2018 Can Am Outlander 570: The Ultimate Owner’S Maintenance

Let’s agree on something: your 2018 Can Am Outlander 570 is more than just an ATV. It’s your ticket to freedom, your workhorse on the property, and your partner in adventure. But keeping that powerful Rotax engine purring and the suspension soaking up bumps requires more than just gas and go.

We promise this guide will be your go-to resource for keeping your machine in peak condition. We’re cutting through the jargon to give you the practical, hands-on advice you need, straight from the garage floor.

Get ready to dive into a complete 2018 can am outlander 570 guide. We’ll cover essential maintenance you can do yourself, diagnose the most common problems you might face, explore smart upgrades, and even touch on how to ride responsibly. Let’s get those hands dirty.

Unlocking the Potential: Why the 2018 Outlander 570 Still Rips

Before we grab the wrenches, let’s appreciate what makes this machine a modern classic. Understanding its strengths helps you know what to focus on during maintenance and what makes it such a capable rig on the trail.

The heart of this ATV is the 48-horsepower, liquid-cooled Rotax 570 V-Twin engine. It’s known for its punchy low-end torque and reliability. This isn’t just a number; it’s the power that gets you up steep climbs and pulls you out of sticky mud without breaking a sweat. The benefits of the 2018 can am outlander 570 are clear from the first twist of the throttle.

Key Features You Need to Know

Tri-Mode Dynamic Power Steering (DPS): If your model has it, this is a game-changer. It reduces steering effort at low speeds (great for technical rock crawling) and offers more feedback at high speeds, reducing rider fatigue.
Double A-Arm Front Suspension: This setup provides a plush ride and predictable handling. Keeping these joints greased is crucial for longevity.
Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT): The CVT delivers smooth, seamless power. Understanding its maintenance needs (like belt inspection) is key to avoiding being stranded on the trail.
Visco-Lok Auto-Locking Front Differential: This system automatically transfers power to the front wheel with the most grip when you need it. It’s effective but requires clean differential fluid to work properly.

Your Essential 2018 Can Am Outlander 570 Care Guide: Pre-Ride Checks and Routine Maintenance

The best way to fix a problem is to prevent it from happening. A solid maintenance routine is the most important part of ownership. Here are the 2018 can am outlander 570 best practices to follow before every ride and for scheduled service.

The 5-Minute Pre-Ride Inspection (T-CLOCS)

Pros use a simple checklist to ensure everything is safe before hitting the trail. Think T-CLOCS: Tires, Controls, Lights, Oil, Chassis, Stands.

Tires & Wheels: Check for proper air pressure (usually 5-7 PSI, check your sidewall). Look for any cuts or punctures. Grab each wheel and check for wobbly bearings.
Controls & Cables: Squeeze the brake levers—they should feel firm, not spongy. Test the throttle; it should snap back smoothly.
Lights & Electrics: Turn the key on. Check your headlights (high and low beam), taillights, and brake lights.
Oil & Fluids: This is critical. Check your engine oil level using the dipstick. Glance at the brake fluid reservoir and the coolant overflow bottle. Look for any drips on the ground underneath the machine.
Chassis & Suspension: Look over the frame for any cracks. Check your CV boots (the rubber boots on your axles) for rips or tears, which can lead to costly axle failure.

DIY Maintenance Jobs You Can Tackle

Here are a few common jobs you can do at home to save money and learn your machine inside and out. Always consult your owner’s manual for specific fluid types and torque specs.

How to Change the Engine Oil

This is the most fundamental task. You’ll need an oil filter (like the HiFlo HF152), about 2.1 quarts of 5W-40 synthetic ATV oil, a drain pan, and a basic socket set.

Warm up the engine for a few minutes to get the oil flowing.
Locate the drain plug on the bottom of the engine and the oil filter on the side.
Place your pan, remove the plug, and let it drain completely.
Replace the oil filter (put a little fresh oil on the new filter’s O-ring first).
Reinstall the drain plug (don’t overtighten!) and refill with fresh oil. Check the level with the dipstick.

Cleaning the Air Filter

A clogged air filter robs your engine of power. The airbox is located under the seat. Simply unclip the cover, pull out the foam filter, and wash it with filter cleaner and warm water. Let it dry completely, then re-oil it with foam filter oil before reinstalling.

Diagnosing the Beast: Common Problems with the 2018 Can Am Outlander 570

Even the best machines have their quirks. Knowing the common problems with 2018 can am outlander 570 models can save you a headache on the trail. Here’s what to look for.

Problem 1: Overheating or Fan Not Working

Symptoms: The temperature light comes on, you can smell coolant, or you notice the radiator fan never kicks on during slow, technical riding.

