What size wrench do I need for the oil pan?

Most oil pan drain plugs take a 14 mm wrench (about 9/16 inch in SAE), but sizes vary by vehicle. Always verify with the owner's manual or by inspecting the plug before loosening anything.

Common drain plug sizes and how to tell

These are the sizes you’re most likely to encounter for oil pan drain plugs. Having a small set of metric and SAE sockets on hand will save you time when you service your engine.

• 14 mm hex head (the most common on modern cars)


• 13 mm hex head (seen on some European makes)


• 12 mm hex head (less common, older or specific models)


• 9/16 inch SAE (older American engines or certain models)


• 1/2 inch SAE (less common, older setups)


• 17 mm hex head (less common, on a few specific makes)

Conclusively, while 14 mm is a reliable first choice for many vehicles, the exact size depends on your model. If the 14 mm doesn’t fit, try the nearby sizes and avoid forcing the plug to prevent stripping.

Oil pan bolts and other fasteners

Beyond the drain plug, the oil pan is secured to the engine with bolts that require different sockets. The most common sizes you’ll encounter are:

• 6 mm hex-head bolts (smaller, lighter-duty engines)


• 8 mm hex-head bolts


• 10 mm hex-head bolts


• 12 mm bolts (less common, some models)


• Some bolts may use Torx or hex sockets instead of standard hex heads

As with the drain plug, the exact bolt size varies by engine family and model. When in doubt, inspect the bolt heads or reference the service manual to avoid stripping or damaging the pan.

How to confirm the right size for your vehicle

To ensure you’re using the correct tool for your car, use this practical checklist:

1. Check the owner's manual or factory service manual for drain plug and pan-bolt sizes specific to your vehicle year and model.


2. Inspect the drain plug head or bolt heads to identify their size or the socket fit. If sizes aren’t obvious, test-fit gradually with nearby metric and SAE sizes.


3. Start with the most common size (usually 14 mm for drain plugs and 8–10 mm for pan bolts) and work carefully to avoid rounding.


4. If nothing fits properly, don’t force it—take the plug or a bolt to an auto parts store to match, or consult a professional.

Using the correct size helps maintain a proper seal when reinstalling and prevents damage to the plug, pan, or engine threads.

Summary

In most modern vehicles, the oil pan drain plug uses a 14 mm wrench, with variations including 13 mm, 12 mm, 9/16 inch, or 1/2 inch SAE depending on the make and model. Oil pan bolts typically require 6–8–10 mm sockets, with some engines using larger or alternative fasteners such as Torx. Always verify with the vehicle’s manual or by inspecting the actual fasteners, and approach the task with care to avoid damage. If you’re unsure, consider seeking professional assistance to ensure a proper seal and torque.

What size bolt is on an oil pan?

There is no single standard oil pan bolt size; sizes vary significantly by vehicle, but common metric sizes include M10, M12, and M14, while common imperial sizes are 1/4-inch, 5/16-inch, and 3/8-inch. The head size also varies, often being 15mm or 16mm for metric bolts and 9/16 inch for imperial ones. To find the correct size, you must check your vehicle's manual or identify the specific bolt for your make and model. 
Common sizes to check

• Metric: Look for common sizes like M10x1, M12x1.25, M14x1.5, and M16x1.5 for thread size. 
• Imperial: Sizes like 1/4-20, 5/16-18, and 3/8-16 are common. 

Important considerations

• Head size: For a metric bolt, common head sizes are 15mm or 16mm. For imperial bolts, a 9/16-inch wrench is often used. 
• Bolt length: Ensure you get the correct bolt length by measuring the thread depth, not just the hole depth. 
• Thread stripping: To avoid stripping the threads, use a properly sized and high-quality wrench or socket that fits snugly. 
• Vehicle specifics: The best way to know for sure is to consult your owner's manual, your car's parts supplier, or measure the bolt on your vehicle. 

Which is bigger, 1/2 or 3/8 wrench?

Size and Weight
The 1/2 inch drive makes the 1/2 impact wrench bigger and heavier. You get more power, but you might find it harder to use in small spaces. If you work in a garage or shop, the extra weight is not a big problem. For jobs that need you to move around a lot, the 3/8 impact wrench is easier to carry.

What kind of wrench do I need to change my 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 wrench for oil pan?

What size wrench to use for an oil drain plug depends on the size of the oil drain plug itself, which is a long bolt head. There is no universal oil plug size, but they do come in just a few several standard sizes, such as ¼ inch (. 6 centimeters), 3/8 inch (. 9 centimeters), ½ inch (1.3 centimeters), etc.