Parts for your 2016 Subaru Xv-Sump plug washers

2016 Subaru XV sump plug washers — what they do and when to replace them

Technical sources confirm the 2016 Subaru XV does use a sump plug washer on the engine oil drain plug. Subaru’s Owner’s Manual for this model instructs that the drain plug gasket be replaced whenever the engine oil is changed, and the Subaru Service Manual for the FB20 engine (Lubrication section) illustrates the drain plug with a crush-type gasket. The Subaru parts catalogue for the GP-series XV also lists a genuine aluminium drain plug gasket (commonly a 16 mm crush washer, e.g., P/N 803916010) for this application.

On the 2016 Subaru XV, the sump plug washer is a small, single-use crush gasket that sits between the sump and the drain plug head. When the plug is tightened to the factory torque, the soft aluminium deforms to seal micro-gaps, keeping engine oil where it belongs. Without a fresh washer, there’s a real risk of slow weeps, messy drips on the driveway, or a plug that won’t hold torque properly.

For routine servicing, this part is cheap insurance. Best practice is to replace the sump plug washer at every oil change. That aligns with Subaru’s guidance and helps prevent oil leaks that can be mistaken for bigger issues. Reusing an old washer can seem fine at first, but once a crush washer has been compressed, it won’t reliably reseal a second time.

Handy tips for owners and workshops:

• Always fit a new, correct-size aluminium crush washer when refitting the drain plug.
• Clean the sealing face on the sump before installation and tighten the plug to the factory torque quoted in the Subaru service information.
• Don’t stack washers, don’t use thread sealant, and avoid over-tightening — that can distort the washer or damage threads.
• Keep a few spares on hand for future services, they’re inexpensive and take up no space.

It’s worth noting the XV has other drain plugs (for example, for differentials or the CVT), each with its own spec. This copy refers specifically to the engine oil sump plug on the 2.0-litre FB20 petrol engine. Sticking with genuine-spec aluminium washers ensures the right crush characteristics, consistent sealing, and fuss-free servicing across Aussie and Kiwi conditions, from city commutes to long country kays.

Popular questions

What size sump plug washer does a 2016 Subaru XV use?
Most 2016 XV models with the FB20 engine use a 16 mm aluminium crush washer (genuine Subaru drain plug gasket, commonly referenced as P/N 803916010). It’s smart to confirm by VIN or measuring the plug head if the vehicle’s had any sump or plug changes in the past.

How often should the sump plug washer be replaced?
Every oil change. The washer is a single-use crush gasket designed to deform once for a perfect seal. Reusing it can cause slow leaks, inconsistent torque on the plug, and oil smells after a drive.

Can a copper washer be used instead of aluminium?
Aluminium is the OE spec for the XV’s engine sump plug and provides the correct crush at factory torque. While copper washers can seal, they often need different torque and may not perform consistently on the XV’s sealing face. For hassle-free servicing, stick with the correct aluminium washer.