How to Change the Oil in a 2017 Yamaha TTR125L: The Complete MotoSport.com Guide
Shop parts for a 2017 Yamaha TTR125L Dirt Bike.
Changing the oil in your 2017 Yamaha TTR125L is a fundamental part of dirt bike maintenance that prolongs engine life and keeps performance at its best. The process is simple, requiring only a few basic tools and a little care to ensure you do it correctly and safely. This step-by-step MotoSport.com proprietary guide covers everything you need to know, including model-specific tips for your TTR125L.
Tools & Materials Needed
- Oil drain pan
- 12mm socket and ratchet
- Torque wrench (optional but recommended)
- Rags or shop towels
- New oil (approx. 1 quart; check your owner's manual for recommended viscosity, Yamalube 10W-40 is common)
- Funnel
- New oil filter (only if replacing, optional for most standard changes)
- Gloves (optional, for clean hands)
- Safety glasses (optional, for protection)
Step-by-Step Oil Change Guide
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Warm Up the Engine
Start your TTR125L and let it idle for 2-5 minutes. This helps the oil flow and suspends contaminants for a more complete drain. Turn off the engine before proceeding.
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Position the Bike
Place the bike on its kickstand on a level surface. The TTR125L leans slightly left on the stand, which actually aids in draining the oil fully from the left-side drain bolt.
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Prepare for Drainage
- Place an oil drain pan directly under the drain bolt, which is located on the lower left side of the engine case.
- Wipe away any dirt around the drain bolt to prevent debris from entering your engine.
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Remove the Drain Bolt
- Use a 12mm socket and ratchet to carefully remove the drain bolt.
- Let all the oil fully drain into the pan. You can gently tip the bike upright briefly to ensure complete drainage.
- If you wish to change the oil filter (recommended occasionally), remove the filter cap above the drain bolt and pull out the filter for inspection/replacement. Note: The TTR125L uses a washable metal mesh oil filter rather than a paper cartridge.
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Inspect and Reinstall the Drain Bolt
- Check the sealing washer for wear; replace if necessary.
- Reinstall the drain bolt by hand, tightening to a snug fit. Over-tightening can strip the threads on the engine case, so if you have a torque wrench, set it to 15 lb-ft (20 Nm) as recommended by Yamaha.
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Add Fresh Oil
- Locate the oil fill cap (right side of the cylinder head).
- Remove the cap and place a funnel in the opening to avoid spills.
- Pour in approximately 1 quart (950 mL) of the recommended oil.
- Replace the fill cap securely.
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Check Oil Level
- Start the engine and let it idle for a minute, then shut it off and wait a minute for the oil to settle.
- Hold the bike upright (vertical, not on the stand) and remove the oil filler cap/dipstick.
- Wipe the dipstick clean, reinstall it (threaded all the way in), then remove to check the oil level. The oil should be between the minimum and maximum marks.
- Add oil if necessary, but do not overfill.
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Dispose of Old Oil Properly
- Pour used oil into a sealed container and bring it to an authorized recycling facility or auto parts store accepting used oil.
2017 TTR125L Model-Specific Notes and Tips
- Drain bolt location: On the 2017 TTR125L, the oil drain bolt is on the left lower engine case, easily accessible with kickstand down. Use caution not to overtighten; threads can strip easily.
- Oil capacity: Yamaha conveniently stamps the oil quantity on the case near the filler. Verify for your specific model year (usually 950 mL/1.0 US qt).
- Oil filter: The TTR125L typically uses a screen rather than a conventional filter cartridge. If cleaning, rinse in solvent, inspect for debris, and reinstall only if undamaged.
- Torque: The drain bolt is aluminum; always hand thread first and torque carefully (15 lb-ft). Overtightening is a common issue on this model.
- Checking level: The oil level check requires the bike to be vertical (not on the stand). Removing, wiping, and reinserting the dipstick is important for an accurate reading.
- Maintenance intervals: Yamaha recommends changing oil every six months or 600 miles, but more frequent changes are wise if you ride hard, in dust, or after water crossings.
Final MotoSport.com Pro Tips
- Always use quality motorcycle-specific oil (not automotive oil).
- Keep oil away from brake and clutch components.
- Never operate the TTR125L without oil.
- Log your oil changes for hassle-free maintenance records.
Changing your 2017 Yamaha TTR125L oil is a quick, cost-effective way to protect your investment and ensure years of reliable trail riding. For exclusive parts, premium oils, and performance upgrades, trust MotoSport.com—your source for everything dirt bike.
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Shop Oil Fillers and Drain Plugs for a 2017 Yamaha TTR125L 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.