with the 1.8L engine has an oil capacity of 3.9 quarts (3.7 liters) when changing the oil and filter. For the 2.0L engine, the capacity is 4.4 quarts (4.2 liters). 

• 1.8L engine: 3.9 quarts (3.7 liters) 
• 2.0L engine: 4.4 quarts (4.2 liters) 
• It is recommended to use the manufacturer's recommended type of oil, often 0W-20 full synthetic for this model year. 

What is the torque on a Honda drain plug?

The Honda drain plug torque varies by model, but for many common models, it is around 29 to 30 ft-lb. Always check your specific vehicle's owner's manual or a reliable service manual for the exact specification, as torque values can differ between engine sizes and model years. For example, some Honda Accords use a torque of 29 ft-lb, while some 2014 Honda Accords have a transmission drain plug torque of 36 ft-lb.
 
This video shows the location of the oil drain plug on a Honda CR-V: 41sTechnical EvolutionYouTube · Jun 14, 2025

• Most Common: Approximately 29 to 30 ft-lb for many Honda engine oil drain plugs. 
• Examples:
  • 2007 Honda Odyssey: 29 ft-lb 
  • 2017 Honda Pilot: 29 ft-lb 
  • 2016 Honda Civic 1.5T: 30 ft-lb 
  • 2014 Honda Accord (Transmission): 36 ft-lb 

This video demonstrates the correct torque for a Honda oil drain plug: 48sRepair NutYouTube · May 27, 2024
Important:

• Always use a new crush washer to ensure a proper seal. 
• Do not overtighten, as this can strip the threads in the oil pan. 
• It is highly recommended to use a torque wrench for accuracy and to prevent damage.