Let’s agree on something: the 2017 Can-Am Maverick X3 XRS wasn’t just another side-by-side; it was a seismic shift in the off-road world. With its aggressive stance, mind-boggling suspension travel, and turbocharged heart, it set a new benchmark for performance. Even today, it remains a formidable machine capable of conquering dunes, trails, and rock gardens with astonishing speed.
But like any high-performance thoroughbred, it demands respect and the right kind of care to keep it running at its peak. Neglect it, and you’ll be left with a very expensive garage ornament. Give it what it needs, and it will reward you with endless adrenaline-fueled adventures.
We promise this comprehensive guide will give you the expert knowledge you need. We’ll walk you through the essential pre-ride checks, dive deep into the most common problems and their real-world fixes, explore the smartest upgrades for reliability and performance, and even cover best practices for responsible riding. This is your definitive 2017 can am maverick x3 xrs guide to ownership.
What Made the 2017 Can-Am Maverick X3 XRS a Legend?
When the Maverick X3 dropped, it looked like something from another planet. Its design was a radical departure from the upright, almost truck-like UTVs of the time. Can-Am took inspiration from trophy trucks, and it showed.
The seating position is low-slung, making you feel connected to the machine and the terrain. The cockpit is driver-focused, wrapping around you like a fighter jet. But the real magic was in the mechanics, which delivered some of the incredible benefits of the 2017 can am maverick x3 xrs that enthusiasts still rave about today.
The Game-Changing Suspension
The “XRS” in the name stands for “X package, Race Special,” and the suspension was the star of the show. With a staggering 24 inches of usable travel in the rear and 22 inches in the front, controlled by massive FOX 3.0 Podium RC2 internal bypass shocks, it could swallow whoops and G-outs that would send other machines flying.
This wasn’t just about big numbers; it was about control. The fully-adjustable shocks allowed drivers to fine-tune compression and rebound to match the terrain, giving it an unmatched level of stability at high speed.
Turbocharged Rotax Power
Nestled behind the seats is the potent 900cc Rotax ACE three-cylinder engine. Fed by a turbocharger and a massive intercooler, it pumped out a very healthy 154 horsepower from the factory. This power, combined with the machine’s relatively light weight and efficient QRS-X CVT transmission, delivered explosive acceleration and an addictive top-end rush.
Your Essential Pre-Ride Inspection: A 2017 Can-Am Maverick X3 XRS Care Guide
The single most important habit you can develop as an owner is the pre-ride inspection. It takes 10 minutes, but it can save you from a ruined weekend or a dangerous failure on the trail. This is one of the most crucial 2017 can am maverick x3 xrs tips we can offer.
Make this a non-negotiable ritual before every single ride.
- Check Your Fluids. Pull the dipstick and check the engine oil level. Check the coolant in the overflow reservoir. Take a quick look at the brake fluid reservoir. If anything is low, top it off and look for the source of the leak.
- Inspect Tires and Wheels. Use a quality tire pressure gauge to set your pressures for the terrain you’re riding. Visually inspect the sidewalls for cuts or bubbles. Most importantly, grab a torque wrench and verify your lug nuts are tight—a loose wheel can be catastrophic.
- Look Over the Suspension. Get a flashlight and look at all your A-arms, trailing arms, and radius rods. Check for any cracks, bends, or loose bolts. Glance at your shocks to ensure they aren’t leaking oil.
- Wiggle the Steering and Axles. With the machine on the ground, grab a front tire at the 9 and 3 o’clock positions and wiggle it. Excessive play could mean a worn tie rod end or ball joint. Do the same for your axles (CVs) to check for unusual movement, and inspect the rubber boots for rips.
- Test Your Brakes and Lights. Before you take off, roll a few feet and gently apply the brakes to make sure they feel solid. Flip on your headlights and check your brake lights to ensure you’re visible to others.
Common Problems with the 2017 Can-Am Maverick X3 XRS (And How to Fix Them)
While the X3 is an incredible machine, the first model year had a few known weak points. The good news is that the aftermarket has provided robust solutions for all of them. Addressing these proactively is one of the 2017 can am maverick x3 xrs best practices for long-term ownership.
The Notorious Carrier Bearing
The stock driveshaft carrier bearing is a well-known failure point. It’s a simple rubber-mounted bearing that wears out quickly, causing a noticeable vibration, especially under acceleration. You’ll feel it right through the floorboards.
The Fix: Don’t replace it with another OEM unit. Invest in a heavy-duty, greaseable aftermarket carrier bearing from brands like Sandcraft RCR, L&W Fab, or Keller Performance. They are built to last and eliminate the driveline vibration.
Weak Rear Radius Rods
The stock lower radius rods on the rear suspension are susceptible to bending, especially during aggressive driving or an unfortunate encounter with a rock. A bent rod will throw your rear alignment out of whack and can lead to further damage.
