What size socket do I need to take the oil?

Most cars use a 14mm or 15mm socket for the oil drain plug, and some European models may require 17mm. Always verify by checking your owner’s manual or inspecting the drain plug head.

Common drain plug sizes and how to tell which yours is

Here's a quick guide to the sizes you’re most likely to encounter when changing your oil. Use this to prepare the right socket before you begin, saving time under the car.

• 14mm: The most common size on many Asian and American cars. If you’ve got a newer Toyota, Honda, Nissan, Ford, or similar daily driver, you’ll likely need a 14mm socket.


• 15mm: Also widely used across a range of makes, including some European models and several import brands.


• 17mm: Found on certain European cars and some performance or luxury models; if the drain plug head looks larger, test with a 17mm socket.


• 19mm: Less common but appears on some trucks and larger engines; you may need this if you have a larger drain plug.


• 12mm or 13mm: In some compact engines or smaller drain plugs, though far less typical than 14/15/17mm.


• Imperial sizes (inches): A handful of older American vehicles use standard hex-head plugs that require 1/2 inch or 9/16 inch sockets; these are increasingly rare but possible on vintage or high-mileage models.

Note: The exact size depends on your specific vehicle. Do not assume based on engine size alone; verify by checking the manual or the plug itself if you can access it safely after the car is cooled and secured.

How to confirm the right size for your vehicle

Follow these steps to confirm the correct socket size before removing the drain plug:

1. Consult your vehicle’s owner’s manual or service manual for the official drain plug size and torque specifications.


2. Inspect the drain plug head: if you can see the hex size, measure it with a ruler or use a socket that fits snugly on the head.


3. If you don’t have the manual, take the old plug to a parts store or dealership and compare with sockets; or bring a set of metric and standard sockets to fit the plug.


4. When in doubt, start with the smaller size in case the head is damaged; if it doesn’t fit, do not force it—try the next size or seek professional help.

Using the correct size is important to avoid stripping the drain plug or damaging the threads, and to ensure a proper seal when reassembling with a new crush washer.

What to do if you can’t locate the size

If you can’t determine the size from manuals or the plug itself, you have a few safe options:

Take care to avoid damage by trying multiple sizes carefully

Ask a mechanic or visit a parts retailer with the year, make, model, and engine size. They can confirm the exact socket size or provide the correct replacement drain plug if needed.

Alternatively, you can measure the head directly with a caliper or take a photo of the plug and compare with product listings from oil change kits or drain plug wrenches.

Summary

In most cases, you will need a 14mm or 15mm socket to remove an engine oil drain plug; some vehicles require 17mm, and a minority use other sizes or imperial measurements. Always check the owner’s manual, inspect the plug, and use the correct torque and gasket when reinstalling. When in doubt, consult a professional to avoid cross-threading or leaks.

What wrench do you need to change oil?

You will need an oil filter wrench and a wrench for the oil drain plug, which is typically a socket with a ratchet or a combination wrench in a specific size. The correct size for the drain plug varies by vehicle, but common sizes are $13$mm or $15$mm. You will also need an oil filter wrench that fits your specific oil filter, as there are various types, such as strap, cap, or claw-style wrenches.
 
This video provides a quick list of all tools needed for an oil change: 56sFix Car YourselfYouTube · Aug 31, 2023
Tools for oil drain plug

• Socket wrench and socket set: A ratchet is used with a socket to fit the drain plug. Common drive sizes are 3/83 / 83/8 inch or 1/21 / 21/2 inch. 
• Combination wrench: If you don't have a socket set, a combination wrench with both an open and a closed end can work. 
• Adjustable wrench: While less ideal, an adjustable wrench can be used in a pinch, but it's easier to strip the bolt head. 

Tools for oil filter

• Oil filter wrench: These are specifically designed to grip the filter and are essential for removing one that is too tight to turn by hand. 
• Strap wrench: A strap that wraps around the filter, offering a gentle grip. 
• Cap wrench: A cap that fits over the end of the filter and attaches to a socket or ratchet. 
• Claw wrench: Jaws that grip the outside of the filter. 

Other important tools

• Torque wrench: To tighten the drain plug to the manufacturer's specifications, preventing leaks or damage. 
• Funnel: To pour the new oil into the engine. 

Before you begin

• Consult your car's manual to find the correct size for the drain plug and oil filter. 
• Warm up the engine slightly to thin the oil before draining it. 
• Place a drain pan under the plug to catch the old oil. 

What size socket do I need for an oil sending unit?

1-1/16"
Typically, 1-1/16" is the standard size for many oil pressure switches across various vehicle makes and models.

What size socket do I need to take off the oil?

Ratchet and Socket Set
Get a set that includes some metric and SAE sizes, and if you're starting out, a 3/8” drive should do just fine. Ratchets and sockets also come in 1/4, 1/2″, 3/4″, and 1” drives. Many medium sized kits will include ratchets and sockets in 3/8” and 1/2″ drive.

What size oil drain plug do I need?

There is no universal size for an oil drain plug, so you must determine the correct size for your specific vehicle by checking the owner's manual or using the original plug to measure it. To find the right replacement, you can look up the part by your vehicle's make, model, and year online, or by taking the old plug to an auto parts store to have it measured and identified.
 
Ways to find the correct oil drain plug size

• Check your owner's manual: This is the most direct method for finding the OEM specifications for your vehicle. 
• Look up by vehicle information: Use the make, model, and year of your vehicle to search online parts databases from auto parts stores or parts suppliers. 
• Measure the original plug: 
  • Diameter: Use calipers to measure the widest part of the threads in millimeters for metric sizes, or in inches for SAE sizes. 
  • Thread pitch: Use a thread pitch gauge to determine the distance between the threads (in millimeters) or the number of threads per inch (for SAE). 
• Consult an auto parts store: Bring the old plug to a local auto parts store, where an employee can help you find the correct size and type of replacement. 

Important considerations

• Metric vs. SAE: Many modern vehicles use metric sizes like M12x1.75, while older or American-made vehicles might use SAE sizes like 1/2 inch. 
• Head size: The size of the wrench needed to remove the plug (e.g., 15mm or 17mm) is different from the thread size and is determined by the original plug's head. 
• Replace the gasket: Always replace the drain plug gasket when installing a new plug to prevent leaks. 
• Stripped threads: If the threads on your oil pan are stripped, you will need an oversized or universal replacement plug.