How to Change the Oil in a 2016 Honda CRF250L: Step-by-Step Guide

Shop parts for a 2016 Honda CRF250L Dirt Bike.

Maintaining your 2016 Honda CRF250L is essential for peak performance and reliable riding. Changing your engine oil is one of the most important routine maintenance tasks and ensures your motor remains healthy for years to come. This guide, proprietary to MotoSport.com, will walk you step-by-step through the oil change process, including detailed call-outs specific to the 2016 CRF250L.

Tools and Supplies Needed

  • 8mm and 12mm socket (preferably deep well)
  • Ratchet
  • Torque wrench (recommended for proper tightening)
  • Allen key (to remove skid plate, if equipped)
  • New oil filter
  • New crush washer for oil drain plug
  • New oil filter gasket
  • Engine oil:– 10W-30, 1.6 US quarts (1.5 liters) when changing both oil and filter
  • Drain pan
  • Funnel
  • Paper towels or clean rags
  • Rubber gloves (optional, for cleanliness)
  • Contact cleaner (optional, for degreasing)
  • Safety glasses (optional)

Specific Call-Outs for the 2016 Honda CRF250L

  • The oil drain bolt uses a 12mm socket, and the oil filter cover bolts use an 8mm socket.
  • Ensure you install the oil filter with the "OUT-SIDE" mark facing outward, as incorrect installation can cause engine damage.
  • New crush washer and oil filter gasket are recommended by Honda at each oil change, though some riders reuse them a few times–new seals ensure the best protection against leaks.
  • The required torque for the drain bolt is 18 lbf·ft (24 Nm), and for the oil filter cover bolts it's 9 lbf·ft (12 Nm).
  • The recommended oil amount is 1.6 US quarts (1.5 liters) with filter change and 1.5 US quarts (1.4 liters) with oil only.
  • The recommended oil change interval is every 8,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first.
  • Some skid plates may block access to the drain plug or oil filter–stock plates allow access, but aftermarket models may need removal for clean work.

Step-by-Step Oil Change Procedure

  1. Warm Up the Engine
    • Start the engine and let it idle for 3–5 minutes to warm the oil for easier complete draining.
    • Turn off the bike and allow it to cool enough to safely touch the engine.
  2. Remove the Skid Plate (if equipped)
    • Use an Allen key to remove the bolts, if your CRF250L has a skid plate blocking the drain plug or oil filter.
  3. Drain Old Oil
    • Place a drain pan under the engine’s drain plug area.
    • Clean the area around the oil fill cap and remove it.
    • Using a 12mm socket, remove the oil drain bolt and crush washer.
    • Allow the oil to fully drain.
  4. Remove and Replace Oil Filter
    • Remove the oil filter cover bolts with an 8mm socket.
    • Carefully remove the cover, oil filter, gasket, and the spring underneath.
    • Install the new oil filter with the "OUT-SIDE" mark facing outward.
    • Place the spring into the oil filter cover, then a new oil filter gasket, and reinstall the cover.
    • Tighten oil filter cover bolts to 9 lbf·ft using a torque wrench.
  5. Reinstall Drain Plug
    • Install a new crush washer onto the cleaned drain bolt.
    • Tighten the drain bolt to 18 lbf·ft with a torque wrench.
  6. Add New Oil
    • Using a funnel, pour 1.6 US quarts (1.5 liters) of 10W-30 motorcycle oil into the oil fill hole.
    • Replace the oil fill cap.
  7. Check for Leaks and Oil Level
    • Start the engine and let it idle for 2-3 minutes.
    • Shut off the engine and let it sit for a minute before checking the oil level with the dipstick.
    • Top off as needed, but do not overfill.
    • Check under the bike and around the oil filter cover for leaks; tighten bolts gently if a leak appears.
  8. Dispose of Old Oil and Filter Properly
    • Take your used oil and filter to a proper recycling center.

2016 Honda CRF250L Oil Change Tips

  • Honda recommends using OEM or high-quality equivalent oil filters and gaskets for optimal engine safety.
  • Do not overtighten the drain bolt or filter cover bolts: use a torque wrench for best results.
  • If you ride in dusty or mud-heavy conditions, change the oil filter more frequently.
  • Aftermarket skid plates may need to be removed to avoid spills when extracting the filter.
  • Always consult your owner’s manual for reference and diagram for your specific bike year.

Conclusion

Changing the oil on your 2016 Honda CRF250L is a straightforward process with basic tools and maintenance supplies. Performing this task routinely will keep your dirt bike’s engine running smoothly and extend its life. For factory parts, oils, and all your maintenance needs, trust 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.