How to change the oil in a 2017 Honda CRF250L RALLY Dirt Bike

How to Change the Oil in a 2017 Honda CRF250L Rally: A Complete MotoSport.com Guide

Shop parts for a 2017 Honda CRF250L Rally Dirt Bike.

Regular oil changes are vital for keeping your 2017 Honda CRF250L Rally running at peak performance and prolonging engine life. This step-by-step guide is tailored specifically for this model and year, giving you all the proprietary advice you need right here at MotoSport.com.

Tools and Supplies You’ll Need

• 8mm and 12mm sockets (deep well recommended)
• Ratchet
• Torque wrench (optional but recommended)
• Allen key (to remove the skid plate, if equipped)
• Oil catch pan
• Funnel
• Pliers or screwdriver for hose clamps, if necessary
• Rubber gloves and safety glasses
• Shop rags or paper towels
• Contact cleaner (for any spilled oil or grime)
• OEM or high-quality oil filter
• Replacement oil filter gasket
• Crush washer for the drain bolt
• 1.6 quarts of 10W-30 motorcycle oil (Honda recommends 10W-30, JASO MA compliant)
• Replacement drain bolt (optional, magnetic drain bolts are recommended for extra engine protection)

Preliminary Notes (CRF250L Rally Model Specifics)

• Honda recommends the first oil change after 600 miles, then every 8,000 miles or annually, whichever comes first.
• This process also applies to the base CRF250L; however, the Rally’s skid plate and plastics may differ, requiring slightly more time to access the drain bolt and filter area.

Step-By-Step Oil Change Instructions

1. Prepare Your Work Area and Bike

• Ensure your bike is safely supported on a level surface, using a bike stand if available.
• If the engine is cold, start it and let it idle for 3–5 minutes to warm up the oil. This helps the old oil drain more thoroughly.
  “If the engine is cold, crank up the bike and let it idle for 3-5 minutes.”
  

• Remove any engine guards or skid plates using an Allen key or appropriate socket to access the drain plug and oil filter housing.
  “Start by removing the engine guard and/or skid plate…”
  

2. Remove the Oil Filler Cap

• Clean the area around the oil filler cap with a rag and contact cleaner to prevent dirt contamination.
• Twist off the oil filler cap (on the right side of the engine) and set it aside. This allows air to enter as the oil drains, speeding the process.

3. Place the Oil Catch Pan and Drain Old Oil

• Position your catch pan directly beneath the drain bolt.
• Using a 12mm socket, loosen and remove the oil drain bolt and crush washer (located on the bottom left of the engine). Watch out for hot oil.
• Allow all oil to fully drain—this can take a few minutes.
  “Remove engine drain bolt with crush washer and allow the engine oil to drain completely.”
  

• If needed, tilt the bike slightly upright to ensure all oil exits.

4. Replace the Oil Filter

• With the oil still draining, use an 8mm socket to unscrew the three oil filter cover bolts, found just above the drain bolt.
• Remove the filter cover. Be mindful of the old gasket and the spring behind the filter—it may stick or pop out.
• Take out the used oil filter. Inspect it for signs of metal shavings or unusual debris.
• Wipe the filter housing and cover clean with a rag. Remove the old gasket (if present) and discard it.
• Lubricate the new gasket with fresh oil and fit it onto the filter cover.
• Insert the new oil filter with the rubber side facing outward (check your filter for markings to confirm direction).
• Replace the spring (if applicable) and carefully reinstall the oil filter cover.
• Tighten the cover bolts in sequence. Do not overtighten; hand snug is sufficient, or reference your owner’s manual for specific torque specifications.

5. Reinstall the Drain Bolt

• Install a new crush washer on the drain bolt (reuse only if new is unavailable, but this can risk leaks).
• Thread in the drain bolt by hand to prevent cross-threading, then torque it to the recommended specification (check your service manual, but 18 lb-ft is typical for Honda drain bolts).

6. Add Fresh Oil

• Place your funnel into the fill port.
• Pour in 1.6 quarts (1.5 liters) of 10W-30 motorcycle oil. Pour slowly to avoid spilling or overfilling.
  “You'll also need 1.6 qts of 10w30 motor oil and an oil catch pan.”
  

• Reinstall the oil filler cap, making sure it seats and seals properly.

7. Start The Engine and Check For Leaks

• Start the bike and let it idle for 1–2 minutes. Visually inspect the drain plug and oil filter area for leaks.
• Shut off the engine, let it sit for a minute, then check the oil level via the sight glass or dipstick as detailed in your owner’s manual.
• If the oil is below the upper mark, add a little at a time until correct. Avoid overfilling.

2017 Honda CRF250L Rally Model-Specific Callouts

• Some Rally models come with an extended skid plate compared to the regular CRF250L, making removal slightly more involved. Use care not to strip plastic fasteners.
• The 2017 model specifically holds 1.6 quarts when replacing filter. If oil is changed without filter, use the lower fill amount specified in your manual.
• Always confirm the oil filter orientation—installing it backward may restrict oil flow and damage your engine.
• Use a fresh crush washer each oil change to prevent slow leaks. Inspect the drain bolt and consider a magnetic one for extra security.

Disposal and Final Steps

• Dispose of old oil and filter at an appropriate recycling facility. Do not pour oil onto the ground or in the trash.
• Reinstall any skid plates or plastics.
• Clean up all tools and any drips on your garage floor.

By following these detailed steps, you ensure your Honda CRF250L Rally continues performing as Honda intended. MotoSport.com is here to make maintenance simple, safe, and satisfying with all the quality parts, tools, and advice you need.

Related Shopping Categories

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Shop Tools for a 2017 Honda CRF250L Rally Dirt Bike.

Shop Oil Filler and Drain Plugs for a 2017 Honda CRF250L Rally 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.