What size bolt is a Subaru oil pan?
The common bolt size used to secure a Subaru oil pan is M6 × 1.0, typically about 12–14 mm in length, though exact length and the number of bolts can vary by engine family and pan design. Always confirm with the vehicle’s service manual or a parts diagram for your exact engine code.
Common oil pan bolt size across Subaru engines
Below is a general guide to the bolt size commonly used to secure the oil pan on Subaru engines. Use this as a starting point, but always confirm for your specific car code (engine family and model year).
- M6 × 1.0 thread pitch; typical lengths around 12–14 mm; hex-head bolts are common.
- In many EJ-series and FA/FB-series engines, the oil pan is held in place by a perimeter of bolts, with counts that vary by pan design (roughly 10–12 bolts on common configurations).
- Variations exist by material (aluminum vs. steel pans) and by specific engine variant; some models may use slightly shorter or longer bolts.
Bottom line: while M6 × 1.0 is the prevailing size, the exact length and the number of bolts depend on your engine code and pan design. Confirm with the official service manual or Subaru’s parts diagrams for your vehicle.
How to verify the correct bolt for your Subaru
To be certain you have the right fasteners for your oil pan, follow these verification steps.
- Look up your engine code (for example, EJ, FA/FB, EZ) and model year in a Subaru service manual or official Parts Catalog to identify the exact bolt size and count.
- Inspect the oil pan area and the existing bolts; measure a bolt with calipers to confirm diameter and pitch (M6 × 1.0 is the common standard).
- Cross-check with Subaru dealership or a trusted repair database if the manual isn’t readily available.
- If replacing, use OEM bolts of the correct length and pitch and follow Subaru’s torque specifications to ensure a proper seal.
Verifying the exact specification prevents cross-threading, leaks, and improper sealing when performing maintenance or reassembly.
Tips for replacement and maintenance
When replacing oil pan bolts, consider using the recommended anti-seize or threadlocker as specified by Subaru, torquing to the prescribed value, and rechecking after the engine reaches operating temperature. If a bolt is damaged or seized, replace it with a new OEM bolt of the correct size rather than reusing a compromised fastener.
After reassembly, check for oil leaks around the pan and ensure the gasket or sealant is properly applied according to the service diagram for your engine.
Summary
For most Subaru engines, the oil pan uses M6 × 1.0 bolts, usually in the 12–14 mm length range, but specifics vary by engine family and pan design. Always verify with the official service manual or parts diagram for your exact engine code and model year to ensure proper fitment and torque. This careful verification helps prevent leaks, cross-threading, and future maintenance hassles.
