Parts for your 2008 Honda Civic-Sump plug washers

2008 Honda Civic sump-plug-washers: what they do and when to replace them

Technical sources confirm the 2008 Honda Civic does use a sump-plug washer (also called an oil drain plug crush washer). Honda’s factory Service Manual for the 2006–2011 Civic and the 2008 Owner’s Manual both specify replacing the drain plug washer whenever the engine oil is changed, and tightening the plug to 39 N·m (29 lbf·ft). The commonly used genuine Honda washer is the 14 mm aluminium crush washer (often listed as P/N 94109-14000) used across R18A 1.8‑litre and K20 2.0‑litre Civic variants.

On a 2008 Civic, the sump-plug washer is a small, single-use, soft-metal ring that deforms when the drain plug is torqued. That controlled “crush” fills tiny imperfections between the steel plug and the alloy sump, giving a reliable oil-tight seal without over-tightening. It helps prevent leaks, reduces the risk of damaging sump threads, and makes future services straightforward.

Best practice for Civic servicing is to fit a new washer at each oil change interval (typically every 10,000 km or 12 months here in Aus/NZ, or as per your maintenance schedule). Reusing a washer looks tempting, but once it’s crushed, it may not seal consistently again. That’s when owners see the tell‑tale weep around the plug, a spot on the driveway, or catch a hot‑oil whiff after a run.

• Always use a fresh 14 mm aluminium crush washer suited to Honda sumps.
• Clean the sump face and plug, start the plug by hand to avoid cross‑threading.
• Tighten with a torque wrench to 39 N·m (29 lbf·ft) — don’t swing off it.
• After the first drive, have a quick look for any fresh oil at the plug.

Aluminium is the Honda-specified material, copper washers exist but crush differently and may alter the feel at torque. If using aftermarket washers, match the dimensions and material and avoid sealants — the washer is the seal. For owners of both 1.8 and 2.0 models, the washer spec is typically the same, but it’s smart to confirm against the VIN or with a parts counter if the sump or plug has ever been changed.

They’re inexpensive, easy to stash in the glovebox, and worth replacing every time the oil comes out. It’s the simple little part that keeps the Civic dry, tidy, and trouble‑free between services.

Popular questions about 2008 Honda Civic sump-plug-washers

What size sump-plug washer does a 2008 Honda Civic use?
The 2008 Civic typically uses a 14 mm inside-diameter aluminium crush washer for the engine oil drain plug, commonly referenced as Honda P/N 94109-14000. It suits both the 1.8 R18A and many 2.0 K‑series Civics, but if anything’s been changed (sump or plug), double-check against your VIN.

How often should the sump-plug washer be replaced?
Replace it at every oil change. It’s designed as a single-use crush washer. Reusing can lead to weeping or leaks, and may tempt over‑tightening, which risks damaging the sump threads.

What torque should the drain plug be tightened to?
Honda specifies 39 N·m (29 lbf·ft) for the 2008 Civic’s drain plug. Using a torque wrench helps avoid overtightening while ensuring the new washer crushes properly to seal.