There’s nothing quite like seeing a young rider’s face light up as they get their first taste of off-road freedom. You’ve likely picked the 2012 Can-Am DS 90 because you know it’s a solid, reliable machine built with safety and fun in mind. But keeping it that way takes a little know-how and some time in the garage.
We promise this guide will give you the confidence to maintain, troubleshoot, and understand your youth ATV like a seasoned pro. We’re going to walk you through everything from essential pre-ride checks to tackling common issues, ensuring every ride is safe and memorable.
Get ready to dive into a complete 2012 Can-Am DS 90 guide, covering a pro-level pre-ride inspection, core maintenance tasks you can do yourself, and the best practices for keeping that engine humming for years to come.
What Makes the 2012 Can-Am DS 90 a Standout Youth ATV?
Before we grab the wrenches, let’s appreciate what makes this little machine special. Understanding its design helps you understand how to care for it. The DS 90 isn’t just a toy; it’s a purpose-built vehicle designed to introduce riders to the sport safely.
One of the key benefits of 2012 Can-Am DS 90 ownership is its user-friendly nature. It was designed for riders aged 10 and up, with features that build confidence instead of causing frustration.
Key Features and Their Benefits
- 4-Stroke Engine: The 89.5cc air-cooled, four-stroke engine provides smooth, predictable power. Unlike a snappy 2-stroke, it’s easier for a beginner to manage and doesn’t require mixing gas and oil.
- CVT Transmission: The Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) is a huge plus. It’s fully automatic—just press the throttle and go. No clutch, no shifting, just smooth acceleration.
- Electric Start: A simple push-button start (with a backup kick-starter) makes getting going effortless and builds independence for the young rider.
- Built-in Safety: The most important feature is the throttle limiter. This simple screw allows you to control the top speed, letting you increase it as the rider’s skill and confidence grow.
- Long-Travel Suspension: With a proper A-arm front suspension, it handles bumps and ruts far better than cheaper, more rigid ATVs, providing a more stable and comfortable ride.
Your Essential Pre-Ride Checklist: The T-CLOCS Method
Every single ride should start with a quick walk-around inspection. The Motorcycle Safety Foundation has a great acronym, T-CLOCS, that we can adapt for our ATV. It takes two minutes and can prevent a ruined day or a dangerous situation.
This is one of the most important 2012 Can-Am DS 90 best practices to teach a young rider. Make it a habit you do together.
T is for Tires & Wheels
Check the tire pressure with a low-pressure gauge. The correct PSI is printed on the tire sidewall—it’s usually around 3-5 PSI. Look for any cracks or embedded objects. Grab each wheel and give it a shake to check for loose lug nuts or bad wheel bearings.
C is for Controls & Cables
Work the throttle lever. Does it snap back cleanly when you let go? A sticky throttle is extremely dangerous. Squeeze the front and rear brake levers. They should feel firm, not spongy. Make sure the parking brake engages and holds the ATV in place.
L is for Lights & Electrics
Test the headlight and taillight. Most importantly, test the engine kill switch and the keyed ignition to ensure you can shut the machine off instantly. A quick check of the tethered kill switch, if equipped, is also a must-do.
O is for Oil & Fluids
With the ATV on level ground, unscrew the oil dipstick, wipe it clean, re-insert it without screwing it in, and pull it out to check the level. Also, give a quick glance under the engine for any drips or leaks.
C is for Chassis & Chain
Visually inspect the frame for any cracks. Check the chain for proper tension—it should have about 1 inch of up-and-down play. Look for any visibly loose nuts or bolts on the suspension, handlebars, and footwells.
The Core 2012 Can-Am DS 90 Care Guide
Regular maintenance is the key to longevity. The DS 90 is a tough machine, but it needs consistent care, especially since it lives in the dirt and dust. Here’s a breakdown of the most critical tasks you can easily handle in your garage.
How to Change the Engine Oil
Changing the oil is the single most important thing you can do for engine health. Aim to do this every 10-15 hours of ride time.
- Warm up the engine for a few minutes to get the oil flowing.
- Place an oil drain pan under the engine and remove the 17mm drain bolt on the bottom of the engine case. Let it drain completely.
- Clean and reinstall the drain bolt. Do not over-tighten it! Snug is good enough.
- Locate the oil filter screen cap on the side of the engine. Remove it and carefully clean the small mesh screen inside with brake cleaner.
- Refill the engine with the correct amount of 10W-40 ATV-specific oil. Your owner’s manual will specify the exact capacity (usually around 0.9 quarts). Check the level with the dipstick.
Cleaning and Oiling the Air Filter
A dirty air filter chokes your engine and robs it of power. This is a critical check after every dusty ride.
- Remove the seat to access the airbox.
- Carefully remove the foam air filter element from its cage.
