Which Direction to Loosen the Drain Plug?

[McNaomi]

The drain plug is loosened by turning it counterclockwise. Function of the engine drain bolt: It allows the dirty oil inside the engine to be drained during an oil change. After draining the dirty oil, the drain bolt is tightened to replace it with new oil, serving a sealing function. Information about the drain plug: Using PTFE tape on pipe fittings may not leak primarily because the fittings are fixed, whereas vehicles are constantly in motion and subject to vibrations. The washer of the drain plug may have aged and no longer provides sealing or anti-loosening effects. Prolonged use of PTFE tape may lead to loosening of the drain plug and oil seepage. When tightened, excess PTFE tape can get trapped in the threads and may be pushed into the oil pan by the plug during the next oil change, potentially clogging the oil passages or the filter.