Let’s agree on something: the 2013 Can Am Commander is an absolute beast on the trail. That Rotax V-twin engine has a growl that promises adventure, and its versatile design has made it a favorite for over a decade. But like any seasoned off-road warrior, a ten-year-old machine has its own set of quirks, common issues, and maintenance needs that can stump a new owner.
I promise this guide will be your new best friend. We’re not just going to list specs; we’re going to give you the real-world, in-the-garage advice you need. This is the ultimate 2013 can am commander care guide, built from years of wrenching, riding, and rescuing these rigs from the trailside.
We’ll walk you through the most common problems and their fixes, detail a bulletproof pre-ride checklist, cover essential DIY maintenance, explore smart upgrades, and even answer your most pressing questions. Let’s get you ready to ride with confidence.
Understanding Your Rig: The Good, The Bad, and The Awesome
Before we dive into the nuts and bolts, it’s crucial to understand what you’re working with. The 2013 model year was a solid one for the Commander line, sitting right in the sweet spot of its first generation. It offered a thrilling alternative to other UTVs with its potent engine options and unique features.
The Big Wins: Why We Love It
The primary benefits of a 2013 can am commander are still relevant today. The heart of the machine is the legendary Rotax V-twin engine, available in both 800cc and 1000cc flavors. It delivers impressive torque and a sound that’s pure adrenaline.
Another standout feature is the dual-level cargo box. This clever design gives you a weather-resistant lower storage area and a traditional dump bed on top, offering a level of utility that many newer models still can’t match. For work or play, it’s a game-changer.
The Real-World Downsides
No machine is perfect, especially one from this era. The Commander’s sport-utility focus means its suspension can feel a bit stiff compared to pure-sport models. The biggest thing to watch out for, however, are a few known mechanical weak points that we’ll tackle head-on in the next section.
Common Problems with the 2013 Can Am Commander (And How to Fix Them)
If you own one of these long enough, you’ll likely encounter one of these issues. Knowing what to look for is half the battle. This isn’t a list to scare you; it’s a roadmap to building a more reliable machine. Here are the most common problems with the 2013 can am commander.
The Visco-Lok Front Differential
The stock Visco-Lok front differential is arguably the Commander’s most talked-about component. It’s a limited-slip system that requires one front wheel to spin a bit before it locks the other one in for true 4WD. This delay can be frustrating when you’re trying to climb a technical obstacle.
The Fix: Many owners upgrade to a faster-engaging Visco-Lok QE (Quick Engagement) unit from a newer model or go for an aftermarket solution like a Halo Locker or a Smart-Lok conversion. These provide instant, on-demand 4WD and transform the machine’s climbing ability.
Drivetrain and Clutch Woes
You might notice a clunky feeling when shifting between gears or experience premature drive belt wear. These are often related to the CVT clutch system.
The Fix: Regularly inspect your drive belt for glazing or frayed edges. When you install a new belt (a good spare to carry!), follow the proper break-in procedure. If issues persist, consider a clutch kit. These kits replace the stock springs and weights to better match your tire size and riding style, improving engagement and belt life.
Electrical Gremlins
Over time, vibrations and trail debris can take a toll on the wiring. Common issues include intermittent starting problems or accessories that stop working. The culprit is often a corroded ground connection or a chafed wire.
The Fix: Start with the basics. Ensure your battery terminals are clean and tight. Trace the main ground wires from the battery to the frame and engine, cleaning the contact points with a wire brush. If you add accessories like a winch or light bar, always use a fused power source and relays to avoid overloading the stock system.
Suspension and Frame Wear
These machines are built tough, but years of hard riding can cause wear on suspension components. Worn A-arm bushings, ball joints, and wheel bearings can lead to sloppy steering and handling.
The Fix: During your regular maintenance, grab each wheel at the top and bottom and try to wiggle it. Any significant play could indicate a worn ball joint or wheel bearing. These are replaceable items that make a huge difference in how the machine feels on the trail.
Your Pre-Ride Inspection: A Step-by-Step Guide
The single most important habit you can develop is a thorough pre-ride inspection. This five-minute check can save you hours of frustration on the trail and prevent minor issues from becoming major failures. This is one of the most critical 2013 can am commander best practices.
- Check Your Fluids: Start with the engine oil. Is the level correct? Then check the coolant in the radiator (when cool!) and the overflow bottle. Finally, inspect the brake fluid reservoir.
- Tires and Wheels: Check the air pressure in all four tires. Give them a quick visual inspection for any cuts or punctures. Grab the lug nuts to make sure they are tight.
