Parts for your 2011 Mitsubishi Lancer-Sump plug washers

2011 Mitsubishi Lancer sump plug washers

Yes, the 2011 Mitsubishi Lancer uses a sump plug washer. Technical references that specify a sealing washer include the Mitsubishi Motors service literature for CJ/GA Lancer (Group 00 – Maintenance and Group 11A – Engine Lubrication, which instruct replacement of the drain plug gasket at each oil change), and the Mitsubishi ASA electronic parts catalogue (EPC), which lists a 14 mm crush-type drain plug gasket for 2011 Lancer variants (common OEM part number MD050317 across 1.8L 4B10, 2.0L 4B11, 2.4L 4B12, and many market diesel trims). Major aftermarket catalogues for the Lancer of this year also specify an M14 aluminium crush washer for the engine oil drain plug, reinforcing that a washer is fitted and required.

On the Lancer, the sump plug washer’s whole job is to create a reliable seal between the drain plug head and the sump, so the engine oil stays where it should. It’s a soft, single‑use crush washer—typically aluminium—that deforms slightly under torque to fill tiny imperfections in the mating faces. That deformation is what delivers a leak‑free seal without having to over-tighten the plug and risk damaging the alloy sump threads.

As part of regular servicing on a 2011 Mitsubishi Lancer, it’s best practice to replace the sump plug washer at every oil change. Reusing a flattened washer can lead to weeping or drips, messy undersides, and in worst cases, gradual oil loss. A fresh washer also lets the correct torque do its job without the temptation to “give it a bit more”.

• Washer type and size: M14 crush washer (OEM commonly aluminium, e.g., MD050317).
• Torque guidance: Tighten the drain plug to about 39 N·m (29 lb‑ft). Don’t swing off it—over‑torque risks stripping threads.
• When to replace: Every oil change. Also replace if there’s any sign of seepage after servicing.
• Tips: Wipe the sump seat and plug flange clean, fit a new washer dry, and check for drips after the first heat cycle.
• Variations: Some aftermarket magnetic plugs use different washers (copper or bonded), but the OEM approach is an aluminium crush washer, single use.

For Lancer owners across Australia and New Zealand, keeping a small stash of genuine or quality aftermarket M14 washers on hand makes DIY servicing tidy, quick, and worry‑free.

Popular questions about 2011 Mitsubishi Lancer sump plug washers

Do all 2011 Lancer engines use the same sump plug washer?
Most 2011 Lancer petrol engines (1.8, 2.0, 2.4) use an M14 crush washer of the same spec. Many diesel trims also use an M14 washer, but it’s smart to confirm by VIN or measuring the plug. If staying OEM, the common gasket listed in the Mitsubishi EPC for these models is the aluminium MD050317.

Can the washer be reused if it looks okay?
It’s not recommended. Crush washers are designed to deform once. Reusing them often leads to weeping and the temptation to overtighten the plug, which can damage the sump threads. A new washer is cheap insurance every oil change.

Is copper better than aluminium for the Lancer?
Either can work if it matches the correct size and seat style, but the OE approach on Lancer is aluminium. Aluminium crushes consistently at the specified torque and is kind to alloy sumps. If switching to copper or a bonded style, match dimensions and recheck torque and sealing on first heat cycle.