When Should Your Motorcycle's Oil and Oil Filter Be Changed?

Just like you do not skip renewing your bike insurance policy each year, you need to be cautious about maintaining your bike too. Keeping your bike in good condition will ensure it works smoothly and functions as intended, without any hiccups. Among the different repairs that are frequently required for your bike, changing the oil is critical.

Oil helps the components of the engine to stay lubricated and operate without friction. The oil filter, in this process, helps by holding on to the metal shavings that otherwise would damage the internal components.

In addition, the oil filter helps to remove particles and other contaminants that are present in the oil. Thus, the oil and the oil filter are critical components to keep the engine running smoothly. Changing the oil is a simple and quick process as compared to other engine-related repairs.

Hence, as a bike owner, you must periodically replace and top up the oil levels of your bike as directed by the manufacturer.

Why Does the Engine Oil Need to be Replaced?

Oil is an important fluid for your bike, having a critical role to play. Diligently, it needs to be replaced from time to time. If ignored, it gets spoiled and can even degrade. Engine oil contains several chemicals that help control the engine temperature.

But the same oil, if unused for a long time, degrades by breaking down into harmful chemicals that end up damaging the engine. Further, upon use, as the oil circulates in the engine, it loses its efficacy. Thus, the performance of the oil degrades over time, whether used or not, making it essential to be replaced at certain intervals.

Guidelines for Safely Changing Your Motorcycle's Engine Oil

Maintain Proper Frequency

Experts advise bike owners to replace their two-wheeler's oil every 2,000 km or every six months. Among other things, you will notice that the engine is becoming louder than it should be, the mileage is decreasing, the engine is overheating, and that the friction between its internal parts is increasing.

Therefore, it is essential to know when to change engine oil for bike.

Keep All Your Gear Close to You

It could be difficult to replace your oil. You must have the necessary equipment and the bike's service manual with you. A can of fresh engine oil, a measuring beaker, a funnel, a new oil filter, a drain pan, a dipstick, and a few simple tools to open and close nuts and bolts are the necessary equipment.

For information on the precise type and amount of oil required for your bike, consult the service manual.

Put Your Bike on Its Double-stand

Make sure your bike is placed on its double stand before you start changing the engine oil. It is crucial to follow suit for two reasons. First, mounting the bike on its double stand will make it easier for you to drain off the spent oil.

Second, the entire process of changing the bike's oil will go more smoothly. Consider purchasing a paddock stand if your bike simply has a kickstand so you can conveniently change your bike's oil on your own.

Use the Quality and the Grade of Oil

Bike engine oils come in a variety of pricing points, just like any other product. The less expensive ones are typically tainted and less transparent than motor oil should be. To save money, your service expert will advise you to choose the less expensive option.

However, you should remember that the less expensive ones will eventually cost you more because they will cause your bike's performance to decline. As a result, you should use the precise bike oil specified in your service manual or the ones suggested by reputable dealers.

Change Your Oil Filter

The engine oil goes through a device called an oil filter before it can do its work. As the name implies, the oil filter removes all impurities and particles from the oil before it passes through the engine's various parts. As a result, the oil filter becomes clogged over time. Due to this, when you replace the engine oil, you also need to change the filter.

How Often Should the Oil be Replaced?

There is no set rule as to when you must change your engine oil. Every manufacturer states this frequency based on factors like the model and the make of the bike, its use, and the viscosity of the oil.

However, for modern-day bikes, an oil change is advisable every six months if you use your bike casually. Otherwise, you can even change it every year, at the time you renew your comprehensive or third-party bike insurance policy.

New buyers often believe that an oil change won’t be necessary if they do not ride much. However, there is a higher chance of the oil getting degraded since it does not get adequately heated, circulated in the engine, and then cooled. Automotive experts recommend the bike be ridden at least twice a month for half an hour.

Moreover, in deciding when you need to change your engine oil, you can refer to your bike’s service manual. In addition, different grades of oil are recommended based on the engine’s cubic capacity and heat generated. At present, there are three types of oils available: synthetic, semi-synthetic, and mineral oil.

