How to Change the Oil in a 2017 Honda CRF450R

Shop parts for a 2017 Honda CRF450R Dirt Bike.

Keeping your 2017 Honda CRF450R running at peak performance means sticking to a regular oil change routine. Honda recommends an oil and oil filter change every six races or every 15 hours of riding, but many riders opt for more frequent changes, especially after hard use or in demanding conditions. Here’s your MotoSport.com proprietary step-by-step guide to changing the oil on your 2017 CRF450R, including tools required, detailed directions, and model-specific considerations.

Tools and Supplies Needed

  • 8mm socket
  • 10mm socket or wrench
  • Ratchet
  • Drain pan
  • New Honda oil filter
  • Honda 20W-50 engine oil (use the weight recommended in your manual for your temperature and riding conditions)
  • New crush washer for the drain bolt
  • New O-ring (if needed for the oil filter cover)
  • Funnel
  • Torque wrench
  • Clean shop rags
  • Gloves and safety glasses (for protection)
  • Service manual (always helpful for reference)

Model-Specific Call-Outs for the 2017 CRF450R

  • Single oil chamber:– Unlike previous years, the 2017 model uses a single oil circuit for both engine and transmission. You only need to change one oil type, simplifying the process.
  • Sight glass:– The 2017 CRF450R features a sight glass just below the oil filter cover for checking the oil level—ensure it’s level with the lower edge when the bike is upright on stand or level ground.
  • Proper torque:– Overtightening oil-related bolts can damage threads; use manufacturer-specified torque settings.
  • Filter access:– The oil filter is located behind the left engine guard and cover, requiring removal of these parts for access.

Step-by-Step Oil Change Instructions

  1. Warm Up the Engine
    • Start the engine and let it idle for a few minutes. Warm oil drains faster and more completely.
    • Shut off the bike and set it on a stable stand or level ground.
  2. Remove the Left Engine Guard
    • Using your 8mm socket, remove the bolts securing the left engine guard for access to the oil filter cover.
  3. Remove the Oil Filler Cap
    • Loosen and remove the oil filler cap on the left side of the engine. This allows air inside and helps the oil drain smoothly and rapidly.
  4. Drain the Oil
    • Position your drain pan under the crankcase, towards the lower rear section of the engine.
    • Use your 10mm socket to remove the oil drain bolt and crush washer. Be careful—oil may be hot.
    • Allow oil to fully drain.
    • Inspect the drain bolt and replace the crush washer with a new one.
  5. Remove the Oil Filter
    • Locate the two bolts (usually 8mm) securing the oil filter cover.
    • Remove these bolts and gently take off the oil filter cover. Watch for oil spillage.
    • Remove the old oil filter and check the O-ring on the cover. Replace the O-ring if it shows damage, swelling, or brittleness.
  6. Install the New Oil Filter
    • Insert the new Honda oil filter in the correct orientation (refer to your owner’s manual or match the old one’s orientation).
    • Reinstall the oil filter cover and alternately tighten the bolts evenly. Torque them to 9 ft-lbs (12 Nm) as recommended.
  7. Reinstall the Drain Bolt
    • Once oil is drained, reinstall the drain bolt with the new crush washer. Tighten to the specified torque in your owner’s manual.
  8. Refill with New Oil
    • Using a funnel, add Honda 20W-50 (or the specified oil) through the filler hole. Refer to your owner’s manual for the correct quantity (typically about 1.15 liters for this model, but double-check your manual).
    • Wait a moment for oil to settle, then check the oil level with the bike upright using the sight glass on the left crankcase cover. The oil should be near the middle of the sight glass.
    • Add oil slowly if needed—do not overfill.
  9. Replace the Oil Filler Cap and Engine Guard
    • Reinstall the oil filler cap.
    • Reattach the left engine guard with your 8mm socket.
  10. Start and Inspect
    • Start the engine and let it idle for a minute. Check for leaks at the filter cover or drain bolt.
    • Shut off and recheck oil level after a minute’s rest—top off if necessary.
  11. Record Your Service
    • Track oil and filter change interval in your maintenance log to stay on schedule for future servicing.

Pro Tips for the 2017 CRF450R Oil Change

  • Always use high-quality oil and genuine Honda filters for the best protection and performance.
  • Inspect old oil for signs of metal or debris—this could indicate engine wear.
  • If the oil drain bolt’s crush washer is damaged or missing, always replace it to avoid leaks.
  • Follow the proper torque specs for all bolts—stripped threads are a common mistake.
  • Routinely inspect gaskets and O-rings anytime covers are removed.

Proper oil changes are the foundation of a well-maintained 2017 Honda CRF450R. Stick to recommended intervals, pay attention to torque specs, and you’ll enjoy many reliable hours behind the bars. For more model-specific maintenance guides, keep visiting 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.