Parts for your 2013 Subaru Exiga-Sump plug washers

2013 Subaru Exiga sump plug washers — what they do and when to replace them

For the 2013 Subaru Exiga, a sump plug washer is absolutely used and relevant. Subaru’s own technical literature backs this up: the Subaru FAST electronic parts catalogue lists an aluminium drain plug gasket (commonly referenced as P/N 803916010) for the Exiga’s engine oil pan, and the Subaru Workshop/Service Manual instructs technicians to “install the drain plug with a new gasket” and tighten to approximately 44 N·m. The model’s owner and maintenance guidance also notes replacing the drain plug gasket at oil changes. Taken together, these technical sources confirm the Exiga does in fact use a single‑use crush washer on the sump plug.

On the 2013 Exiga, the sump plug washer (also called an oil drain plug gasket) is a soft aluminium crush washer that deforms slightly when the plug is torqued down. That controlled “crush” seals the plug to the sump, stopping oil weeps and preventing gradual loosening. It’s a simple, cheap part that protects a very expensive engine.

When servicing this Exiga, the washer should be treated as a consumable. Best practice is to fit a new genuine‑spec aluminium washer at every engine oil change. Reusing the old one risks slow leaks, plug damage, or chasing tightening torque to compensate—none of which is ideal. Subaru’s service documentation calls for installing a new gasket and tightening the plug to about 44 N·m, doing so with a fresh washer gives a reliable seal without over‑squashing the gasket or stressing the sump threads.

Good workshop habits that suit Aussie and Kiwi conditions:

• Always have a few correct‑size aluminium washers on hand (the Exiga uses the common Subaru M16 drain plug gasket).
• Clean the mating face on the sump and the plug head before refitting, grit can create leak paths.
• Avoid over‑tightening—use a torque wrench. If a washer needs “a bit more grunt” to seal, it’s time for a new one, not more force.
• If using aftermarket copper washers, replace or properly anneal every time, genuine‑style aluminium crush washers are designed as single‑use.

Sticking to a fresh washer each service keeps the Exiga tidy under the car, prevents drips on the driveway, and helps ensure consistent plug torque every time the oil’s changed.

Popular questions about 2013 Subaru Exiga sump plug washers

Do all 2013 Exiga engines use the same sump plug washer?

Yes, Subaru specifies an aluminium crush washer for the Exiga’s engine oil drain plug across the range. The commonly catalogued part is the M16 aluminium gasket used widely on EJ‑series Subaru engines. Using the correct size and type ensures the plug torques correctly and seals first go.

How often should the sump plug washer be replaced on a 2013 Exiga?

Every oil change. Subaru service guidance calls for a new gasket whenever the drain plug is removed. It’s single‑use by design—once crushed, it can’t reliably reseal. Replacing it each service helps avoid leaks and protects the sump threads from over‑tightening.

What torque should the sump plug be tightened to on the Exiga?

Approximately 44 N·m with a new aluminium crush washer, as outlined in Subaru service procedures for EJ‑series lubrication systems. Using a torque wrench is the easiest way to get a repeatable, leak‑free result without stressing the plug or pan.