How to Change the Oil in a 2018 KTM 350 EXC-F: A Complete DIY Guide

Shop parts for a 2018 KTM 350 EXC-F Dirt Bike.

MotoSport.com Exclusive: Maintaining your 2018 KTM 350 EXC-F is crucial for both performance and engine longevity. Changing the oil is a simple job you can complete at home with a few tools and some know-how. Here's how to do it right–with notes specific to the 2018 model, tips for prepping the bike, and proprietary insights to keep your dirt bike running strong.

Tools & Supplies Needed

  • 13mm socket or wrench (for the drain bolt)
  • Torx or Allen wrenches (for the oil filter cover, often T25 or T30)
  • New oil filter (specific to KTM 350 EXC-F)
  • 1 liter of 10W-50 motorcycle oil or per KTM specification
  • New crush washer for drain bolt (recommended for a proper seal)
  • Measuring cup (to confirm oil volume)
  • Catch pan (to collect old oil)
  • Contact cleaner or degreaser (for cleaning around the fill and filter areas)
  • Funnel
  • Shop rags
  • Grease (for O-rings and seals)
  • Service manual (for torque specs and OEM procedures)

Preparation

  • Warm up the engine for 3-5 minutes–this helps suspend contaminants and thins the oil for a complete drain.
  • Turn the bike off and place it securely on a stand, ensuring it's upright.
  • Lay down rags and/or prepare your catch pan beneath the engine's drain plug.

Step-by-Step Oil Change Process

  1. Drain the Old Oil
    • Locate the oil drain plug (bottom of the engine); on the 2018 KTM 350 EXC-F, this requires a 13mm socket.
    • Remove the drain plug and allow all oil to drain into the pan. Expect about 1 liter to come out.
    • Inspect the drain plug for metal shavings–some is normal, but large fragments can indicate engine trouble.
    • Replace the crush washer with a new one for proper sealing.
  2. Remove the Oil Filter
    • On the right side of the engine, remove the screws from the oil filter cover with a Torx/Allen wrench (usually T25/T30).
    • Gently pull out the old oil filter using needle-nose pliers if needed.
    • Check the O-ring for wear or damage; replace if necessary.
    • Clean the filter housing and cover with a rag or contact cleaner.
  3. Prime and Install the New Oil Filter
    • KTM recommends pre-soaking the new oil filter before installation: Pour clean oil into the filter cavity, filling it 1/3 to 1/2 full while the bike is on its right side. This helps prevent a dry start. Let the filter soak and install it gently to allow the oil to saturate.
    • Re-fit the filter cover, ensuring the O-ring is greased and seated properly.
    • Hand-tighten the bolts, then torque to about 7.4 Nm or 5.5 ft-lb–do not overtighten, as the threads are soft and can strip easily in KTM engines.
  4. Reinstall the Drain Plug
    • Once oil is finished draining, wipe the area clean and reinstall the drain plug with a fresh crush washer. Torque to specification (typically 20 Nm or 15 ft-lb; always confirm with the service manual).
  5. Fill with New Oil
    • Remove the oil fill cap (located on the clutch side of the engine).
    • Using a funnel, pour in the specified quantity of oil (2018 KTM 350 EXC-F uses approximately 1 liter; always cross-check in your manual).
    • Replace the fill cap.
  6. Check Oil Level
    • Start the engine and run it for 30-60 seconds, then shut off and let it sit for a minute.
    • With the bike upright, check the oil sight glass on the side of the engine. The oil should be between the minimum and maximum marks (centered is ideal). Top off as needed, but do not overfill.
  7. Clean Up and Inspect
    • Wipe down any spilled oil and inspect the drain and filter covers for leaks.
    • Dispose of old oil responsibly at an authorized recycling center.

2018 KTM 350 EXC-F Specific Call-Outs

  • Pre-lubricating the filter cavity is recommended to prevent possible oil starvation on startup after a fresh change (unique step for KTM models) .
  • Filter cover bolts require very low torque–use a small torque wrench and do not overtighten to protect the soft alloy case .
  • The oil sight glass makes checking level easy: simply confirm oil is at the center of the small circle after running the engine briefly .
  • Use only the specified grade and quantity of oil. Running too much or too little can cause engine damage.

Expert Tips from MotoSport.com

  • Change your oil every 10-15 hours for hard riding, or up to 30 hours for gentle trail use .
  • Set your trip meter to zero after each oil change to track engine hours between maintenance intervals .
  • Inspect the oil filter for debris; excessive metal can be a warning sign of deeper engine issues.
  • Keep a record of every oil change.

Stay safe and ride hard—the MotoSport.com way.

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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.