18/08/2013
Keeping your Can-Am all-terrain vehicle (ATV) or utility terrain vehicle (UTV) in peak condition is paramount for enjoying those thrilling off-road adventures. At the heart of a robust and reliable engine lies proper lubrication, making regular oil changes one of the most critical aspects of ATV maintenance. Neglecting this vital task can lead to premature wear, reduced performance, and costly repairs down the line. Whether you own a powerful Can-Am Outlander 1000 XMR, a versatile 2017 Can-Am Outlander 570, or another model from their impressive lineup, understanding the correct oil, the appropriate change intervals, and the general best practices is essential for extending your machine's life and ensuring it's always ready for the next challenge.
This guide delves into the specifics of Can-Am oil maintenance, providing you with the knowledge needed to keep your quad or side-by-side performing at its best, ensuring years of exhilarating rides across the British countryside or rugged trails further afield. We’ll cover initial steps for an oil change, detail specific oil requirements for popular models, discuss optimal service intervals, and share vital tips for overall vehicle care.
The First Step to a Healthy Engine: Warming Up Your Can-Am
When it comes to changing the engine oil on your Can-Am Outlander 1000 XMR, or indeed most other ATVs, the initial preparation is crucial. The process begins with a simple yet effective step:
Run the engine for a minute to warm the oil, then remove the dipstick/oil filler cap from the right side of the engine to help the oil drain faster.
This initial step serves a vital purpose. Warming the engine oil allows it to become less viscous, meaning it flows more easily. This ensures a more complete and efficient drain, removing as much of the old, contaminated oil as possible from the engine's internal components. Additionally, removing the dipstick or oil filler cap creates a vent, preventing a vacuum from forming as the oil drains, which further facilitates a quicker and more thorough evacuation of the used lubricant. While this is the fundamental starting point, a complete oil change procedure would typically involve locating and removing the drain plug, allowing all the old oil to drain into a suitable container, replacing the oil filter, and then refilling the engine with fresh, new oil to the correct level. However, the specific subsequent steps for the Can-Am Outlander 1000 XMR beyond this initial preparation were not provided in detail.
Choosing the Right Lubrication: Oil for Your Can-Am Outlander 570
Understanding the precise oil requirements for your ATV is paramount. For the 2017 Can-Am Outlander 570, which features a robust four-stroke, liquid-cooled dual-cylinder ROTAX 570 V-twin engine, specific oil types and capacities are recommended to ensure optimal performance and engine longevity. This model utilises a wet-sump lubrication system with a replaceable cartridge oil filter.
The oil capacity for the 2017 Can-Am Outlander 570, when performing an oil filter change, is 2.1 US quarts or 2 litres. It is crucial to use the manufacturer-recommended oil to ensure compatibility and protection for your engine across various operating conditions. Bombardier Recreational Products (BRP), the manufacturer of Can-Am, specifies their XPS 4-stroke synthetic oils.
Recommended Oil Types for 2017 Can-Am Outlander 570
| Climate/Season | Region | Recommended XPS Oil (Part Number) | Alternative (if XPS not available) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | North America | XPS 4-stroke synthetic oil (P/N 293 600 121) | SAE 5W40 motor oil with an API service classification of SG, SH, or SJ |
| All Other Seasons | North America | XPS 4-stroke synthetic oil (P/N 293 600 112) | |
| Summer | Outside North America | XPS 4-stroke synthetic blend (P/N 619 590 109) | |
| All Other Climates | Outside North America | XPS 4-stroke synthetic oil (P/N 619 590 114) |
The use of synthetic oil is a common recommendation for modern ATV engines due to its superior stability, flow characteristics in varying temperatures, and ability to protect engine components under extreme loads. Always refer to your specific model's owner's manual for the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding oil specifications, as recommendations can sometimes vary by year and specific trim level.
How Often Should You Change Your Can-Am's Oil?
