How to Change the Oil in a 2020 Suzuki RM-Z450

Changing the oil in your 2020 Suzuki RM-Z450 is an essential maintenance task that helps prolong the life of your engine and optimize performance. Regular oil and filter changes—Suzuki recommends every 6 hours of operation—remove contaminants and help keep the clutch, gearbox, and engine internals working at their best.

Tools & Supplies Needed

  • Engine oil (check your owner's manual for recommended type and capacity; high-performance 10W-40 full synthetic is common)
  • New oil filter
  • Drain pan
  • 8mm, 10mm, and 12mm T-handle or socket wrenches
  • Rags and gloves
  • Pick or screwdriver (for oil filter cover O-ring if sticking)
  • Torque wrench
  • Funnel

Step-by-Step Instructions

  • Warm Up the Bike
    • Start and run the bike for a few minutes. This helps the oil to flow freely and suspend contaminants.
    • Turn the bike off and set it upright on a stand or level ground.
  • Remove the Skid Plate (if equipped)
    • If your RM-Z450 has a skid plate, remove it for easier access to the drain plug.
  • Drain the Engine Oil
    • Locate the main drain plug on the bottom of the engine (10mm bolt).
    • Position your drain pan beneath and carefully remove the plug using your wrench. Be cautious—the oil will be hot.
    • Allow oil to fully drain. Tilt the bike side to side to get out as much old oil as possible.
    • Important: The RM-Z450 also has a secondary drain—the magneto cover bolt on the left side (see your service manual for exact location). Remove this bolt to evacuate any oil trapped in the left case.
  • Remove and Replace the Oil Filter
    • Locate the oil filter cover (left side of the engine, secured with 8mm bolts).
    • Carefully remove the bolts and cover. Remove the old oil filter. Inspect O-ring and replace if necessary.
    • Install the new filter (make sure it's oriented per your owner's manual).
  • Reinstall Drain Plugs and Filter Cover
    • Once the oil is drained, reinstall the main drain plug and magneto cover bolt using a torque wrench:
      • Main drain plug: torque to 15.5 foot pounds
      • Magneto cover bolt: torque to 8.5 foot pounds
      • Oil filter cover bolts: torque to 9 foot pounds
  • Add New Oil
    • Remove the oil filler cap located on the right side of the engine.
    • Use a funnel to pour in the correct quantity and grade of oil as specified in your owner's manual.
    • Replace and tighten the filler cap.
  • Prime the Oil System
    • Depress the kickstarter lever 10 times or more with the run switch off—this circulates oil before you start the engine. This step is important for Suzuki RM-Z450 models to prevent dry starts.
  • Check Oil Level
    • Start the engine and let it idle for a minute, then turn it off and wait several minutes for the oil to settle.
    • With the bike upright and warm, check the oil level via the inspection window or dipstick, if equipped. Top off as necessary.
  • Final Steps
    • Wipe up any spilled oil and reinstall the skid plate if applicable.
    • Properly dispose of used oil and filter at a recycling center.

2020 RM-Z450 Specific Call-Outs

  • The engine and oil change procedure is shared from 2018 to 2023, so most guidance for those years applies directly.
  • Use care not to overtighten drain or cover bolts—Suzuki fasteners are known to strip if over-torqued. Always use a torque wrench.
  • Two drain bolts must be removed (main and magneto cover) for full oil evacuation. Many riders miss the secondary bolt—don't skip it.
  • Prime with the kickstarter after oil change for thorough system lubing before engine start.
  • Many RM-Z owners recommend Motul 300V 10W-40 or similar high-performance oil for best clutch life and temperature control.
  • Capacity and filter orientation: Always double-check oil volume and filter direction in your owner's manual, as overfilling/underfilling or mis-installing the filter can cause engine damage.

Conclusion

Changing the oil on your 2020 Suzuki RM-Z450 is a fast, straightforward process that pays dividends in performance and engine health. Following OEM torque specs and priming the oil system are especially important. For all your dirt bike parts and fluids, trust MotoSport.com—your source for everything Suzuki.

Related Shopping Categories

Shop Motor Oil for a 2020 Suzuki RMZ450 Dirt Bike.

Shop Oil Filters for a 2020 Suzuki RMZ450 Dirt Bike.

Shop Oil Drain Pans for a 2020 Suzuki RMZ450 Dirt Bike.

Shop Tools for a 2020 Suzuki RMZ450 Dirt Bike.

Shop Oil Fillers and Drain Plugs for a 2020 Suzuki RMZ450 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.