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Oil Change on an Aveo
Since the Aveo is a starter car for a lot of people, I thought it might be helpful to write up a How-To with pictures on Oil Changes. Exodus had a good write up, but for someone who has never changed their oil before, they probably need pictures. This is Aveo specific, and should be applicable for all 2004-2008 models. Hopefully, it will inspire at least 1 person with no car knowledge at all to change their oil on their car. Note: This may seem amateurish to probably 95% of the people on this board... but for that 5%, I hope it helps.
Oil Change on a 2007 Aveo in 12 easy steps. Aren't all 12 step programs easy?
Step 1. Buy/gather the products that you need.
1. Oil, 4 quarts of 5w30 (I use Mobil 1 5w30 full synthetic, any 5w30 will do)
2. Oil Filter (Mobil M-101 shown, other ones that work include Fram Ph3387A, DG3387A, AC/Delco PF47, STP S3387A, K&N HP-1001)
3. Towels, paper or cloth works fine
4. Socket Set with 17mm socket
5. Oil Wrench (shown 3 varieties, I prefer the adjustable plier type in the Aveo)
6. Drain pan
7. Safety Glasses
8. Gloves (not 100% necessary)
9. Light (flashlight, in this case, just in case the garage is dark
10. Funnel
11. Cardboard, to lie on/catch any oil spills
-Something to raise the front end a bit unless you’re skinny (I’m using ramps, wood blocks work just fine, jack stands are OK)
-Garage, or some other place to do it
-Crush washer
-Something to put the used oil in
Step 2. Let the car run for about 5 minutes idle, maybe a bit longer if it is cold outside. However, if you’ve just been out driving for awhile, let the car cool down for a half hour to an hour. You want the oil temperature above 100 degrees F, but not so hot that it will burn you when it’s coming out. Basically, you want the oil to flow as freely as possible.
Step 3. Raise the front end of the car. You can use ramps, wooden blocks, maybe jack stands (not really necessary). It doesn’t have to be much, just enough for you to get under the car. Make sure the parking brake is set. I find that ramps work alright with front wheel drive vehicles. They won’t work if you’ve got a body kit on though. Also, pop the hood. Now that you’re done driving for awhile, have a beer.
http://i272.photobucket.com/albums/j...k/PIC-0018.jpg
Step 4. Drain the oil. Use the 17mm socket to loosen the drain plug, and be prepared for a rush of oil. Here is the drain plug, there is a yellow line right above where it is. It is facing backwards. If your legs are sticking out from the front of the car, this is about what it should look like.
http://i272.photobucket.com/albums/j...k/PIC-0020.jpg
Make sure the drain pan is underneath the projected path of the oil. Now is a good time for gloves and goggles. Used motor oil is carcinogenic, so gloves aren’t a bad idea. Loosen the plug shown until you can do the rest by hand. As soon as you get the plug out, the oil will drain. Note the oil draining out, sorry for the bad camera work, cell phone cameras aren’t the greatest.
http://i272.photobucket.com/albums/j...k/PIC-0023.jpg
Let it drain for a few minutes. If you want, now is a great time for a beer or two. I chose a Sierra Nevada Bigfoot 2008.
http://i272.photobucket.com/albums/j...k/PIC-0025.jpg
Step 5. Pull off the old filter. This can be somewhat difficult to do. I like using the adjustable plier type wrench. It is easier to use from underneath the car, especially since clearance near the fan isn’t great. Note the position of the filter from above. I couldn’t get a great shot of it, but you’ll see it to the left and below the yellow dipstick. It should be marked as an oil filter. Mine is black, but some are orange with black, some are white. It all depends on the manufacturer.
http://i272.photobucket.com/albums/j...k/PIC-0017.jpg
Overall, it’s not too bad to get at. The spider type filter wrench will definitely get any filter off though, so that’s not a bad investment. And for the really inexperienced, it is screwed on, so when I say “pull it off”, I mean unscrew it. Just look at the new filter you bought and you will understand.
Make sure to have the cardboard and drain pan underneath the filter when you pull it off, because some oil is still inside the filter. I like to loosen the filter with a wrench from underneath the car, then take it off by hand from the top. This is probably the most difficult part of the job. Once you’re done, it’s all downhill from there. Have a beer to celebrate being done with the most difficult part.
