Parts for your 2020 Nissan Pathfinder-Sump plug washers

2020 Nissan Pathfinder sump plug washers

Yes — the 2020 Nissan Pathfinder does use a sump plug washer. Nissan’s Factory Service Manual for the R52 Pathfinder (VQ35DD) and the Nissan Electronic Parts Catalogue specify an aluminium crush-type drain plug gasket that’s replaced whenever the engine oil is changed. Genuine Nissan listings commonly show the 14 mm washer under part numbers such as 11026-4N20A (superseding 11026-01M02), confirming it’s a standard service item on this model.

The sump plug washer’s job is simple but vital: it seals the drain plug to the oil pan so engine oil can’t weep out after a service. Being a “crush” washer, it deforms slightly when the plug is tightened, filling tiny imperfections between the plug’s flange and the pan surface. That one-time deformation is what creates a reliable seal, which is why Nissan calls for a fresh washer at each oil change.

For anyone servicing a 2020 Pathfinder, swapping the washer is quick and inexpensive insurance. Reusing an old one can lead to slow weeping around the plug, oil spots on the driveway, a hot-oil smell after a run, or, over time, a lower-than-ideal oil level. It can also tempt overtightening to chase a seal, which risks damaging threads in the pan — nobody wants that bill.

Best practice on this Pathfinder is straightforward:

• Use the correct 14 mm aluminium crush washer (genuine-equivalent is fine).
• Wipe the mating face on the pan and the plug flange clean before refitting.
• Start the plug by hand to avoid cross-threading, then tighten to the factory torque specified in the Nissan service manual.
• After the first drive, have a quick look for any signs of weeping around the plug.

Owners who stick to the recommended replacement interval — every engine oil change — keep the lubrication system tidy and leak-free. It’s a tiny part that punches well above its weight in terms of peace of mind. If the service kit didn’t include a washer, it’s worth grabbing a couple to keep on hand. The Pathfinder’s VQ35DD loves clean oil, and a fresh crush washer helps keep every drop where it should be.

Popular questions about 2020 Nissan Pathfinder sump plug washers

Does the 2020 Pathfinder actually need a new washer at each oil change?
Yes. Nissan’s factory guidance for the R52 Pathfinder specifies replacing the aluminium crush washer whenever the drain plug is removed. It’s designed to deform once to make a proper seal, so reusing it increases the chance of seepage.

What size and part number is the washer for a 2020 Pathfinder?
It’s a 14 mm aluminium crush washer used on the M14 drain plug. Genuine Nissan parts catalogues commonly list it as 11026-4N20A (which supersedes the earlier 11026-01M02). Quality aftermarket equivalents that match those specs also do the job.

What happens if the washer isn’t replaced?
You may see a slow oil weep, smell hot oil after drives, or find spots under the vehicle. Some people try to tighten the plug harder to stop a leak, which risks damaging the pan threads. A new washer each service avoids those headaches.