How to Change the Oil in a 2020 Yamaha YZ450F – A MotoSport.com Proprietary Guide

Shop parts for a 2020 Yamaha YZ450F Dirt Bike.

Regular oil changes are crucial for the longevity and performance of your dirt bike. The 2020 Yamaha YZ450F has specific steps and tips owners should follow to keep the engine running strong. This guide walks you through everything you need to change your oil safely and efficiently.

Tools and Supplies Needed

  • Socket set: including 10mm and 12mm sockets or wrenches
  • Oil drain pan
  • Funnel
  • Clean rags or shop towels
  • New engine oil: Yamalube or quality oil meeting API SG, JASO MA specs (sizes below)
  • New oil filter: (specific for 2020 YZ450F, check part number)
  • Replacement crush washer: (recommended for drain bolt)
  • Gloves and safety glasses
  • Measuring cup or graduated pitcher
  • Optional: Torque wrench for proper bolt tightening, needle nose pliers for O-rings

Recommended Oil for YZ450F

  • Brand: YAMALUBE
  • Viscosity: 10W-40, 10W-50, 15W-40, 20W-40, or 20W-50
  • Oil grade: API service SG or higher, JASO MA standard

Proprietary Step-by-Step Oil Change Guide

  1. Warm the Engine
    • Stand the bike upright on a level surface.
    • Start the engine and let it idle for 2–3 minutes. This helps the oil flow out more smoothly by thinning it and suspending debris.
  2. Stop the Engine – Remove Parts
    • Shut off the engine and allow it to sit for about one minute so oil settles.
    • Gently remove the oil filler cap on top of the engine. This prevents vacuum lock and helps the oil drain freely.
    • If your bike is equipped with a skid plate, remove it now for access to the drain bolt.
  3. Drain the Oil
    • Place your drain pan under the engine's oil drain plug (located at the bottom of the engine).
    • Remove the drain bolt using a 12mm wrench. Allow old oil to completely drain out. Remove the crush washer if it sticks to the engine or bolt.
    • After draining, inspect and replace the crush washer if worn or damaged before reinstalling the drain bolt.
    • Clean any oil spillage with a rag.
  4. Remove and Replace the Oil Filter
    • Locate the oil filter cover (right side of the engine case). Remove the three bolts (usually 10mm heads) and pull off the cover.
    • Remove the old oil filter. Some oil may drip, so have your drain pan or rag ready.
    • Inspect and replace the O-ring on the filter cover if damaged or flat.
    • Insert the new oil filter. Make sure orientation matches the old one (check your owner's manual if unsure).
    • Reinstall the oil filter cover and tighten bolts evenly and securely.
  5. Optional: Clean the Oil Strainer
    • For deep maintenance, the YZ450F has an oil strainer you can remove and clean during oil changes, as shown in some tutorials. Check your service manual for its exact location and removal process. This clears debris missed by the filter and is recommended every few oil changes.
  6. Reinstall the Drain Bolt
    • Install the drain bolt with a new or clean crush washer. Tighten to the manufacturer's specified torque to avoid overtightening, which can strip the threads or cause leaks.
  7. Refill with Fresh Oil
    • Using a funnel, pour in the recommended amount of new oil. The 2020 YZ450F typically takes approximately 1.00 – 1.10 liters of oil with a filter change. Measure with the graduated pitcher to ensure accuracy.
  8. Start the Engine – Check for Leaks
    • Reinstall the oil filler cap securely.
    • Start the engine and let it idle for about 30 seconds. Check for leaks at the drain bolt and oil filter cover.
    • Turn off the engine and wait a minute for oil to settle back into the crankcase.
  9. Check Oil Level
    • With the bike upright (not on the stand), check oil level with the dipstick or sight glass (depending on your model). The level should be between minimum and maximum marks. Top off if needed.
  10. Dispose of Old Oil Properly
    • Take the used oil to a recycling or hazardous waste facility. Never dump oil on the ground or in sewage systems.

Model-Specific Callouts for the 2020 YZ450F

  • The 2020 YZ450F has a single drain bolt and a side-mounted oil filter cover requiring a 10mm socket.
  • Always use a replacement crush washer for the drain bolt to ensure a proper seal and prevent leaks.
  • The oil strainer can be cleaned as a preventative maintenance step every few oil changes but isn’t required at every oil change.
  • The recommended oil volume for an oil and filter change is 1.0 – 1.1 liters. Overfilling or underfilling can harm engine performance.
  • Use only JASO MA certified motorcycle oil to avoid clutch slippage and premature engine wear.

Final Checklist

  • All bolts properly tightened (drain bolt and filter cover)
  • No leaks present after start-up
  • Oil level correct on dipstick or sight glass
  • Tools and oil disposed of responsibly

Changing the oil in your 2020 Yamaha YZ450F is a straightforward process that keeps your engine running crisp and reliable on the track or trail. Always reference your owner's manual for specific torque specs, part numbers, and diagrams unique to your bike.

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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.