How to Change the Oil in a 2022 Honda CRF450RL

Shop parts for a 2022 Honda CRF450RL Dirt Bike.

Routine oil changes are essential for maximizing the performance and engine life of your 2022 Honda CRF450RL. Here’s a MotoSport.com proprietary guide, tailored for the CRF450RL, outlining all tools, steps, and model-specific points you need to know to do the job right.

Tools and Supplies Needed

  • 8 mm socket (for various cover bolts)
  • 10 mm socket or wrench (for skid plate and side covers)
  • 10 mm Allen key (for the main drain bolt)
  • Socket wrench
  • Torque wrench (recommended for reassembly and correct torquing)
  • Drain pan
  • Funnel
  • Rags or shop towels
  • New oil filter (Honda OEM or equivalent, see dealer or parts fiche for number)
  • New O-rings (for the filter housing and drain bolt)
  • 1.2 liters of 10W-30 engine oil meeting API SJ or higher (Honda GN4 or equivalent)
  • Gloves (recommended to keep your hands clean)

Pre-Change Tips & Model-Specific Call-Outs

  • Warm up the engine for 3–5 minutes: This ensures the oil becomes less viscous and drains thoroughly from the engine.
  • The 2022 CRF450RL shares its engine with other Honda 450 models, but its oil capacity and recommended oil weight are unique, so always use at least 1.2 liters of quality 10W-30 API SJ (or better) motorcycle oil.
  • Honda recommends changing the oil every 600 miles under standard use.
  • Oil filter location: The oil filter lives behind the left side engine cover, which comes off easily with the socket set.
  • Always check for and replace O-rings on both the drain plug and oil filter cover to prevent leaks after reassembly.

Step-by-Step Oil Change Procedure

  1. Warm up the Bike
    • Start your CRF450RL and let it idle for about 3 minutes. This will thin the oil and help it drain completely.
  2. Remove the Skid Plate
    • Use your 8 mm and/or 10 mm socket (depending on bolt location) to remove the three bolts holding the skid plate—one on each side, one underneath.
    • Set the plate and bolts aside.
  3. Access the Drain Plug
    • The drain plug is a 10 mm Allen bolt located on the underside of your bike, underneath the engine, near the shifter.
  4. Drain the Oil
    • Position your drain pan beneath the plug.
    • Use the 10 mm Allen key to loosen and remove the drain bolt.
    • Let the old oil drain out completely. Be careful; the oil may be hot.
    • Inspect and replace the O-ring on the drain bolt if it shows any wear, nicks, or is flattened.
  5. Remove the Oil Filter Cover
    • On the left side, remove the plastic guard/engine cover using your 8 mm (occasionally 10 mm) socket.
    • Remove the bolts securing the oil filter cover. Gently pull off the cover, taking care not to damage the O-ring.
    • Replace the O-ring if needed; these are affordable and critical for sealing.
  6. Replace the Oil Filter
    • Pull out the old oil filter (note which way it’s installed, so you can match it with the new one).
    • Install the new oil filter in the correct orientation.
    • If supplied, lightly lubricate the O-ring on the filter cover with a bit of fresh oil for a better seal.
  7. Reinstall the Oil Filter Cover and Drain Plug
    • Secure the oil filter cover with bolts torqued to Honda’s specification (check your service manual, typically around 10 Nm).
    • Reinstall the drain plug and torque to spec (usually 24 Nm, but verify in your manual).
  8. Add New Oil
    • Remove the oil fill cap on the right side of the engine.
    • Using a funnel, slowly add up to 1.2 liters of 10W-30 oil.
    • Let the oil settle, then check the level with the dipstick or site glass (if equipped), per Honda’s procedure.
    • Top off if necessary to reach the appropriate mark.
  9. Reassemble and Check
    • Reinstall the skid plate and engine covers.
    • Start the bike and let it run for about a minute. Check for leaks around both the oil filter cover and drain plug.
    • Turn off the engine, wait a minute, then re-check the oil level and top up if needed.
  10. Disposal
    • Be sure to dispose of old oil and the used filter properly at a recycling collection point or auto shop.

Special Notes for the 2022 Honda CRF450RL

  • The engine uses a wet-sump system and is very dependent on regular oil changes for long life.
  • Always use a motorcycle-specific 10W-30 oil, preferably synthetic for best protection and clutch compatibility.
  • If you ride aggressively or in harsh conditions, consider changing the oil more frequently than Honda’s minimum 600-mile recommendation.
  • Don’t reuse O-rings if they’re in questionable shape—oil leaks are a common result of skipped replacements.

Conclusion

Changing the oil on your 2022 Honda CRF450RL is a straightforward maintenance task that, when done correctly and at regular intervals, will protect your investment and keep your motorcycle running strong. MotoSport.com encourages you to ride safe, maintain well, and enjoy every mile.

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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.