Parts for your 2017 Mitsubishi Outlander-Sump plug washers

Sump Plug Washers for the 2017 Mitsubishi Outlander: What You Need to Know

When it comes to servicing a 2017 Mitsubishi Outlander, particularly the oil change process, one aspect you might come across is the sump plug washer. You might be wondering if this small component is actually a part of the Outlander's engine setup or if it is something irrelevant for this particular model. After reviewing various technical manuals and service guides for the 2017 Mitsubishi Outlander, it appears that sump plug washers are indeed used on this vehicle.

Let's take a closer look at what a sump plug washer is, why it matters, and how to take care of it during regular vehicle maintenance.

The sump plug washer, sometimes called a crush washer, is a small but crucial part that sits between the sump plug (the drain bolt) and the oil pan or sump of the car's engine. The main job of the washer is to provide a reliable seal that prevents oil from leaking out once the sump plug is screwed back in after an oil change. Since the sump plug is removed and replaced every time the engine oil is changed, the washer has to do a lot of sealing work.

The material of these washers is typically soft metal such as aluminium or copper which allows the washer to deform slightly under pressure, creating a tight seal. Over time, when the sump plug is tightened, the washer gets 'crushed' between the plug and the sump surface hence the nickname crush washer. This deformation is what creates the leak-proof joint.

Why is a good seal so important? Well, a leaking sump plug can lead to oil dripping out of the engine. Reduced oil levels can result in poor engine lubrication, overheating, and eventually engine damage if left unnoticed. So, the sump plug washer plays a vital role in keeping the engine oil safely contained inside the sump.

For the 2017 Mitsubishi Outlander, when you are servicing the vehicle and changing the engine oil, it's essential to inspect the sump plug washer and replace it as recommended. In most cases, these washers are designed to be single-use only. Once crushed during a previous oil change, they do not retain their original sealing properties, and reusing an old washer can lead to leaks.

Here are some easy tips for taking care of sump plug washers on the 2017 Mitsubishi Outlander:

• Always replace the sump plug washer: Mitsubishi recommends using a new washer each time you remove the oil drain plug. It's a cheap part and worth the small investment to avoid leaks and potential engine problems.
• Use genuine Mitsubishi or high-quality aftermarket washers: Not all washers are created equal. Choosing the right size and material ensures the seal works as intended with the Outlander's sump plug.
• Clean the sump plug and sump seat: Before fitting the new washer, wipe down the sump plug threads and the sump contact area to remove any dirt or old oil residues. This helps the washer seal correctly.
• Torque the sump plug correctly: Over-tightening can crush the washer excessively or damage the sump threads, while under-tightening can cause leaks. Refer to the 2017 Mitsubishi Outlander service manual for the exact torque specification, which is usually between 30 and 40 Nm (newton-metres).
• Check for leaks after refitting: After changing the oil and fitting the new sump plug washer, run the engine for a few minutes and check underneath the sump for any signs of oil seepage.

It's a good idea to include sump plug washer replacement as a standard part of every oil change service for the Outlander. It's a small detail but can save a lot of hassle and expense down the track by preventing oil leaks and protecting the engine's longevity.

In short, the 2017 Mitsubishi Outlander does use sump plug washers, and they are an essential part of maintaining a clean and effective oil drainage system. Keeping on top of washer replacement and using the correct parts means the oil sump stays sealed tight and the engine stays happy for many kilometres to come. Whether you are doing the job yourself or getting the car serviced, make sure the sump plug washer is never overlooked when it comes time to drain and replace the engine oil.