Let’s be honest. The moment you fire up that Rotax V-twin in a 2013 Can-Am Maverick, you know you’re dealing with something special. It’s a raw, powerful machine that defined a generation of sport side-by-sides. But like any legendary rig that’s seen a few years of hard trail use, it comes with its own set of quirks and personality traits.
You might be wondering if you can keep this beast running strong without constant trips to the shop. You absolutely can.
We promise this guide will arm you with the expert knowledge you need to tackle the most common issues, perform critical maintenance, and make the right upgrades. We’re going to dive deep into a complete 2013 can am maverick guide, covering common problems, a pre-ride checklist, smart modifications, and the best practices to ensure your Maverick outlasts the rest.
Why the 2013 Can-Am Maverick is Still a Trail Legend
When BRP dropped the Maverick 1000R in 2013, it was a direct shot at the top of the sport UTV market. It wasn’t just another side-by-side; it was a statement.
The heart of the machine was the 101-horsepower Rotax 1000R V-twin engine. At the time, this was a massive number, delivering incredible acceleration and a throaty exhaust note that is still unmistakable on the trails today.
But power is nothing without control. Can-Am paired that monster engine with a Torsional Trailing A-arms (TTA) independent rear suspension, offering an impressive 14 inches of travel. This design helped keep the tires planted for better traction and a smoother ride over rough terrain. The benefits of 2013 can am maverick ownership were clear: you got class-leading power and a highly capable suspension platform right out of the box.
Common Problems with 2013 Can-Am Maverick Models (And How to Fix Them)
No machine is perfect, especially a first-year model pushed to its limits. Over the years, the off-road community has identified a few key areas that need attention. Knowing these weak spots is the first step to building a bulletproof rig. Here are some of the most common problems with 2013 can am maverick UTVs.
The Dreaded Frame and Suspension Mounts
The biggest complaint about the early Mavericks was the frame’s strength, particularly around the front upper shock mounts and A-arm mounting points. Hard landings and aggressive driving could cause tabs to bend or even crack over time.
The Pro Fix: Don’t wait for it to break. The best solution is a proactive one. Invest in a quality weld-in gusset kit. Companies like SuperATV or other fabricators offer kits that significantly strengthen all the known weak points on the frame. It’s a weekend project for a competent DIYer with a welder, or a straightforward job for any local fabrication shop.
Overheating and Cooling System Woes
The Maverick’s radiator is mounted up front, right where it can get plastered with mud and debris. A clogged radiator can’t dissipate heat, leading to overheating, especially on slow, technical trails.
The Pro Fix: First, make regular cleaning a priority. After every muddy ride, get a pressure washer (on a gentle setting) and clean the radiator fins from the backside out. For a more permanent solution, consider a radiator relocation kit. These kits move the radiator up higher, often behind the cab, keeping it out of the mud and in clean airflow.
CVT Belt and Clutching Issues
If you’re shredding belts, it’s easy to blame the belt itself. More often than not, however, the real culprit is the clutching. The stock clutch calibration was okay, but it struggles with larger tires or aggressive riding, creating excessive heat that cooks belts.
The Pro Fix: Always use a high-quality belt, like the OEM BRP belt or a top-tier aftermarket one from a brand like Gates. Most importantly, if you’ve changed tire size or added weight, you need a clutch kit. A kit from a reputable company like EPI or Dalton Industries will include new springs and weights to recalibrate your CVT for your specific setup. This lowers belt temps, improves acceleration, and makes your Maverick much more reliable.
Drivetrain Noises and Differential Care
The Visco-Lok front differential on the Maverick works well, but it can be noisy and requires the correct fluid. You might hear clunking or popping during engagement, which is sometimes normal, but can also indicate wear or low fluid.
The Pro Fix: This is a simple but critical part of your 2013 can am maverick care guide. Regularly check the fluid levels in your front and rear differentials and the transmission. Use only the recommended fluid, like BRP’s XPS Synthetic Gear Oil. Using the wrong fluid can cause poor performance and premature wear on the internal components.
Your Essential 2013 Can-Am Maverick Pre-Ride Checklist
The single best thing you can do for your Maverick’s longevity is to give it a thorough once-over before every single ride. This habit will help you catch small issues before they turn into major, trail-ending failures. These are non-negotiable 2013 can am maverick best practices.
- Fluids First, Always: Pull the dipstick and check your engine oil level. Take a look at the coolant overflow bottle to ensure it’s between the ‘min’ and ‘max’ lines. Check your brake fluid reservoir.
- Tires and Wheels: Check your tire pressure and adjust as needed for the terrain you’ll be riding. Give each tire a quick inspection for any deep cuts, punctures, or bubbles in the sidewall. Grab each wheel and try to wiggle it to check for worn wheel bearings or ball joints.
