Where can I find an oil drain plug?
Oil drain plugs sit at the bottom of the engine oil pan and are the entry point for draining used oil during an oil-change. This guide helps you locate the plug on common vehicles and engines.
In most gasoline-powered engines, the drain plug is located on the bottom of the oil pan and is loosened with a wrench to allow old oil to flow into an undercarriage pan. Some models place the plug at the front or side of the pan, and a few designs hide it behind shields or under components. Always confirm the exact location in your owner’s manual or a service manual, especially on newer or specialty vehicles.
Beyond cars, motorcycles, ATVs, and many small engines (lawn mowers, generators) also use a drain plug to empty oil. The general principle is the same: a bolt or plug on the oil reservoir or crankcase that you remove to drain oil before refilling. Electric vehicles, however, do not have an engine oil drain plug because they don’t require engine oil changes.
Common locations by vehicle type
These are typical spots where you should check for the oil drain plug. Use this as a starting point, then verify with your model’s documentation.
- Cars and light trucks: bottom of the engine oil pan, usually near the front or middle of the engine. Look for a bolt with a washer and a hex, square, or Allen head.
- Motorcycles and ATVs: bottom or side of the engine case or oil pan; heads vary (hex, Torx, or Allen).
- Small engines (lawn mowers, generators, power tools): typically on the bottom of the engine block or oil reservoir, sometimes behind shields or housings.
Access can be restricted by underbody shields, heat shields, or bulky exhaust components. If you can’t spot a drain plug, consult the manual or a service guide for your exact model.
What the drain plug looks like and common tools
Most drain plugs are a bolt-like fastener with a washer (often copper) and a hex, square, or Allen head. Common tool sizes range from 14 mm to 19 mm for the hex head, with a socket or wrench to match. Have a drain pan ready and wear gloves to catch hot oil if the engine is recently run.
What to do if you can't locate it
If the plug isn’t obvious, check the owner’s manual or service manual, search model-year specifics online, or contact a dealer or independent mechanic. Some vehicles use alternative drainage methods or have the oil stored in a cartridge system rather than a traditional drain plug.
Safety and disposal
Park on a level surface, let the engine cool if it’s warm, and place a drain pan underneath. Use proper tools to avoid stripping the head, and let used oil cool before transferring it to a sealed container for recycling. Reinstall the drain plug with the correct torque and replace the drain washer if required.
Summary
For most gasoline engines, the oil drain plug sits on the bottom of the oil pan, but exact location can vary by make and model. Always verify with the manual, prepare properly, and dispose of used oil responsibly to keep your engine healthy and compliant with local regulations.