- Wash the filter thoroughly in a bucket of warm, soapy water or with a dedicated foam filter cleaner. Squeeze it out—never wring or twist it, as this can tear the foam.
- Let it dry completely. Once dry, work a quality foam filter oil evenly into the foam until it’s tacky but not dripping.
- Reinstall the filter, ensuring it creates a perfect seal against the airbox.
Chain and Sprocket Care
A neglected chain will wear out quickly and can be a safety hazard if it breaks. Check the tension before every ride. To adjust it, loosen the rear axle carrier bolts, use the adjuster bolts to set the tension, and then re-tighten everything to spec.
Use a dedicated chain cleaner and a grunge brush to scrub away old grime, then apply a quality chain lube while slowly rotating the rear wheels.
Troubleshooting Common Problems with the 2012 Can-Am DS 90
Even with perfect maintenance, things can sometimes go wrong. Here are some of the most common problems with 2012 Can-Am DS 90 models and how to diagnose them.
Engine Won’t Start or is Hard to Start
This is the most frequent issue. Work through this list systematically:
- Is the fuel petcock ON? It’s easy to forget.
- Is the kill switch in the RUN position? Another simple but common oversight.
- Is the battery dead? Check if the lights work. If not, charge the battery.
- Is the spark plug good? Pull the spark plug out. If it’s black and sooty or wet with fuel, it needs cleaning or replacing with a new NGK CR7HSA plug.
- Is the fuel fresh? Gas can go stale in as little as a month. If it’s been sitting, drain the old fuel and add fresh gas.
Engine Bogs Down or Loses Power
If the ATV starts but sputters or bogs when you give it gas, the culprit is almost always fuel or air related.
First, check the air filter. A clogged filter is the #1 cause of this symptom. If that’s clean, the carburetor’s pilot jet is likely clogged with old fuel deposits. Cleaning the carburetor is a more involved job, but it’s a very common fix for poor running conditions.
Brakes Feel Weak
The DS 90 uses mechanical drum brakes. Over time, the cables stretch and the shoes wear down. You can adjust them easily. At both the front levers and the rear foot pedal, you’ll find adjuster nuts where the cable enters the brake assembly. Tightening these nuts will remove slack and improve brake feel.
Best Practices for Safe and Sustainable Riding
Owning an ATV is about more than just maintenance; it’s about building responsible habits. This is your chance to teach a young rider respect for the machine and the environment.
Gearing Up for Every Ride
There is no compromise here. Every single ride requires a DOT-approved helmet, goggles, over-the-ankle boots, gloves, and long pants/sleeves. It sets a standard for safety that will last a lifetime.
Using the Throttle Limiter Wisely
Start with the throttle limiter screwed in almost all the way, allowing for a fast walking pace. As the rider demonstrates control over braking, turning, and throttle modulation, you can gradually back the screw out to allow more speed. This is one of the most valuable 2012 Can-Am DS 90 tips for parents.
Promoting Eco-Friendly Off-Roading
A truly sustainable 2012 Can-Am DS 90 experience involves responsible riding. Teach your rider to stay on marked trails to prevent erosion and habitat damage. Ensure the spark arrestor in the exhaust is clean and functioning to prevent fires. These simple acts preserve our riding areas for future generations.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2012 Can-Am DS 90
What kind of oil does the 2012 Can-Am DS 90 use?
The 2012 DS 90 uses a 10W-40 four-stroke ATV or motorcycle oil. Be sure to use an oil rated for “wet clutch” applications, even though the DS 90 has a CVT, as these oils have the right additives for powersports engines.
How fast does a 2012 Can-Am DS 90 go?
With the throttle limiter removed, a stock DS 90 can reach a top speed of around 15 mph. With the limiter engaged, you can restrict it to as low as 5 mph for training purposes.
Can an adult ride a Can-Am DS 90?
No. The DS 90 is designated as a Y-10 ATV, meaning it is designed for riders 10 years of age and older. It is not built to handle the weight of an adult, and doing so can damage the frame and suspension and is extremely unsafe.
Is the 2012 Can-Am DS 90 a 2-stroke or 4-stroke?
It is a 4-stroke. This means it has a quieter, more reliable engine that runs on regular gasoline without the need to pre-mix oil into the fuel.
Your Adventure Awaits
The 2012 Can-Am DS 90 is an incredible machine for creating lifelong memories. By investing a little time in understanding and maintaining it, you’re not just protecting a piece of equipment; you’re ensuring every outing is as safe and fun as possible.
This 2012 can-am ds 90 care guide gives you the foundation you need. Don’t be afraid to get your hands dirty, teach your young rider right alongside you, and embrace the DIY spirit.
Now get those wrenches turning, stay safe on the trails, and go make some incredible memories!
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