The frequency of oil changes for your Can-Am UTV or ATV is a topic that often sparks discussion among enthusiasts. While the owner's manual typically provides a baseline, real-world usage, especially under demanding conditions, often necessitates more frequent changes to maintain engine performance and reliability.
For most Can-Am UTVs, the manuals suggest changing the oil and filters every 100 to 200 hours of operation. However, many riders, particularly those who push their machines harder or frequently tackle challenging terrains, advocate for shorter intervals. UTV engines are often subjected to more intense conditions than typical road vehicles, including high RPMs, heavy loads, and exposure to dust, mud, and water. These factors can accelerate oil degradation and contamination.
A common guideline among experienced Can-Am owners is to change the oil every 1,000 to 2,000 miles, or more frequently if your UTV regularly returns covered in mud after an intense off-roading session. If you consistently drive under extreme conditions, such as competitive rallying or navigating extremely muddy or dusty environments, it is highly recommended to change your oil and air filter every 1,000 miles to ensure maximum protection and engine health. Remember, the oil filter traps contaminants, and a dirty filter can impede oil flow, compromising lubrication. Therefore, the engine oil and oil filter should always be replaced at the same time.
Oil Specifications for Other Popular Can-Am Models
While the focus has been on the Outlander, it's worth noting that oil requirements and maintenance schedules can vary across the Can-Am range. Always consult your specific model's manual for precise details. Here's a look at a couple of other popular models:
Can-Am Maverick X3 Oil Change Interval & Capacity
For high-performance models like the Can-Am Maverick X3, especially if driven under extreme conditions, such as competitive racing or aggressive trail riding, an oil change every 1,000 miles is strongly recommended. This preventative approach helps safeguard the engine against the rigours of intense use. The 2020 Can-Am Maverick X3 Manual specifies an oil capacity of 3.5 litres (3.7 US quarts) of 4T 5W40 SYNTHETIC BLEND OIL for general purposes. As with all models, always replace the engine oil and oil filter simultaneously.
Can-Am Defender Oil Change Interval
The Can-Am Defender, known for its utility and ruggedness, has a manual recommendation of changing the oil every 200 hours. However, for those who frequently use their Defender in demanding situations, from traversing deserts to navigating wintry tundras, proactive owners often opt for much shorter service intervals to prevent premature engine wear and ensure the vehicle's long-term reliability.
Beyond Oil: Essential Maintenance Tips for Your Can-Am Outlander
While oil changes are fundamental, comprehensive maintenance for your Can-Am involves addressing several other key areas. Proactive care helps mitigate common issues and ensures your Outlander remains a dependable workhorse or thrilling recreational vehicle.
Brake Pad Wear
Many Can-Am Outlander owners report that the brake pads, particularly the stock organic ones, can wear out prematurely. This isn't necessarily a fault, but rather a characteristic that requires attention. Regardless of whether you have a base model, Limited Edition, or the Mossy Oak Hunting Edition, frequent brake pad checks are advisable. If you notice excessive wear, consider upgrading to more durable aftermarket pads, or adjust your riding style to minimise abrupt braking, allowing more distance for gradual deceleration.
Addressing Excessive Heat
Some riders have noted excessive heat radiating from the left panel of the quad, particularly where their leg rests. This is often attributed to air being blown directly across the horizontally positioned exhaust pipe. Several solutions can help manage this discomfort:
- Exhaust Wrap: Wrapping the exhaust pipe with header wrap, ideally at least twice, can significantly reduce heat dissipation into the surrounding areas.
- Heat Shield: Installing a heat shield for the fuel tank can further protect against heat transfer.
- Airflow Modification: For the more mechanically inclined, modifying the belt vent air to redirect it away from the panel and tank can be an effective, albeit more involved, solution.
Ignition and Cold Starting Problems
Cold starting issues are a known, albeit infrequent, problem across various Can-Am ATV models, including the Outlander 570s. While there isn't a universal fix, common advice from mechanics and experienced owners includes:
- Starter Tap: A gentle but firm tap on the starter with a long wooden rod can sometimes help if it's sticking.
