Why does Volkswagen require replacing the oil drain plug when changing oil?

[Marty]

Here are the reasons why Volkswagen requires replacing the oil drain plug during oil changes: The oil pan plug gasket in Volkswagen models is made of aluminum. Although it provides good sealing, it is prone to deformation and lacks durability, so it's recommended to replace it during every maintenance service. The reasons for replacing the oil pan plug are as follows: 1. Excessive tightening force can cause deformation of the screw threads, making it impossible for the oil pan plug to tightly engage during subsequent removal and installation, leading to oil leakage. 2. If the oil pan plug is overtightened, the root of the screw may stretch and deform. While the plug may feel tight, the thinned root section can allow oil to seep through. 3. Damage to the oil pan plug gasket. There are generally three types of oil pan plug gaskets: The first type is similar to Ford Focus's rubber gasket, which is recessed inside the oil pan plug and therefore rarely deforms or gets damaged in most cases. The second type is the metal gasket used in Chery Tiggo, which has high strength and basically doesn't deform. The third type is Volkswagen's aluminum gasket, which can deform and leak if excessive installation force is applied.

[LaAlexander]

As a veteran driver with over a decade of experience, I've noticed that every time I get an oil change for my Volkswagen, the repair shop reminds me to replace the drain plug. At first, I thought it was unnecessary, but later I understood. That screw has a small washer that gets deformed after one use. If you don't replace it with a new one, the seal won't be tight, and engine oil might slowly leak out. Although it costs a few extra dollars at the time, it prevents bigger issues, like engine wear from oil leakage, which would be much more expensive to fix. Volkswagen engines are designed to be compact with high sealing requirements, making reusing old screws more likely to cause problems. I've personally experienced oil dripping due to a loose screw, and timely replacement solved it. Paying attention to this during regular maintenance can extend your car's lifespan—don't risk it to save a few bucks.

[DeRicardo]

When I took my Volkswagen to the 4S shop for maintenance, the mechanic insisted on replacing the oil drain plug every time during an oil change. I asked for the reason. He explained that it's mainly because the washer under the plug gets compressed after one use, reducing its sealing effectiveness. Reusing it might not provide a tight seal, potentially leading to oil leaks. While an oil leak might sound minor, over time, the reduced oil level can cause insufficient engine lubrication, leading to overheating or damage. Volkswagen's oil pan design is precise, with fixed bolt positions, causing the washers to age quickly, hence the manufacturer's recommendation for replacement. Although the plug itself isn't expensive—just a few dollars for a new one—it's much more cost-effective compared to the hefty expense of engine repairs. Replacing it during every maintenance ensures safe driving, and making it a habit does no harm.

[JasperRose]

My experience of changing the Volkswagen oil myself taught me that the drain plug must be replaced. Before changing the oil, I removed the old plug and found its washer flattened. Reusing it without replacement could create gaps and cause oil leaks. Leaks may not be obvious in the short term, but over time, oil loss increases the risk of engine wear. The maintenance manual recommends replacing both the plug and washer each time for better sealing. It's inexpensive—a new plug with a washer costs just a few yuan—offering peace of mind and safety. When doing it yourself, don't forget to pair it with a new washer, tighten it to the specified torque, and avoid over-tightening or leaving it loose. Regular maintenance like this keeps your car running smoother.