So, you’ve got your hands on a 2018 Can-Am Maverick X3 DS. You already know it’s a beast of a machine, a 172-horsepower missile designed to conquer dunes and devour trails. But you also agree that keeping this beast roaring requires more than just fuel and a heavy foot.
You want to keep it reliable, make it faster, and ensure every ride is as epic as the first. That’s where the real work—and the real fun—begins.
We promise this is the only 2018 can am maverick x3 ds guide you’ll need. We’re diving deep into the nuts and bolts, straight from the garage. We’ll cover essential maintenance, common problems to watch for, must-have performance mods, and best practices for hitting the trail safely and responsibly. Let’s get those hands dirty.
What Makes the 2018 Can-Am Maverick X3 DS a Trail Legend?
Before we start wrenching, let’s appreciate what we’re working with. The 2018 model year was a big one for the X3 platform. It cemented its place as a top-tier sport UTV, and the “DS” (Dune Sport) model hits a sweet spot for many riders.
Its 64-inch width makes it more nimble on tighter wooded trails compared to its wider 72-inch siblings, without sacrificing too much high-speed stability. The heart of this machine is the turbocharged 900cc Rotax ACE engine, pumping out a thrilling 172 horsepower from the factory.
This power is managed by a responsive QRS-X CVT transmission and put to the ground through a capable drivetrain, often featuring Can-Am’s Smart-Lok front differential. It all rides on impressive FOX 2.5 Podium Piggyback shocks with 20 inches of usable travel, front and rear. Understanding these core components is key to grasping the benefits of 2018 can am maverick x3 ds ownership and performance.
Your Essential Pre-Ride Checklist: A 2018 Can-Am Maverick X3 DS Care Guide
The single most important habit you can develop is a thorough pre-ride inspection. It takes 15 minutes, but it can save you hours of trailside repairs and prevent catastrophic failures. This is the foundation of any good 2018 can am maverick x3 ds care guide.
Fluids are Lifeblood
Never skip your fluid checks. They are the circulatory system of your machine.
- Engine Oil: With the engine warm, pull the dipstick located on the passenger side of the engine. Wipe it clean, re-insert it fully, and pull it out again to check the level. It should be between the two marks. Use a quality synthetic oil like XPS 5W-40 or a comparable Jaso MA rated oil.
- Coolant: Check the coolant level in the overflow reservoir located under the front hood. The level should be between the MIN and MAX lines when the engine is cold. A low level could indicate a leak.
- Brake Fluid: The brake fluid reservoir is also under the front hood. Visually inspect the level through the translucent plastic. If it’s low, it could mean your brake pads are worn or you have a leak.
Tire and Wheel Inspection
Your tires are your only connection to the trail. Treat them with respect.
- Check Air Pressure: Use a quality pressure gauge. A good starting point for trail riding is 12-15 PSI, but you can air down for sand or rock crawling. Uneven pressure will make the vehicle handle poorly.
- Inspect for Damage: Look for cuts, punctures, or bubbles in the sidewalls and tread. A damaged tire is a blowout waiting to happen.
- Check Lug Nut Torque: This is a critical safety check. Use a torque wrench to ensure your lug nuts are tightened to the factory spec (typically around 89 ft-lbs, but always verify in your owner’s manual). Loose wheels are a ride-ending disaster.
Suspension and Drivetrain Check
Give the underpinnings a quick once-over. A small crack today can be a complete failure tomorrow.
- Visual Inspection: Look at your A-arms, trailing arms, and especially the rear radius rods for any signs of bending or cracking.
- CV Boots: Inspect the rubber CV boots on all four axles. A tear in these boots lets dirt and water in, which will quickly destroy the CV joint.
- Bushings and Bearings: Grab a wheel at the top and bottom and try to wiggle it. Any significant play could indicate a worn wheel bearing or ball joint.
Common Problems with the 2018 Can-Am Maverick X3 DS (And How to Fix Them)
No machine is perfect. Knowing the common weak points allows you to address them proactively. This list covers the most frequent common problems with 2018 can am maverick x3 ds models that we see in the shop.
The Dreaded Drivetrain Clunk
One of the most notorious issues is a premature failure of the stock driveshaft carrier bearing. The factory bearing is unsealed and not greasable, leading to a clunking or vibrating noise from the center console area.
The Fix: Don’t wait for it to fail. Upgrade to an aftermarket carrier bearing from a reputable brand like Sandcraft RCR, L&W Fab, or SuperATV. These are heavy-duty, sealed, and often greasable, providing a permanent solution.
Keeping it Cool: Overheating Issues
The X3’s radiator is mounted up front, but it’s still susceptible to getting packed with mud, which chokes off airflow and leads to overheating. The stock fan can also be a weak point.
The Fix: After every muddy ride, thoroughly clean your radiator fins. Consider upgrading to a higher-flow fan and shroud kit. Running a quality coolant and a product like Engine Ice can also help manage temperatures.