- Axles and Boots: Get a flashlight and inspect all four CV axle boots. Look for any rips, tears, or signs of grease being slung around the suspension. A torn boot lets dirt in and will quickly destroy the CV joint.
- Suspension Bolts: Do a quick visual check on all major suspension mounting bolts—A-arms, trailing arms, shocks, and radius rods. This is what we call a “nut and bolt check.” Things can and do vibrate loose.
- Air Filter Inspection: Your engine’s lungs are critical. Pop the cover off your airbox and check the filter. If you ride in dusty conditions, you should be cleaning it after every ride. A dirty filter robs power and, if it fails, will send dust straight into your engine.
How to Get the Most from Your 2013 Can-Am Maverick: Smart Upgrades
Modifying your Maverick is half the fun of owning one. The key is to choose upgrades that enhance reliability and performance for the type of riding you do. This section covers how to 2013 can am maverick ownership can be even more rewarding.
Suspension and Handling Upgrades
The stock shocks on the 2013 model were decent, but suspension technology has come a long way. A set of modern, adjustable shocks from a brand like FOX, King, or Walker Evans will completely transform the ride quality. If new shocks aren’t in the budget, a professional shock re-valve and re-spring from a suspension expert can make a world of difference for a fraction of the cost.
Protection and Durability Mods
Before adding power, add protection. A full set of UHMW (Ultra-High Molecular Weight) plastic skid plates will protect the entire underside of your machine from rocks and stumps. Rock sliders protect the plastic rocker panels, and a heavy-duty front bumper can save your front end from costly damage. And remember, a winch isn’t a luxury; it’s an essential piece of recovery gear.
Performance and Power Enhancements
Once you have the clutching dialed in, you can look for more power. A quality slip-on or full exhaust system combined with an ECU tune can safely unlock more horsepower and torque. A tuner can adjust fuel and ignition maps to optimize performance, but always choose a reputable tuner who understands the Rotax engine to maintain reliability.
Sustainable and Eco-Friendly 2013 Can-Am Maverick Practices
Being a true off-roader means being a good steward of the trails we love. Adopting some simple, sustainable 2013 can am maverick habits ensures these areas remain open and beautiful for future generations.
- Stay On the Trail: The number one rule. Follow the principles of Tread Lightly! by staying on designated routes. Going off-trail causes erosion and damages fragile ecosystems.
- Proper Fluid Disposal: When you change your oil or coolant, never dump it on the ground. Collect it in a sealed container and take it to your local auto parts store or recycling center. Most accept used fluids for free.
- Wash Smart: An eco-friendly 2013 can am maverick practice is to wash your machine on a grassy area or at a designated car wash. This prevents oil, grease, and soap from running directly into storm drains and local waterways.
- Pack It In, Pack It Out: This one is simple. Whatever you bring with you on the trail—food wrappers, drink bottles, broken parts—comes back with you. Leave the trail cleaner than you found it.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2013 Can-Am Maverick
What is the top speed of a 2013 Can-Am Maverick?
In stock form, a 2013 Can-Am Maverick 1000R can typically reach a top speed of around 70-75 mph. However, this can be affected by tire size, clutch setup, terrain, and any performance modifications.
What kind of oil does a 2013 Can-Am Maverick take?
The manufacturer recommends BRP’s own XPS 5W-40 Synthetic Blend Oil. It’s a great choice, but any high-quality 5W-40 synthetic oil designed for powersports engines from brands like Amsoil, Mobil 1, or Rotella T6 will also work well. The key is using the correct weight and checking the level regularly.
Is the 2013 Can-Am Maverick a reliable machine?
Yes, with a big asterisk. A well-maintained 2013 can am maverick is a very reliable machine. Its reliability is directly tied to how proactively the owner addresses the known common issues like frame gussets and clutching. If you stay on top of maintenance, it will be a trusty trail companion.
How much is a 2013 Can-Am Maverick worth today?
The value varies significantly based on condition, hours/mileage, location, and the quality of installed modifications. A well-used but running machine might be in the $7,000-$8,500 range, while a very clean, low-hour, and tastefully modified example could fetch anywhere from $9,000 to $11,000 or more.
The 2013 Can-Am Maverick is a modern classic. It’s a machine that demands respect and a bit of mechanical empathy, but it rewards its owner with an exhilarating and raw off-road experience that’s hard to find in newer, more refined UTVs.
By following this guide, you can confidently diagnose its quirks, perform your own maintenance, and make it a truly reliable and capable trail weapon. It’s a fantastic platform for any DIYer looking for big performance without the massive price tag of a new machine.
Now grab your tools, give your Maverick the attention it deserves, and we’ll see you on the trails. Ride safe!
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