How to Change the Oil in a 2013 Honda XR650L: Step-by-Step Guide
Shop parts for a 2013 Honda XR650L Dirt Bike.
Changing the oil in your 2013 Honda XR650L is a crucial maintenance step to keep your dirt bike running smooth and performing at its best. This guide is proprietary to MotoSport.com and provides everything you need to complete the job properly, including essential tools, model-specific tips, and a detailed process.
Tools & Supplies Needed
- 10mm and 12mm wrenches or sockets (for drain and filler bolts)
- 8mm or 5mm Allen key (for oil filter cover, depends on year and hardware)
- Drain pan
- Fresh oil (high-quality 10W-40 motorcycle oil; approximately 2.0 to 2.5 quarts)
- Replacement oil filter
- Funnel (long and narrow works best)
- Rags or shop towels
- Contact cleaner (for cleanup)
- Rubber gloves and safety glasses
- Crush washer (optional but recommended for the drain plug)
- Torque wrench (optional, for precise tightening)
Optional but recommended:– New magnetic drain bolts, and oil change kit for convenience.
Oil Change Interval
- First change– at 600 miles
- Regular interval– every 2,000–3,000 miles
The XR650L uses a dry-sump oiling system and both the crankcase and the frame hold oil. It's essential to drain both for a complete oil change. Always consult your manual for recommended intervals if you ride in severe conditions.
Step-By-Step Oil Change Instructions
-
Warm up the engine
- Run the bike for a few minutes. This ensures oil is thin and will drain thoroughly.
-
Turn off the engine and prepare
- Park on a level surface. Engage the side stand or a stand for stability.
- Wait a few minutes to let the oil settle into the case.
-
Remove the skid plate (if equipped)
- Some models may come with a skid plate or crash bar. Remove if it blocks access to drain plugs.
-
Remove oil fill cap/dipstick
- This step breaks the vacuum and allows the oil to drain freely.
- Position your drain pan under the frame and engine cases
-
Drain oil from both the crankcase and the frame
- The XR650L has a frame drain bolt under the front right of the down tube and a crankcase drain on the lower right side.
- Use a 12mm wrench or socket to loosen and remove both drain bolts together to allow all oil to leave the bike.
- Caution– Oil may spit out–have rags handy for quick cleanup.
-
Remove the oil filter cover
- Located on the right side of the engine. Use the appropriate Allen key (5mm or 8mm depending on hardware).
- Remove the cover and pull out the old oil filter.
- Have rags ready as some oil will spill out here, too.
-
Inspect and replace the oil filter
- Install a new oil filter, noting the orientation. Springs and O-rings must be seated correctly. (Most oil change kits include new O-rings and filters.)
- Clean the filter cover and reinstall. Tighten bolts evenly.
-
Reinstall the drain bolts
- Clean the mating surfaces and replace the crush washers on the bolts if available.
- Tighten both bolts to spec–usually about 18 lb-ft, but check manual for specifics.
-
Add new engine oil via the frame oil filler (use a funnel)
- The Honda manual specifies 2.04 US quarts (about 1.93 liters), but many users fill between 2.0 and 2.5 quarts to reach desired level on the dipstick. Fill slowly and check the level frequently.
- Use only motorcycle-specific 10W-40 oil (brands like Mobil 1, Castrol, Motul are recommended).
-
Check and adjust oil level
- Start the engine and let it run for a minute. Stop, then check the oil level again with the dipstick.
- Top up as needed, but do not overfill.
-
Cleanup and inspect for leaks
- Check drain and filter areas. Wipe all surfaces clean and confirm no oil is leaking.
-
Dispose of old oil and filter responsibly
- Take your used oil to a recycling center or designated collection point.
2013 Honda XR650L-Specific Call-Outs
-
Dual Oil Drains:– Remember to remove both the frame and crankcase drain bolts. Skipping either will leave old oil in the system.
Source:– "When you drain the oil, open the frame drain and case drain together allowing all the oil to leave the bike." -
Oil Quantity:– The debate about oil fill is common. Use between 2.0 and 2.5 US quarts and rely on your dipstick with the bike upright. Slight over– or under–filling can affect readings, so monitor the oil level after the first short ride.
Source:– "Manual specifies to replace 2.04 US Quarts during an oil change...stick between 2.0 and 2.5 quarts." -
Filter & Screen Maintenance:– Clean the oil screen every 3–4 oil changes, or during your first break-in change, for best engine protection. Most guides overlook the screen.
Source:– "Some videos neglect the oil screen which should be cleaned every 3-4 oil changes or during the break-in change." -
Correct Oil Type:– Use a good-quality 10W-40 motorcycle oil. Avoid auto oils–they may lack critical additives for motorcycle wet clutches.
Source:– "For engine oil, a high-quality 10W-40 motorcycle oil is ideal. Brands like Mobil 1, Castrol, and Motul are highly recommended..." -
Routine:– Follow the Honda service intervals. Change oil every 2,000–3,000 miles, or after heavy duty or dusty rides.
Source:– "For the XR650L, change the oil every 2,000 to 3,000 miles..."
Final Tips
- Take your time and work clean to avoid contaminating fresh oil.
- Dispose of fluid responsibly. Many auto parts stores accept used oil.
- Keep records of your service intervals for warranty and maintenance planning.
- Never skip the filter replacement—fresh oil does its best work with a clean filter.
- Check the air filter and other maintenance points while you're at it to keep your 2013 XR650L in top condition.
Related Shopping Categories
Shop Motor Oil for a 2013 Honda XR650L Dirt Bike.
Shop Oil Filters for a 2013 Honda XR650L Dirt Bike.
Shop Oil Drain Pans for a 2013 Honda XR650L Dirt Bike.
Shop Tools for a 2013 Honda XR650L Dirt Bike.
Shop Oil Fillers and Drain Plugs for a 2013 Honda XR650L 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.