Removing The Cr-Z Oil Pan Cap: Step-By-Step Guide

The Honda CR-Z has an M14-1.5mm oil pan drain plug. To remove the oil pan cap, you will need a 17mm socket and ratchet. You should also have a Phillips screwdriver, a flat-head screwdriver or panel tool, a funnel, drain pan, oil filter wrench, jack, jack stands, and a new crush washer. Before you begin, allow your car to cool down. Block off the rear wheels, jack up the car, and support it with jack stands. Remove the air diversion panel by carefully prying on the centre ring to remove the two plastic fast clips on the front side. Remove the two plastic screws on the rear side, then remove the four screws on each side (eight total). Open the oil cap, then remove the 17mm nut on the bottom side of the engine. You will see stamped lettering and an arrow pointing to the proper bolt to remove.

Remove the air diversion panel

To remove the air diversion panel, you will need a flat-head screwdriver or a panel tool.

First, remove the two plastic "fast clips" on the front side of the panel by prying carefully on the center ring. Then, remove the two plastic screws on the rear side. Finally, remove the four screws on each side of the panel (eight in total).

Some models may have an additional screw on the passenger side, one-third back from the front of the panel, bringing the total number of screws to nine. There are also four plastic push pins at the front of the panel, two of which are recessed and harder to access. At the rear of the panel, you will find two plastic push pin seats with small Phillips-head screws in the middle.

When reassembling the panel, it is recommended to slightly screw in the metal screws first and then insert the push pins before tightening the screws.

Remove the oil cap

To remove the oil cap from your Honda CR-Z, follow these steps:

First, ensure your car is cool—not cold, just cool. Block off the rear wheels, then jack up the car and support it with jack stands. Remove the air diversion panel by carefully prying on the centre ring of the two plastic "fast clips" on the front side. Remove the two plastic screws on the rear side, then remove the four screws on each side (eight total).

Now, open the oil cap. You will see stamped lettering and an arrow pointing to the proper bolt to remove. This is a 17mm nut on the bottom side of the engine. Remove this with a 17mm socket and ratchet.

Once you have removed this bolt, you can drain the oil pan and take off the oil filter.

Drain the oil pan

To drain the oil pan of your Honda CR-Z, follow these steps:

Step 1: Prepare the car

Let the car cool down after driving. Block off the rear wheels, then jack up the car and support it with jack stands.

Step 2: Remove the air diversion panel

Remove two plastic "fast clips" on the front side by carefully prying on the center ring. Remove two plastic screws on the rear side. Remove four screws on each side (eight total).

Step 3: Open the oil cap

This will allow the oil to drain more easily when you remove the oil pan cap.

Step 4: Locate the oil pan cap

You will see stamped lettering and an arrow pointing to the proper bolt to remove. The bolt is a 17mm nut on the bottom side of the engine.

Step 5: Drain the oil

Place a drain pan under the oil pan cap to catch the oil. Remove the oil pan cap with a 17mm socket and ratchet. Allow the oil to drain completely.

Step 6: Remove the oil filter

The oil filter is located inside the oil pan. Remove it and allow the oil to drain from it as well.

Step 7: Clean the oil pan

Use a solvent to clean all sealing surfaces and remove any gasket residue. Also, clean the inside of the oil pan and inspect it for cracks or damage.

Step 8: Install a new gasket

Apply a thin coat of grease to the new gasket and install it according to the instructions.

Step 9: Reinstall the oil pan

Torque the oil pan bolts to the specified tightness in a spiral pattern, starting in the center.

Step 10: Refill the crankcase with oil

Add the recommended amount of oil for your Honda CR-Z, typically around 3.6 quarts.

Step 11: Reattach the oil pan cap

Make sure the oil pan cap is tight to prevent leaks.

Step 12: Start the car and check for leaks

Let the car run for a few minutes and inspect for any leaks around the oil pan. If no leaks are detected, you have successfully drained and refilled your oil pan.

Remove the oil filter

To remove the oil filter from a Honda CR-Z, you will first need to locate the oil filter. This can be found by consulting your car's manual or by searching online for the make and model of your car. Once you have located the oil filter, follow these steps:

• Place a drain pan or container under the oil filter to catch any oil that may spill.
• Using an oil filter wrench or a strap wrench, loosen the oil filter by turning it counterclockwise. If you are using a strap wrench, be sure to tighten it securely around the oil filter before turning.
• Continue turning the oil filter counterclockwise until it is completely removed from the engine. You may need to apply some force as the filter can be tight.
• Once the oil filter is removed, wipe down the mounting surface with a clean cloth to remove any residual oil or debris.
• Inspect the old oil filter for any signs of damage or excessive wear. If the filter is heavily clogged or damaged, it is important to replace it with a new one.
• Before installing the new oil filter, apply a thin coat of new engine oil to the rubber gasket on the filter. This will help create a seal and prevent leaks.
• Screw the new oil filter into place by hand, turning it clockwise. Ensure that the filter is securely tightened but be careful not to overtighten it as this can damage the gasket and cause leaks.

It is important to dispose of used oil and oil filters properly. Used motor oil can be recycled at many auto parts stores or local recycling centers. Alternatively, you can store the used oil in a sealed container and dispose of it at a later date. Oil filters can also be recycled, but be sure to drain them of excess oil first.

When choosing a replacement oil filter for your Honda CR-Z, it is recommended to use a genuine Honda oil filter or a high-quality aftermarket option from a reputable brand. Some popular choices include Mobil Oil, Purolator, K&N, and ACDelco. It is also important to change your oil filter at regular intervals, typically every 5,000 to 10,000 miles or as recommended by your car's manufacturer.

Re-attach the oil pan

To re-attach the oil pan of your Honda CR-Z, you will need the following tools: a 17mm socket and ratchet, a Phillips screwdriver, a flat-head screwdriver or panel tool, a funnel, a drain pan, an oil filter wrench, shop or paper towels, a jack, and jack stands. You will also need a new crush washer for the drain bolt.

• Let the car cool down before starting.
• Block the rear wheels and jack up the car, then support it with jack stands.
• Remove the air diversion panel by carefully prying on the center ring to remove the two plastic "fast clips" on the front side. Remove the two plastic screws on the rear side and the four screws on each side (eight in total).
• Open the oil cap.
• Remove the 17mm nut on the bottom side of the engine. You will see stamped lettering and an arrow pointing to the proper bolt to remove.
• Install the new crush washer on the drain bolt and put it back on. Tighten it by hand; do not overtighten with a wrench, as this can strip the bolt.
• Refill the oil to the recommended level (3.6 quarts for the Honda CR-Z).
• Replace the oil cap.
• Start the car and let it run for a while, then check the oil level. It should be between the two tick marks. Add more oil if necessary.
• Put the panels back on.

By following these steps, you can securely re-attach the oil pan on your Honda CR-Z, ensuring a proper seal and avoiding any leaks.

Frequently asked questions