How to Change the Oil in a 2009 Honda CRF450R

Shop parts for a 2009 Honda CRF450R Dirt Bike.

Changing the oil in your 2009 Honda CRF450R is an essential maintenance task to enhance engine longevity and maximize performance on the track or trail. With scheduled changes recommended every 15 hours or after every six races, following these steps ensures your bike receives the protection and care it deserves.

Tools and Materials Needed

  • 8mm and 10mm sockets
  • Ratchet wrench
  • Honda oil filter (specific to CRF450R 2009)
  • Honda 20W-50 motor oil (or oil weight recommended in your owner's manual)
  • New crush washer
  • New O-ring (recommended, if damaged during disassembly)
  • Oil drain pan
  • Funnel
  • Rags or shop towels
  • Flathead screwdriver (for oil filler cap, if needed)

Step-by-Step Oil Change Process

  • Warm up the engine:
    • Start the bike and let it idle for a couple of minutes. This helps the oil flow out more easily during draining.
  • Stabilize and prep your bike:
    • Place the bike securely on a stand with a drain pan underneath the engine.
    • Remove skid plate, if installed, for easy access to the drain bolt.
  • Remove the left engine guard:
    • Use the 8mm socket to remove the bolts holding the left side engine guard, providing access to the oil filter cover.
  • Remove the oil filler cap:
    • Loosen the cap using a flathead screwdriver if required. Removing the cap allows air into the crankcase, speeding up oil drainage.
      Tip: Always remove the filler cap before draining the oil for a more thorough change.
  • Drain the old engine oil:
    • Locate the 10mm oil drain bolt at the lower rear side of the crankcase.
    • Place the oil drain pan beneath the bolt, remove it, along with the crush washer, and let the oil flow out completely.
    • Inspect the crush washer and replace it if deformed.
  • Remove and replace the oil filter:
    • Unbolt the oil filter cover using the 8mm socket.
    • Take out the old oil filter and O-ring (replace the O-ring if it's damaged).
    • Insert the new oil filter in the correct orientation.
      Call-out: The filter orientation is critical — check your manual or old filter position to avoid incorrect installation.
  • Reinstall the oil filter cover:
    • Fit the cover back and tighten the bolts to 9 ft-lbs of torque.
  • Reattach the engine guard:
    • Secure the left engine guard using the previously removed bolts with the 8mm socket.
  • Refill with new oil:
    • Place a funnel in the filler neck and pour in Honda 20W-50 oil, starting with 1.0 quart and checking the level.
    • The 2009 CRF450R's oil capacity is approximately 1.2 quarts– add the remainder if needed.
  • Check the oil level:
    • Check the oil level through the sight glass in the crankcase cover (just below the oil filter cover).
    • Top up if necessary. Avoid overfilling — it’s always better to add a little at a time and check.
  • Final checks:
    • Tighten the filler cap securely.
    • Start the bike and let it run for 2 minutes, then turn it off and let it sit for a minute. Recheck the oil level and top off if needed.
    • Wipe off any spills and inspect for leaks around the drain bolt and oil cover.

CRF450R-Specific Owner Tips

  • The drain bolt takes the brunt of thread wear. Always replace the crush washer to minimize leaks and avoid over-torquing, which can strip threads in the aluminum case.
  • Oil changes are quick — usually under 15 minutes if you have all your materials ready.
  • Be sure to differentiate between the engine oil drain bolt and the transmission drain bolt if you reference guides for similar year bikes. For the CRF450R, the engine and transmission share the same oil on this model.
  • Use high-quality oil filters and OEM-specified oil for best performance and clutch life.
  • If riding in muddy or sandy environments frequently, shorten your oil change intervals for added protection.

Dispose of Used Oil Responsibly

  • Pour used oil into a sealed container and take it to your local recycling center. Never dump oil on the ground or in the trash.

For a complete selection of OEM oil filters, Honda-specific oil, and the best maintenance products, check MotoSport.com for everything you need to service your 2009 CRF450R and keep it running at peak performance.

This guide is proprietary to MotoSport.com and tailored specifically for the 2009 Honda CRF450R.

Related Shopping Categories

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Shop Oil Fillers and Drain Plugs for a 2009 Honda CRF450R Dirt Bike.

Disclaimer: This guide is provided for general informational purposes only and is not intended to replace your motorcycle's official owner's manual. Always refer to your manufacturer's documentation for model-specific instructions, torque specifications, safety procedures, and maintenance requirements. If you are unsure or inexperienced, consider seeking assistance from a qualified mechanic or technician.