How to Change Motorcycle Engine Oil in 5 Easy Steps

If you own a motorcycle, then you must know that changing engine oil is the most basic maintenance you can do at home. You have to get your hands dirty taking care of your machine, and this exercise will teach you how to do it. Just follow the process once and it will become a breeze for you to do it the next time.



What all do you need?

1) New engine oil
2) New oil filter
3) Tool set
4) Drain pan
5) Funnel
6) Some old rags
7) Service manual for your bike
8) Rear paddock stand (not required if your bike has a centre stand)

1. Setup work station

Clean up the work area and collect all the stuff that you need. Ensure you have all the tools required for job. All the details of the requirements will be mentioned, from nut sizes to the exact quantity of the oil, etc. Also it recommended buying good quality synthetic engine oil as it makes your machine perform better and efficiently.



Place you motorcycle on the centre stand, or rear paddock stand if you have one. You can do this on the side stand as well, but the bottom of the engine becomes less accessible. Place the drain pan below the bolt releasing oil.

2. Drain used oil

Carefully open the oil release bolt slowly and adjust the drain pan according to the flow of the oil. It is recommended that you warm up the motorcycle before draining oil as it becomes thinner. Pull out the oil filter and let all the oil drain out of the engine.



While releasing the oil filter, be careful as it might just splash out in the pan spilling hot oil around. Use of correct tools is extremely important for the smooth transition of this task.

3. Replace with new oil filter

Take the new oil filter and pour a small amount of fresh engine oil on it. When it is all drenched and wet in fresh oil, reposition the valve and put it in position. Now take the drain release bolt and screw it back in where it was. Be careful to appropriately tighten it as it might leak if you don’t.



4. Pour in new engine oil

Prepare a measuring beaker and fill it up to the exact amount of engine oil as mentioned in your motorcycle’s service booklet. Manufacturers state all the capacities in the service manual and must be adhered to religiously. Open the engine oil screw located on the engine and position the funnel. Gently pour the new engine oil from the beaker inside the engine.



5. Check all nuts and screws for tightness

After you have poured in the oil, close the screw gently and tighten it. Take a rag and clean all the surfaces you used for this entire process, the drain plug, oil filter surrounds, oil screw etc. Also remember not to spill the used oil away on the ground or drain. Used engine oil has to be disposed of properly as it is hazardous to the environment.



Well done, you have successfully changed the engine oil of your beloved machine. And now you will remember the simple process and continue learning other maintenance tasks on your motorcycle. Happy riding!!