So, you’ve got your hands on a 2018 Can Am Commander. You already agree it’s one of the most versatile and capable side-by-sides out there, a true workhorse on the farm and a beast on the trails. It’s a machine that promises adventure every time you turn the key.
But with great power comes the need for great care. We promise that by the end of this guide, you’ll have the expert knowledge to keep your rig running flawlessly, tackle common issues before they become disasters, and choose the right mods to make it truly your own.
We’ll preview everything from essential pre-ride checks and troubleshooting nagging problems to unlocking serious performance gains and even how to be a more responsible rider. This is your complete 2018 Can Am Commander guide, built for the real world.
Understanding Your Rig: Key Features of the 2018 Can Am Commander
Before we grab the wrenches, let’s appreciate what makes this machine tick. The 2018 Can Am Commander wasn’t just another UTV; it set a standard for crossover utility and sport performance.
Knowing its core components helps you diagnose problems and make smarter upgrade choices down the road.
The Heart of the Beast: Rotax V-Twin Power
At its core, you’ll find a potent Rotax V-Twin engine. Depending on your model, you’re rocking either the spirited 800R or the powerhouse 1000. These engines are known for their reliability and impressive torque, but they demand clean oil and a healthy cooling system to perform their best.
A Smarter Suspension Setup
Can-Am equipped the Commander with its Torsional Trailing A-arm (TTA) independent rear suspension. This design helps keep your wheels planted on the ground over rough terrain, maximizing traction and providing a surprisingly smooth ride. Up front, you have a standard double A-arm setup.
Work and Play: The Dual-Level Cargo Box
One of the Commander’s standout features is its innovative two-level cargo bed. With a water-resistant lower level and a versatile upper rack, it gives you options for hauling tools, camping gear, or a cooler full of drinks. Understanding its weight limits is crucial for maintaining vehicle balance and safety.
The Pre-Ride Ritual: Your Essential 2018 Can Am Commander Care Guide
The single most important thing you can do for your UTV is a thorough pre-ride inspection. It takes ten minutes, but it can save you hours of frustration on the trail and prevent costly damage. These are the non-negotiable 2018 can am commander best practices.
Fluids are Lifeblood
Think of this as your machine’s morning health check. Don’t skip it.
- Engine Oil: Pull the dipstick, wipe it clean, reinsert it fully, and pull it out again. The oil level should be between the ‘add’ and ‘full’ marks. Look at the color—it should be a clean amber, not milky (water contamination) or black and gritty.
- Coolant: Never open the radiator cap when the engine is hot. Instead, check the level in the translucent overflow reservoir. It should be between the low and full lines.
- Brake Fluid: Locate the brake fluid reservoir. The fluid should be clear and near the ‘max’ line. If it’s dark or low, it’s time to investigate for leaks or plan a fluid flush.
Tires, Wheels, and Brakes
Your connection to the trail deserves attention. A failure here can be catastrophic.
- Check Tire Pressure: Use a quality low-pressure tire gauge. The recommended PSI is on the tire sidewall or a sticker on the vehicle. Proper pressure prevents flats and ensures predictable handling.
- Inspect for Damage: Look for cuts, punctures, or bulges in the tire sidewalls. A compromised tire is a ticking time bomb.
- Confirm Lug Nut Torque: Give your wheels a wiggle. There should be no play. It’s smart to check lug nut torque with a torque wrench, especially after installing new wheels.
- Test the Brakes: Before you start ripping, roll forward a few feet and gently apply the brakes. They should feel firm and responsive, not spongy or weak.
Belts, Battery, and Boots
A quick visual scan of these components can spot trouble before it starts.
- CVT Belt: While you can’t see the whole belt without removing the cover, look for signs of black dust around the CVT exhaust vent. This can indicate excessive wear.
- Battery Terminals: Ensure the terminals are tight and free of fuzzy blue or white corrosion. A poor connection can cause all sorts of electrical gremlins.
- CV Axle Boots: Peek behind each wheel at the rubber CV boots on the axles. They should be intact. A torn boot lets dirt and water in, quickly destroying the CV joint.
Troubleshooting Common Problems with the 2018 Can Am Commander
Even the best-maintained machines have their quirks. Knowing the common problems with 2018 can am commander models helps you diagnose issues quickly and get back to riding. This section offers some key 2018 can am commander tips for troubleshooting.
The Infamous “Limp Mode”
If your Commander suddenly loses power and won’t go over a certain low speed, it has likely entered “limp mode.” This is a safety feature where the Engine Control Unit (ECU) protects the engine from damage.
Common culprits include severe overheating, a faulty sensor (like the throttle position sensor or a MAP sensor), or a significant voltage drop. Your first step is to let it cool down completely. If it persists, you’ll need to have the fault codes read by a diagnostic tool or a dealer.
