Dorman 090-178CD Magnetic Transmission Drain Plug Review
By SellySell Editorial Team | Last updated: June 11, 2026
The Dorman 090-178CD magnetic transmission drain plug is made as a replacement drain plug for select Acura and Honda applications. It uses a magnetic tip to help collect ferrous metal particles from transmission fluid. Because drain plug fitment depends on the exact vehicle and transmission, check the Amazon fitment tool, owner’s manual, or OEM part reference before buying.
Verdict
The Dorman 090-178CD is a practical choice if your Acura or Honda transmission uses this plug size and style. Its main benefit is simple: the magnetic face can catch small ferrous particles during normal service. Confirm thread size, washer requirements, and torque spec for your vehicle before installation.
Key Specs
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Brand | Dorman |
| Model | 090-178CD |
| ASIN | B07QLN2W2W |
| Product Type | Magnetic transmission drain plug |
| Thread Size | Listed in the source article as M14x1.5. Confirm against your vehicle before buying. |
| Approximate Length | The source article gives mixed length details, including about 18 mm overall length and 12 mm thread length. Verify on the current listing or with the OEM spec. |
| Hex / Tool Size | The source article gives mixed tool details. Confirm the correct socket or wrench size before service. |
| Washer / Seal | Use the correct sealing washer or crush washer for your vehicle. Replace the washer if the service manual calls for it. |
| Compatibility | Select Acura and Honda models. Verify year, make, model, trim, and transmission before purchase. |
What Is This Product?
The Dorman 090-178CD is a replacement magnetic transmission drain plug. It is designed to seal the transmission drain opening while using a magnet to collect ferrous metal particles that can appear in fluid during normal wear.
It is not a universal part. The plug must match the transmission’s thread size, seating surface, washer type, and torque requirement. If those details do not match, it can leak or damage the threads.
Who It Is For
- Owners of compatible Acura or Honda vehicles who want a direct replacement drain plug.
- DIY users who already follow the vehicle service manual for fluid changes.
- Drivers who want a magnetic plug to help monitor metal debris during transmission maintenance.
- Shops that need an affordable replacement part for supported applications.
Who Should Skip It
- Anyone who cannot confirm fitment for the exact vehicle and transmission.
- Owners of aftermarket transmissions unless the transmission maker confirms the same plug spec.
- Users looking for a universal drain plug.
- Anyone expecting the plug to fix internal transmission wear or fluid contamination by itself.
Key Features
Magnetic Tip
The main feature is the magnetic face. It helps collect ferrous particles from the transmission fluid. This can make fluid changes more informative because the magnet shows how much metal debris has collected since the last service.
Replacement Fit for Select Vehicles
The article identifies this part as a replacement for select Acura and Honda applications. Still, exact fitment is vehicle-specific. Check the Amazon fitment tool, the Dorman listing, or your service manual before ordering.
Thread and Sealing Surface
The source article lists M14x1.5 thread sizing and a 14 mm sealing washer reference. Because the article also includes conflicting tool and length details, treat those numbers as a starting point only. Confirm the current listing and OEM specs before installation.
Corrosion-Resistant Body
The article describes the plug as using a corrosion-resistant alloy body. That matters because drain plugs are exposed to fluid, heat cycles, and repeated service. Inspect the threads and sealing face at every fluid change.
Real-World Use
In normal service, this plug is removed during a transmission fluid change, cleaned, inspected, and reinstalled if it is still in good condition. Wipe the magnet clean and look for unusual metal buildup. A light coating of fine material can be normal, but large chips or heavy debris may point to a transmission problem.
Installation should be careful and simple. Start the plug by hand to reduce cross-thread risk. Use the correct washer. Tighten it with a torque wrench to the vehicle’s service manual value. The source article gives a general range of 20 to 30 Nm for similar plugs, but the correct number is the OEM spec for your exact vehicle.
Prepare the vehicle and workspace before service: lift safely, keep the vehicle level, use jack stands or a lift, and have a drain pan, rags, correct tool, sealing washer, and torque wrench ready.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Magnetic face helps collect ferrous particles during normal transmission service
- Made as a replacement part for select Acura and Honda applications
- Simple part that can be inspected and cleaned at each fluid change
Cons
- Fitment must be confirmed before purchase because it is not universal
- The source article gives mixed size and tool details, so buyers should verify the current listing
- A new washer or gasket may be needed for proper sealing
Is It Worth the Price?
The Dorman 090-178CD is worth considering if it matches your vehicle and you want a magnetic drain plug instead of a plain replacement plug. Its value comes from easy inspection, metal particle capture, and direct replacement design for supported applications.
Do not buy it only because the model number looks close. Confirm the thread, washer, fitment, and torque spec first. A low-cost drain plug is only a good value when it seals correctly and fits the transmission without forcing the threads.
Alternatives to Consider
These similar products may be worth comparing for fitment and specifications. Do not treat them as direct substitutes unless your vehicle or transmission spec confirms compatibility.
- OEM Honda transmission drain plug: Best choice when you want the factory-specified replacement part.
- Dorman magnetic drain plug alternatives: Dorman offers other magnetic drain plugs for different applications.
- Gold Plug magnetic drain plug: A common aftermarket name for magnetic drain plugs, but fitment must be checked by vehicle and thread size.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will This Drain Plug Affect My Vehicle’s Warranty?
A replacement drain plug should not void a warranty by itself. Warranty issues usually depend on the part used, the installation, and whether the part caused damage. Keep records of the part number, fitment check, fluid service, washer used, and torque spec.
Is the Plug Reusable After Multiple Fluid Changes?
It may be reused if the threads, magnet, and sealing face are still in good condition. Inspect it at each service. Replace it if the threads are damaged, the sealing face is worn, or the magnet is loose or damaged.
Does It Come With a Magnetic Drain Plug Gasket?
The source article states that a magnetic drain plug gasket is not included. Use the correct crush washer or sealing washer for your vehicle. Replacing the washer during service is often the safest way to reduce leak risk.
Is the Plug Compatible With Aftermarket Transmissions?
Do not assume aftermarket transmission compatibility. Match the thread size, pitch, sealing surface, plug length, and torque spec to the aftermarket transmission maker’s requirements.
Can I Use This Plug With Synthetic Transmission Fluid?
Yes, if the plug is compatible with the vehicle and transmission. The drain plug does not change the fluid type required by the vehicle. Always use the transmission fluid specified in the owner’s manual or service manual.
What Torque Should I Use?
Use the OEM torque value for your exact vehicle and transmission. The source article mentions a typical range of 20 to 30 Nm for similar plugs, but that is not a substitute for the service manual.
How Often Should I Clean the Magnet?
Clean the magnet every time the transmission fluid is changed. Wipe away the collected particles and inspect the magnet before reinstalling the plug.
Final Verdict
The Dorman 090-178CD is a useful replacement part for the right Acura or Honda transmission. Its magnetic face can help collect ferrous particles, and the part is simple to inspect during routine fluid changes. The most important step is fitment verification. Confirm the current listing, thread size, washer requirement, and OEM torque spec before buying or installing it.
