Ultimate guide: how to change oil on your ninja 650 and extend its life

If you’re the proud owner of a Kawasaki Ninja 650, knowing how to change its oil is a crucial maintenance task that will keep your motorcycle running smoothly for miles to come. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process step-by-step, empowering you to tackle this essential task with confidence.

Materials You’ll Need:

• 4 quarts of recommended engine oil (check your owner’s manual)
• New oil filter
• Socket wrench
• Oil filter wrench
• Drain pan
• Funnel
• Rags

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Warm Up the Engine:
Start your motorcycle and let it run for a few minutes to warm up the oil, making it easier to drain.

2. Locate the Oil Drain Plug:
Find the oil drain plug located at the bottom of the engine case. It’s typically a 17mm bolt.

3. Place the Drain Pan:
Position the drain pan directly under the oil drain plug.

4. Remove the Oil Drain Plug:
Using the socket wrench, carefully loosen and remove the oil drain plug. Oil will start to drain into the pan.

5. Drain the Oil:
Allow all the oil to drain out completely. This may take a few minutes.

6. Replace the Oil Drain Plug:
Once all the oil has drained, clean the drain plug and its threads. Apply a small amount of oil to the threads and hand-tighten the plug back into place.

7. Remove the Old Oil Filter:
Locate the oil filter, which is usually found on the right side of the engine. Using the oil filter wrench, carefully loosen and remove the old filter. Oil may spill out, so be prepared.

8. Lubricate the New Oil Filter:
Apply a thin layer of new oil to the gasket of the new oil filter.

9. Install the New Oil Filter:
Screw the new oil filter onto the engine by hand until it’s snug. Do not overtighten.

10. Refill the Engine with Oil:
Use the funnel to pour the recommended amount of new engine oil into the oil filler hole. Refer to your owner’s manual for the exact quantity.

11. Check the Oil Level:
Start the engine and let it idle for a few minutes. Stop the engine and wait a few minutes for the oil to settle. Use the dipstick to check the oil level. It should be between the “low” and “full” marks.

12. Reset the Oil Change Indicator:
If your Ninja 650 has an oil change indicator, press and hold the “Reset” button on the instrument cluster to reset it.

13. Clean Up:
Dispose of the old oil and filter properly. Wipe up any spills and discard the rags.

Tips for Success:

• Change your oil regularly as recommended in your owner’s manual.
• Use the correct type and amount of oil specified for your motorcycle.
• Inspect the oil filter for any debris or damage.
• Tighten the oil drain plug and oil filter securely, but avoid overtightening.
• Check the oil level regularly, especially before and after long rides.

Benefits of Changing Oil Regularly:

• Reduces engine wear and tear
• Improves engine performance
• Extends the life of your motorcycle
• Maintains fuel efficiency

Key Points:

Changing the oil in your Kawasaki Ninja 650 is a straightforward task that you can easily perform yourself. By following these steps and maintaining a regular oil change schedule, you’ll keep your motorcycle running smoothly and enjoy miles of worry-free riding.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Q: How often should I change the oil in my Ninja 650?
A: Refer to your owner’s manual for the recommended oil change intervals. It typically ranges from 3,000 to 6,000 miles.

Q: What type of oil should I use?
A: Use the recommended oil type and viscosity specified in your owner’s manual. Typically, a 10W-40 motorcycle oil is recommended.

Q: Can I change the oil filter less frequently than the oil?
A: No, it’s recommended to change the oil filter every time you change the oil.