Parts for your 2016 Subaru Exiga-Sump plug washers

2016 Subaru Exiga sump plug washers

Yes, the 2016 Subaru Exiga uses a sump plug washer. Subaru’s workshop manuals for FB-series engines (the 2.5-litre FB25 was fitted to late Exiga/Crossover 7 models) specify a replace-once aluminium drain plug gasket for the engine oil pan. Subaru parts catalogues for Japan and Australasia list a 16 mm aluminium crush washer for the oil drain plug across current FB and late EJ applications, with commonly cited Subaru part numbers used in-market. Service literature in the Engine Lubrication (LU) section also shows the drain plug to be tightened with a new gasket to the specified torque. These technical references confirm the sump plug washer is standard fitment on the Exiga and intended to be renewed at each oil change.

On the Exiga, the sump plug washer is a small, soft aluminium ring that deforms slightly when the drain plug is torqued up. That crush action creates a tight seal between the plug and the oil pan, stopping oil weeps and helping protect the pan threads by achieving the correct clamping force without over-tightening.

Because it’s a crush-type gasket, it’s designed for single use. Reusing an old washer can lead to slow leaks, oil spots under the car, or a plug that needs extra grunt to seal, which risks stripping threads. Best practice for the 2016 Exiga is to replace the washer at every oil change, whether the service interval is time-based or kilometre-based. Keep a couple of spares on hand so it’s never skipped.

When servicing, fit a quality OEM-equivalent aluminium washer of the correct size. If a magnetic aftermarket drain plug is fitted, it typically still uses the same style washer unless it has a bonded seal design—check the plug manufacturer’s notes. Clean the mating face on the pan, thread the plug by hand to avoid cross-threading, then torque it properly. For FB-series engines the drain plug torque is typically about 43–44 N·m, always confirm against the vehicle’s service manual or under-bonnet label for the exact spec.

Signs the washer needs attention include a faint oil smell after a drive, a slight film of oil around the plug, or fresh drips on the driveway. Sorting it is quick: a new washer and correct torque usually resolves things straight away.

• Use a new aluminium crush washer at every oil change.
• Clean the pan face and hand-start the plug to protect threads.
• Torque the plug to the specified value (around 43–44 N·m for FB engines).
• Recheck for weeps after the first short drive.

Popular questions about 2016 Subaru Exiga sump plug washers

What size sump plug washer does a 2016 Subaru Exiga use?
Most 2016 Exiga models use a 16 mm aluminium crush washer on the oil drain plug. That size aligns with Subaru’s FB-series oil pan setup. Parts catalogues in AU/NZ list an OEM-style 16 mm washer for this application. If the vehicle has had a non-original pan or plug fitted, confirm by measuring the plug or checking by VIN with a Subaru dealer.

How often should the sump plug washer be replaced on a 2016 Exiga?
Every oil change. The washer is a single-use crush gasket, so once it’s flattened, it won’t seal as reliably again. Swapping it each time helps prevent leaks and avoids overtightening the plug to chase a seal. Keeping a couple in the glovebox or parts drawer makes servicing straightforward.

What’s the correct torque for the Exiga’s drain plug when using a new washer?
For FB-series engines found in late Exiga models, the typical torque is about 43–44 N·m. That figure is matched to a new aluminium washer. Always confirm the exact value in the service manual for the specific engine code and market, as torque specs can vary slightly by model year and market documentation.