Parts for your 2013 Nissan Pathfinder-Sump plug washers

2013 Nissan Pathfinder sump plug washers — what they do and when to replace them

Yes — the 2013 Nissan Pathfinder uses a sump plug washer. Technical sources back this up: the Nissan Pathfinder (R52) Service Manual, LU (Lubrication) section, specifies replacing the drain plug gasket/washer whenever the engine oil is changed, and the Nissan electronic parts catalogue lists the oil drain plug gasket (commonly referenced as 11026-JA00A, 14 mm) for this model. The same replace-once guidance is echoed across Nissan service literature for VQ35DE-powered Pathfinders and late R51 diesels of the same era.

On this Pathfinder, the sump plug washer is a small, crush-type ring — usually aluminium — that sits between the sump (oil pan) and the drain plug head. When the plug is tightened, the washer deforms slightly to create a reliable seal. That deforming action is its superpower: it prevents annoying oil weeps, helps achieve the correct clamping force at the specified torque, and protects the softer sump face from being gouged by the plug. Reusing a crushed washer can compromise that seal, which is why Nissan’s workshop procedure calls for a fresh one at each oil change.

As part of routine servicing on a 2013 Pathfinder, the washer should be treated as a consumable — fit a new one every time the oil is drained. It’s a low-cost part that can save a lot of grief later. When servicing:

• Clean the sump sealing face and the drain plug thoroughly.
• Fit a new, correct-size Nissan-spec crush washer (typically 14 mm ID, check by VIN if unsure).
• Tighten the drain plug to the torque specified in the Pathfinder Service Manual’s LU section for the exact engine/market.
• After refilling, run the engine, then check for any seepage around the plug and washer.

Owners doing their own maintenance will find the washer often sticks to the old plug — if it’s nicked, flattened unevenly, or hardened, bin it. Even if it looks tidy, the manual’s guidance is to replace it. Independent repair data and Nissan dealer bulletins consistently recommend single-use of the crush washer because it’s designed to deform only once.

Genuine Nissan washers are inexpensive and ensure the right hardness and thickness for the sump and plug geometry on the R52. Quality aftermarket equivalents can work, but make sure the dimensions and material match OE spec. For anyone chasing down oil spots on the driveway after a service, a past-it sump plug washer is one of the first places to look.

Popular questions

What size sump plug washer does a 2013 Nissan Pathfinder use?
Most 2013 Pathfinders use a 14 mm crush washer (commonly referenced as Nissan 11026-JA00A). Variations can exist by engine and market, so the safest bet is to confirm by VIN or checking the LU section of the Nissan Service Manual and the Nissan parts catalogue for your specific vehicle.

Should the sump plug washer be replaced at every oil change?
Yes. Nissan’s workshop procedure for the 2013 Pathfinder calls for a new drain plug gasket/washer at each oil change. It’s designed to deform once and provide a leak-free seal, reusing it increases the chances of weeping or the need to overtighten the plug.

Can a copper or fibre washer be used instead of aluminium?
If it’s the correct size and designed as a crush-type washer for the Pathfinder’s drain plug, copper can work, but Nissan supplies aluminium for this application. Sticking with the OE-style washer ensures the right crush characteristics and sealing performance for the sump and plug design.