2017 Can Am Maverick X3 X Ds Turbo R - The Ultimate Owner'S Care Guide

So, you’ve got your hands on a 2017 Can-Am Maverick X3 X DS Turbo R. You agree it’s an absolute beast of a machine, a rig that completely redefined the sport side-by-side market when it launched. The raw power, the insane suspension travel, the aggressive stance—it’s an off-roader’s dream.

But here’s the thing: with great power comes the need for great maintenance. We promise that by the end of this guide, you’ll have the expert knowledge to not only keep your X3 running flawlessly but also to understand its quirks, address common issues before they become trail-ending disasters, and unlock its true potential.

We’re going to preview everything from the critical pre-ride checks every owner must perform to the most common problems to watch out for. We’ll also cover smart, real-world upgrades and the best practices for riding hard while keeping your machine in top shape. Let’s dive in.

What Makes the 2017 Can-Am Maverick X3 X DS Turbo R a Legend?

Before we get into the nuts and bolts, let’s appreciate what we’re working with. The 2017 Can-Am Maverick X3 X DS Turbo R wasn’t just another UTV; it was a statement. It arrived on the scene and immediately set new benchmarks for performance and suspension.

The heart of this monster is the 154-horsepower, 900cc Rotax ACE turbocharged triple-cylinder engine. It delivers breathtaking acceleration and a top end that will press you back into your seat. This was a game-changer in 2017, offering power that was previously only available with extensive aftermarket work.

The real magic, however, lies in the suspension. The X DS model boasts a 64-inch width for stability and features fully adjustable FOX 2.5 Podium RC2 Piggyback shocks. With an incredible 20 inches of usable travel front and rear, this machine was built to devour whoops, dunes, and rocky terrain without breaking a sweat. Understanding these core components is key to appreciating the full benefits of the 2017 Can-Am Maverick X3 X DS Turbo R.

The Essential Pre-Ride Inspection: Your 15-Minute Safety Ritual

You’re itching to hit the trail, we get it. But skipping a pre-ride inspection is one of the biggest mistakes you can make. This simple routine is the cornerstone of our 2017 Can-Am Maverick X3 X DS Turbo R care guide and can save you from a very long walk back to the truck.

Make this a non-negotiable habit. It’s one of the most important 2017 Can-Am Maverick X3 X DS Turbo R best practices you can adopt.

Check Your Fluids. This is non-negotiable. Pull the dipstick and check the engine oil level. Peek at your coolant reservoir—is it between the min and max lines? Finally, check the brake fluid reservoir. Low fluid levels are a sign of a leak or consumption issue that needs immediate attention.
Inspect Tires and Wheels. Air pressure is critical for performance and safety. Check that all four tires are set to your preferred pressure for the terrain you’re riding. While you’re down there, give each tire a quick look for cuts or punctures and wiggle the wheel to check for loose lug nuts or worn wheel bearings.
Look Over the Suspension. Get a good look at your A-arms, trailing arms, and radius rods. You’re looking for anything that’s bent, cracked, or broken. Pay close attention to your CV boots—a torn boot will quickly lead to a destroyed CV joint if dirt and water get inside.
Test Your Controls. Hop in the seat. Do the headlights, brake lights, and horn (if you have one) work? Turn the steering wheel from lock to lock. Does it feel smooth? Press the brake pedal—it should feel firm, not spongy.
Belt and Clutch Check. While you can’t do a deep dive without removing the cover, take a quick peek at the CVT exhaust vent. Look for black dust, which can be a sign of excessive belt wear. Listen for any unusual noises from the clutch area when you first start the engine.

Common Problems with the 2017 Can-Am Maverick X3 X DS Turbo R (And How to Fix Them)

No machine is perfect, and the first-year X3s have a few well-documented quirks. Knowing the common problems with the 2017 Can-Am Maverick X3 X DS Turbo R helps you stay ahead of maintenance and prevent failures on the trail.

The Dreaded CVT Belt Failure

If you’ve been around the UTV world, you’ve heard stories about blown belts. The X3’s immense power generates a lot of heat in the clutch housing, which is the mortal enemy of the CVT belt. A sudden failure can not only end your day but also damage your clutches.

Prevention: Always use Low gear when rock crawling, loading onto a trailer, or navigating technical terrain under 15 mph. This keeps clutch temperatures down. Also, consider an aftermarket clutch housing blower to improve airflow.
The Fix: Always carry a spare OEM BRP belt and the simple factory tool kit to change it. Practice changing it once in your garage so you know how to do it on the trail. It’s a 20-minute job that can save your entire trip.

Front Differential Pinion Seal Leaks

An early and well-known issue on the 2017 models was a tendency for the front differential’s pinion seal to leak. You’ll spot this as gear oil residue around where the front driveshaft enters the diff.

Prevention: There isn’t much you can do to prevent it, but regular inspection is key.
The Fix: This was often a warranty repair. If your machine is out of warranty, an updated seal kit is available from BRP. It’s a job a competent DIYer can handle with a service manual, but if you’re not comfortable pulling the front diff, let a trusted shop handle it.

