What size is the oil drain plug on a Dodge Charger?
When it comes to performing an oil change on your Dodge Charger, knowing the correct size of the oil drain plug is essential. This small but crucial component ensures that the oil pan is sealed properly and allows for easy drainage during maintenance. In this article, we’ll explore the typical size of the oil drain plug for a Dodge Charger and provide some tips for handling it effectively.
Understanding the Oil Drain Plug Size
The size of the oil drain plug on a Dodge Charger can vary depending on the model year and engine type. However, for most Dodge Chargers, the oil drain plug typically uses a 13mm or 15mm socket. This size is common across many Dodge vehicles, but it’s always a good idea to double-check your specific model’s requirements in the owner’s manual or consult a trusted mechanic.
Why Knowing the Correct Size Matters
Using the correct size socket or wrench for your oil drain plug is important for several reasons:
- Prevents Damage: Using the wrong size tool can strip the plug or damage the threads, leading to costly repairs.
- Ensures Proper Seal: A properly tightened drain plug prevents oil leaks, which can harm your engine over time.
- Saves Time: Having the right tool on hand makes the oil change process quicker and more efficient.
Tips for Handling the Oil Drain Plug
Here are some tips to ensure a smooth oil change experience:
- Inspect the Plug: Before removing the oil drain plug, inspect it for signs of wear or damage. Replace it if necessary.
- Use a Torque Wrench: When reinstalling the plug, use a torque wrench to tighten it to the manufacturer’s recommended specifications. Over-tightening can strip the threads, while under-tightening can cause leaks.
- Replace the Washer: Many oil drain plugs come with a washer or gasket that should be replaced during each oil change to ensure a proper seal.
- Keep It Clean: Wipe the plug and surrounding area clean before reinstalling to prevent debris from entering the oil pan.
Conclusion
Knowing the correct size of the oil drain plug for your Dodge Charger is a small but vital detail that can make your oil change process smoother and more efficient. For most models, a 13mm or 15mm socket should do the trick, but always verify with your owner’s manual or a professional mechanic. At Kevin’s Autos, we’re here to help with all your car maintenance needs. If you have any questions or need assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out to us!
Frequently Asked Questions
What size are the nuts on a Dodge Charger?
The thread size of Dodge Charger lug nuts is M14x1. 5mm. Only if the thread pitches match can you install aftermarket wheel nuts safely. There are thousands of aftermarket Dodge Charger lug nuts that exist on the market.
Do all Dodge Chargers have the same bolt pattern?
The Dodge Charger bolt pattern for the years 1966-1978 is 5×4.5″ (5×114.3mm). Model years 1982-1987 have a Dodge Charger lug pattern of 4×3.94″ (4x100mm). Lastly, the Dodge Charger bolt pattern for the model years 2005 to present are 5×4.53″ (5x115mm).
What size is a Dodge oil drain plug?
The thread size of the oil drain plug on a RAM1500 is M14x1. 5mm.
What is the bolt size of a 2013 Dodge Charger?
The Dodge Charger bolt pattern for the model years 2005 to present are 5×4.53″ (5x115mm).
How to measure a plug size?
If you have the old plug it should have the size embosssed on the top surface. This is usually imperial, so 1 1/2 inch or 1 3/4 inch, but it is sometimes missing. You can measure the old plug across its top diameter (in imperial).
What size socket fits an oil drain plug?
3/8-inch
Place a 3/8-inch (0.9 centimeters) socket in the socket wrench, fit it over the drain plug's nut and turn it counterclockwise. The oil drain plug should open easily, draining the used oil from the engine.
What size is the oil socket on a Dodge Charger?
The thread size of the oil drain plug on a Dodge Charger is M14x1. 5mm. If you intend to change the OEM drain plug, then a magnetic oil drain plug kit is a good idea.
How do I find my oil drain plug size?
Measure Diameter
Measure the width of the plug at the widest part of the threads. If your plug measures 12mm you will need to start looking at plugs in the size range of “M12 x 1.25 to M12 x 1.75″. The “M12” refers to the diameter you measure from the widest part of the threads on your OEM sump plug.
Are oil drain plugs universal size?
Let's get one thing straight: oil drain plugs are not universal. Just because an oil drain plug has the thread pitch you need for a vehicle, that doesn't mean it will work with the oil drain pan. Here's what you need to know about oil drain plugs and gaskets so you can select the right replacements.
What size socket do I need to take off the oil filter?
Any 1/2 inch drive socket wrench should fit into the Oil Filter Socket tool. The one I use from autozone uses 7/8" socket.
