Parts for your 2004 Nissan Primera-Sump plug washers

2004 Nissan Primera sump plug washer — purpose, fitment and service tips

On the 2004 Nissan Primera (P12), a sump plug washer is absolutely used. Nissan’s P12 Service Manual (Engine Mechanical section) specifies a gasket for the engine oil drain plug, and the Nissan FAST parts catalogue lists a 14 mm aluminium crush washer for the model line. Common Nissan part numbers include 11026-01M02 (superseded by 11026-JA00A), covering the QG18DE 1.8 petrol, QR20DE 2.0 petrol, and YD22DDTi 2.2 diesel variants. That means the sump plug relies on a single-use crush washer to seal properly, not a tapered or pre-sealed plug.

What does the washer do? It’s a soft, deformable ring that flattens when the plug is tightened, taking up tiny imperfections between the plug flange and the sump. That controlled “crush” creates a reliable seal to keep engine oil where it belongs. Reusing a crushed washer risks weeping or drips after a few heat cycles, so replacement during every oil change is the smart move.

Best practice for a 2004 Primera is straightforward: fit a new 14 mm aluminium (or quality copper) crush washer at each service. Clean the sump’s sealing face, check the plug head and threads, then install by hand to avoid cross-threading. Tighten to the factory torque in the P12 Service Manual (typically in the low-30s N·m range on Nissan four-cylinders) using a torque wrench rather than “feel” on a spanner. Over-tightening can ovalise the washer or damage threads, under-tightening can allow seepage.

Routine checks help. After the first short drive post-service, have a quick look under the bonnet and from beneath for any fresh oil mist or a wet plug head. A dry plug and pan area usually means the washer has seated nicely. If there’s even slight dampness, replace the washer and re-torque to spec — stacking washers or adding sealant isn’t recommended on these engines.

• Replace the washer at every oil change (time/kilometres as per local schedule).
• Use the correct 14 mm crush type (Nissan 11026-01M02 / 11026-JA00A or equivalent).
• Inspect the drain plug, replace it if the flange is scored or the hex is rounded.

This small, inexpensive part does big work, and on a P12 Primera it’s considered a standard service consumable by Nissan’s own documentation and parts listings.

Popular questions about 2004 Nissan Primera sump plug washers

What size sump plug washer does a 2004 Nissan Primera use?
It uses a 14 mm crush washer designed for the oil drain plug. Nissan’s common OEM reference is 11026-01M02, superseded by 11026-JA00A. Quality aftermarket 14 mm aluminium or copper crush washers are suitable if they match OEM dimensions.

How often should the washer be replaced on a 2004 Primera?
It’s a single-use item and should be replaced at every oil change. That’s because the washer deforms when tightened, reusing it can lead to seepage after a few heat cycles, especially in Australian and New Zealand conditions with wide temperature swings.

What torque should the sump plug be tightened to?
Follow the 2004 Primera (P12) Service Manual torque specification for the engine fitted. For Nissan four-cylinders of this era, the drain plug torque is typically in the low-30s N·m. Using a torque wrench protects threads and ensures the crush washer seals correctly.