Step 6. Put the drain plug back on. Again, use the 17mm socket to tighten the drain plug. Some models require a crush washer. If that’s the case, put a new one on before tightening. Below is the drain plug and crush washer so you know what they look like.
http://i272.photobucket.com/albums/j...k/PIC-0024.jpg
Step 7. Lube the new filter. Open up your oil, and put some oil on your finger. Then take your lubed finger and run it around the rubber gasket of the new filter. This ensures a tight fit and that no leaking will occur (hopefully).
http://i272.photobucket.com/albums/j...k/PIC-0027.jpg
You may also want to add a bit of oil inside it so that theres a bit of oil in it when you start the engine. This is tough to do though because the filter lies horizontal in the engine.
Step 8. Attach the new filter. Again, just screw it on. You can hand tighten it if you want. To be on the safe side, maybe just a little turn from your filter wrench to make sure its secure wouldn’t hurt.
Step 9. Fill the crank case. The Aveo uses 4 quarts. Use the funnel to ensure there is no spilling. Note the measuring strip on the side of the oil container.
http://i272.photobucket.com/albums/j...k/PIC-0028.jpg
Step 10. Get your Aveo off the blocks/ramp and let it run for a minute or two to make sure everything is good and there are no leaks. Now park the car on level ground, shut off the engine, and check the oil level. It should be right in between the “MIN” and “MAX” indications on the dipstick.
Step 11. Dispose of the used oil and clean up. You can pour the used motor oil back into an empty container. I use a 5 gallon gasoline container that is clearly labeled “USED MOTOR OIL”. In the state of New York, I believe it is required that any institution that sells motor oil must take used motor oil for recycling. This means any gas station, auto parts store, even Wal-Mart should take used motor oil. I use a 5 gallon gas container because most places have a 5 gallon limit.
In Florida where I live currently, I believe Advance Auto Parts will take up to 5 gallons to recycle at a time.
THROWING AWAY OR DUMPING USED MOTOR OIL IS ILLEGAL.
Step 12. Celebrate with used motor oil, or beer that looks like it. I chose Bell’s Double Cream Stout to honor our many members from the state of Michigan. Michigan sure knows how to brew. And enjoy the sunset, despite me having taking pictures with my cell phone.
http://i272.photobucket.com/albums/j...k/PIC-0030.jpg
http://i272.photobucket.com/albums/j...k/PIC-0032.jpg
Note: Feel free to correct anything. I'm no mechanic by any means. Just trying to be helpful. Hopefully this won't be my last How-To. I'm planning on manual gear oil change How To, but considering I'm only at 5000 miles, it might be awhile.
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Re: Oil Change on an Aveo
Helpful hint to add. If you do not have a oil filter wrench, get a screwdriver and a mallet. Hammer the screwdriver into the old oil filter and turn it that way. I have had to do that on quite a few cars.
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Re: Oil Change on an Aveo
wow...even an action shot of the oil draining from the pan...nice...
I'm concerned about those ramps...be careful under there...
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Re: Oil Change on an Aveo
Quote:
Step 1. Buy/gather the products that you need.
1. Oil, 4 quarts of 5w30 (I use Mobil 1 5w30 full synthetic, any 5w30 will do)
2. Oil Filter (Mobil M-101 shown, other ones that work include Fram Ph3387A, DG3387A, AC/Delco PF47, STP S3387A, K&N HP-1001)
3. Towels, paper or cloth works fine
4. Socket Set with 17mm socket
5. Oil Wrench (shown 3 varieties, I prefer the adjustable plier type in the Aveo)
6. Drain pan
7. Safety Glasses
8. Gloves (not 100% necessary)
9. Light (flashlight, in this case, just in case the garage is dark
10. Funnel
11. Cardboard, to lie on/catch any oil spills
-Something to raise the front end a bit unless you’re skinny (I’m using ramps, wood blocks work just fine, jack stands are OK)
-Garage, or some other place to do it
-Crush washer
-Something to put the used oil in
Missed one thing, BEER! You do display it but you do have to add it to the list man! :)
Nice writeup! Just a note on adding oil to the filter seal... This also prevents the rubber from sticking and cracking (hence providing a good seal like you mentioned!). You can also add regular grease to the rubber seal!
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Re: Oil Change on an Aveo
I personally just use 2 staggered wood blocks nailed together on the passenger wheel only, I find it is better for draining to have only the passenger side raised.
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Re: Oil Change on an Aveo
I dont even get as far as the staggered wood blocks. I lay on my back on the garage floor, stuff the drain pan underneath, drain the oil, remove the filter, drink a can of coke and smoke a cigarette, replace the drain plug, install the new filter, pour in the new oil, check oil level, start engine and check for leaks, turn off motor, recheck oil level, smoke another cigarette, pull drain pan from underneath car, close hood, wash hands, and then have another can of coke.