DIY Checks:

Check Coolant Level: Is the overflow bottle empty? Let the machine cool completely before opening the radiator cap to check the level there.
Check the Fuse: The fan fuse is a common culprit. Check your fuse box (usually under the front storage compartment) for a blown fuse.
Clean the Radiator: Mud and debris can cake onto the radiator, preventing airflow. Gently wash it out with a garden hose (never a high-pressure washer, which can bend the fins).

When to Call a Pro: If the fuse is good, the radiator is clean, and it’s still overheating, you might have a bad fan motor, a faulty temperature sensor, or a thermostat issue. These are more involved repairs.

Problem 2: Hard Starting or Stalling When Warm

Symptoms: The ATV fires right up when cold, but after a long ride, it struggles to restart or stalls at idle.

DIY Checks:

Fuel Pump Issues: The fuel pumps on these models can sometimes weaken over time. When you first turn the key, you should hear a distinct 2-3 second “whirr” from the fuel tank. If it’s silent or sounds weak, this could be your issue.
Valve Adjustment: The valves can tighten up over time, which gets worse as the engine heats up and expands. A valve clearance check/adjustment is a periodic maintenance item that is often overlooked. This is a more advanced DIY job, but achievable with a service manual and feeler gauges.

When to Call a Pro: Diagnosing a weak fuel pump or performing a valve adjustment can be tricky. If you’re not comfortable, a good mechanic can pinpoint the issue quickly.

Problem 3: Clicking Noise When Turning

Symptoms: You hear a loud, rhythmic “clicking” or “popping” from the front or rear wheels, especially during tight turns.

The Culprit: This is the classic sign of a worn-out CV (Constant Velocity) joint. It’s almost always caused by a torn CV boot that let dirt and water in, destroying the joint. Inspect your CV boots regularly—this is one of the most important 2018 can am outlander 570 tips we can offer.

The Fix: You need to replace the entire axle shaft. While it’s a bolt-on part, it can be a tough job requiring you to remove the wheel, hub, and brake caliper. Many DIYers can handle it, but it requires some heavy-duty tools.

Sustainable Riding: Eco-Friendly 2018 Can Am Outlander 570 Best Practices

Being a true off-roader means respecting the trails that give us so much joy. A well-maintained machine is inherently a more eco-friendly 2018 can am outlander 570. A clean-burning engine produces fewer emissions, and a leak-free machine doesn’t contaminate the environment.

Here are some tips for sustainable off-roading:

Stay on the Trail: Never blaze your own path. This causes erosion and damages delicate ecosystems.
Proper Fluid Disposal: When you change your oil or coolant, collect it in a sealed container. Most auto parts stores will accept used fluids for recycling free of charge.
Wash Responsibly: Wash your ATV on a grassy area or at a designated wash station, not on your driveway where soap and oil can run into storm drains.
Pack It In, Pack It Out: This is a simple one. Leave the trail cleaner than you found it.

Frequently Asked Questions About the 2018 Can Am Outlander 570

What kind of gas should I use in my 2018 Outlander 570?

Your Outlander 570 is designed to run on regular 87 octane unleaded gasoline. Using higher octane fuel won’t provide any performance benefit and is just a waste of money. However, if the machine will be sitting for more than a month, it’s a great idea to add a fuel stabilizer.

What is the top speed of a 2018 Can Am Outlander 570?

Stock, a 2018 Outlander 570 can typically reach speeds of around 60-65 mph on a flat, smooth surface. Top speed can be affected by rider weight, tire size, and conditions.

How often should I change the drive belt?

There’s no exact mileage for a CVT belt change. It’s based on inspection. We recommend inspecting the belt for cracks, glazing, or flat spots every 50-100 hours of use, depending on your riding style. If you do a lot of heavy towing, plowing, or aggressive mud riding, check it more frequently.

Can I put larger tires on my Outlander 570?

Yes, but be smart about it. You can typically go up an inch or two in tire size (e.g., from 25″ to 26″ or 27″) without major issues. Going much larger can put extra strain on your axles, bearings, and clutch. For big tires (28″+), a clutch kit is highly recommended to regain lost low-end power.

Your 2018 Can Am Outlander 570 is an incredibly capable and rewarding machine to own. By investing a little time in understanding its systems and performing regular maintenance, you’re not just fixing a machine—you’re ensuring countless future adventures.

Grab your tools, follow this guide, and don’t be afraid to learn. The connection you build with your ride by maintaining it yourself is part of what makes this hobby so great. Ride safe, ride smart, and we’ll see you on the trails!

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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.