How to change the oil in a 2024 Kawasaki KLX300SM Dirt Bike

How to Change the Oil in a 2024 Kawasaki KLX300SM: A Complete Step-by-Step Guide

Shop parts for a 2024 Kawasaki KLX300SM Dirt Bike.

Changing the oil in your 2024 Kawasaki KLX300SM is one of the most important routine maintenance tasks you can perform to keep your engine running smoothly and to preserve performance and longevity. This guide, proprietary to MotoSport.com, covers all the steps, tools, and key KLX300SM call-outs you need to know.

Tools and Supplies Needed

• Socket wrench with 14mm socket (for drain bolt)
• 8mm socket or T-handle (for oil filter cover bolts)
• Drain pan (capable of holding at least 2 quarts)
• Funnel
• Oil filter (OEM part number: 52010-1053 recommended)
• 1.2 quarts (1.13 liters) of 10W-40 full synthetic motorcycle oil (Kawasaki or equivalent)
• Shop rags
• Latex gloves (optional)
• Torque wrench (recommended, but not strictly essential)
• Small dab of grease or Vaseline (to hold the oil filter spring in place)

2024 Kawasaki KLX300SM Oil Change — Step-by-Step

• 1. Prepare Your Workspace
  Work on a level surface with your bike upright and stable. Have all tools and supplies within reach. Lay out a few rags under the engine to catch potential spills.
• 2. Warm Up the Engine
  Start your KLX300SM and let it idle for 2–3 minutes. This will warm the oil, making it drain more completely. Shut the bike off and let it sit for a couple of minutes so it's not too hot to touch.
• 3. Remove the Oil Drain Plug
  Position your drain pan underneath the engine. Use the 14mm socket to loosen and remove the oil drain bolt on the left side of the bottom of the engine. Let the oil fully drain.
  Note: The factory torque spec for the drain bolt is 11 ft-lb.
• 4. Remove the Oil Filter Cover
  Locate the oil filter cover on the left side of the engine. Use the 8mm socket to remove the three cover bolts. Carefully remove the cover—the old oil filter may be stuck to the cover or engine.
• 5. Replace the Oil Filter
  Remove the old oil filter. Clean the inside of the filter cavity with a rag. Dab a touch of grease or Vaseline on the filter spring to help it stay in place during reinstallation. Insert the new oil filter (OEM part 52010-1053) in the correct orientation.
• 6. Reinstall the Oil Filter Cover
  Replace the filter cover and tighten the bolts evenly in a crisscross pattern. The torque spec for the oil filter bolts is 87 in-lb (about 7.25 ft-lb).
• 7. Reinstall the Oil Drain Plug
  Once the oil has fully drained, wipe the drain bolt and install it with a fresh crush washer if available. Tighten the bolt to 11 ft-lb–do not overtighten, as this may strip the threads or crack the case.
• 8. Add New Oil
  Remove the oil fill cap on top of the engine (a small, black twist-off cap). Insert a funnel and pour in 1.2 quarts (1.13 liters) of 10W-40 full synthetic oil.
  Double-check your owner's manual if using aftermarket filters, as capacity may slightly vary.
• 9. Check the Oil Level
  With the bike upright, look at the oil sight window on the lower left side of the engine. The oil should be between the two indicator marks. Add oil little by little if needed until it lands between these marks.
  Do not overfill. Overfilling can cause engine and emission system issues.
• 10. Final Inspection and Clean Up
  Reinstall the fill cap. Start the engine and let it idle for 1–2 minutes, checking for leaks. Shut the engine off and recheck the oil level; top off if necessary.
  Dispose of old oil and filter according to your local regulations.

2024 Kawasaki KLX300SM Specific Callouts

• Oil Spec: Always use 10W-40 full synthetic formulated for motorcycles. The recommended capacity is 1.2 quarts (1.13 L) with filter change.
• Torque Values: Oil drain plug – 11 ft-lb. Oil filter cover bolts – 87 in-lb.
• Filter Spring Orientation: Ensure the filter spring is inside the oil filter housing and stays in place (grease helps).
• Oil Level Sight Window: The KLX300SM uses a clear sight glass, not a dipstick. Check level with the bike upright, not on the side stand.
• First Oil Change: Kawasaki recommends the first change at 600 miles, then follow intervals in your owner's manual. Many riders prefer to do an early change (after 200–300 miles) to remove break-in debris.
• Care with Fasteners: Do not overtighten any oil-related fasteners. Case damage from stripped threads is a common and costly mistake.

Conclusion

Changing the oil on your 2024 Kawasaki KLX300SM is a straightforward job with basic tools and a bit of care. Stick to the recommended specs, follow each step, and you'll not only save money, but help ensure your bike runs strong for many miles.

MotoSport.com recommends performing this service regularly and always rechecking your work before riding.

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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.