I notice that the dealership uses a new drain plug crush washer when they change the oil. Does that need to be changed every time, or are they just padding the bill?

 

Yes, it is recommended to be changed everytime. I don't think they are going to make $$$ of crush washers. They costs almost next to nothing.

 

When we get the oil filters from the parts department there is a new crush washer already included in the shrink wrap on the oil filter... so as far as I know its included in the dealer's cost on the oil filter itself.

 

Not all dealers include the washer with the filter. But it's a good idea to replace it with every oil change. The washer crushes during tightening to seal. It doesn't work very well if reused again as it can't be crushed much anymore. If you force it, then you risk ruining the threads on the oil pan.

 

The better way is to simply use a FRAM SureDrain or a Fumoto Valve. Its similar to a "drain plug with a drain plug," as you never have to remove the plug again.

MW

 

I've noticed a lot of people get carried away with the whole crush washer on Honda's. Sure its a good idea to change it but you don't need to every oil change. My car is still on the original crush washer at nearly 22k miles, and guess what..... still no leaks. I am sure I will change it sooner or later, but every oil change seems a little excessive to me.

 

My father had a 91 Accord that he bought brand new... he sold the car with 218k miles and it still had the original washer on the drain plug! Fram filter & Castrol GTX 10W30 every 3k miles, and never a leak from the drain plug!

I sold my 99 Civic Si back in march... bought the car brand new, sold it with 57k miles, and never replaced the washer on that either!

Seriously, it couldn't hurt to replace it, but I don't think it's necessary... I think my family has proven that as we've never changed them, and never had a problem.

 

I'm sure we all have our little ways to skip a step or two performing certain repairs or maintenance. As long as you know what you are doing and why, then it's cool. It's the end result that counts.

 

Hmm... the suredrain sounds like a good idea...
Then you could just reach under there and drain it couldn't you? Avoids the mess. I've heard people using that on their 4runners back when i had one. They said to get the one with the nipple on it so that the fluid flows straight down in a nice stream instead of splattering everywhere sometimes. The nipple is actually for a hose so you could hook one up directly into a bottle or something

Anyone have one on their TSX?.