- Inspect CV Boots: Look at the rubber CV boots on all four axles. You’re looking for any rips or tears. A torn boot lets dirt in and grease out, quickly destroying the CV joint.
- Look for Leaks: Scan the ground under your Commander and look around the engine, differentials, and radiator for any signs of dripping fluids.
- Test Controls and Brakes: Start the engine. Test your headlights (high and low beams) and brake lights. Pump the brakes to ensure you have a firm pedal.
DIY Maintenance: The 2013 Can Am Commander Care Guide
Ready to get your hands dirty? This simple 2013 can am commander guide covers the core maintenance tasks every owner should know how to do. You don’t need a full shop, just a few basic tools and the willingness to learn.
Changing the Engine Oil and Filter
This is the lifeblood of your Rotax engine. Plan to do it every 50 hours or once a season, whichever comes first.
You’ll Need: A socket set, a drain pan, a filter wrench, and the correct oil (BRP XPS 5W-40 Synthetic Blend is recommended) and a new oil filter.
Warm up the engine for a few minutes to help the oil flow. Locate the drain plug on the bottom of the engine, place your pan underneath, and remove it. Let it drain completely. Replace the old filter, put a light coat of new oil on the new filter’s gasket, and spin it on until it’s hand-tight plus a quarter turn. Reinstall the drain plug and fill with the specified amount of fresh oil.
Servicing the Air Filter
Your engine breathes through the air filter. In dusty off-road conditions, it can get clogged quickly, robbing you of power.
The Process: The airbox is typically located under the driver’s seat or center console. Open it up and carefully remove the filter. Tap out any loose debris. If it’s a foam filter, wash it with filter cleaner and water, let it dry completely, and then re-oil it with foam filter oil. If it’s a paper filter, replace it when it’s dirty.
Greasing the Zerks
Your suspension has several pivot points that need grease to function smoothly. You’ll find these grease fittings (zerks) on the A-arms and sometimes on the driveshaft yokes.
The Tool: A simple grease gun loaded with a quality marine-grade grease is all you need. Pump grease into each zerk until you see fresh grease begin to push out of the joint. Wipe off the excess.
Sustainable & Eco-Friendly 2013 Can Am Commander Practices
Being a responsible off-roader means protecting the trails we love. Adopting a few eco-friendly 2013 can am commander habits ensures these areas remain open and beautiful for future generations.
Tread Lightly
This is the golden rule. Stay on designated trails. Avoid creating new bypasses around obstacles, as this causes erosion. Cross streams only at designated crossings and be mindful of sensitive wildlife habitats.
Proper Fluid Disposal
Never dump used oil, coolant, or other fluids on the ground. Your used oil contains harmful contaminants. Pour it into a sealed container and take it to your local auto parts store or a municipal recycling center. Most will accept it for free.
Wash Your Rig Responsibly
Pressure washing your Commander after a muddy ride helps you spot potential issues like leaks or loose bolts. Try to wash on a grassy area away from storm drains or use a commercial car wash with a proper drainage system. Using biodegradable soaps helps minimize the environmental impact.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2013 Can Am Commander
What kind of oil does a 2013 Can Am Commander take?
The manufacturer recommends a 5W-40 synthetic or synthetic blend powersports oil. BRP’s XPS 5W-40 Synthetic Blend is the official choice, but other high-quality brands meeting the same specification will work well. Always check your owner’s manual for the exact capacity.
How fast is a 2013 Can Am Commander 1000?
A stock 2013 Can Am Commander 1000 has a top speed of around 70-75 mph. This can vary based on the specific model (XT, Limited), tire size, and trail conditions. The 800 model is slightly slower but still plenty fast for any trail.
Is the 2013 Can Am Commander a reliable machine?
Yes, with proper care, it is a very reliable UTV. The Rotax V-twin engine is known for its durability. Like any vehicle of its age, reliability is directly tied to maintenance. Addressing the common weak points mentioned in this guide and sticking to a regular service schedule will ensure it serves you well for years.
What should I look for when buying a used 2013 Commander?
Check all the common problem areas. Look for rips in the CV boots, ask about the service history (especially oil changes), and check for play in the wheel bearings and ball joints. Listen for any unusual noises from the clutch or engine. A well-maintained machine is a much better investment than a cheaper one that’s been neglected.
The 2013 Can Am Commander is a fantastic and capable platform that rewards a hands-on owner. By understanding its quirks and committing to regular maintenance, you’re not just owning a UTV—you’re building a reliable partner for countless adventures.
So get familiar with your machine, keep up with your pre-ride checks, and don’t be afraid to turn a wrench. The confidence you’ll gain is priceless. Now get out there and hit the trails!
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