How to Change the Oil in a 2016 Yamaha YZ250

Shop parts for a 2016 Yamaha YZ250 Dirt Bike.

The 2016 Yamaha YZ250 is a legendary two-stroke motocross bike, beloved for its agility, simplicity, and the unique thrill it offers. Routine gear oil changes are essential to keep your transmission and clutch performing smoothly, preserving the health and performance of your YZ250. Unlike four-strokes, the YZ250 does not use engine oil for combustion lubrication (that’s handled by pre-mix), but it does require regular transmission/gearbox oil changes. This step-by-step guide, proprietary to MotoSport.com, will walk you through all you need to know to complete the job right.

Tools and Supplies Needed

  • Socket wrench (with 12mm socket)
  • Drain pan (large enough to catch old oil)
  • New copper crush washer for drain bolt (recommended, not required but helps ensure a proper seal)
  • Clean funnel
  • Rag or shop towels
  • New transmission oil (High quality 2-stroke compatible gear oil, .85 US quarts/0.8 liters for the 2016 YZ250)
  • Torx/Allen wrench (if needed for certain aftermarket plugs)
  • Gloves (optional, keeps your hands clean)
  • Service manual or reference sheet (helpful to verify torque specs and capacity for your year and model)

Step-By-Step YZ250 Oil Change Instructions

  1. Warm Up the Engine
    • Start the bike and allow it to idle for about 2–3 minutes. Warming the engine thins the oil, helping it drain completely for a cleaner, more effective change.
      Tip: Don’t let it get hot; just warm enough so you can touch the cases.
  2. Prepare Your Work Area
    • Place the dirt bike upright on a suitable stand so it’s level and stable.
    • Slide the drain pan under the bottom of the engine, directly beneath the drain plug.
  3. Remove the Drain Plug
    • Using a 12mm socket or wrench, carefully loosen the drain bolt under the engine. Let the oil completely drain into the pan. Watch for the old copper washer – don’t lose it if you plan to reuse it, though a new one is advisable to help prevent leaks.
      Note: The 2016 YZ250 does not have a regular oil filter or strainer for gear oil; only the drain plug needs removing.
  4. Remove the Filler Cap
    • Take the transmission oil filler cap off (located on the right side of the engine case). This helps the oil drain by preventing a vacuum from forming.
  5. Inspect and Clean the Drain Plug
    • Inspect the drain plug and clean off any metal particles stuck to the magnetic tip with a rag.
    • If the old washer is damaged or flattened, install a new one. This is important for sealing.
  6. Reinstall the Drain Plug
    • Thread the drain bolt back by hand to avoid cross-threading, then tighten securely with the wrench. Do not overtighten; a typical torque spec is around 14 ft-lbs (check your manual for accuracy for your year).
  7. Pour in New Transmission Oil
    • Using a funnel, carefully pour in new gear oil. The 2016 YZ250 transmission typically takes 0.85 US quarts (about 0.8 liters).
      Call-out: Do not overfill. Use the sight glass or level check bolt (if equipped) to verify. Too much oil can cause clutch drag and transmission issues.
  8. Replace the Filler Cap
    • Wipe up any spilled oil and reinstall the filler plug.
  9. Check for Leaks and Confirm Oil Level
    • Start the bike and let it idle for a minute. Turn it off and check underneath and around the drain bolt and filler cap for leaks.
    • Re-check the gear oil level per the sight glass or inspection bolt if needed. Top off as necessary.
  10. Dispose of Old Oil Properly
    • Pour the used oil into a sealed container and take it to an approved recycling or waste facility. Never dump it outdoors.

2016 Yamaha YZ250 Oil Change Model-Specific Call-Outs

  • The 2016 YZ250 is a two-stroke. Only the transmission oil is changed—there is no engine oil or engine oil filter to replace as with four-strokes. Make sure you’re using proper two-stroke gear oil in the transmission compartment, not pre-mix for the fuel.
  • No oil filter to replace on a standard YZ250. Just clean the magnetic drain plug tip.
  • The gear oil capacity is 0.85 US quarts (0.8 liters); always confirm in your service manual for your specific year and usage.
  • Inspect the drain plug washer every time. If reused, it can leak; best practice is to replace with every oil change.

Pro Tips

  • Change gear oil regularly – every 5–10 hours of riding, or more often in muddy/extreme conditions.
  • Keep a log of changes and any performance notes to spot potential clutch or gearbox issues early.
  • If you ride in harsh conditions, consider changing the transmission oil after each major ride for maximum protection.

Keeping your 2016 Yamaha YZ250’s transmission oil fresh is the key to reliable, high-performance riding and a long-lasting clutch and gearbox. Sourced and written for 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.