What Causes Increased Noise After Changing Motorcycle Oil?
2 Answers
Reasons for increased noise after changing motorcycle oil are as follows: Incorrect Oil Grade: This situation occurs occasionally. The owner's manual specifies the factory-recommended oil grade, and it's best to use the grade recommended by the manufacturer. For turbocharged vehicles, synthetic oil is recommended. If the correct grade of genuine oil is added, generally after replacement, vibrations will decrease or remain largely unchanged. Low-Quality Oil: If vibrations and noise do not improve after driving for a while, the user should consider changing the oil. Some vehicles may experience slightly increased vibrations and noise immediately after an oil change. The ECU has a learning process, so it's advisable to drive a hundred or so kilometers before reassessing.
As a seasoned motorcyclist with over a decade of riding experience, I've encountered numerous cases where engine noise increases after an oil change. The most common cause is using oil with incorrect viscosity—for instance, switching from 10W-40 to a thinner 5W-30 oil. Lower viscosity oil can't keep up with the oil pump's demand, increasing metal-to-metal friction inside the engine and thus noise. Another possibility is incorrect oil quantity: too little oil means insufficient lubrication, while overfilling creates excessive foam, allowing air bubbles to enter oil passages and cause a rattling sound. Also, don't overlook the oil filter—if the old filter wasn't replaced or was improperly installed, blocking oil flow can also generate noise. My advice: first check the dipstick to verify proper oil level, then reconsider whether the oil grade suits your motorcycle brand. Pay attention to these details during your next oil change, and address excessive noise promptly to avoid engine damage.
