Parts for your 2017 Mitsubishi Lancer-Sump plug washers

Sump Plug Washers on the 2017 Mitsubishi Lancer: What You Need to Know

The 2017 Mitsubishi Lancer, a popular choice for reliable and affordable motoring, features a traditional oil sump setup like most internal combustion vehicles. When it comes to sump plug washers, this vehicle does indeed make use of them, playing an important role in the overall maintenance and health of the engine. For anyone servicing their 2017 Lancer or looking to understand a bit more about the parts involved, knowing about sump plug washers is a must.

Sump plug washers, also known as crush washers or sealing washers, are small yet vital components fitted between the oil drain plug and the sump itself. Their primary job is to create a reliable seal when the drain plug is tightened, helping to prevent any unwanted oil leaks. While it might sound like a small thing, this sealing function is crucial. If the washer is damaged, missing or poorly installed, it can lead to slow oil leaks, which over time can cause engine damage due to insufficient lubrication.

On the 2017 Mitsubishi Lancer, the sump plug washer is commonly made from a soft metal like aluminium. This softness is intentional as it enables the washer to deform or "crush" slightly when the drain plug is tightened. This crushing action fills any gaps between the threads of the drain plug and the sump surface, ensuring a tight seal. This metal-to-metal contact is important as it prevents oil from seeping out while allowing easy removal when it's time to change the oil again.

Replacing the sump plug washer during an oil change is highly recommended by automotive professionals and Mitsubishi service guidelines alike. Here's why:

• Prevents Oil Leaks: The washer material compresses and spans imperfections on the mating surfaces. After the initial crush, the washer may lose its ability to reseal effectively, making reuse risky.
• Cost-Effective Maintenance: Sump plug washers are inexpensive and widely available. Investing a few dollars to swap the washer at every service is a smart way to avoid costly engine damage.
• Ensures Reliability: Proper sealing avoids oil drip or slow leaks which may go unnoticed by some drivers until they cause engine warnings or visible puddles under the vehicle.

When servicing a 2017 Mitsubishi Lancer, the procedure is straightforward. After draining the old engine oil, the drain plug is removed. At this point, the washer is taken off and discarded. Before putting the plug and new washer back on, it's a good idea to clean the mating surfaces on both the sump and plug to ensure no dirt or old oil residues compromise the seal. Then, a brand new washer is fitted onto the drain plug and tightened to the correct torque specification set out by Mitsubishi. Correct torque is critical here - over-tightening can crush the washer too much or strip the sump threads, while under-tightening risks leaks.

For those interested in a bit more detail, the torque specification for the drain plug on many Lancer models often falls around 25 to 30 Nm but checking the owner's manual or a trusted workshop manual for the exact figure is always the best practice.

Another useful tip when replacing a sump plug washer on your 2017 Mitsubishi Lancer is to avoid reusing old washers under any circumstances. Some mechanics may suggest tapping an old washer back on for convenience or cost-saving, but that's not advised. The metal washer is designed to deform once and is no longer capable of making a proper seal after being crushed. The risk of an oil leak simply isn't worth it.

Some vehicles use fibre or rubber washers instead of metal, but the Lancer's metal crush washer is preferred for its durability and effective sealing under the high temperatures and pressures found in the engine sump. Metal washers are also less likely to degrade over time compared to rubber or fibre types.

Oil changes on the 2017 Mitsubishi Lancer play a key role in maintaining the performance and longevity of the vehicle's engine. Alongside using the correct grade and amount of engine oil, ensuring the drain plug washer is replaced correctly is just as important as changing the oil filter. Skipping this small step might seem insignificant but can cause frustration down the road with leaks or even premature wear if oil levels fluctuate due to unnoticed loss.

Many Aussie mechanics and DIY enthusiasts swear by keeping a stack of sump plug washers handy in their service kits for their Lancer or any other vehicle. They are cheap, easy to replace and provide peace of mind every time the oil is changed.

In short, the 2017 Mitsubishi Lancer definitely uses sump plug washers as part of its oil sump sealing system. They are vital to preventing leaks, ensuring the engine remains well lubricated and happy. Regular replacement of these washers during service is both recommended and standard practice, helping to keep your Lancer running smoothly for years to come.