How to Change the Oil on a 2022 KTM 350 EXC-F: Step-by-Step Guide

Shop parts for a 2022 KTM 350 EXC-F Dirt Bike.

Changing the oil in your 2022 KTM 350 EXC-F is one of the most important maintenance tasks to ensure reliable performance and long engine life. Below you'll find a detailed, proprietary MotoSport.com guide for oil change intervals, required tools, exact steps, and critical call-outs specific to this make and model.

Tools and Supplies Needed

  • 13mm wrench or socket (for drain bolt)
  • 8mm socket (for oil filter cover)
  • Torque wrench (for reinstallation to correct specs)
  • Drain pan
  • Rags or shop towels
  • Funnel
  • Measuring cup
  • OEM or high-quality oil filter
  • Crush washer (replace each oil change)
  • Motorex 10W-50 4T oil (recommended, approx. 1.05L/1.1 quarts)
  • Contact cleaner (optional, for cleaning engine cases and spilled oil)
  • Nitrile gloves (to keep hands clean and safe)

Preparation and Model-Specific Notes

  • KTM recommends changing the oil every 15 hours of use (or sooner if riding conditions are harsh). Regular oil changes are essential for engine health, especially on high-performance dirt bikes like the EXC-F.
  • Double-check oil capacity in your owner's manual– for the 2022 KTM 350 EXC-F, use approximately 1.05 liters (1.1 quarts) of oil per change. Always avoid overfilling.
  • Only use a new crush washer on the drain bolt to prevent leaks and ensure proper sealing.
  • When installing a new oil filter, lay the bike on its right side and fill the filter housing 1/3 full with fresh engine oil before inserting the filter. This helps prevent a dry start after oil change and is called out in the official KTM service manual for modern EXC-Fs.
  • The drain bolt torque specification is low (often around 7.4 Nm/65 in-lbs for cover bolts), so do not over-tighten to avoid stripping threads.

Step-by-Step Oil Change Procedure

  1. Warm Up the Engine
    • Start the bike and let it idle for 3–5 minutes. Warming up the engine thins the oil, making it drain faster and more completely.
  2. Position the Bike and Gather Tools
    • Place the bike upright on a stand or secure it with the side stand on a level surface.
    • Position the drain pan under the engine's drain bolt.
  3. Remove Skid Plate (if equipped)
    • This gives direct access to the drain bolt and minimizes spilled oil on the frame.
  4. Remove the Drain Bolt
    • Using a 13mm wrench or socket, carefully remove the drain plug under the engine.
    • Allow the oil to fully drain into the pan. Inspect the old crush washer and replace it.
  5. Remove the Oil Filter
    • With an 8mm socket, remove the oil filter cover. Some oil will drain, so keep the pan in place.
    • Pull the oil filter out (needle-nose pliers help). Clean the area thoroughly.
    • For 2022 KTM 350 EXC-F: Per KTM recommendations, tilt the bike onto its right side and fill the filter housing 1/3 with fresh oil before inserting the new oil filter. This pre-lubes the system and protects engine internals at startup.
  6. Install the New Oil Filter
    • Place the new filter in the housing, ensuring correct orientation.
    • Reinstall the filter cover, tightening evenly by hand and then to torque spec (typically 7.4 Nm – check your manual).
  7. Reinstall the Drain Bolt
    • Install a new crush washer and torque the drain bolt to the manufacturer specification (consult your owner's manual for exact figure).
  8. Add Fresh Oil
    • Remove the oil fill cap. Using a funnel, pour in 1.05L (1.1 quarts) of Motorex 10W-50 or equivalent oil for the 2022 350 EXC-F.
    • Reinstall the oil fill cap securely.
  9. Start and Check
    • Start the engine and let it idle for a couple minutes. Watch for leaks at the drain bolt and filter cover.
    • Shut down the engine. Let it sit 1–2 minutes, then check the oil level using the oil inspection sight glass. The oil should be around the center of the window.
    • Add oil as needed to reach proper level, but do not overfill.
  10. Clean Up
    • Dispose of old oil and filter responsibly. Wipe down any spilled oil with contact cleaner or rags.
    • Reinstall skid plate (if removed). Make sure all tools are accounted for and no parts are left behind.

Maintenance Tips and Model Specific Callouts

  • The 2022 KTM 350 EXC-F features a single oil chamber. Always use the oil type and viscosity recommended by KTM for best clutch and engine performance.
  • Utilize the correct torque settings for all bolts especially for the oil filter cover and drain bolt—over-tightening can strip the soft aluminum threads.
  • Keep your maintenance intervals consistent. Even if you don't ride aggressively, changing oil every 15–20 hours or at least once a year is good insurance against premature engine wear.
  • Always inspect for leaks and keep an eye on the oil level between changes—the KTM's high-revving engine consumes or burns oil more quickly than many street motorcycles.
  • For extra engine longevity, consider changing oil even more frequently than the manual suggests, especially if you ride hard or in dusty, muddy conditions.

By following these steps and using the right supplies, you'll keep your 2022 KTM 350 EXC-F running strong. For all your OEM filters, crush washers, and Motorex oils, MotoSport.com has you covered.

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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.