CVT Belt Wear and Failure
The CVT belt is a critical wear item. You might smell burning rubber, feel the machine shudder on takeoff, or notice a loss of top speed. These are all signs of a worn or glazed belt.
To extend belt life, always use low gear when climbing steep hills, towing, or navigating slow, technical terrain. When you install a new belt, follow the break-in procedure religiously—it’s essential for longevity.
Electrical Gremlins and Starting Issues
Many problems that seem complex are often simple electrical issues. A weak or dying battery is the number one cause of starting problems and can even trigger random warning lights.
Another common issue is a bad ground connection. Check the main ground wire from the battery to the frame. Make sure it’s clean, tight, and free of corrosion. A poor ground can cause a host of bizarre, hard-to-diagnose symptoms.
Upgrades and Mods: Unlocking the Benefits of Your 2018 Can Am Commander
The stock Commander is great, but the right mods can transform it into the perfect machine for your riding style. Here’s how to 2018 can am commander upgrades can pay off.
Wheels and Tires: The Foundation
The single biggest performance change you can make is a new set of wheels and tires. Taller, more aggressive tires provide better ground clearance and superior traction in mud, rocks, or sand.
Remember, going with significantly larger tires adds rotating mass and changes the final drive ratio. This puts more strain on your drivetrain and especially your CVT belt. That brings us to our next point.
Clutch Kits: Reclaiming Lost Power
If you’ve installed bigger tires, a clutch kit is not an option—it’s a necessity. A quality clutch kit (from brands like EPI or Dalton) recalibrates your CVT system to work with the larger tires.
It adjusts the engagement RPM and shifting characteristics to prevent belt slippage, improve low-end torque, and make the machine feel responsive again. This is one of the best benefits of 2018 can am commander ownership—its adaptability.
Lighting, Winches, and Accessories
Adding an LED light bar can turn night into day, and a reliable winch is the ultimate self-recovery tool. When adding high-draw accessories, be mindful of your machine’s stock charging system.
Always use a quality, fused wiring harness. For multiple accessories, consider an auxiliary fuse block or even a dual-battery setup to ensure you always have enough juice to start the engine and get home safely.
Ride with Respect: Sustainable 2018 Can Am Commander Practices
Being a true off-road enthusiast means protecting the trails we love. Adopting a few sustainable 2018 can am commander habits ensures these areas remain open and beautiful for generations to come.
Tread Lightly and Stay the Trail
The core principle of responsible off-roading is to stay on designated routes. Driving through meadows, sensitive wetlands, or creating new “shortcuts” causes erosion and damages fragile ecosystems. Pack out everything you pack in—leave the trail cleaner than you found it.
Eco-Friendly Maintenance
Your maintenance routine can also be more eco-friendly. When washing your rig, use a biodegradable soap and try to wash on a permeable surface like gravel or grass, away from storm drains or open water. This prevents oily residue and chemicals from polluting local waterways.
Furthermore, always dispose of used fluids like engine oil and coolant responsibly. Most auto parts stores and local recycling centers accept them for free. This is a simple but vital part of being an eco-friendly 2018 can am commander owner.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2018 Can Am Commander
What type of oil is best for a 2018 Can Am Commander?
The manufacturer recommends a high-quality 5W-40 synthetic blend oil specifically designed for Rotax engines, like the XPS brand. Always consult your owner’s manual for the exact specification, as using the wrong oil can lead to premature engine wear.
How often should I inspect or change the CVT belt?
A visual inspection of the belt should be part of your regular maintenance every 50 hours of use. There is no hard mileage for replacement. Change it when you see signs of significant wear like cracks, glazing, or missing cogs. Many riders carry a spare belt and the tools to change it on the trail.
What is the largest tire I can fit without a lift kit?
On a stock 2018 Commander, you can typically fit up to a 28-inch tire without rubbing issues. Going any larger will almost certainly require a lift kit and potentially forward A-arms to create enough clearance. Remember to factor in a clutch kit for any tire size increase.
My Commander is making a clunking noise from the drivetrain, is this normal?
Some “driveline lash” or clunking is normal in many UTVs, especially when shifting between forward, reverse, and park. However, a loud, repetitive grinding or popping noise, especially when turning or under load, is not normal and could indicate a problem with a CV joint, differential, or u-joint that needs immediate attention.
Your 2018 Can-Am Commander is an incredible machine, built for adventure. By understanding its systems, performing regular checks, and being prepared for common issues, you ensure it’s always ready for the next challenge. This guide gives you the foundation, but the real expertise comes from getting your hands dirty.
So grab your tools, use this knowledge, and keep your Commander in peak condition. The trails are waiting. Ride hard, and ride safe!
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