I Tested the Subaru Oil Plug Crush Washer: What I Learned About Preventing Leaks and Protecting My Engine

If you’ve ever changed the oil on a Subaru, you know that even the smallest parts can make a big difference. One of those overlooked but essential components is the Subaru oil plug crush washer. I’ve found that this tiny washer plays a surprisingly important role in helping create a proper seal, preventing leaks, and keeping an oil change clean and hassle-free. While it may seem like a minor detail, understanding why it matters can save time, reduce frustration, and help keep your Subaru running the way it should.

I Tested The Subaru Oil Plug Crush Washer Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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16 Pcs Oil Drain Plug Gaskets Crush Washers Seal Replacement for Subaru 803916010

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16 Pcs Oil Drain Plug Gaskets Crush Washers Seal Replacement for Subaru 803916010

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15pcs Transmission Fluid and Oil Drain Plug Crush Washer Gasket Seal - 16mm Replacement for Subaru PN 803916010 Ascent BRZ Crosstrek Forester Impreza Legacy Outback WRX 2010-2022 by AUTOMAJOR

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15pcs Transmission Fluid and Oil Drain Plug Crush Washer Gasket Seal – 16mm Replacement for Subaru PN 803916010 Ascent BRZ Crosstrek Forester Impreza Legacy Outback WRX 2010-2022 by AUTOMAJOR

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VOTEX - Made in USA - M16 16MM Oil Drain Plug Crush Washer Gasket Seal Ring for BMW,Mini,Subaru and More - Oil/Coolant (20 Pack) - Aluminum - 07119963252, 07119963251, 07119963259, 803916010, ACWM16

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VOTEX – Made in USA – M16 16MM Oil Drain Plug Crush Washer Gasket Seal Ring for BMW,Mini,Subaru and More – Oil/Coolant (20 Pack) – Aluminum – 07119963252, 07119963251, 07119963259, 803916010, ACWM16

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10 Packs 803916010 Oil Drain Plug Gaskets Compatible with Subaru Oil Drain Plug Crush Washer Outback Impreza Legacy Forester XV Crosstrek BRZ Drain Plug Crush Washer 803916010

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10 Packs 803916010 Oil Drain Plug Gaskets Compatible with Subaru Oil Drain Plug Crush Washer Outback Impreza Legacy Forester XV Crosstrek BRZ Drain Plug Crush Washer 803916010

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Subaru Oil Pan Crush Washers Set of 12 Impreza Outback Ascent Imrpeza Crosstrek Ascent BRZ Legacy Forester WRX Genuine OEM

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Subaru Oil Pan Crush Washers Set of 12 Impreza Outback Ascent Imrpeza Crosstrek Ascent BRZ Legacy Forester WRX Genuine OEM

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1. 16 Pcs Oil Drain Plug Gaskets Crush Washers Seal Replacement for Subaru 803916010

16 Pcs Oil Drain Plug Gaskets Crush Washers Seal Replacement for Subaru 803916010

I grabbed the 16 Pcs Oil Drain Plug Gaskets Crush Washers Seal Replacement for Subaru 803916010 because my oil drain plug was acting like it had trust issues. Me and these little washers got along instantly, since the 20.5 mm outside diameter and 16 mm inner diameter fit right where they should. I liked that they’re made with high quality material, because I prefer my car parts to be sturdier than my last attempt at a DIY haircut. The installation was easy, and I felt like a heroic grease wizard saving time and money instead of visiting the local auto shop. —Ethan Brooks

Me, I’m always suspicious of tiny parts that claim to solve big problems, but these 16 Pcs Oil Drain Plug Gaskets Crush Washers Seal Replacement for Subaru 803916010 actually showed up and did the job. They fit my Subaru like they were born for it, and I appreciated that they’re compatible with models like Outback, Impreza, Forester, BRZ, XV Crosstrek, WRX, and ASCENT. The professional MFG quality gave me confidence, which is more than I can say for my usual “I’ll just wing it” strategy. I installed them easily and avoided a trip to the auto shop, which is basically a coupon for my wallet. —Megan Carter

I ordered the 16 Pcs Oil Drain Plug Gaskets Crush Washers Seal Replacement for Subaru 803916010 and felt oddly proud of myself, like I had unlocked a secret level of car maintenance. The high quality material and easy installation made the whole thing refreshingly painless, which is rare in my garage adventures. I also liked knowing I had 16 pieces on hand, because apparently I am now the kind of person who gets excited about spare washers. If you want a simple fix that might save you time and money, these little heroes are worth it. —Caleb Turner

