How to Change the Oil in a 2012 Honda CRF450R: A Complete Guide
Shop parts for a 2012 Honda CRF450R Dirt Bike.
Regular oil changes are crucial for ensuring peak performance and longevity of your 2012 Honda CRF450R. Honda recommends changing the oil and filter every six races or after 15 hours of use, but always consult your owner's manual for your exact usage.
Tools and Parts Needed
- 8mm and 10mm sockets
- Socket wrench/ratchet
- Honda 20W-50 motor oil (650 ml)
- Genuine Honda oil filter
- New crush washer for drain bolt
- New O-ring for oil filter cover
- Oil drain pan
- Clean rags
- Funnel (optional, for easier pouring)
- Torque wrench (for specific torque settings)
Preparation
- Start the bike and let it warm up for a few minutes. Warm oil drains faster and more completely.
- Turn off the engine, place the bike on a suitable stand, and ensure it is upright and stable.
- Lay out all the necessary tools and supplies within reach.
Step-By-Step Oil Change Procedure for the 2012 CRF450R
- Remove the Left Engine Guard
- Use the correct size socket (usually 8mm or 10mm) to unbolt and remove the left side engine guard. This provides access to the oil filter cover.
Model-specific tip:– The CRF450R engine guard is straightforward to remove with basic hand tools. Keep the bolts in a safe place as you—ll need to reinstall them.
- Use the correct size socket (usually 8mm or 10mm) to unbolt and remove the left side engine guard. This provides access to the oil filter cover.
- Remove the Oil Filler Cap
- This allows air to flow through the system, helping the oil drain out more quickly and completely.
On the 2012 model, the filler cap is located on top of the left side of the engine.
- This allows air to flow through the system, helping the oil drain out more quickly and completely.
- Drain Old Oil
- Place an oil drain pan beneath the engine.
- Remove the 10mm oil drain bolt (and crush washer) from the lower rear of the crankcase.
Specific call-out:– The 2012 CRF450R—s oil drain bolt is located directly under the engine. Be careful not to overtighten when reinstalling–thread damage is a common mistake.
- Allow all the oil to drain. This may take several minutes.
- Place an oil drain pan beneath the engine.
- Remove and Replace the Oil Filter
- Locate the oil filter cover held with two bolts (typically 8mm or 10mm). Remove the cover.
Model note:– The oil filter cover retains a spring behind the filter; take care not to lose it. One of the cover bolts is shorter; remember its location.
- Remove the old oil filter. Inspect the filter for debris or irregularities.
- Replace with a new filter. Ensure the open end of the filter faces out.
- Locate the oil filter cover held with two bolts (typically 8mm or 10mm). Remove the cover.
- Replace O-Rings and Crush Washers
- Install a new O-ring on the filter cover if needed.
- Install a new crush washer on the drain bolt.
- Install a new O-ring on the filter cover if needed.
- Reinstall Filter Cover and Drain Bolt
- Reinstall the oil filter cover and torque the bolts to 9 foot-pounds.
- Reinstall and hand-tighten the drain bolt first; then torque to Honda—s specified value (consult your service manual, often 12–18 ft-lb).
- Reinstall the oil filter cover and torque the bolts to 9 foot-pounds.
- Replace the Engine Guard
- Reinstall the left engine guard and tighten the mounting bolts securely.
- Add New Oil
- Pour in 650 ml of Honda 20W-50 motor oil.
Note:– Some riders use 10W-40 for high temperatures, but always choose a motorcycle-specific oil.
- Use a funnel to avoid spills. Replace the filler cap when finished.
- Pour in 650 ml of Honda 20W-50 motor oil.
- Check Oil Level
- Run the engine for a few minutes and let it settle. Turn off the bike and ensure it—s upright.
- With the bike on level ground, check the oil level using the sight glass (just below the oil filter cover). Add oil incrementally if necessary, but do not overfill.
Model-Specific Tips for the 2012 CRF450R
- If over-tightened, the 2012 CRF450R—s drain bolt threads can strip–always use a torque wrench.
- This model uses a shared engine and transmission oil cavity, so a single oil change service covers both areas.
- Replace O-rings and crush washers at every change for the best seal.
- Dispose of old oil and filters at an approved recycling location.
Maintenance and Interval Reminders
- Change oil every 15 hours or six races for optimum performance.
- Use high-quality motorcycle-specific oil to protect your engine under extreme conditions.
- Frequent oil and filter changes are especially important if riding in dusty or harsh conditions.
Proper maintenance with the correct oils and procedures keeps your 2012 Honda CRF450R running at peak performance on the track or trail. For all replacement parts, fluids, and detailed service items, trust MotoSport.com—your expert source for everything dirt bike.
Related Shopping Categories
Shop Motor Oil for a 2012 Honda CRF450R Dirt Bike.
Shop Oil Filters for a 2012 Honda CRF450R Dirt Bike.
Shop Oil Drain Pans for a 2012 Honda CRF450R Dirt Bike.
Shop Tools for a 2012 Honda CRF450R Dirt Bike.
Shop Oil Fillers and Drain Plugs for a 2012 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.