The Fix: This is an easy and essential upgrade. A set of high-clearance, heavy-duty billet or tubular steel radius rods will give you both strength and better ground clearance. Pair this with a double-shear radius rod plate to reinforce the mounting points on the frame for maximum durability.
CVT Belt Life and Heat
Heat is the number one killer of CVT belts. The 2017 model’s clutch cover design wasn’t the best for cooling. A slipping, glazed, or shredded belt will leave you stranded.
The Fix: First, always carry a spare belt and the simple tools needed to change it. Second, consider an aftermarket clutch cover with better venting or a clutch blower fan to force more cooling air into the housing. Most importantly, learn how to 2017 can am maverick x3 xrs clutch engagement smoothly—avoiding jerky, high-load takeoffs will drastically extend belt life.
Smart Upgrades: Getting the Most from Your Maverick X3
Modifying your X3 is half the fun, but it’s easy to get carried away. We recommend focusing on mods that enhance safety, reliability, and usability before chasing massive horsepower numbers.
H3: Safety First: The Must-Have Mods
Your well-being is paramount. These aren’t suggestions; they’re essentials.
- Harnesses: The stock seatbelts are okay, but a 4-point or 5-point harness will keep you securely planted in your seat in rough terrain or in the event of a rollover. This is the single best safety upgrade you can make.
- Fire Extinguisher: Mount a quality automotive fire extinguisher within easy reach of the driver or passenger. It’s cheap insurance.
- Mirrors: A good set of side mirrors and a rearview mirror dramatically increase your situational awareness on crowded trails.
H3: Performance and Reliability Mods
Once you’ve covered safety, you can start uncorking the machine’s potential.
- Clutch Kit: If you add larger tires or an ECU tune, a clutch kit is a must. It involves changing weights and springs in your clutches to re-calibrate them for the added load or power. This ensures you’re putting power to the ground efficiently and saves your belt.
- ECU Tune: Reputable tuners like Evolution Powersports or Dynojet can safely unlock significant horsepower from the Rotax engine with a simple software flash. This is the best bang-for-your-buck power upgrade.
- Intake and Exhaust: A less restrictive air filter and exhaust can help the engine breathe better, especially when paired with an ECU tune. Just be mindful of noise levels in your riding area.
Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Off-Roading Practices
Being a true off-road enthusiast means being a steward of the land we love to ride on. A powerful machine like the 2017 can am maverick x3 xrs comes with a responsibility to minimize our impact. Adopting some eco-friendly 2017 can am maverick x3 xrs habits ensures our trails stay open for generations to come.
Follow the principles of Tread Lightly! by staying on designated trails. Avoid cutting new paths or driving through sensitive areas like meadows or creek beds. The goal is to leave the trail better than you found it.
Always pack out everything you pack in. Bring a small trash bag and pick up any litter you see, even if it isn’t yours. Finally, that pre-ride inspection we talked about is key. A well-maintained machine that isn’t leaking oil or coolant is a sustainable 2017 can am maverick x3 xrs that isn’t contaminating the environment.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2017 Can-Am Maverick X3 XRS
What is the stock horsepower of a 2017 Maverick X3 XRS?
The 2017 Can-Am Maverick X3 XRS came from the factory with 154 horsepower from its 900cc turbocharged Rotax ACE engine.
What kind of oil does a 2017 Maverick X3 take?
Can-Am recommends their proprietary XPS 5W-40 Synthetic Blend Oil. However, any high-quality, Jaso MA rated 5W-40 or 10W-50 full synthetic oil from a reputable brand like Mobil 1, Amsoil, or Rotella will work exceptionally well.
How often should I change the CVT belt?
There is no set hour-meter for a belt change. It depends heavily on your riding style, terrain, and tire size. A good rule of thumb is to visually inspect your belt every 50 hours of use for glazing, cracking, or flat spots. Always, always carry a spare belt and the tools to change it on the trail.
Is the 2017 Maverick X3 XRS still a good UTV to buy today?
Absolutely. It offers incredible performance for the price on the used market. The massive aftermarket support means parts and upgrades are readily available. Just be sure to perform a thorough inspection, paying close attention to the common problem areas we’ve outlined in this guide.
The 2017 Can-Am Maverick X3 XRS is a modern legend. It’s a machine that rewards a knowledgeable and attentive owner with world-class performance and unforgettable experiences. By focusing on diligent maintenance, addressing its known weaknesses proactively, and upgrading with purpose, you can ensure your X3 remains a trail-shredding beast for years to come.
Now you’ve got the playbook. Get in the garage, give your machine the attention it deserves, and get ready to hit the dirt. Stay safe, ride smart, and we’ll see you out there!
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