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Re: Oil Change on an Aveo
Quote:
Originally Posted by NYChevoo
I dont even get as far as the staggered wood blocks. I lay on my back on the garage floor, stuff the drain pan underneath, drain the oil, remove the filter, drink a can of coke and smoke a cigarette, replace the drain plug, install the new filter, pour in the new oil, check oil level, start engine and check for leaks, turn off motor, recheck oil level, smoke another cigarette, pull drain pan from underneath car, close hood, wash hands, and then have another can of coke.
I see one problem. Too much Coke, not enough beers... :lol: :twisted:
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Re: Oil Change on an Aveo
Thanks for the writeup! I believe it was well done. I bought the Aveo5 since it seemed that most of the oil parts were accesible... ever try changing the oil filter on a sunfire? Ouch... all the way at the back of the engine between the firewall. My 85 trans am was the easiest oil change. I appreciate the pictures too since I learn better by seeing then reading. But several steps I never did while changing oil... drinking beer. I believe this might add some of the enjoyment into doing manual labor!
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Re: Oil Change on an Aveo
What an excellent write up!
I am going to attempt this for the first time (I am woman enough to admit I am part of that 5% :mrgreen: )
There's a first time for everything ;-)
Not sure about the beer though...
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Re: Oil Change on an Aveo
Changed mine for the first time two weeks ago, same as any other oil change I've done but that oil filter was a bitch to get off!, the oil change monkey at the dealership must have not put a little oil around the seal and cranked it on with the wrench!... All my oil changes up til now were only $10.00 each at the GM dealership I bought it from (they gave me a bunch of coupons when I bought it new).
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Re: Oil Change on an Aveo
i got tired of paying $36.00 per oil change and started doing it myself.
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Re: Oil Change on an Aveo
LMAO..I just got ****ED and never got kissed!!! $57.00 for an oil change with the "synthetic blend" it wasn't even full syn oil...Looks like I'll be doing it myself from now on.
It'll still be cheaper if I do it myself and use full syn oil..LOL
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Re: Oil Change on an Aveo
i bring my oil and filter to a local tire and lube shop, and they do it for $10. the best part of it is that its like a drive thru. i never have to get out of the car, and only takes about 10 min per car.
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Re: Oil Change on an Aveo
I used to work at Autozone and every month they have at least one oil change special 5quarts plus a filter. Usually they have a crappy brand and then at least one full synthetic or blend on sale. Just an FYI to save some $$.
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Re: Oil Change on an Aveo
Just an update... The crush washer is 1/2 inch in size, and made out of metal. They should have a selection of crush washers at your local auto parts store. I don't have a GM parts number, but as long as you know 1/2 inch and metal (might be brass? I'm not sure) you should be alright. I picked up a 3 pack from autozone for around $4.
And yes, the deal from advance auto parts is pretty good- 5qts of synthetic + a synthetic brand filter for $29.99. I'm currently trying out the 0w-30 oil (mobil 1 advanced fuel economy) to see if it actually makes a difference. Yeah, I'm probably throwing my money away, but I'll let you guys know the results when i'm all done.
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Re: Oil Change on an Aveo
If you car has always had in regular oil and have a decent amount of mileage, the quick switch to synthetic will do more harm than good. If you ran synthetic the entire time, you are fine.
Yes the washer is brass. It is meant to be a one time use washer although many (including myself) re-use it.
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Re: Oil Change on an Aveo
all the money you saved on the oil change will go to the tow truck as it looks like your parked in a painted spot...
:D
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Re: Oil Change on an Aveo
Quote:
Originally Posted by gsills
all the money you saved on the oil change will go to the tow truck as it looks like your parked in a painted spot...
:D
Now that's funny! :lol:
PS Fighting Irish... has your mileage improved?
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Re: Oil Change on an Aveo
Usually when I change my oil, it costs more but I usually dump at least 1 quart through the motor and let it drain out to help flush what's left of the contaminents of your used oil out of your engine. I was also taught when I was a kid that everytime you change your oil, grease your front end.
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Re: Oil Change on an Aveo
Quote:
Originally Posted by Wolfman AK907
I was also taught when I was a kid that everytime you change your oil, grease your front end.
I assume that has to do with where you live because it is excessive. It isnt a bad thing, just not necessary to do it that frequently for 99% of people.
