How to Change the Oil in a 2016 Honda CRF450R: A MotoSport.com How-To Guide

Shop parts for a 2016 Honda CRF450R Dirt Bike.

Changing the oil on your 2016 Honda CRF450R is a crucial maintenance task that keeps your engine in optimum condition and prolongs its lifespan. Whether you're an experienced rider or new to dirt bike maintenance, this guide will walk you step-by-step through a robust and safe oil change. Follow these instructions for a hassle-free process and make sure your bike is always ready to ride hard.

Tools and Supplies You'll Need

  • 10mm socket or wrench (for oil filter cover and skid plate removal)
  • 10mm Allen wrench (for engine oil drain bolt)
  • Drain pan (sized appropriately for motorcycle use)
  • Funnel for clean oil fill
  • Gloves and shop rags (to keep hands clean and wipe up spills)
  • Torque wrench
  • Replacement crush washer or sealing washer (for drain bolts)
  • New oil filter (Honda OEM or quality aftermarket replacement)
  • New engine oil (Honda GN4 10W-40 or similar, check manual for specs)
  • New O-ring for oil filter cap (if needed)

Preparation Steps

  • Start the bike and let it run for a few minutes. This warms the oil, helping it drain out smoothly and fully.
    Tip: Always perform oil changes with the bike on level ground, using a quality stand for stability.
  • Remove any skid plate or engine guard if your bike has one. On the CRF450R, this typically involves three 10mm bolts: left, right, and bottom.
  • Turn the engine off and ensure the ignition is off before you start draining fluids.

Oil Change Instructions (2016 Honda CRF450R Specific)

  1. Locate the Engine Oil Drain Bolt:
    • The engine oil drain is found beneath the engine. Use a 10mm Allen wrench to loosen and remove the drain plug. Place your drain pan directly beneath before removal to catch all the oil.
    • There are two main drain bolts on the CRF450R: one for engine oil (side of engine/stator case) and one for transmission oil (behind the shift lever, do not confuse them).
  2. Drain the Oil:
    • Allow all the oil to fully drain–from both the engine and the transmission if changing both. Wait several minutes to ensure complete drainage.
    • Remove the old sealing washer; replace with a new crush washer to ensure a perfect seal and avoid leaks.
  3. Remove the Oil Filter:
    • Take off the oil filter cover (behind the stater case), noting the location of the bolts–there may be different lengths.
    • Pull out the oil filter and inspect for any metallic debris, which could indicate engine wear.
    • Remove the oil filter spring as well, taking care to keep the assembly order correct.
  4. Install New Oil Filter and Parts:
    • Fit a new O-ring on the oil filter cap if the old one is worn.
    • Install the new oil filter and oil filter spring as removed, seating everything snugly.
    • Hand-tighten the filter cover bolts and torque to Honda specs: do not exceed 10 Nm, as these bolts strip easily.
  5. Reinstall Drain Bolts:
    • With new crush washers, reinstall engine and transmission drain bolts.
    • Torque each bolt to 16 Nm as specified by Honda. Be precise; over-tightening can damage threads.
  6. Fill Engine with New Oil:
    • Use a funnel to pour in recommended engine oil. For the 2016 CRF450R, fill to the high mark on the sight glass while the bike is on a level surface. Always double-check your owner's manual for exact quantity (typically about 1 quart, but verify for your model year).
    • Replace the filler cap securely.
  7. Start and Check:
    • Start the engine and let it idle for 3–5 minutes–this allows oil to circulate and the filter to saturate.
    • Stop engine, let it sit 2 minutes, then check oil level again. Top up as needed to bring to proper level on the sight glass.
  8. Final Inspection:
    • Wipe down any spilled oil, inspect for drips or leaks at the drain plug and oil filter cover.
    • Reinstall the skid plate/engine guard.

Special Model-Year Callouts for the 2016 Honda CRF450R

  • Be sure to use the correct drain bolt: The CRF450R has distinct drain plugs for the engine (side of engine/stator case) and the transmission (behind shift lever)–do not confuse them.
  • Torque specs are critical: Over-torquing drain plugs or filter cover bolts can easily strip aluminum threads, a common issue on CRF engines.
  • Always use a new crush washer and check the drain plug and filter O-ring for wear every change to avoid leaks.
  • Check oil for metal shavings: Newer bikes may show some on the first couple of changes. Excessive or persistent filings should prompt further engine inspection.

Conclusion

Changing the oil in your 2016 Honda CRF450R is straightforward with the right tools, the correct replacement parts, and by following these model-specific tips. Regular oil and filter changes will keep your bike running strong on the track or the trail. For the full range of Honda CRF oils, filters, and tools, MotoSport.com offers everything you need in one convenient place—so keep spinning those wrenches and enjoy every ride with confidence.

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Shop Oil Fillers and Drain Plugs for a 2016 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.