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What size socket is an oil drain plug?

The size of the socket needed for an oil drain plug typically ranges from 10mm to 19mm, with the most common sizes being 14mm, 15mm, and 17mm. The exact size will depend on the make and model of the vehicle, as well as the specific design of the oil drain plug.


Understanding Oil Drain Plugs


The oil drain plug is a crucial component in the oil change process for a vehicle. It is located at the bottom of the oil pan and is used to drain the old oil from the engine. The plug is usually made of metal, such as steel or aluminum, and is threaded to screw into the oil pan.


Determining the Correct Socket Size


To determine the correct socket size for an oil drain plug, you will need to consult your vehicle's owner's manual or service information. The manual will typically specify the size of the drain plug, which can range from 10mm to 19mm, with the most common sizes being 14mm, 15mm, and 17mm.


If you don't have access to the owner's manual, you can also try the following steps:



  • Locate the oil drain plug on your vehicle, usually located at the bottom of the oil pan.

  • Measure the diameter of the plug using a ruler or caliper.

  • Match the measured diameter to the corresponding socket size, which will typically be in the range of 10mm to 19mm.


It's important to use the correct socket size to avoid stripping the plug or damaging the oil pan. Using the wrong size socket can also make it difficult to remove or tighten the plug, potentially leading to oil leaks or other issues.


Replacing the Oil Drain Plug


Once you have the correct socket size, you can proceed to remove the old oil drain plug and replace it with a new one. Be sure to tighten the plug securely, but not too tightly, to avoid damaging the threads or the oil pan.


After replacing the plug, you can then proceed with the oil change process, including refilling the engine with fresh oil and disposing of the old oil properly.

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.



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 do I need to remove the oil filter cap?


Therefore, first, you need to count how many flutes your current oil filter has. Second, measure the oil filter from edge to edge. Then find a proper oil filter cap wrench from KiWAV Motors. This oil filter is 64.94mm with 14 flutes, so 65x14 flutes oil filter cap wrench will fit.



What size socket do I need to remove an oil 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. Make sure to place a bucket and some newspaper under the car's engine to catch all the draining oil.



How big is a standard plug?


The hot and neutral prongs are 1.5 mm thick, 15.9-18.3 mm long, and 6.3 mm wide, while the ground pin has a diameter of 4.8 mm and extends 3.22 mm longer than the flat prongs. Type B plugs are rated for 15A and 125V and are commonly used in North America, Mexico, China, Japan, and other countries that use Type A plugs.



How do I find my oil drain plug?


6 Tips on Finding Your Vehicles Oil Drain Plug

  1. Locate the Transmission. The oil drain plug is right before the transmission on the driver's side of the car.
  2. Find the Oil Pan. Locate the oil pan.
  3. Check the Manufacturer's Directions.
  4. Take a Trip to an Auto Parts Store.
  5. Ask a Mechanic.
  6. Get on a Creepy Crawler.



What sockets do I need for oil change?


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.



How to find out 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.



What tool is used to loosen an oil filter?


Then you can use a ratchet wrench or breaker bar to turn the filter/cover loose. Chain wrenches: These come with or without a handle. These are a cousin of the strap wrench but for that hard to remove filter.



What size is a standard oil plug?


Oil Drain Plug Standard M12-1.5, Head Size 17Mm.


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.