Parts for your 2008 Nissan Maxima-Sump plug washers

2008 Nissan Maxima sump plug washers — what they do and when to replace them

Yes, the 2008 Nissan Maxima uses a sump plug washer. Nissan’s Factory Service Manual for the Maxima (A34/J31 platform, Lubrication System) specifies a drain plug “gasket” for the engine oil pan, and the Nissan Electronic Parts Catalogue lists an aluminium crush washer (commonly 14 mm) for this model, with typical Nissan part numbers including 11026-01M02. The FSM also specifies the oil drain plug torque at around 34 N·m, which assumes a sealing washer is in place. So a sump plug washer is absolutely relevant on this vehicle.

On the 2008 Maxima, the sump plug washer is a small, single-use crush ring that sits between the sump (oil pan) and the drain plug head. When the plug is tightened to spec, the washer deforms slightly to create a gas- and oil-tight seal. That crush action stops slow weeps that can leave drops on the driveway, attract dust onto the sump, and—over time—lower the engine oil level. It’s a simple bit of kit that protects the engine from avoidable oil loss and keeps servicing tidy.

Best practice for this Maxima is to replace the sump plug washer at every oil change. Aluminium or copper crush types both work well as long as the size matches the OEM spec (M14 drain plug). If reusing in a pinch, check the old washer: if it’s deeply grooved, flattened, or cracked, bin it and fit a new one. Always clean the mating face on the sump and the plug, then tighten the plug to about 34 N·m with a torque wrench—don’t swing off it with a long breaker bar. Over-tightening can distort the washer or damage the threads, under-tightening can lead to weeps.

• Fit the correct size: M14 crush washer to suit the OEM drain plug.
• Replace each service (typically every 10,000–15,000 km or annually—follow your schedule).
• After the first drive post-service, have a quick look under the car to confirm no drips.
• Keep a couple of spare washers in the glovebox or tool kit—it’s cheap insurance.

Done right, a fresh washer, clean mating faces, and correct torque will keep the 2008 Maxima’s sump perfectly sealed between services, whether it’s doing the school run or a spirited weekend cruise.

Popular questions about 2008 Nissan Maxima sump plug washers

What size sump plug washer does a 2008 Maxima use?
The 2008 Maxima uses a crush washer to suit an M14 drain plug. Most OEM-style replacements are aluminium, though copper is also fine. Stick with an OEM-equivalent washer for the right inner diameter and thickness so it crushes correctly and seals first go.

How tight should the sump plug be on this model?
Nissan’s workshop guidance is about 34 N·m for the engine oil drain plug on the Maxima. Using a torque wrench is the easiest way to hit that sweet spot—tight enough to seal the crush washer, not so tight that you risk stripping threads or distorting the washer.

Can the old washer be reused?
It can be reused in an emergency, but it’s not ideal. Crush washers are designed to deform once. Reusing increases the chances of a slow weep. Given how inexpensive they are, replacing at each oil change is the smarter move.