Parts for your 2016 Nissan Pulsar-Sump plug washers

2016 Nissan Pulsar sump-plug washers: what they do and when to replace them

On the 2016 Nissan Pulsar (C12 series), a sump-plug washer is absolutely used. Nissan’s factory documentation for the C12 Pulsar (Lubrication System procedures in the service manual) instructs replacing the drain plug gasket whenever the engine oil is changed, and the Nissan parts catalog for the C12 lists a “Gasket—Drain Plug” for the oil pan. Common genuine part numbers supplied by Nissan for this model line include 11026-01M02 and 11026-4N200, both being 14 mm crush-type washers used across the MR18DE 1.8 petrol and MR16DDT 1.6 turbo variants.

This little ring—usually aluminium or copper—sits under the sump (oil pan) drain plug and crushes slightly when the plug is tightened. That controlled “squish” creates a reliable seal between the plug and the pan, so the Pulsar doesn’t weep oil down the driveway or mist onto the underbody at highway speeds. Because it’s a crush washer, it’s designed for single use. Once it’s been compressed, it won’t spring back or seal the same way again, so reusing it can lead to slow leaks or the need to overtighten the plug, which risks damaging threads or distorting the pan.

Best practice on a 2016 Pulsar is to replace the sump-plug washer at every oil change. It’s a cheap part that protects an expensive engine. Stick with a quality washer—genuine Nissan or a reputable aftermarket equivalent—with the correct size for the Pulsar’s M14 drain plug. Keep the mating face on the sump clean and flat, and never stack washers to “make up” a seal. Fit the new washer, start the plug by hand to avoid cross-threading, and tighten only to the factory torque spec shown in the Pulsar service manual for your engine, no need to lean on a breaker bar.

After the first drive post-service, it’s smart to have a quick squiz underneath: check for any fresh oil at the plug and around the pan edge. A good washer and correctly torqued plug should be bone dry. If there’s a drip, don’t crank the plug tighter—pull it, inspect the sealing face, and use a new washer. For owners who service on the regular, keeping a small stash of the right washers in the glovebox or tool kit makes oil changes quicker and cleaner.

• Replace the washer at every oil change.
• Use the correct 14 mm crush washer (e.g., Nissan 11026-01M02 / 11026-4N200).
• Tighten to the factory torque spec—don’t overtighten.

Popular questions about 2016 Nissan Pulsar sump-plug washers

What size sump-plug washer does a 2016 Nissan Pulsar use?
The C12 Pulsar typically uses a 14 mm crush washer on the sump drain plug. Genuine Nissan options widely supplied for this model are 11026-01M02 or 11026-4N200. Because running changes can occur, it’s wise to confirm by VIN or match your old washer’s dimensions before you buy in bulk.

Do you need to replace the washer every oil change?
Yes. The factory procedure for the Pulsar specifies replacing the drain plug gasket whenever it’s removed. It’s a single-use crush washer, reusing it can cause slow leaks or encourage overtightening. A fresh washer each service is cheap insurance for a tidy, leak-free sump.

My Pulsar’s sump plug is weeping after a service—what now?
First, don’t just crank the plug tighter. Let the engine cool, remove the plug, inspect and clean the sealing face on the pan, and fit a new, correct-size crush washer. Reinstall and tighten to the proper torque. If it still weeps, check for a nicked pan face or a damaged plug and replace the affected part.