What size is a Chevy oil drain plug?
The drain plug on most Chevy engines is typically M14 × 1.5, but the exact size depends on the engine and year. Always verify with your owner's manual or by inspecting the plug for your specific vehicle.
Why the size varies across Chevy models
Chevrolet uses different oil pan designs and thread standards across its engine families and production years. While the most common modern size is a metric 14‑millimeter diameter with a 1.5 millimeter pitch, some older or smaller engines, as well as rare or specialized models, can use different thread sizes. This means there isn’t a single universal size for every Chevy vehicle.
Across Chevrolet engines, several thread sizes appear. The following patterns cover the majority of cases you may see on the road today.
- Most modern Chevy passenger cars and trucks with common LS-based engines use a metric M14 × 1.5 drain plug.
- Some older or smaller-displacement engines may use a smaller metric size such as M12 × 1.5, depending on design.
- A few rare or specialty engines may use imperial thread sizes (for example, 1/2‑20) though this is not common in mainstream Chevys.
Because thread sizes vary by engine family and production year, always verify the correct plug size for your specific vehicle before attempting removal or replacement.
How to confirm the exact size for your Chevy
To determine the correct drain plug size for your exact model and year, follow these practical steps:
- Check the owner's manual or a factory service manual for your vehicle’s drain plug specification.
- Inspect the existing drain plug for any markings, stitches, or hex size information, which can hint at the size.
- Measure the plug’s thread diameter and pitch with a thread gauge or by comparing to known sizes (without forcing nuts or fittings).
- If replacing, use the correct crush washer or gasket and torque the plug to the manufacturer’s specification found in the service manual.
- When in doubt, contact a Chevy dealer or a qualified technician who can confirm the exact plug size for your VIN.
These steps help ensure you select the right drain plug size and avoid cross-threading or leaks during service.
Practical takeaways for Chevy owners
In daily service, expect M14 × 1.5 to be the default for many modern Chevys, but never assume—engine design changes over generations can alter the requirement. Always verify before purchasing parts or attempting a drain.
Summary
Bottom line: Chevy oil drain plug sizes are not universal. The most common modern size is M14 × 1.5, but exact specifications depend on the engine family and year. Confirm with your manual, VIN-specific resources, or a technician to ensure you use the correct plug and torque specifications for your vehicle.
