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Parts for your 2008 Toyota Camry-Sump plug washers
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2008 Toyota Camry sump plug washers — what they do and when to replace them
Technical documentation shows the 2008 Toyota Camry does use a sump plug washer (also called an oil drain plug gasket). Toyota’s Repair Manual for the XV40 Camry (2007–2011) on the Toyota Technical Information System instructs fitting a “new gasket” when refitting the engine oil drain plug, and the Toyota Electronic Parts Catalogue lists a 14 mm drain plug gasket, commonly part number 90430‑12031, for both 2AZ‑FE (2.4 L) and 2GR‑FE (3.5 L) engines. The manual also gives a typical drain plug torque of about 39 N·m (29 ft·lbf). So yes, a sump plug washer is relevant and fitted on the 2008 Camry.
On this Camry, the sump plug washer is a small, single‑use aluminium crush ring that seals the drain plug to the sump. When the plug is torqued, the washer deforms slightly to fill microscopic gaps, stopping pesky weeps and drips. It’s cheap, does a vital job, and helps protect the sump threads by allowing the correct torque without overtightening.
As part of regular servicing in Australia and New Zealand, it’s good practice to replace the sump plug washer at every oil change (per the logbook interval, often around 10,000 km/6 months for this era). While some owners re‑use the old washer, that’s when slow leaks tend to start. A fresh genuine Toyota washer or a quality 14 mm aftermarket equivalent keeps the bottom end tidy and the driveway stain‑free.
- Replace timing: Fit a new washer at each oil change, or any time the plug is removed.
- Correct size: Most 2008 Camry engines take a 14 mm ID washer (e.g., Toyota 90430‑12031). Confirm by VIN if unsure.
- Torque matters: Tighten the drain plug to about 39 N·m (29 ft·lbf). Don’t overdo it—let the crush washer do the sealing.
- Check for leaks: After refilling, run the engine, then inspect the plug area. A dry sump is the goal.
- Clean surfaces: Wipe the sump seat and plug head so the new washer beds evenly.
- Avoid re‑use: Once crushed, the washer won’t spring back reliably. Re‑using risks drips and thread damage from overtightening.
Whether it’s the 2.4‑litre four or the 3.5‑litre V6, keeping a couple of spare crush washers in the glovebox or tool kit makes every DIY oil change smoother. It’s a tiny part that saves headaches later.
Does a 2008 Toyota Camry need a new sump plug washer at every oil change?
Yes, Toyota’s service guidance calls for installing a new drain plug gasket whenever the plug is refitted. Because it’s a crush‑type aluminium washer, it’s designed for single use to ensure a proper seal without over‑torquing.
They’re inexpensive, so swapping one in at each service is a simple way to prevent slow leaks and protect the sump threads.
What size sump plug washer fits a 2008 Toyota Camry?
Most 2008 Camry variants (2AZ‑FE and 2GR‑FE) use a 14 mm drain plug washer, commonly Toyota part number 90430‑12031. Quality aftermarket 14 mm aluminium or copper washers also work.
If the car’s had a sump or plug changed in the past, confirm by VIN or measure the plug to be sure you’ve got the right size.