2022 Honda Civic Drain Plug Size: What You Need To Know

Nov 16, 2025 by Alex Braham 56 views

2022 Honda Civic Drain Plug Size: Everything You Need

Hey car enthusiasts! So, you're here because you're diving into the world of DIY oil changes for your awesome 2022 Honda Civic, right? Awesome! One of the first things you'll need to know is the 2022 Honda Civic drain plug size. This little piece of info is super crucial because you don’t want to be caught off guard when you're under your car, ready to roll. Trust me, it's not fun when you have the wrong tools and your oil change plans go down the drain (pun intended!).

Why Knowing Your Drain Plug Size Matters

Okay, so why should you even care about the drain plug size? Well, it's pretty simple, actually. If you want to successfully remove the old oil from your engine, you need to be able to unscrew the drain plug. And to do that, you need the right wrench or socket. Using the wrong size can lead to a few not-so-great outcomes:

Stripped Plug: This is a nightmare. You round off the edges of the plug, making it nearly impossible to remove without specialized tools. Nobody wants that!
Damage to the Oil Pan: Applying too much force with the wrong tool can damage the oil pan itself, leading to leaks and expensive repairs.
Inefficient Oil Change: If you can't remove the plug properly, you can't drain the oil, which is kind of the whole point of the exercise. You are going to be frustrated.

So, knowing the correct drain plug size is the foundation for a smooth and successful oil change. It's like having the right key for a lock; everything works perfectly when you have the right fit. It will help make sure you don't run into any problems down the road.

The Official Drain Plug Size for the 2022 Honda Civic

Alright, let's get down to the nitty-gritty. For the 2022 Honda Civic, the drain plug size is typically 17mm. This means you'll need a 17mm wrench or socket to get the job done. But before you get too excited and run to your toolbox, a pro tip is that you can also measure the drain plug yourself. Grab your trusty ruler and take a quick measurement, just to confirm. Hey, double-checking never hurts, right?

It’s always a good idea to double-check the exact size for your specific Civic. Sometimes, there can be slight variations depending on the engine type or any modifications that might have been done. So, while 17mm is the standard, it's always wise to confirm before you start wrenching. This extra step can save you a whole lot of hassle.

Tools You'll Need for the Oil Change

Besides the all-important 17mm wrench or socket, you'll need a few other tools to complete your oil change like a pro. Here’s a quick rundown of essentials:

Wrench or Socket: (17mm, as discussed) - Make sure it’s the right size! A socket wrench with an extension can be helpful for getting into tight spaces.
Oil Filter Wrench: You’ll need this to remove the old oil filter. There are various types, so pick one that suits your filter.
Oil Drain Pan: This is essential for catching the old oil. Get one with a spout for easy disposal.
Jack and Jack Stands: Necessary for safely lifting your car. Safety first, people!
Gloves: To keep your hands clean. Trust me, oil is messy!
Funnel: For pouring the new oil into the engine.
New Oil Filter: Make sure it's the right one for your 2022 Honda Civic. Check your owner's manual or a parts store to be sure.
New Oil: Get the correct type and amount of oil for your Civic. Again, your owner's manual is your best friend here.
Torque Wrench: For tightening the drain plug to the correct specification.

Having the right tools makes the process so much easier and safer. It’s like having all the right ingredients before you start cooking; everything just flows more smoothly when you're well-equipped.

Step-by-Step Guide to Changing Your Oil

Okay, now that you've got your tools and know the drain plug size, let’s get into the step-by-step guide to changing your oil. Here’s the lowdown:

Safety First: Park your Civic on a level surface, engage the parking brake, and chock the rear wheels. Seriously, safety is paramount. We don't want any accidents.
Warm Up the Engine: Run the engine for a few minutes to warm up the oil. Warm oil flows better and helps carry away more gunk. But don't let it get too hot! Remember to turn off the engine.
Raise the Car: Use your jack to lift the front of your Civic and secure it on jack stands. Make sure it's stable before you crawl underneath.
Locate the Drain Plug: Find the oil drain plug on the oil pan. It’s usually on the bottom of the engine.
Position the Drain Pan: Place your oil drain pan under the drain plug. Make sure it’s directly underneath to catch all the oil.
Remove the Drain Plug: Using your 17mm wrench or socket, carefully loosen and remove the drain plug. Let the oil drain completely. This can take a while, so be patient.
Remove the Oil Filter: Locate the oil filter and remove it using your oil filter wrench. Have your drain pan ready to catch any oil that spills.
Prepare the New Filter: Lightly lubricate the rubber gasket on the new oil filter with fresh oil. This helps create a good seal.
Install the New Filter: Screw the new oil filter on by hand until the gasket makes contact, then tighten it according to the instructions on the filter (usually about ¾ to 1 turn more). Don't overtighten!
Reinstall the Drain Plug: Once the oil has drained completely, clean the drain plug and install a new crush washer (if your Civic uses one). Tighten the drain plug to the manufacturer's specified torque using a torque wrench. If you don't have a torque wrench, tighten it firmly, but don't overdo it.
Lower the Car: Carefully lower your Civic back to the ground.
Add New Oil: Locate the oil fill cap on the engine and remove it. Pour in the correct amount of new oil, referring to your owner's manual.
Check the Oil Level: Use the dipstick to check the oil level. Add more oil if needed until it's within the correct range.
Start the Engine: Start the engine and let it run for a few minutes. Check for any leaks around the drain plug and oil filter.
Final Check: Turn off the engine and recheck the oil level. Make sure everything looks good.
Dispose of the Old Oil: Take the used oil to a recycling center or auto parts store for proper disposal.

And there you have it, guys! You've successfully changed your oil. Give yourself a pat on the back.

Additional Tips and Considerations

Consult Your Owner's Manual: This is your bible! It contains all the specific information about your car, including the correct oil type, amount, and torque specifications.
Torque Wrench is Your Friend: Using a torque wrench is highly recommended. It ensures you tighten the drain plug to the correct specification, preventing leaks and damage. This is a must if you want your car to run at top performance.
Crush Washer: Always replace the crush washer on the drain plug. This small, inexpensive part helps create a tight seal and prevents leaks.
Oil Type: Use the oil type recommended in your owner's manual. Using the wrong oil can damage your engine. It's really that simple.
Filter Quality: Don't skimp on the oil filter. A good-quality filter will provide better protection for your engine.
Disposal: Never pour used oil down the drain or into the environment. Dispose of it properly at a recycling center or auto parts store.
Check for Leaks: After changing the oil, always check for leaks around the drain plug and oil filter. If you see any leaks, tighten the components accordingly.
Regular Checks: Regularly check your oil level between oil changes. Add oil as needed. Keeping a close eye on your car can prevent issues.

Where to Find Your Owner's Manual

If you don't have a physical copy of your owner's manual, don't sweat it. You can usually find a digital copy online. Here’s how:

Honda's Website: Visit the official Honda website and go to the owner's section. You can usually download a PDF version of your manual there.
Online Forums and Communities: Many Honda Civic forums and communities have links to owner's manuals. Just do a quick search.
Google: Simply search for