Weak Links: Factory Rods
Under hard riding, the stock rear radius rods and front tie rods can be prone to bending. A bent radius rod will throw your rear alignment out of whack, causing poor handling and excessive tire wear.
The Fix: This is one of the first upgrades many owners make. Invest in a set of high-clearance billet aluminum or heavy-duty chromoly steel radius rods and tie rods. They provide a massive increase in strength and peace of mind. This is one of our top 2018 can am maverick x3 ds tips for aggressive drivers.
CVT Belt Woes
Burning up a CVT belt on the trail is a rite of passage, but it doesn’t have to be a regular occurrence. Belt life is directly related to heat and driving style.
The Fix: Always use low gear when driving slowly (under 20 mph), rock crawling, or loading onto a trailer. This keeps belt temps down. Break in a new belt properly by varying your speed for the first 30 miles without full-throttle bursts. Carry a spare belt and the tools to change it—it’s not if, but when.
How to Unlock More Performance from Your 2018 Can-Am Maverick X3 DS
Ready to go from fast to blistering? The Rotax engine has a ton of potential locked away. Here’s how to 2018 can am maverick x3 ds performance can be safely and effectively upgraded.
The First Must-Have: ECU Tune
An ECU flash or “tune” is the single best bang-for-your-buck performance modification. It optimizes fuel maps, timing, and boost pressure to safely extract more power. A quality Stage 1 or Stage 2 tune from a company like Evolution Powersports (EVP) or Dynojet can add 20-30 horsepower with no other hardware changes.
Let it Breathe: Exhaust and Clutching
Once you’re tuned, you need to help the engine breathe better. An aftermarket slip-on or full exhaust system will reduce backpressure and give your X3 an aggressive sound. More importantly, you’ll need a clutch kit. Adding power without adjusting your clutching is a recipe for smoked belts. A clutch kit uses different weights and springs to ensure the CVT engages properly and efficiently transfers that newfound power to the wheels.
Safety and Comfort Upgrades are Performance Upgrades
You can’t go fast if you’re not safe and comfortable. The first thing to ditch is the stock seatbelt.
- Harnesses: A 4-point or 5-point harness will keep you planted in your seat in rough terrain, giving you more control and vastly improving safety.
- Seats: Aftermarket suspension seats will save your back on long, bumpy rides.
- Protection: A roof, windshield, and lower doors will protect you from the elements, allowing you to ride longer and more comfortably.
Trail Etiquette and Sustainable Riding: Eco-Friendly 2018 Can-Am Maverick X3 DS Best Practices
Being a true off-roader means being a steward of the land. Following these sustainable 2018 can am maverick x3 ds principles ensures our trails stay open for generations to come.
Adopting eco-friendly 2018 can am maverick x3 ds habits is simple. Follow the principles of Tread Lightly! by staying on designated trails. Creating new bypasses causes erosion and can lead to trail closures.
Pack out everything you pack in. Leave the trail cleaner than you found it. After your ride, wash your machine at a designated car wash or at home on a surface that prevents runoff into storm drains. This helps prevent the spread of invasive plant species from one trail system to another. When performing maintenance, use a drip pan to catch all fluids and dispose of used oil, coolant, and filters at a certified auto parts store or recycling center.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2018 Can-Am Maverick X3 DS
What kind of oil does a 2018 Can-Am Maverick X3 DS take?
The manufacturer recommends XPS 5W-40 Synthetic Blend oil. However, any high-quality, 4-stroke synthetic 5W-40 oil that is rated for wet-clutch use (JASO MA / MA2) will work well, such as Amsoil or Mobil 1 Racing 4T.
How often should I change the CVT belt?
There’s no hard-and-fast rule, as it depends heavily on your riding style. A good practice is to inspect the belt every 500 miles for glazing, cracking, or flat spots. Plan on replacing it every 1,000-1,500 miles as a preventative measure, and always carry a spare.
What is the top speed of a stock 2018 Maverick X3 DS?
A stock 2018 Maverick X3 DS is electronically limited and will typically reach a top speed of around 75-80 mph on a flat surface. An ECU tune can remove this limiter, but always ride within your and the machine’s capabilities.
Is the 2018 Maverick X3 DS reliable?
Yes, it is a very reliable machine when properly maintained. Its reliability is directly tied to your diligence. Following the pre-ride checklist, addressing the common issues mentioned in this guide proactively, and staying on top of your service intervals will ensure your X3 is ready to rip whenever you are.
The 2018 Can-Am Maverick X3 DS is an incredible platform that responds well to care and smart upgrades. By understanding its systems, anticipating its needs, and respecting the trails you ride on, you’re not just an owner—you’re an enthusiast.
You have the knowledge and the roadmap. Now, grab your tools, get that machine dialed in, and go make some memories. Stay safe, ride hard, and we’ll see you on the trail!
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