Honda Civic Oil Drain Plug Size(For All Generations)

Knowing the correct oil drain plug size for your Honda Civic is essential for proper oil changes, preventing leaks, and avoiding stripped threads.

This comprehensive guide covers Honda Civic oil drain plug sizes across popular model years, torque specs, washer types, and expert tips for safe installation.

Honda Civic Oil Drain Plug Size

Generation	Model Years	Drain Plug Head Size	Thread Size	Washer Type	Torque Spec
1st Gen	1973–1979	17 mm	M14 x 1.5	Aluminum crush washer	29 lb-ft (39 N·m)
2nd Gen	1980–1983	17 mm	M14 x 1.5	Aluminum crush washer	29 lb-ft
3rd Gen	1984–1987	17 mm	M14 x 1.5	Crush washer	29 lb-ft
4th Gen	1988–1991	17 mm	M14 x 1.5	Aluminum crush washer	29 lb-ft
5th Gen	1992–1995	17 mm	M14 x 1.5	Crush washer	29 lb-ft
6th Gen	1996–2000	17 mm	M14 x 1.5	Aluminum crush washer	29 lb-ft
7th Gen	2001–2005	17 mm	M14 x 1.5	Aluminum crush washer	29 lb-ft
8th Gen	2006–2011	17 mm	M14 x 1.5	Crush washer	29 lb-ft
9th Gen	2012–2015	17 mm	M14 x 1.5	Aluminum crush washer	29 lb-ft
10th Gen	2016–2021	17 mm	M14 x 1.5	Aluminum crush washer	29 lb-ft
11th Gen	2022–Present	17 mm	M14 x 1.5	Crush washer	29 lb-ft

Key takeaway: Nearly all Honda Civic models use a 17 mm drain plug with M14 x 1.5 threads.

Why Oil Drain Plug Size Matters

The oil drain plug seals the engine oil pan and allows used oil to be drained during routine maintenance. Using the wrong size tool or plug can lead to:

Stripped bolt heads
Damaged oil pan threads
Oil leaks
Improper sealing
Costly repairs

Oil Drain Plug Washer Size

Honda Civics use a 14 mm inner diameter aluminum crush washer designed to deform slightly when tightened to create a leak-proof seal.

Washer Specifications

Inner diameter: 14 mm
Outer diameter: ~20 mm
Material: Aluminum (sometimes copper aftermarket)
Replace every oil change: Yes

Reusing an old washer increases the risk of leaks.

Tools Needed for Honda Civic Oil Change

To remove and install the drain plug safely, you’ll need:

17 mm socket or wrench
Torque wrench (recommended)
Oil drain pan
New crush washer
Gloves and shop towels

Using a torque wrench helps prevent overtightening, which is a common cause of stripped oil pans.

Proper Torque Specification

The standard torque spec for most Honda Civic drain plugs is:

29 lb-ft (39 N·m)

Why Torque Matters

Under-tightening → oil leaks
Over-tightening → stripped threads or cracked oil pan
Correct torque → proper washer compression and seal

If you don’t have a torque wrench, tighten snugly and avoid excessive force.

Step-by-Step: Removing the Oil Drain Plug

Warm the engine slightly to improve oil flow.
Lift the vehicle safely using ramps or jack stands.
Position the drain pan under the oil pan.
Use a 17 mm socket to loosen the drain plug counterclockwise.
Remove the plug by hand and allow oil to drain completely.
Replace the crush washer before reinstalling.

Installing the Drain Plug Correctly

Clean the plug and oil pan threads.
Install a new crush washer.
Thread the plug by hand to avoid cross-threading.
Tighten to 29 lb-ft using a torque wrench.
Wipe the area clean and check for leaks after refilling oil.

Common Problems and Solutions

1. Stripped Drain Plug Head

Cause: Using incorrect socket size or worn tools

Fix: Use a bolt extractor socket or replace the plug

2. Cross-Threaded Oil Pan

Cause: Installing plug at an angle

Fix: Thread repair kit or oil pan replacement

3. Oil Leak After Change

Cause: Reused washer or improper torque

Fix: Replace washer and torque correctly

OEM vs Aftermarket Drain Plugs

OEM Honda Drain Plug

Perfect fit and thread accuracy
Designed for aluminum oil pans
Reliable sealing with OEM washer

Aftermarket Options

Magnetic drain plugs capture metal particles
Available in steel or anodized finishes
Must match M14 x 1.5 thread size

Magnetic plugs are popular among enthusiasts who want to monitor engine wear.

Tips for Long-Term Oil Pan Protection

Always hand-thread the plug first
Replace crush washer every oil change
Use correct torque specification
Avoid impact tools
Inspect threads for damage

These simple practices can extend the life of your oil pan indefinitely.

FAQs

What size is the oil drain plug on a Honda Civic?

Most Honda Civic models use an oil drain plug with M14 × 1.5 threads and a 17 mm hex head. This specification has remained consistent across many generations, making it easier for DIY maintenance and tool selection.

What size wrench for Honda oil drain plug?

A 17 mm wrench is the correct size for loosening and tightening the Honda Civic oil drain plug. A box-end or combination wrench works well if a socket wrench is not available.

What size socket is a Honda drain plug?

The standard socket size for a Honda Civic drain plug is 17 mm. Using a properly fitting 6-point socket is recommended to prevent rounding the bolt head.

What size socket for 2016 Honda Civic oil drain plug?

The 2016 Honda Civic (10th generation) uses a 17 mm socket for the oil drain plug, with M14 × 1.5 threads and a torque specification of 29 lb-ft (39 N·m).

What size is the drain plug washer on a Honda Civic?

Honda Civics use a 14 mm inner diameter aluminum crush washer (approximately 20 mm outer diameter). The washer should be replaced at every oil change to ensure a proper seal and prevent leaks.

Final Thoughts

The Honda Civic oil drain plug size is remarkably consistent across generations, with most models using a 17 mm hex head and M14 x 1.5 threads. While this standardization simplifies maintenance, using a new crush washer and tightening to the proper torque specification is essential for leak-free operation.

Whether you’re a DIY enthusiast or maintain multiple vehicles, understanding your Civic’s drain plug specifications ensures smooth oil changes, prevents costly damage, and keeps your engine running reliably for years to come.