Parts for your 2022 Subaru Outback-Sump plug washers

2022 Subaru Outback sump plug washers — what they do and when to replace

Yes, the 2022 Subaru Outback uses a sump plug washer. Subaru’s Factory Service Manual for the 2020–2024 Outback (BT) in the Engine Lubrication section states the drain plug gasket must be replaced whenever it’s removed, and the Subaru Electronic Parts Catalogue for the 2022 Outback lists the aluminium “Gasket – Drain Plug” (P/N 803916010, 16 mm) for both FB25 (2.5L) and FA24 (2.4T) engines. These are technical sources confirming the washer is standard fitment and a service item.

The sump plug washer (also called a drain plug gasket) is a small, single‑use aluminium crush ring that deforms to create a tight seal between the sump and the plug. On the Outback’s alloy sump, it prevents weeping, protects the mating face, and lets the correct torque clamp the joint without over-stressing threads. If the washer is missing or reused too many times, owners can see tiny drips on the driveway, a sweaty film around the plug, or need to overtighten the plug to chase a seal—never ideal.

Best practice for a 2022 Outback is to fit a brand‑new OEM aluminium washer at every oil change. The washer is designed to crush once, so reusing it risks leaks. Clean the sump’s sealing face, hand‑thread the plug to avoid cross‑threading, then tighten to the Subaru spec (around 44 N·m/33 ft‑lb, check the exact spec in the vehicle’s service data). No sealant is required—if the faces are clean and a fresh washer is used, it’ll seal properly.

A few handy tips keep things tidy:

• Keep two or three spare 803916010 washers in the glovebox so an oil change never gets delayed.
• After the first drive post-service, have a quick look under the car for any sign of weeping and nip the plug to spec only if needed.
• If the old washer is stuck to the sump, gently remove it without gouging the surface.

Using the correct Subaru washer maintains factory sealing, reduces the chance of leaks, and helps avoid costly sump thread repairs—simple, cheap, and well worth doing every service.

Popular questions about 2022 Subaru Outback sump plug washers

Does the 2022 Outback actually need a new washer every oil change?
It does. Subaru’s service literature calls for replacing the drain plug gasket at each removal. The alloy crush washer is single‑use, once compressed, it can’t reliably seal again. Fresh washer, clean faces, and the correct torque is the leak‑free combo.

What size and part number is the correct washer?
The factory washer is an aluminium 16 mm drain plug gasket, Subaru part number 803916010. It suits both the 2.5‑litre FB25 and 2.4‑litre FA24 engines in the 2022 Outback. Torque the plug to about 44 N·m (33 ft‑lb) unless your specific service data states otherwise.

Can a copper or reusable washer be used instead?
Some aftermarket options may fit, but Subaru specifies a single‑use aluminium gasket for a reason: consistent crush and sealing on the alloy sump. If reliability is the priority, stick with the OEM‑style aluminium washer and replace it each service.