Parts for your 2011 Nissan Pathfinder-Sump plug washers

2011 Nissan Pathfinder sump-plug-washers

Based on Nissan’s Factory Service Manual for the R51 Pathfinder (2011) under the Lubrication (LU) section, and the Nissan parts catalogue (FAST), the engine oil drain plug is designed to be fitted with a replaceable crush washer. The catalogued drain plug gasket for this model is a 14 mm washer (commonly listed as Nissan 11026-JA00A, superseding 11026-01M02). That means sump-plug-washers are absolutely relevant and used on the 2011 Nissan Pathfinder.

For the 2011 Pathfinder, the sump plug washer is a small, single-use sealing ring that sits between the sump (oil pan) and the drain bolt. When the bolt is tightened, the soft aluminium (or sometimes copper) washer crushes slightly to fill microscopic gaps, locking in a leak-free seal. Without it, even a correctly torqued plug can seep, leaving drips on the driveway and a messy underbody. On these Pathfinders—whether fitted with the VQ40DE petrol V6 or diesel options—the washer is part of the designed sealing system, not an optional extra.

Best practice is to replace the sump-plug-washer at every oil change. Nissan’s service documentation specifies installing the drain plug with a new washer during routine oil service. Re-using an old washer can lead to weeps, especially once it’s been crushed and heat-cycled. It’s a cheap bit of insurance that helps the engine keep its oil where it belongs and avoids comebacks or roadside hassles for owners touring around Aus or NZ.

When servicing, the technician should:

• Warm the engine so the oil drains cleanly, then remove the drain plug and old washer.
• Wipe the sealing face on the sump clean and check the plug threads for damage.
• Fit a new 14 mm crush washer (OE spec: Nissan 11026-JA00A/11026-01M02).
• Tighten the drain plug to the specification in the Nissan FSM—do not over-tighten, as that can distort the washer or damage threads.
• Refill with the correct oil and run the engine, then check for any signs of weeping around the plug.

A few handy tips: keep a small stash of genuine-spec washers in the service kit, avoid generic hard steel washers that won’t crush properly, and if a previous over-tighten has scored the sump face, address that before refitting. With the right washer and correct torque, the 2011 Pathfinder’s sump stays dry and happy between services, whether it’s doing the school run or towing the boat up the coast.

Popular questions about 2011 Nissan Pathfinder sump-plug-washers

Does the 2011 Nissan Pathfinder need a new sump plug washer at every oil change?
Yes. Nissan’s Factory Service Manual for the R51 states the drain plug should be installed with a new washer during oil changes. The crush washer is designed for one-time use to ensure a reliable seal and prevent weeps.

What size sump plug washer does the 2011 Pathfinder use?
The 2011 Pathfinder uses a 14 mm crush washer. Genuine Nissan part numbers commonly referenced are 11026-JA00A (current) and 11026-01M02 (superseded). Using the correct size and material helps the washer crush properly and seal first time.

Can a copper washer be used instead of aluminium?
Both aluminium and soft copper crush washers are used in industry, but Nissan typically specifies an aluminium 14 mm washer for this model. If not using genuine parts, choose a high-quality soft crush washer in the correct size. Avoid hard, reusable flat washers that don’t deform under torque.