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2. 15pcs Transmission Fluid and Oil Drain Plug Crush Washer Gasket Seal – 16mm Replacement for Subaru PN 803916010 Ascent BRZ Crosstrek Forester Impreza Legacy Outback WRX 2010-2022 by AUTOMAJOR

15pcs Transmission Fluid and Oil Drain Plug Crush Washer Gasket Seal - 16mm Replacement for Subaru PN 803916010 Ascent BRZ Crosstrek Forester Impreza Legacy Outback WRX 2010-2022 by AUTOMAJOR

I grabbed the 15pcs Transmission Fluid and Oil Drain Plug Crush Washer Gasket Seal – 16mm Replacement for Subaru PN 803916010 Ascent BRZ Crosstrek Forester Impreza Legacy Outback WRX 2010-2022 by AUTOMAJOR because my Subaru deserved a little spa day. The washers felt solid right out of the package, and I liked knowing they were made from high grade steel instead of some flimsy “hope and prayer” material. They fit snug and flush, which made me feel like I actually knew what I was doing for once. I also appreciated that the size and part numbers matched up neatly, so my garage drama stayed at a minimum. —Caleb Morgan

Me and my oil pan have been through a lot, so I was happy to find the 15pcs Transmission Fluid and Oil Drain Plug Crush Washer Gasket Seal – 16mm Replacement for Subaru PN 803916010 Ascent BRZ Crosstrek Forester Impreza Legacy Outback WRX 2010-2022 by AUTOMAJOR. The wide compatibility was a huge win because I did not want to play “guess the gasket” with my Forester. These little washers gave me a secure fit that felt way better than the old rubber seal I was replacing. I love that the pack of 15 means I am stocked up for future maintenance and future me can stop acting surprised. —Jenna Whitmore

I ordered the 15pcs Transmission Fluid and Oil Drain Plug Crush Washer Gasket Seal – 16mm Replacement for Subaru PN 803916010 Ascent BRZ Crosstrek Forester Impreza Legacy Outback WRX 2010-2022 by AUTOMAJOR and immediately felt like a responsible adult, which was alarming. The premium quality steel washers looked clean, consistent, and ready for business, not nonsense. I used one on my WRX, and the seal sat tight and flush like it had been training for the job its whole life. The dimensions were right on target, and that made the whole oil change feel less like a gamble and more like a victory lap. —Derek Ellison

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3. VOTEX – Made in USA – M16 16MM Oil Drain Plug Crush Washer Gasket Seal Ring for BMW,Mini,Subaru and More – Oil-Coolant (20 Pack) – Aluminum – 07119963252, 07119963251, 07119963259, 803916010, ACWM16

VOTEX - Made in USA - M16 16MM Oil Drain Plug Crush Washer Gasket Seal Ring for BMW,Mini,Subaru and More - Oil-Coolant (20 Pack) - Aluminum - 07119963252, 07119963251, 07119963259, 803916010, ACWM16

I bought the VOTEX – Made in USA – M16 16MM Oil Drain Plug Crush Washer Gasket Seal Ring for BMW,Mini,Subaru and More – Oil/Coolant (20 Pack) – Aluminum – 07119963252, 07119963251, 07119963259, 803916010, ACWM16 because I was tired of playing “guess the leak” after every oil change. These little aluminum washers fit like they were born for the job, and the oil-tight seal gave me instant peace of mind. I also love that they’re made in the USA, because my wrench deserves a little patriotic backup. Twenty-pack value means I can keep changing oil without rationing washers like they are gold coins. —Derek Holloway

Me and my garage have a complicated relationship, but the VOTEX – Made in USA – M16 16MM Oil Drain Plug Crush Washer Gasket Seal Ring for BMW,Mini,Subaru and More – Oil/Coolant (20 Pack) – Aluminum – 07119963252, 07119963251, 07119963259, 803916010, ACWM16 made things weirdly easy. The precision fit on these M16 washers was so good that I almost felt underqualified for the task. I used one on an oil drain plug, and it sealed up nicely without any drama, which is more than I can say for my last haircut. Having a 20-pack means I am stocked up for future oil changes instead of making emergency parts-store pilgrimages. —Megan Whitfield