Also Read: How to Check Your Bike’s Mileage?

Do You Need to Change Your Oil Filter When Changing Your Oil?

Yes, it is best to change the oil filter each time you replace your engine oil. Bikes have a full filtration process where the oil flows to the engine only after passing through the filter. Thus, the filter is the part to which contaminants latch on.

Further, the oil filter will reduce the maintenance cost of your bike. If the metal shavings damage the piston and crankshaft, the repairs required may be steep. Hence, it is best to change the oil filter instead of using a clogged oil filter that does not do its job as intended.

*While your reminders help you remember to renew your bike insurance policy each year, make sure to set reminders for changing the oil and the oil filter. A damaged engine block will cost you more than the simple replacements of the oil and the oil filter.

However, remember to select a comprehensive bike insurance policy to cover unexpected damages to your bike. A two-wheeler insurance premium calculator is a handy tool that can help you compare the available options best suited for your needs.

Common Mistakes to Avoid While Changing Engine Oil

While changing oil, you should be aware of mistakes since they can cost you dearly. Here are the common mistakes to avoid:

1. Always consult the owner's handbook since engine performance may suffer if you use oil that does not fit your car's requirements.

2. Contaminants may enter the engine if you reuse an outdated oil filter. For best protection, replace the oil filter after each oil change.

3. Accidents might occur when working on an unsteady surface or without the right tools. Make sure the bike is safely raised and use high-quality equipment.

4. Engine harm can result from improper oil levels. Check the level with the dipstick and fill according to the manufacturer's instructions.

5. The engine may sustain harm if you leave the drain plug or oil filter mounting part dirty.

6. Overuse of force can harm the oil pan or the threads. Adjust the drain plug's torque to the appropriate level.

7. It is bad for the environment to dump spent oil in the garbage or on the ground. Get rid of it in a facility that has been approved or at a recycling centre.

8. Cold oil drains more slowly and is thicker. To guarantee a complete drain, slightly warm the engine.

Also Read: Top Fuel-Efficient Bikes in India

Final Words

Regularly replacing your motorcycle’s oil and oil filter is vital for ensuring engine health, smooth performance, and longevity. Neglecting this maintenance can lead to severe damage and costly repairs. Set timely reminders for oil changes, follow manufacturer guidelines, and pair it with renewing your bike insurance to protect against unexpected damages.

FAQs

What are the signs that my motorcycle needs an oil change?

Common signs include increased engine noise, overheating, reduced fuel efficiency, and darker or thicker oil when checked with the dipstick.

Can I change the oil and oil filter on my bike myself?

Yes, with the right tools and knowledge, you can perform an oil change at home. However, ensure you follow the manufacturer’s guidelines and dispose of used oil responsibly.

What happens if I skip oil changes for my motorcycle?

Skipping oil changes can lead to sludge buildup, increased friction, engine overheating, and eventually severe damage to internal components, resulting in costly repairs.

How do I choose the right engine oil for my bike?

Refer to your bike’s service manual for the recommended grade and type of oil, whether synthetic, semi-synthetic, or mineral oil, based on the engine’s specifications.

Is it necessary to replace the oil filter every time I change the oil?

Yes, replacing the oil filter ensures contaminants are effectively removed, preventing damage to the engine and maintaining optimal performance.

What is the difference between synthetic, semi-synthetic, and mineral oil?

1. Synthetic oil: Offers superior performance and durability, ideal for high-performance bikes.

2. Semi-synthetic oil: A blend of synthetic and mineral oil, providing a balance of cost and efficiency.

3. Mineral oil: Suitable for older or less demanding engines, but requires more frequent changes.

Can weather conditions affect the frequency of oil changes?

Yes, extreme temperatures can impact oil viscosity and performance. In harsh climates, you may need to change the oil more frequently.

How do I properly dispose of used engine oil and filters?

Take used oil and filters to a local recycling center or auto service shop that accepts them for safe disposal.

* Standard T&C Apply Insurance is the subject matter of solicitation. For more details on benefits, exclusions, limitations, terms, and conditions, please read the sales brochure/policy wording carefully before concluding a sale.