Parts for your 2012 Subaru Xv-Sump plug washers

2012 Subaru XV sump plug washers: what they do and when to replace them

Technical references confirm the 2012 Subaru XV does use a sump plug washer (crush washer) on the engine oil drain plug. The Subaru Workshop Manual for the GP/GPX Impreza/XV platform (Engine Lubrication section) specifies replacing the drain plug gasket at each oil change and tightening the plug to approximately 44 N·m. Subaru’s electronic parts catalogue (FAST/EPC) lists an oil drain plug gasket for the 2012 XV with the FB20 engine, commonly shown as an aluminium 16 mm crush washer, part number 803916010 (with regional supersessions that may also show 11126AA000). Those factory sources make it clear the washer is a standard, service-replaceable item on this vehicle.

On the 2012 Subaru XV, the sump plug washer’s whole job is to seal the drain plug to the sump so oil doesn’t seep out. It’s a soft, single-use crush washer that compresses as the plug is torqued, filling tiny gaps between the plug face and the sump. That controlled crush does two things: it prevents annoying dribbles on the driveway, and it helps the plug reach its correct clamping load at the specified torque without needing excessive force.

Because it’s designed to deform, it should be replaced at every oil change. Reusing a flattened washer can lead to weeps, over-tightening to “make it seal”, or worse, damaged threads in the sump. Genuine Subaru aluminium washers are inexpensive and sized correctly for the XV’s 16 mm drain plug seat. Whether the car is a 2.0i petrol (FB20) or the rare 2.0D in some markets, the service approach is the same: new washer each time.

Handy tips for servicing the sump plug washer on a 2012 XV:

• Always fit a new OEM-spec 16 mm crush washer, don’t stack washers or use generic fibre seals.
• Start the drain plug by hand to avoid cross-threading, then torque to about 44 N·m with a torque wrench.
• Clean the plug and sump mating faces, avoid thread sealants or tapes.
• Inspect the plug for damaged threads or a scored sealing face, replace the plug if needed.
• After refilling, run the engine briefly, then check for any seepage around the plug.

For Aussie and Kiwi owners, chuck a couple of spare genuine washers in the glovebox. They’re cheap, keep servicing tidy, and help the XV stay leak-free between intervals.

Popular questions about 2012 Subaru XV sump plug washers

What size washer does the 2012 Subaru XV use?
The XV typically uses a 16 mm aluminium crush washer on the engine oil drain plug. Subaru lists it in the parts catalogue under gasket–drain plug, commonly p/n 803916010 (some catalogues show 11126AA000 as a superseded equivalent). It’s single-use and should be swapped at every oil change.

Do I really need to replace the washer every service?
Yes. The washer is designed to deform once to seal properly. Reusing it risks small leaks or needing extra torque to stop a weep, which can stress the threads. A fresh washer and correct torque keeps the XV tidy and the sump happy.

What torque should the drain plug be tightened to?
The Subaru workshop guidance for the FB-series engine specifies around 44 N·m for the drain plug with a new washer. Always start the plug by hand and use a torque wrench for the final nip so it seals without over-tightening.