How to change the oil in a 2020 Suzuki DRZ400S Dirt Bike

How to Change the Oil in a 2020 Suzuki DR-Z400SM: A Step–by–Step Guide

Shop parts for a 2020 Suzuki DR-Z400SM Dirt Bike.

Changing the oil in your 2020 Suzuki DR-Z400SM is vital for engine health and peak performance. This detailed guide—proprietary to MotoSport.com—walks you through every step, highlights the tools required, and brings attention to specific tips for your model. Even if you haven't changed your bike’s oil before, you’ll find this process straightforward if you follow the instructions below.

Tools and Supplies Needed

• Ratchet
• 8mm, 12mm, and 17mm sockets
• Torque wrench
• Drain pan
• Oil filter (DR-Z400SM compatible)
• 10W-40 motorcycle oil (at least 2 quarts)
• Funnel
• Gloves (recommended for cleanliness and safety)
• Safety glasses
• Rags
• OEM Service Manual (for reference)

Note: For best results, use high-quality motorcycle oil and always replace the oil filter when performing an oil change.

Step-by-Step Oil Change Instructions

• Warm Up the Engine
  • Start the DR-Z400SM and let it idle for about 5 minutes. This warms up the oil, allowing it to drain more completely.
• Remove the Oil Filler Cap/Dipstick
  • Locate the oil filler cap/dipstick on top of the frame. Unscrew and remove it. This step allows the crankcase to vent properly and ensures smooth drainage of oil.
    (Removing this early is important for effective draining.)
• Drain the Engine Oil (Crankcase)
  • Place a drain pan under the crankcase. Locate the 17mm drain bolt on the underside of the engine.
  • Carefully remove the drain bolt (and washer) using the socket.
  • Allow all old oil to fully drain into the pan.
    You may need to tilt the bike slightly to help the last bit come out.
• Inspect and Reinstall the Drain Bolt
  • Check the drain bolt's washer for wear; replace it if it's damaged or deformed.
  • Reinstall the drain bolt and washer. Tighten to 15 ft-lbs (20 Nm) using the torque wrench.
    Do not overtighten—stripped threads are costly to repair.
• Drain the Frame Oil Chamber
  • Position your drain pan beneath the frame's oil chamber.
  • Remove the 12mm frame drain bolt and washer.
  • Let the oil drain out completely.
  • Inspect its washer as well and replace if necessary.
  • Reinstall and torque the drain bolt securely (refer to manual for specifics).
• Replace the Oil Filter
  • Locate the oil filter cover on the right side of the engine, secured by several 8mm bolts.
  • Remove the bolts, then pull off the cover and remove the old filter.
  • Inspect and—if required—replace the O-ring inside the cover.
  • Install the new oil filter (pay attention to its orientation; arrows and markings should face outward as per Suzuki’s specification).
  • Reinstall the cover. Tighten bolts firmly but don’t overtighten.
    Even torque is important to prevent warping the cover.
• Refill with New Oil
  • Insert a funnel into the oil filler opening on top of the frame.
  • Pour in 1.8 liters (1.9 US quarts) of 10W-40 motorcycle oil if you changed the filter; use 1.7 liters (1.8 US quarts) if you did not change the filter.
    Do not exceed the maximum fill level.
• Check Oil Level and Run Engine
  • Reinstall the oil filler cap/dipstick.
  • Start the engine and let it idle for 3–5 minutes, then turn it off.
  • Wait a few minutes. Remove the dipstick and check the oil level. Top up if necessary, but never overfill.
• Final Steps and Inspection
  • Reinstall any skid plates or guards removed during the process.
  • Wipe down the bike and check for oil leaks, especially around the drain bolts and oil filter cover.
  • Dispose of used oil and filter responsibly at your local recycling center.

Special Call-Outs for the 2020 Suzuki DR-Z400SM

• Maintenance Intervals: Suzuki recommends the first oil change at 600 miles, then every 3,500 miles thereafter. However, frequent off-road or high-performance use may warrant more frequent changes.
• Drain Bolts: The DR-Z400SM uses two drain bolts (engine and frame). Draining both is essential to get all old oil out.
  Forgetting the frame bolt will result in incomplete oil removal.
• Oil Capacity: 1.8 liters (including filter change) or 1.7 liters (filter not changed). Stick below the maximum mark for best results.
  Overfilling can cause oil to foam and reduce lubrication, risking engine damage.
• Filter Orientation: Always ensure the new oil filter is installed in the correct direction as noted in your OEM manual.
• Tightening Torque: Use a calibrated torque wrench for drain bolts to prevent stripping the soft aluminum threads.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Over-tightening drain bolts (leads to stripped threads)
• Forgetting to replace washers (can cause leaks)
• Missing the frame drain bolt (leaves old oil in system)
• Incorrect oil type (always use JASO MA-rated motorcycle oil, never automotive oil)
• Overfilling the oil

Conclusion

Routine oil changes are the most important maintenance you can do for your 2020 Suzuki DR-Z400SM. By following these steps and using the correct parts and oil, you’ll promote smooth performance and long engine life. All information has been verified for the 2020 DR-Z400SM, though the process is virtually identical for all DR-Z400 models since 2000.
Keep this guide handy for your next oil change, and ride on with confidence from 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.