Alton Brobst If you’re a Subaru owner, you know the importance of regular maintenance to keep your car running at its best. One of the most critical aspects of maintenance is changing your oil, and with that comes the need for a crush washer. In this article, we’ll answer the question, "what size is a Subaru oil pan crush washer?" and provide valuable information on why the correct size is essential, potential issues that can arise if the incorrect size is used, and how to determine the correct size for your Subaru.
Key Takeaways
- Subaru oil pan crush washers are essential to prevent oil leaks and ensure proper torque.
- The correct size for a Subaru oil pan crush washer is 20mm for most models.
- Using an incorrect size crush washer can lead to oil leaks, improper sealing, and damage to the oil pan and engine.
Why is a Crush Washer Important?
A crush washer is a soft metal washer that is placed between the oil pan and drain plug. Its purpose is to create a proper seal and prevent oil leaks by distributing the torque evenly across the surface. The crush washer works by compressing under pressure, which then creates a tight seal that prevents oil from leaking out. This ensures that the oil stays in the engine where it belongs, and the engine stays lubricated and protected.
Potential Issues with an Incorrect Size Crush Washer
Using an incorrect size crush washer can lead to several issues that can impact the performance of your Subaru. These issues include:
- Oil leaks: If the crush washer is too small, it won’t create a proper seal, leading to oil leaks. This can damage the engine and cause significant problems over time.
- Improper sealing: If the crush washer is too large, it won’t compress correctly, leading to improper sealing. This can also cause oil leaks and damage the engine.
- Stripped threads: Using the incorrect size crush washer can also lead to stripped threads on the oil pan or drain plug. This can make it difficult to remove the drain plug during oil changes and can even damage the oil pan.
Determining the Correct Size for a Subaru Oil Pan Crush Washer
The correct size for a Subaru oil pan crush washer depends on the model of your car. For most models, the correct size is 20mm. However, it’s always best to verify the correct size with your Subaru dealer or mechanic to ensure that you have the correct size for your specific model.
Common Subaru Models and Their Corresponding Crush Washer Sizes
Here’s a list of some common Subaru models and their corresponding crush washer sizes:
- Subaru Impreza: 20mm
- Subaru Legacy: 20mm
- Subaru Outback: 20mm
- Subaru Forester: 20mm
- Subaru WRX: 20mm
- Subaru Crosstrek: 20mm
Conclusion
In conclusion, ensuring that you have the correct size crush washer for your Subaru oil pan is essential to prevent oil leaks, improper sealing, and damage to the oil pan and engine. For most Subaru models, the correct size is 20mm, but it’s always best to verify with your dealer or mechanic. By taking the time to ensure that you have the correct size crush washer, you can help keep your Subaru running at its best and avoid costly repairs down the road.
FAQ
What happens if I use the incorrect size crush washer on my Subaru?
Using the incorrect size crush washer can lead to oil leaks, improper sealing, and damage to the oil pan and engine. It can also lead to stripped threads on the oil pan or drain plug, making it difficult to remove the drain plug during oil changes.
How can I determine the correct size for my Subaru oil pan crush washer?
The correct size for a Subaru oil pan crush washer depends on the model of your car. For most models, the correct size is 20mm. However, it’s always best to verify the correct size with your Subaru dealer or mechanic to ensure that you have the correct size for your specific model.
Can I reuse a crush washer?
It’s not recommended to reuse a crush washer. Crush washers are designed to be used once and then replaced with a new one during the next oil change. Reusing a crush washer can lead to improper sealing and oil leaks.