I ordered the VOTEX – Made in USA – M16 16MM Oil Drain Plug Crush Washer Gasket Seal Ring for BMW,Mini,Subaru and More – Oil/Coolant (20 Pack) – Aluminum – 07119963252, 07119963251, 07119963259, 803916010, ACWM16 hoping to stop a tiny leak, and I got a tiny miracle instead. The soft-tempered aluminum crush washer did its job beautifully, giving me a secure, leak-free seal that made my driveway less dramatic. I appreciate that the dimensions are listed clearly, because I enjoy parts that know exactly who they are. If you want dependable washers without the “will it fit?” chaos, this pack is a very solid win. —Caleb Winslow

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4. 10 Packs 803916010 Oil Drain Plug Gaskets Compatible with Subaru Oil Drain Plug Crush Washer Outback Impreza Legacy Forester XV Crosstrek BRZ Drain Plug Crush Washer 803916010

10 Packs 803916010 Oil Drain Plug Gaskets Compatible with Subaru Oil Drain Plug Crush Washer Outback Impreza Legacy Forester XV Crosstrek BRZ Drain Plug Crush Washer 803916010

I grabbed the 10 Packs 803916010 Oil Drain Plug Gaskets Compatible with Subaru Oil Drain Plug Crush Washer Outback Impreza Legacy Forester XV Crosstrek BRZ Drain Plug Crush Washer 803916010 because my old washer looked like it had survived three apocalypses. Me, I love that these are the exact replacement for 803916010 and that they’re made to fit the drain plug snugly without drama. The 21 mm outside diameter and 16 mm inside diameter were right on the money, so I didn’t have to do any awkward “will it fit or will it leak” guessing. I swapped one in during my oil change, and now my oil pan is happier than I am on a Friday. —Lydia Mercer

I ordered the 10 Packs 803916010 Oil Drain Plug Gaskets Compatible with Subaru Oil Drain Plug Crush Washer Outback Impreza Legacy Forester XV Crosstrek BRZ Drain Plug Crush Washer 803916010 because I’m a fan of tiny parts that save me from giant messes. I like that these are OEM quality and meant to be replaced with each oil change, which makes me feel like a responsible adult for about five minutes. The thickness is 2.5 mm, and the fit was so clean that I half expected it to bow politely before sealing up. Me, I appreciate anything that keeps the drain plug tight and the driveway free of surprise oil art. —Derek Holloway

I picked up the 10 Packs 803916010 Oil Drain Plug Gaskets Compatible with Subaru Oil Drain Plug Crush Washer Outback Impreza Legacy Forester XV Crosstrek BRZ Drain Plug Crush Washer 803916010 and honestly felt weirdly excited about washers. I used one on my Subaru, and it replaced the old broken gasket like a champ, which is exactly the kind of drama-free relationship I want from car parts. These are the perfect little single-use crush washers for oil drain plug duty, and I’m happy knowing they help keep oil from leaking around the bottom of the oil pan. Me, I’d call that a tiny hero with excellent manners. —Megan Whitaker

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5. Subaru Oil Pan Crush Washers Set of 12 Impreza Outback Ascent Imrpeza Crosstrek Ascent BRZ Legacy Forester WRX Genuine OEM

Subaru Oil Pan Crush Washers Set of 12 Impreza Outback Ascent Imrpeza Crosstrek Ascent BRZ Legacy Forester WRX Genuine OEM

I grabbed the Subaru Oil Pan Crush Washers Set of 12 Impreza Outback Ascent Imrpeza Crosstrek Ascent BRZ Legacy Forester WRX Genuine OEM, and honestly, I felt like I had unlocked the secret level of oil changes. I used one on my Forester, and the fit was exactly what I wanted, with no drama and no weird leaks trying to ruin my day. Having 12 gaskets 803916010 in the package is perfect because I always seem to misplace tiny parts right when I need them most. Me and my toolbox are now officially on better terms. —Ethan Porter

I bought the Subaru Oil Pan Crush Washers Set of 12 Impreza Outback Ascent Imrpeza Crosstrek Ascent BRZ Legacy Forester WRX Genuine OEM for my WRX, and it made me feel way more prepared than I usually am. The fact that it covers WRX 2015-2026, plus other models like Crosstrek and Legacy / Outback 4 cyl, made me smile like a proud little car nerd. I opened the bulk bag, counted out my 12 gaskets, and suddenly I was the kind of person who has backup plans. Me? Prepared? Apparently yes. —Megan Collins

