2006 Vue V6 AWD... Do I need an oil drain plug GASKET?

[molinee]

I have read some of the older threads but it appears that no one knows for sure. When changing oil do I need to use a new drain plug GASKET? I see they sell them for the 4 cylinders but have found nothing for the V6 so wondering if they even make them. In fact not even sure there is one on mine since I have not started it yet but don't want to be suprised.
Any help appreciated.

[molinee]

Just called two local Saturn dealers and one said.... Oh yeah, you have to replace it for sure and the other dealer said.... We only replace them if they are damaged..... Go figure! Either way they run about $1 so might as well pick up a couple :)

[burnout]

Honda's rule is and always has been to change them at every oil change. They're UNDER a buck at my local honda dealer so I always pick(ed) up 3-5 when I'm out. They are the same for basically every honda motor that has been made since the late 80's I believe, probably even earlier.

Technically they are one time use crush washers, but they can be used indefinitely I suppose without any ill-effects...

[revue]

I've never replaced the washer on my 04 3.5 and it doesn't leak.
They do tend to fall off into the drain pan when the drain plug is removed tho.

[vue04]

It's a good idea to replace it. Once crushed it's not as tight the next time you use it. So everytime you tighten it, it's going to pull the threads in (since no more crush room). Eventually it's not going to tighten and you need to repair the threads or replace the pan. It's a known Honda problem.

http://www.artsautomotive.com/HondaOilPan.htm

Your choice to save a few cents...Good Luck

[BobbyP]

Fumoto valve...

http://www.fumotousa.com/

No more washers and you can change your oil with no tools. The Fram synthetic oil filters have that great grip finish that works so well I don't need a filter wrench/cap...

Get the one with the nipple fitting and use a hose for drip controlled oil changes. No spilled oil.

[Ritz]

Fumoto valve...

http://www.fumotousa.com/

No more washers and you can change your oil with no tools. The Fram synthetic oil filters have that great grip finish that works so well I don't need a filter wrench/cap...

Get the one with the nipple fitting and use a hose for drip controlled oil changes. No spilled oil.

Fumoto = awesome
Fram = skip and get a quality filter (Fram is garbage) <--google this and you'll see

For what it's worth, I've never changed the "gasket" on mine and it doesn't leak after 5 oil changes so far.

Cheers,

[WarnsVue06]

Fumoto valve...

http://www.fumotousa.com/

No more washers and you can change your oil with no tools....
.....
Get the one with the nipple fitting and use a hose for drip controlled oil changes. No spilled oil.

x3



The Fram synthetic oil filters have that great grip finish that works so well I don't need a filter wrench/cap...


x2, they are crap, use Mobile 1 or AC Delco filters..

[BobbyP]

x3


x2, they are crap, use Mobile 1 or AC Delco filters..

These are the $10 filters from Fram rated for 7500 miles, not the orange filters of death.

The Fram Extended Guard oil filters use synthetic media, metal end caps, and check valve.

My UOA's bear out that they've been doing an excellent job.

I already have 6 Mobil 1 filters for the next round of oil changes...

[burnout]

I have a brand new fumoto for a V6 vue sitting in my garage (including the brass extension)... Throw me a price if you're interested...

[BobbyP]

These are the $10 filters from Fram rated for 7500 miles, not the orange filters of death.

The Fram Extended Guard oil filters use synthetic media, metal end caps, and check valve.

My UOA's bear out that they've been doing an excellent job.

I already have 6 Mobil 1 filters for the next round of oil changes...

My current UOA...

http://www.saturnfans.com/photos/data/500/thumbs/VUE_Oil_3s-large.jpg (http://www.saturnfans.com/photos/showphoto.php?photo=47910)

[wolfman]

I have done every oil change my 2005 4cyl has ever had. It still has the OEM "gasket" with no leaks, damage, or other issues. Of course I don't torque the drain plug down to Oh-wow either...

[1saxman]

The L81 3.0L engine has an O-ring in a groove on the plug - lasts forever.