What size is a Subaru Crosstrek oil drain plug?
The oil drain plug size for a Subaru Crosstrek is 17mm. This is the standard size used for the oil drain plug on this popular crossover SUV model.
Detailed Information on the Subaru Crosstrek Oil Drain Plug
The Subaru Crosstrek is a compact crossover SUV that has been in production since 2012. It is known for its versatility, all-wheel drive capability, and rugged design. As with any vehicle, regular oil changes are an important part of maintaining the Crosstrek's engine and ensuring optimal performance.
The oil drain plug on the Subaru Crosstrek is located at the bottom of the oil pan, and it is responsible for allowing the old oil to be drained out during an oil change. The size of this plug is an important factor, as it needs to be the correct size to properly seal the oil pan and prevent leaks.
Why the 17mm Size Matters
The 17mm size of the Subaru Crosstrek's oil drain plug is a standard size used across many vehicle models. This size is large enough to allow the oil to drain quickly, but not so large that it becomes difficult to remove or risk stripping the threads in the oil pan.
Using the correct 17mm oil drain plug size is important for a few key reasons:
- Proper Sealing: The 17mm plug is designed to fit snugly into the oil pan, creating a tight seal to prevent leaks.
- Ease of Use: The 17mm size is a common size that most mechanics and DIY enthusiasts will have the right tools to remove and tighten properly.
- Avoiding Damage: Using the wrong size plug could strip the threads in the oil pan, leading to costly repairs.
When performing an oil change on a Subaru Crosstrek, it's important to ensure you have the correct 17mm oil drain plug on hand to complete the job properly.
What size socket for Subaru oil drain plug?
The common socket sizes for a Subaru oil drain plug are 17mm or 14mm, depending on the model year and engine type. Some older or specific models might also use a 13mm socket, but it's less common for the oil drain plug. It's best to confirm the exact size for your vehicle before starting.
- 17mm: Commonly used on many older or specific models, such as the 2.5L engines on some Outbacks and Foresters.
- 14mm: Frequently used on newer models, including some Crosstreks and newer 2.5L Outbacks.
- 13mm: This size is less common for the oil drain plug but is sometimes cited for various Subaru models, and is more often used for differential drain plugs.
- Other sizes: Some models may have other sizes or use a non-hex head, so it's crucial to check the correct size for your specific car before performing an oil change.
What size is the oil pan plug on a Subaru?
The Subaru oil drain plug size varies by engine, but the most common sizes are 17mm for larger engines like the 3.6L or 2.4L turbo, and 14mm for smaller 4-cylinder engines like the 2.5L or 2.0L. You should verify the correct size for your specific vehicle's engine by checking your owner's manual or consulting a parts diagram, as using the wrong size can damage the plug or oil pan.
Common sizes
- 14mm: This size is common for many 4-cylinder engines, such as the 2.5L in many Foresters and Outbacks, and the 2.0L in the Impreza and Crosstrek.
- 17mm: This size is often found on larger engines, such as the 3.6L in some Outbacks and other Subaru models, as well as the 2.4L turbocharged engines in newer models.
Important considerations
- Check your specific vehicle: The size can vary between model years and engine types, so always confirm the correct size for your specific car before purchasing a new plug or performing an oil change.
- Use the right tool: Use a 6-point socket for better grip and to avoid rounding off the plug's head.
- Replace the washer: It is highly recommended to replace the crush washer on the drain plug with a new one each time you perform an oil change to ensure a proper seal.
What is the torque on the drain plug on a 2019 Subaru Crosstrek?
The 2019 Subaru Crosstrek oil drain plug torque specification is 31 ft-lbs. It is recommended to use a new crush washer for a proper seal and to torque the plug to the specified value, as indicated by several sources.
You can watch this video for a demonstration of the process: 57sTRQYouTube · Jun 3, 2025
- Torque: 31 ft-lbs
- Recommendation: Always use a new crush washer to ensure a tight seal and prevent leaks.
What size is the drain plug on a Subaru crosstrek?
The Subaru Crosstrek drain plug size varies by model year, but most models from around 2010-2015 use a 17mm plug, while newer models (2014 and later) typically use a 14mm plug. It's best to verify with your specific year or to check the plug directly before starting an oil change, as there can be exceptions.
Key points
- 14mm: Common on newer models (2014 and later).
- 17mm: Common on older models (up to around 2013).
- Verification: It is recommended to visually confirm the size or measure the bolt head with a wrench before attempting an oil change.
- For your reference: For some model years, a 14mm socket and extension are necessary to reach the drain plug through the engine's splash shield.