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Re: Oil Change on an Aveo
The cold does tend to make bushings and "biscuts" crack more easily, but I was taught that when I lived in Florida. you could have your whole front end greased in the time it takes for all the oil to drain and it's a good habit that could save you a lot of money later. Cuz seriously, who remembers to grease their front-end? lol
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Re: Oil Change on an Aveo
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Re: Oil Change on an Aveo
:lol: Didn't even think of that you perv :lol:
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Re: Oil Change on an Aveo
Haha well you said.... grease your front end... not me :lol: :lol:
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Re: Oil Change on an Aveo
Quote:
Originally Posted by atcovan
Quote:
Originally Posted by gsills
all the money you saved on the oil change will go to the tow truck as it looks like your parked in a painted spot...
:D
Now that's funny! :lol:
PS Fighting Irish... has your mileage improved?
So the stats are in- for the life of the car so far @25,154 miles, I've acheived 30.84mpg. I drive in the city 44%, highway 56%.
While using Mobil1 Advanced Fuel Economy 0w30, I acheived an average over 5000 miles of 32.83mpg. So initially, it would appear that it does get better mileage... however, take the following into consideration:
-the first 10,000 miles, the engine was still being broken IMO- I was averaging 29.71mpg during the first 10k miles.
-the next 10k miles, I averaged 31.07mpg. If you compare this to the 32.83mpg that I acheived while using the 0w30, it is a 5.6% increase in fuel economy. However, during the 10k-20k mile range on my ODO, I was doing about 55% of my driving on the highway. I was driving about 66% highway mileage during the 0w30 test period.
So overall, it's pretty much a wash. It's tough to tell if it really had any effect at all, seeing as most of the first 20k miles of the car it was being driven to and from school. The past 5k miles were being driven to and from "work", a much longer drive and on the highway more. I'll know a bit better after the next 5k miles seeing as I put Mobil1 5w30 back in it and i'm doing a pretty similar drive everyday as I was during the 0w30 test period.
My best guess is about a 2% increase in MPG, a bit less than a 1mpg increase. Just by looking at the raw data (yeah I've managed to record all 84 trips to the gas station since I owned the car... can you say anal?), it seems probable that it would be between a 2-3% increase in mileage if all factors were equal. I could get all fancy and pull out some statistical formulas, but I don't have time for that. That said, if you were to run 0w30 for 100k miles, you'd pick up an extra 2k miles probably... which would save you about $200. However, the extra money spent on the oil itself would negate that if you're used to buying conventional anyways.
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Re: Oil Change on an Aveo
Thanks for the update Irish, not a lot people have the patience to keep track of all that stuff.
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Re: Oil Change on an Aveo
I've been looking for this. No more sitting for an hour while the discount place screws around with my Aveo...
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Re: Oil Change on an Aveo
i do my own chngs on the 06..my 2010 has a dern canister filter deal but i will do it too
chevy messed up a good thing by chnging the canister
.why are u using the crush washer bak in day some models use to hav a plastic deal
but on our pans its not needed(i promise)
and i too fancy dark beers
has anyone tried yuenglings black & tan
its great
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Re: Oil Change on an Aveo
Thanks for the good write up and pics! I didn't know that the crush washer had to be changed each time the oil was changed? I've never done it, and no oil has leaked so far---so thanks for the tip on that! I use a Fram oil filter so it's easier to remove by hand (patented Sure Grip) instead of using a filter wrench.
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Re: Oil Change on an Aveo
Quote:
Originally Posted by little monster
Thanks for the writeup! I believe it was well done. I bought the Aveo5 since it seemed that most of the oil parts were accesible... ever try changing the oil filter on a sunfire? Ouch... all the way at the back of the engine between the firewall. My 85 trans am was the easiest oil change. I appreciate the pictures too since I learn better by seeing then reading. But several steps I never did while changing oil... drinking beer. I believe this might add some of the enjoyment into doing manual labor!
As you mentioned, like you, the accessibility and ease of changing oil was a primary reason I bought an Aveo5. What you described with the Sunfire oil filter being underneath at the firewall is also peculiar to Hondas - and the reason I will never own one! Toyotas are also usually easy for routine maintenance, with the filter located right under the hood.
If you are skinny enough there is no need to jack up the car, you can just slide under it enough to get at the drain plug. The Aveo stands higher off the ground than a Honda Fit or a Toyota Yaris, so that helps, too.
