How to Change the Oil in a 2013 Honda CRF250L – MotoSport.com Guide

Shop parts for a 2013 Honda CRF250L Dirt Bike.

Routine oil changes are crucial to maintaining the performance and durability of your 2013 Honda CRF250L. This step-by-step guide will walk you through the process, highlight the tools required, and offer model-specific tips to ensure your oil change is successful.

Tools & Supplies Needed

  • 8mm and 12mm sockets (preferably deep well)
  • Ratchet with extension
  • Torque wrench (optional but recommended for correct bolt tightness)
  • Allen key (if you need to remove the skid plate)
  • Oil catch pan
  • Rags or paper towels
  • Parts cleaning spray/contact cleaner (optional, for tidying up)
  • New oil filter (K&N 112 recommended or OEM equivalent)
  • New crush washer for the drain bolt
  • New oil filter gasket
  • 1.6 liters (1.7 US quarts) of 10W-30 or 10W-40 motorcycle oil

Preparation Steps

  • Warm up your bike by letting it idle for 3-5 minutes. Warm oil will drain more thoroughly.
  • Turn off the engine and place your Honda CRF250L on a stable surface or center stand.
  • If you have an aftermarket skid plate, remove it first to access the drain bolt easily. The OEM skid plate has a cutout for the drain plug, but some aftermarket versions may require complete removal due to oil catching on their wings.

  • Clean around the oil fill cap to avoid contamination when removing/filling oil.

Step-by-Step Oil Change Instructions

  • Position your oil catch pan under the engine drain bolt.
  • Remove the oil fill cap on the right side to allow oil to drain more freely.
  • Using your 12mm socket, loosen and remove the drain bolt at the bottom of the engine. Let all the oil drain completely.
    • Replace the crush washer with a new one to ensure a proper seal and avoid leaks.
  • Remove the three 8mm bolts holding on the oil filter cover (located on the right side of the engine).
  • Carefully pull off the oil filter cover—be mindful of the spring behind the cover.
  • Take out the old oil filter. Inspect and replace the oil filter gasket if necessary.
    • While it’s possible to reuse the gasket and crush washer a few times, Honda recommends replacing them with each oil change for optimal performance.

  • Clean the oil filter cover and the sealing surfaces with a rag or contact cleaner.
  • Install the new oil filter with the rubber grommet side facing the engine.
  • Reinstall the oil filter cover, ensuring the spring is in place, and tighten the bolts to the recommended torque—9 ft-lbs (about 12 Nm).

  • Reinstall the drain bolt with a new crush washer and tighten to the recommended specification—18 ft-lbs (about 25 Nm).
  • Add 1.6 liters (1.7 US quarts) of fresh oil through the oil fill port.
  • Replace the fill cap and clean up any spills.
  • Start the engine and let it idle for a couple of minutes, then turn it off and let it sit for another 3-5 minutes.
  • Check the oil level with the dipstick or sight glass (inspect on level ground, and add more if necessary).
  • Reinstall the skid plate if removed.
  • Properly dispose of your used oil and filter according to local regulations.

2013 Honda CRF250L Specific Call-Outs

  • The 2013 CRF250L shares its oil change procedure with other model years, but always verify oil capacity and torque settings in your owner’s manual or verified resources before starting.
  • Factory recommend first oil change at 600 miles, then every 8,000 miles or 12 months thereafter.

  • If you have an aftermarket skid plate, removal might be necessary to avoid making a mess, even though the stock plate has a convenient oil drain cutout.

  • Honda recommends routine inspection of O-rings, gaskets, and the crush washer at each oil change for best results and leak prevention.

  • Never over-tighten the drain bolt or oil filter cover—stick to the listed torque values to avoid damaging the threads or cover.

Final Tips

  • Carefully check for leaks around the drain bolt and oil filter area after the job is complete.
  • Run the engine briefly and re-check the oil level after a few minutes to ensure you filled it correctly.
  • Recycle old oil and filters responsibly.
  • For added safety, wear gloves and goggles during the procedure.

For the highest performance and protection, always use high-quality motorcycle-specific oil and OEM or equivalent parts. For more dirt bike maintenance tips and premium parts, visit MotoSport.com.

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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.