What size is the oil plug on a Mustang?

Most Mustang engines use a 14mm hex-head oil drain plug, typically with an M14x1.5 thread, but the exact size can vary by year and engine family.

That question comes up whenever a DIYer reaches for a wrench or a parts catalog. Ford's Mustang has evolved across generations—from the S197-era V8s to the current S550 lineup and EcoBoost variants—so the drain plug size can differ depending on the engine and the oil pan design. The safest approach is to confirm the specification for your exact model using the owner's manual or a service manual, or by measuring the plug head or consulting a Ford parts diagram.

Common drain plug sizes seen in Mustangs

What to expect by generation

Across generations, 14mm hex heads are the norm for most Mustang oil pans, but not every engine uses the same plug. Some older or specialty engines may use a 13mm hex head. Always verify for your specific car before purchasing a replacement.

• 14 mm hex head (most common on modern Mustangs; standard M14x1.5 thread is typical for many engines in the 4.6/5.0 and EcoBoost families).


• 13 mm hex head (less common; may appear on a subset of engines or older configurations).


• Other sizes are rare; when in doubt, measure or verify with Ford's official parts catalog.

Bottom line: the 14 mm head is the baseline for most Mustangs, but you should confirm your exact vehicle to avoid misfit or damage.

How to confirm the correct size for your Mustang

To avoid mistakes during service and ensure you use the correct plug and torque, follow these steps.

1. Check the owner's manual or the official Ford service manual for your exact model-year and engine.


2. Inspect the drain plug head on the oil pan and measure across the flats with a caliper or a ruler to determine the hex size.


3. Look up the specific oil drain plug in Ford's parts catalog or a dealer's parts view by entering your VIN; this yields the exact plug size and thread.


4. If you're unsure, contact a Ford dealer or a trusted mechanic with your VIN to confirm the correct plug and torque specification.

Bottom line: verify with official sources or a professional to ensure you have the right plug size and avoid stripping or cross-threading.

Summary

The oil drain plug size on a Mustang is not universal. While 14mm hex heads with roughly M14x1.5 threading cover most modern engines, variations exist across different generations and engine configurations. Always check the exact specification for your model—via the owner's manual, Ford's service information, or a VIN-specific parts diagram—and measure if needed to ensure a proper fit and a clean oil-change process.

What size is the oil drain plug on a Mustang?

The Mustang oil drain plug size varies by year and engine, but common sizes include M12-1.75 for more recent models (like 2016-2021) and M14-1.5 for some older models. It is best to verify the exact size for your specific vehicle's year and engine by checking the part number or using a compatibility guide. 

• M12-1.75: This is the most common size for many recent models, such as the 2016-2021 Mustang. 
• M14-1.5: This size is common for some older models, including certain V6 and V8 engines from the 1990s to the 2010s. 
• Verify your vehicle's specifications: The correct size depends on the specific year and engine of your Mustang. Always confirm the size before purchasing a replacement plug.

What size is a Ford oil drain plug?

The Ford oil drain plug size varies by model, but a common size is M12x1.75mm, often requiring a 15mm socket. Some larger trucks use a different size, such as M14x1.50mm, which may use a 16mm socket. To ensure you have the correct size, always check your vehicle's owner's manual or measure the plug's threads.
 
Common Ford oil drain plug sizes

• M12x1.75mm: A common size for many Ford cars and trucks, including some F-150 models. This size typically corresponds to a 15mm socket. 
• M14x1.50mm: Used on some larger Ford trucks, such as certain F-250 and F-350 Super Duty models. This size often requires a 16mm socket. 
• Other sizes: Some models may use different sizes, so it's essential to verify before purchasing a replacement plug. For example, some older Ford trucks might use a 14mm x 1.5mm plug. 

Tips for changing your oil drain plug

• Verify the size: Before buying a new plug or tools, confirm the exact size for your vehicle's year, make, and model. 
• Replace the washer: Always replace the drain plug's washer or gasket to ensure a proper seal and prevent leaks. 
• Use a torque wrench: Tighten the drain plug to the manufacturer's specified torque to prevent stripping the threads or over-tightening. 
• Clean the area: Make sure the drain plug and surrounding area are clean before reinstalling to prevent any debris from getting into the oil pan. 

What size bolt is my oil drain plug?

There is no universal size for an oil drain plug; the size varies by vehicle, but common metric sizes are 15mm or 17mm, while imperial sizes like 9/16" are also used. The best way to determine the correct size is to check your vehicle's owner's manual or use a socket that fits the bolt head on your car. 
You can watch this video to see how to change the oil in a Honda CR-V, including removing the drain plug: 1m1A Auto: Repair Tips & Secrets Only Mechanics KnowYouTube · Aug 13, 2018
Common sizes

• Metric:
  • 13mm to 17mm: are frequently used. 
  • 14mm, 15mm, and 16mm: are very common. 
  • 17mm: is used for many vehicles, such as some Honda and Hyundai models. 
• Imperial:
  • 3/8 inch: and 9/16 inch are also common sizes. 

How to find the right size

• Check the owner's manual: Your vehicle's manual will have the correct specification. 
• Use a socket or wrench: Try a few common sizes, like 15mm and 17mm, to see which one fits securely without slipping. 
• Use the right tool: Using the incorrect size wrench can round off the bolt head, making it difficult to remove later. Use a 6-point socket for the best grip. 
• If the plug is stuck: You can try using a penetrating oil and let it soak in before attempting removal again. 

What size socket for oil plug Ford?

The most common socket size for a Ford oil plug is 15mm. However, some older or specific engines may use a different size, such as 7/8" (22mm) or 3/4" (19mm). Always check your owner's manual or confirm the exact size for your vehicle model and year before starting an oil change.
 
Common socket sizes for Ford oil plugs

• 15mm: This is the most frequent size for modern Ford vehicles. 
• 7/8" (22mm): Commonly used on some older Ford V8 engines. 
• 3/4" (19mm): Sometimes seen on older engines or on certain pans. 

Important considerations

• Check your vehicle's specifications: It's best to verify the correct size for your specific year and model. You can find this information in your owner's manual. 
• Consider the thread size: The thread size is often marked on the plug itself, with M12 x 1.75mm being a common thread size for many Fords. 
• Replace the washer: Always replace the drain plug washer when changing the oil to prevent leaks.