Carrier Bearing Wear

The factory carrier bearing, which supports the middle of the two-piece driveshaft, is a known weak point. The stock rubber housing allows for too much flex, leading to premature bearing failure. You’ll know it’s going bad when you hear a rumbling or feel a vibration under your seat, especially on acceleration.

Prevention: Proactive replacement is the best strategy here.
The Fix: Upgrade to a heavy-duty aftermarket carrier bearing. Brands like Sandcraft RCR or SuperATV offer greasable, more robust units that are a “fix it and forget it” solution. This is a fantastic 2017 Can-Am Maverick X3 X DS Turbo R tip for long-term reliability.

Your Guide to Smart Upgrades & Performance Mods

The stock X3 is amazing, but the aftermarket is where you can truly tailor it to your needs. This 2017 Can-Am Maverick X3 X DS Turbo R guide wouldn’t be complete without talking about smart modifications.

Stage 1: The “Must-Have” Safety & Reliability Mods

Before you chase more horsepower, make the machine safer and more durable.

Harnesses: The stock seatbelts are okay, but 4 or 5-point harnesses will keep you securely planted in your seat in rough terrain. This is the number one safety upgrade.
Roof: A simple aluminum or plastic roof protects you from the sun and offers a surprising amount of protection from the elements.
Full Skid Plate: The factory protection is minimal. A full UHMW (Ultra-High Molecular Weight) plastic skid plate will protect the entire underside of your machine from rocks and stumps.
Spare Tire Carrier: Don’t get stranded. A good quality spare tire carrier is essential for any serious off-roader.

Stage 2: Unleashing More Performance

Ready for more grunt? The Rotax engine responds incredibly well to a few key mods.

ECU Tune: An ECU flash from a reputable tuner like Evolution Powersports (EVP) or DynoJet can safely add 20-30 horsepower by optimizing fuel, timing, and boost parameters.
Clutch Kit: If you add bigger tires or an ECU tune, you must re-clutch. A clutch kit with different weights and springs will ensure your clutches engage properly, transfer that new power to the ground, and improve belt life.
Upgraded Charge Tube: The factory plastic charge tube between the turbo and the intercooler can fail under higher boost. An aluminum replacement is cheap insurance.

How to Drive Your 2017 Can-Am Maverick X3 X DS Turbo R: Pro Tips

Learning how to 2017 Can-Am Maverick X3 X DS Turbo R is about more than just mashing the gas pedal. Smart driving techniques will make you faster, safer, and will significantly extend the life of your machine.

Mastering the Drivetrain

Use the right mode for the job. 2WD is great for high-speed trails and drifting in the dunes. Engage 4WD as soon as you hit loose climbs, mud, or rocky sections. And as we mentioned, always use Low range for slow-speed, high-load situations. Your CVT belt will thank you.

Eco-Friendly & Sustainable Off-Roading Best Practices

Being a true off-road enthusiast means respecting the environment. A core part of our mission at FatBoysOffroad is promoting responsible trail use. Adopting a sustainable 2017 Can-Am Maverick X3 X DS Turbo R mindset is crucial for the future of our sport.

This means staying on marked trails to prevent erosion, packing out everything you pack in (and maybe even picking up trash others left behind), and ensuring your vehicle isn’t leaking fluids. A well-maintained machine is an eco-friendly 2017 Can-Am Maverick X3 X DS Turbo R. Proper maintenance prevents oil and coolant leaks that can contaminate the ground and waterways.

Frequently Asked Questions About the 2017 Can-Am Maverick X3 X DS Turbo R

What is the stock horsepower of a 2017 Maverick X3 X DS Turbo R?

The 2017 model year came from the factory with 154 horsepower from its 900cc Rotax ACE turbocharged engine.

What kind of oil does the 2017 Maverick X3 use?

BRP recommends their XPS 5W-40 Synthetic Blend Oil. However, any high-quality, full-synthetic 5W-40 oil from brands like Amsoil, Mobil 1, or Rotella T6 that is rated for turbo engines and wet clutches (if applicable to your specific model’s transmission setup) is a suitable alternative.

How often should I change the CVT belt?

This depends heavily on your riding style. A good rule of thumb is to inspect the belt every 50 hours of use. We recommend proactively replacing it every 1,000-1,500 miles, or sooner if you are an aggressive driver, run large tires, or have a tuned engine.

What is the top speed of a stock 2017 X3 X DS?

A stock 2017 Maverick X3 X DS Turbo R is electronically limited and will typically top out around 75-80 mph on a flat, smooth surface. This can vary slightly based on conditions and machine setup.

Your 2017 Can-Am Maverick X3 X DS Turbo R is a world-class performance machine that, with the right care and attention, will provide years of thrilling adventures. By following this guide, performing your checks, and addressing issues proactively, you’re not just maintaining a vehicle—you’re investing in countless epic rides.

Now you have the knowledge. Get in the garage, give your rig the love it deserves, and then get out there and hit the trails. Stay safe, ride hard, and have a blast!

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Thomas Corle

Founder & Automobile expert at FatBoysOffroad

Automobile expert and off-road enthusiast, sharing in-depth knowledge of vehicles, gear, and adventures. Helping readers make smart decisions and enjoy the thrill of off-roading safely and confidently.