What size wrench do I need to remove the oil drain plug?
To remove the oil drain plug on your vehicle, you will typically need a wrench that is between 10mm and 19mm in size. The exact size will depend on the make and model of your car, but this range covers the most common oil drain plug sizes.
Determining the Correct Wrench Size
The size of the wrench you need to remove the oil drain plug on your vehicle will depend on a few factors:
- Vehicle Make and Model: Different car manufacturers use different sizes for their oil drain plugs. Common sizes range from 10mm to 19mm, with 14mm and 17mm being the most common.
- Plug Material: Oil drain plugs are typically made of metal, but some may be made of plastic or a softer material. Softer plugs may require a slightly larger wrench to avoid stripping the plug.
- Plug Location: The accessibility of the oil drain plug can also affect the wrench size needed. Plugs in tight spaces may require a thinner, angled wrench.
To determine the exact size wrench you need, it's best to consult your vehicle's owner's manual or do a quick online search for the make, model, and year of your car.
Using the Correct Wrench
Once you've identified the correct wrench size, follow these steps to safely remove the oil drain plug:
- Place the wrench securely on the plug, making sure it fits snugly.
- Turn the wrench counterclockwise to loosen the plug.
- Once the plug is loosened, you can unscrew it by hand.
- Be prepared for the oil to drain out, so have a container ready to catch it.
Remember to replace the oil drain plug and tighten it securely when you're done. Using the correct wrench size is important to avoid stripping the plug or damaging the threads.
What size wrench is the 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. Make sure to place a bucket and some newspaper under the car's engine to catch all the draining oil.
What size ratchet do I need for an oil change?
A ratchet massively reduces the time it takes to remove a fastener because you don't have to remove the tool from the bolt every time you make a turn, like you do with a combination wrench. Get a set that includes some metric and SAE sizes, and if you're starting out, a 3/8” drive should do just fine.
What mm is an oil drain plug?
According to rockauto.com, your drain plug should be an M12x1. 75 with a 15mm head.
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.
Do you need a wrench or ratchet for oil change?
First you'll need a ratchet and socket set to remove the oil drain plug, then an oil filter wrench to remove the filter. When choosing an oil filter wrench, try to find one that will match the specific filter and engages the serrations on the end of the oil filter to make the task easier.
What size socket wrench should I get?
1/4 inch: Ideal for smaller fasteners and delicate work. 3/8 inch: The most common drive size, suitable for a wide range of applications. 1/2 inch: Used for larger, heavier-duty tasks.
