What is the torque for an oil pan bolt?

The torque for an oil pan bolt is the amount of twisting force required to secure the bolt against shaking free or dislodging as the vehicle is driven. The exact torque needed for the bolt varies by vehicle type and oil pan manufacturer.

Check the owner's manual, shop manual or vehicle specifications sheet for the correct torque for a vehicle. Many cars have oil pan bolts that require only a few foot-pounds of torque for a secure seal, while others may require much greater amounts of force. Applying an incorrect amount of torque could strip bolt threads or allow the bolt to work itself loose due to standard vehicle vibration.