Where Is the Oil Plug Located on My Car?

In order for you to drain the oil out of your car, you need to remove the drain plug. This is essentially the first step in changing your car engine's oil.

Locating the Oil Drain Plug

  • Almost all oil drain plugs are going to be fitted on your car oil pans. Look at the bottom of your car's oil pan. The plug is typically a simple bolt and can have either a washer or gasket attached.

Removing the Plug

  • Always check your car's owner manual for the best way to remove the oil drain plug. On most cars, the direction to turn the plug for removal is counter-clockwise, while clockwise tightens it. Use a wrench or ratchet to loosen and tighten the plug.

Caution

  • When installing the oil drain plug, be very careful not to over-torque it. Doing so could lead to damaging the plug, its thread and even the oil pan.

Drain Pan

  • Always have a drain pan ready to catch any and all oil that falls out of the oil pan when removing the plug. The plug can slip out of your hands during removal, so have the pan in position to capture the plug if and when it falls.