How to Change Kawasaki KLR650 Oil
An oil change should be at the top of your Kawasaki motorcycle's routine maintenance schedule. Changing the oil in a Kawasaki KLR 650 takes little time and effort to get done.
Watch the video above and follow the steps below to change the oil in a 2012 Kawasaki KLR650 dual sport bike.
Tools and Parts – Kawasaki KLR650 Oil Change
- 3/8th ratchet
- 18mm socket
- 10mm socket
- Torque wrench
- Kawasaki KLR 650 oil filter
- Kawasaki 10W40 oil (2.6 quarts)
2012 Kawasaki KLR650 Oil Change Steps
Step 1. Run the engine for a couple of minutes to circulate the oil, then remove the fill cap located on the crankcase cover to make it easier to drain the engine oil.
Step 2. Find the drain bolt under the bike, then place a drain pan underneath to catch the oil, remove the drain bolt and let the oil empty out.
NOTE: Don't lose the crush washer on the drain bolt as you remove the bolt. See our KLR650 crankcase diagram to get a better look at the drain bolt’s location under the engine (#92066).
Step 3. Replace the drain bolt and its crush washer after the oil drains out, and torque the drain bolt to 21 foot-pounds.
Step 4. Use a 10mm socket to remove the two bolts that hold the oil filter cover in place.
NOTE: The oil filter cover is located next to the fill cap. Inspect the O-ring on the cap that seals it to the crankcase, and buy a new oil filter cover O-ring if it’s damaged.
Step 5. Remove the oil filter and the dowel from the center of the filter.
Step 6. Insert the dowel into the new oil filter, then install the filter into the engine with the grommet facing out.
Step 7. Reinstall the oil filter cap, and tighten down the two 10mm bolts holding it in place.
Step 8. Fill the engine with oil. The 2012 KLR650 takes 2.6 quarts of 10W40 oil.
Step 9. Reinstall the fill cap, then run the engine for a couple of minutes to circulate the oil. Next, check the sight glass to confirm that you have the proper amount of oil in the engine, and top off the oil if necessary.
The steps for changing the oil in a Kawasaki motorcycle are the same or similar for all models. However, if you want an alternate take on a Kawasaki KLR650 oil change, watch the video below to see how to change the oil in a 2008 Kawasaki KLR 650.