I don't drink anything while I'm changing oil. I'm not very good at multitasking. :? :mrgreen:
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Re: Oil Change on an Aveo
Quote:
Originally Posted by Thymeclock
I don't drink anything while I'm changing oil. I'm not very good at multitasking. :? :mrgreen:
Would You end up with an engine full of beer and a trip to the hospital?! :p
With simple maintenance I almost always drink beer.
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Re: Oil Change on an Aveo
Quote:
Originally Posted by petrified.rabbit
Quote:
Originally Posted by Thymeclock
I don't drink anything while I'm changing oil. I'm not very good at multitasking. :? :mrgreen:
Would You end up with an engine full of beer and a trip to the hospital?! :p
With simple maintenance I almost always drink beer.
No, I just don't like to eat or drink while I work. I prefer to focus on the task at hand.
Different strokes for different folks. :)
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Re: Oil Change on an Aveo
Quote:
Originally Posted by petrified.rabbit
Quote:
Originally Posted by Thymeclock
Would You end up with an engine full of beer and a trip to the hospital?! :p
With simple maintenance I almost always drink beer.
It's almost as bad as my uncle and one of his in-laws... While changing engine oil, they drained transmission oil and "topped off" the engine... Driving with a double the amount of engine oil in it and no transmission oil didn't get him very far...
Good thing there was a transmission shop nearby...
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Re: Oil Change on an Aveo
Quote:
Originally Posted by serega12
Quote:
Originally Posted by petrified.rabbit
Quote:
Originally Posted by Thymeclock
Would You end up with an engine full of beer and a trip to the hospital?! :p
With simple maintenance I almost always drink beer.
It's almost as bad as my uncle and one of his in-laws... While changing engine oil, they drained transmission oil and "topped off" the engine... Driving with a double the amount of engine oil in it and no transmission oil didn't get him very far...
Good thing there was a transmission shop nearby...
FWIW your quote of me is a misquote. :cry: Someone else said that, not me.
I guess you meant to express what too much beer might do if you're not paying attention to the task at hand. 8-[ Which is why I don't drink while I'm working. :mrgreen:
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Re: Oil Change on an Aveo
Sometimes the only way to get through a job on the car is to have a beer or two. Its like red bull for mechanics
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I have a Question for you. I have A 2009 aveo. it looks the same but, I have a paper insert type filter other that the canster type. and last time i did my oil i noticed the drain plug washer is paper. it was slightly cracked but i still used it. now i have to do my oil again soon and before i do it I was going to get a new washer. I was woundering if you would happen to know the size of washer. I see this is an older thread, but if you happen to see this and possibly know the size and if the metal washer could replace my paper one let me know. And if anyone has a 2009 aveo is your washer also paper.
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those ramps will surprise you I had the same set that i used on my 2005 ford expedition 4x4 never had a peroblem at all just use your head and inspect them for cracks wich can happen and youll be fine
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Hi, tks to the information i found here, I have just made oil change to my aveo and I did everything fine.
I bought the ramps like yours at autozone. They are great.
I bought acdelco oil 5w 30, ac delco oil filter, acdelco air filter, fram a/c cabin filter, and..........
fuel filter. but, there is one problem I couldn't find the fuel filter in my aveo.
They (gm) sold me the parts and they said I also needed the fuel filter.
I have a question and I hope you can help me.
Does a 2008 LT aveo sedan 1.6 use fuel filter? Is it serviciable? or is it internal filter like fuel pump?
was I scammed buying the acdelco fuel filter?
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Even with the engine drained and a new filter, mine still won't take more than 3.5 quarts. I still buy the 5 quart bottle because it's cheaper than 4 individual quarts. I use about a quart to "rinse" the pan once it's fully drained, and save half a quart just in case.
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Quote:
Originally Posted by
MrGrumpy89
I have a Question for you. I have A 2009 aveo. it looks the same but, I have a paper insert type filter other that the canster type. and last time i did my oil i noticed the drain plug washer is paper. it was slightly cracked but i still used it. now i have to do my oil again soon and before i do it I was going to get a new washer. I was woundering if you would happen to know the size of washer. I see this is an older thread, but if you happen to see this and possibly know the size and if the metal washer could replace my paper one let me know. And if anyone has a 2009 aveo is your washer also paper.
I have the same car, but when I changed the oil last fall I don't recall the drain plug gasket being "paper". Usually they are brass (if metal) or nylon or teflon. A fiber washer will also work. Another option is to get a piece of vellumoid and cut your own washer. The only thing that matters is that it doesn't leak. If I think of it when I change my oil next week I'll tell you what mine is.