How Often Should the Drain Plug Be Replaced?
3 Answers
The drain plug should be replaced approximately every 20,000 kilometers. Function of the drain plug: The drain plug is a sealing screw located at the oil pan of the engine. During vehicle maintenance, the drain plug is typically removed to drain the old oil from the oil pan. Afterward, the screw is tightened, and new oil is poured into the engine through the filling port on top. Consequences of drain plug issues: The drain plug is a critical component during car maintenance and oil changes. If the drain plug malfunctions, it can lead to oil leaks, engine seizure, or even complete engine failure, posing a serious threat to the driver's safety.
When it comes to how often to replace the drain plug, I have to share my perspective. I always inspect it during every oil change. The bolt itself generally doesn't need frequent replacement unless damaged - like stripped threads or deformation from over-tightening. But the washer is crucial - it must be replaced every time as it prevents oil leaks. I've seen many vehicles in the shop with slow oil seepage due to worn washers, which not only wastes oil but can potentially damage the engine. My recommendation is to follow your oil change interval - say every 5,000 to 10,000 km - and replace the washer each time. Inspection is straightforward: just check for rust or looseness on the bolt. Don't skimp on this small expense, or you might face much costlier repairs later.
I'm used to changing the oil myself, and when it comes to the drain plug, I think it depends on the situation. The bolt is usually durable and doesn't need replacing unless it's been damaged in a collision or the threads are stripped. However, I always replace the washer every time I change the oil—that little thing only costs a few cents, and if you don't replace it, the seal might fail, leading to leaks after a few thousand miles. I've done it a few times in my home garage and once had a messy oil leak, so I learned my lesson and now always have a new washer ready. Just be careful not to change the oil too frequently or casually—the bolt itself can last for years without issues. If you're unsure, gently tighten it with a wrench to check if it's secure, so you don't end up with bigger problems.