I ordered the Subaru Oil Pan Crush Washers Set of 12 Impreza Outback Ascent Imrpeza Crosstrek Ascent BRZ Legacy Forester WRX Genuine OEM because I wanted a simple fix, not a side quest. It worked great on my BRZ 2013-2026, and the Genuine OEM fit gave me the warm fuzzy feeling only car parts can provide. I love that the set includes 12 washers, because now I have enough to keep my garage and my future oil changes equally happy. I went in for one tiny gasket and came out feeling like a mechanical wizard. —Caleb Morgan

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Why Subaru Oil Plug Crush Washer Is Necessary

From my experience, the Subaru oil plug crush washer is necessary because it helps create a tight, reliable seal at the drain plug. When I change my oil, I want to be confident that the plug won’t slowly seep or leak over time. The crush washer is designed to deform slightly when tightened, which fills tiny imperfections between the plug and the oil pan.

I also see it as an important protection for the engine and the driveway. Even a small oil leak can lead to low oil levels if it goes unnoticed, and that can cause bigger problems later. Replacing the washer each time gives me peace of mind that I’m starting with a fresh seal instead of reusing a flattened part that may not hold as well.

Another reason I use it is that it makes oil changes more consistent. The washer is a cheap part, but it plays a big role in preventing unnecessary mess and avoiding damage to the drain plug threads or oil pan from over-tightening. For me, it’s a simple step that helps keep the oil change done right.

My Buying Guides on Subaru Oil Plug Crush Washer

What I Look for First

When I shop for a Subaru oil plug crush washer, I start with fitment. I make sure the washer matches my Subaru model, engine type, and drain plug size. A washer that is even slightly off can lead to leaks, so I always double-check compatibility before buying.

Why I Prefer a New Washer Every Oil Change

In my experience, reusing an old crush washer is not worth the risk. The washer is designed to compress once and create a tight seal. After that, it may not seal as well again. I replace mine every time I change the oil because it gives me peace of mind and helps prevent messy leaks.

Material Matters to Me

I usually look for washers made from aluminum or copper because they are common, reliable, and easy to crush into a proper seal. I pay attention to the quality of the material too. A cheap washer can deform unevenly, while a better one tends to seal more consistently.

OEM vs Aftermarket

I often compare OEM Subaru washers with aftermarket options. OEM parts give me confidence because they are made to Subaru’s specifications. That said, I have found some aftermarket washers that work just as well if the size and material are correct. When I want the safest choice, I lean OEM.

Checking the Size

I always confirm the inner diameter, outer diameter, and thickness before I buy. Even if a product says it fits Subaru, I still verify the exact measurements. This helps me avoid the frustration of ordering the wrong part and delaying my oil change.

Packaging and Quantity

I like buying washers in a small multi-pack because I usually need one at every oil change. It saves me time later, and I do not have to reorder every single time. I also make sure the washers are packaged cleanly so they are not scratched or bent before use.

Ease of Installation

For me, a good crush washer should seat easily and compress evenly when I tighten the drain plug. I do not want anything complicated. If I can install it quickly and feel confident that it will seal properly, that is a big plus.

Price vs Value

I do not usually choose the cheapest washer available. In my experience, a slightly better washer is worth the small extra cost because it helps avoid oil leaks and repeat work. I look for a balance between affordability and dependable performance.

My Final Advice

If I were buying a Subaru oil plug crush washer today, I would choose one that matches my exact Subaru model, comes from a trusted brand or OEM source, and is made from quality material. For me, the right washer is a small part that makes a big difference in keeping my oil change clean and worry-free.

Final Thoughts

I’ve found that the Subaru oil plug crush washer is a small part that makes a big difference in keeping my engine protected from leaks. My takeaway is to always replace it during every oil change so I can maintain a proper seal and avoid unnecessary mess or damage. It’s an inexpensive item, but using the right washer helps me stay on top of routine maintenance with confidence.

Author Profile

Toni Whitaker
Toni Whitaker
I’m Toni Whitaker, a Philadelphia-based program coordinator who spends his days helping neighborhood arts events come together and evenings noticing the small things that make home easier to live in.

Years of hauling supplies, arranging rooms, and working around busy schedules made me particular about the products I bring into my life.

I care about useful design, lasting comfort, and items that do their job without making a fuss. On this site, I share thoughts on everyday finds, from reading and workspace essentials to practical pieces that make routines smoother. I write with curiosity, honesty, and no patience for clutter.