Motorcycle maintenance: 5 oil change mistakes to avoid

Changing the oil of your motorcycle is one of the most important maintenance tasks to keep the engine in perfect condition. A lubricant in good condition reduces friction, prevents premature wear and tear, and helps maintain operating temperature.

However, while it may seem like a simple operation, there are mistakes that can cost you dearly. At Repsol Lubricants, we tell you what the most common mistakes are when changing the oil and how to avoid them so that your motorcycle performs at its best for longer.

1. Using the wrong oil for your engine

One of the most frequent mistakes is to choose an oil that does not meet the technical specifications indicated by the manufacturer. Not all oils are the same: they vary in viscosity (for example, 10W-40, 20W-50), in their base (mineral, semi-synthetic, or synthetic), and in the additives they contain.

Consequently, using the wrong oil can lead to improper lubrication, accelerated wear and tear of internal parts, increased fuel consumption, or even damage to the engine. To avoid this, always check your motorcycle’s user manual. There you can make sure that the oil complies with the API and JASO standards required by your model.

2. Failure to change the oil filter

The oil filter is responsible for retaining any metal particles and debris that are generated from using the engine. If you don’t replace it along with the oil, those impurities will affect the new lubricant and reduce its effectiveness. Here it should be noted that a saturated filter cannot fulfill its function, which causes the oil to get dirty quickly and does not protect the engine as it should.

That’s why it is important to replace the filter every time you change the oil. In addition, it is crucial to use original or equivalent quality filters to ensure a perfect fit and a good oil flow rate. After replacing it, check that it is well lubricated on the gasket to prevent any leakage.

3. Not making sure the engine is warmed up before changing the oil

Draining the oil with the engine completely cold causes the lubricant to flow more slowly and some of the debris and sediment to remain in the sump. And if all the remains of the old lubricant are not removed, the new one will be contaminated sooner, reducing its useful life.

To avoid this, start the motorcycle and leave it idling for 3 to 5 minutes before draining the oil. You don’t have to actually drive it: just enough for the engine to reach a warm temperature that fluidizes the oil. However, be careful when handling the drain plug, as hot oil can burn.

4. Not measuring the amount of oil correctly

Both an excess and a lack of oil are harmful to the engine. The former can generate overpressure, leakage, and damage seals and gaskets, while the latter causes insufficient lubrication and risk of seizure.

In your motorcycle manual and in the sump itself, you will find the exact tank capacity, where both the minimum and maximum amount are indicated. You can also use the dipstick or sight glass to check that the oil is between these two marks. Finally, remember to measure with the motorcycle on a flat surface.

5. Failure to properly tighten the drain plug

The oil drain plug must be tightened adequately as indicated by the manufacturer. Insufficient tightening can lead to leakage and excessive tightening can damage the sump thread, so pay attention to this final step to prevent leakage once you start the engine after making the change. In addition, to prevent leakage, the drain plug sealing washer must be replaced each time an oil change is made.

A correct oil change is an investment in your motorcycle

Carrying out the oil change correctly extends the engine life and improves the performance, efficiency, and reliability of your motorcycle. Proper maintenance will allow you to enjoy a smoother ride, reduce the risk of breakdowns, and maintain optimal fuel consumption. In addition, spending a few extra minutes following the manufacturer's recommendations and using proven quality lubricants is an investment that translates into peace of mind and safety.

At Repsol Lubricants, we offer you a wide range of motorcycle oils designed specifically for the different needs of each user, from urban to high-performance models. With the right product and a maintenance routine, your motorcycle will always be ready to respond, be it on a day-to-day basis or on the most demanding routes.