- Battery Upgrade: More often, upgrading the stock battery to a higher-quality AGM (Absorbent Glass Mat) or Optima-type battery with increased Cold Cranking Amps (CCA) can provide the necessary jolt to get the engine turning over reliably in cold weather.
Tyre Durability
The stock rubber on some Outlander models has been reported to have less than ideal puncture resistance. For riders who frequently encounter sharp debris or rough terrain, it's a wise investment to swap out the factory tyres for more durable, weather-resistant 28-inch alternatives. However, specific trims like the 2016 Can-Am Outlander 570 and certain 2017 special editions often came equipped with more robust Maxxis Mudzilla tyres, which are generally more resilient.
Grease Zerks and Bushings
Be prepared to get acquainted with your grease gun, as many Can-Am machines feature numerous grease zerks – as many as 16 on some models. Regular greasing is crucial for preventing premature wear on components. Owners have reported that bushings can become loose relatively early, sometimes as low as 700 miles, so keeping them well-lubricated is key to maintaining tight steering and suspension.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How fast will a Can-Am Outlander 570 go?
The advertised top speed for a Can-Am Outlander 570 is typically around 60-62 mph (approximately 96-100 km/h). However, some riders have reported achieving speeds up to 78 mph (about 125 km/h) under ideal conditions. This speed rating generally applies to all Outlander 570 trims. The stout Rotax engine makes it relatively easy to reach the higher end of its speed capabilities. Further upgrades, such as freeing up the machine’s airflow, might add a few extra miles per hour to its performance.
How much horsepower does a Can Am Outlander 570 have?
The V-twin powered Can-Am Outlander 570 typically produces a maximum horsepower of 48 hp at the crank or engine. When factoring in the usual 15-20% drivetrain loss, this translates to at least 40 hp delivered to the wheels. This power output is more than sufficient for most riders to enjoy, despite the Electronic Control Module (ECM) often restricting the engine’s full potential. A common workaround to unleash more power is to install larger tyres. This can trick the ECM into thinking the vehicle is travelling slower, thus preventing the speed limiter from activating and allowing the engine to reach its full rev limit.
Are 2017 Can-Am Outlander 570 quads reliable?
Despite some minor reported flaws and a steering recall in 2017, the Can-Am Outlander 570 is generally considered a very reliable quad. Its reliability largely depends on how well the vehicle is maintained and the aggressiveness of the owner's riding style. For instance, while organic brake pads might wear prematurely, a rider who anticipates stops and brakes from a distance can mitigate this issue. Similarly, addressing other identified concerns through proper maintenance and proactive care can significantly enhance the quad's long-term dependability and ensure it continues to deliver excellent value.
Why is regular oil changing so important for my ATV?
Regular oil changes are vital because engine oil lubricates moving parts, reduces friction, cools the engine, and cleans internal components by suspending contaminants. Over time, oil breaks down, loses its lubricating properties, and accumulates dirt and debris. Fresh oil ensures optimal engine protection, maintains performance, improves fuel efficiency, and significantly extends the lifespan of your ATV's engine, preventing costly repairs.
Conclusion
The Can-Am Outlander series, including the formidable 1000 XMR and the versatile 2017 Outlander 570, represents a significant achievement in the ATV market, offering powerful and dynamic machines perfect for a wide array of off-road activities. However, the true enjoyment and longevity of these remarkable vehicles hinge on diligent and proactive maintenance, with engine oil changes standing out as the most critical task.
By adhering to recommended oil types and capacities, understanding how your riding conditions influence service intervals, and staying on top of general maintenance tips – from brake pads to heat management – you ensure your Can-Am remains a reliable, high-performing companion for years to come. Remember, a well-maintained machine isn't just about avoiding breakdowns; it's about preserving the thrill and freedom that only a capable Can-Am can provide. Always refer to your official owner's manual for the most precise details tailored to your specific model, and never underestimate the value of fresh oil in safeguarding your investment.
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