How to Change the Oil in a 2016 Honda CRF250R
Shop parts for a 2016 Honda CRF250R Dirt Bike.
Regular oil changes are crucial for keeping your Honda CRF250R running at peak performance. Whether you’re prepping for your next ride or doing annual maintenance, follow this comprehensive, proprietary MotoSport.com how-to guide to get the job done right the first time. This guide is designed specifically for the 2016 Honda CRF250R but is applicable to most CRF250R models from similar years.
Tools and Supplies Needed
- Socket wrench set (including 8mm and 12mm sockets)
- Torque wrench
- Oil drain pan
- Clean rags or shop towels
- Funnel
- New engine oil (Honda GN4 10W-40 or equivalent; check your owner’s manual for confirmation)
- New oil filter (Honda OEM #15410-KYJ-901 or equivalent for 2016 CRF250R)
- Oil filter cover gasket or O-ring (recommended if the old one is worn or damaged)
- Gloves (recommended)
- Service stand (optional, but makes drains easier)
Preparation
- Warm up the engine by letting your bike idle for about 3–5 minutes. This helps the oil flow out more easily and ensures contaminants are removed.
- Shut off the engine and allow it to sit for 2–3 minutes so the engine is warm but not dangerously hot to touch.
- Place your bike upright on a stand to ensure a full drain.
Step-by-Step Oil Change Instructions
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Remove the Skid Plate (if equipped):
- Use a 10mm socket to remove the skid plate for easier access to the drain plug if necessary.
- Some models might have guards or covers. Remove as required.
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Locate and Remove the Drain Plug:
- Locate the engine oil drain plug underneath the engine, slightly to the side. The drain plug is a 12mm bolt near the lowest point of the crankcase.
- Place your oil drain pan under the drain plug.
- Use your 12mm socket to carefully loosen and remove the drain plug. Allow the old oil to completely drain into the pan.
- Inspect the drained oil for excessive metal or debris, which can indicate wear.
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Remove the Oil Filter:
- Locate the oil filter cover on the right side of the engine, held by two 8mm bolts. Loosen and carefully remove the bolts, then the cover.
- Remove the old oil filter and set it aside. Inspect the filter for abnormal metal shavings.
- Check the condition of the filter cover O-ring; replace it if damaged or excessively compressed.
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Install the New Oil Filter:
- Lubricate the O-ring on the new oil filter with a little fresh oil.
- Install the new filter, ensuring correct orientation (spring-side in, if applicable).
- Reattach the filter cover with the 8mm bolts. Tighten bolts evenly; do not overtighten to avoid bolt stripping. Recommended torque is typically around 9 N·m (80 in-lbf), but check your manual to confirm.
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Reinstall the Drain Plug:
- Install a new crush washer (if equipped) onto the drain plug for a secure seal.
- Hand-thread the drain plug, then torque it to specification (typically around 18 N·m/13 lbf·ft, but verify for your model).
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Refill with Fresh Oil:
- Locate and remove the oil filler cap/dipstick on the right side of the crankcase.
- Place a funnel in the oil fill hole and pour in fresh oil slowly. Initial fill quantity is approximately 1.0 liter (1.06 US qt) for an oil and filter change, but always double-check your owner's manual for confirmation (Honda recommends oil changes every 6,000km/4,000mi, but racers may change more often) .
- Do not overfill. It's best to add a bit less than the full amount, then top off after checking the level.
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Check Oil Level and Top Off:
- Reinstall the oil filler cap and start the bike. Let it idle for a few minutes to circulate the oil through the filter and passages .
- Turn the bike off and let it sit for a minute so the oil drains back down.
- With the bike on level ground, remove the dipstick/filler cap, wipe it clean, reinsert (do not thread in), then check the oil level. Add oil if needed, repeating the on/off process until oil reaches the upper mark without exceeding it .
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Final Inspection:
- Check for leaks around the drain plug and oil filter cover.
- Wipe off any spilled oil and reinstall the skid plate or guards.
- Properly dispose of used oil and the old filter, following local recycling regulations.
Specific 2016 Honda CRF250R Call-Outs and Tips
- Separate Transmission/Engine Oil: Older Honda CRF250Rs have separate engine and transmission oil compartments. For the 2016 CRF250R, refer to your manual: many modern CRF250Rs share a combined engine/transmission oil system—always double-check your service manual if unsure .
- Avoid Overfilling: Adding oil until it comes out of the check hole is safer than trusting the exact quantity, because even small oil overfills can affect engine performance .
- Run and Recheck: After the initial run and cool-down, the oil level may drop as the oil filter and passages fill; always perform your final level check at this stage .
- Torque Spec Verification: Always use a torque wrench set to Honda’s specifications when tightening bolts to avoid stripped threads or oil leaks.
Conclusion
Changing the oil on your 2016 CRF250R is a straightforward process that, when performed regularly, protects your engine from premature wear and ensures optimum riding performance. Always check your Honda owner’s manual for precise oil type, capacity, and torque specs, and reach out to MotoSport.com for genuine OEM parts and riding gear needs.
Related Shopping Categories
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Shop Oil Drain Pans for a 2016 Honda CRF250R Dirt Bike.
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Shop Oil Fillers and Drain Plugs for a 2016 Honda CRF250R 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.