So, you’ve got a 2018 Can-Am Outlander 650 sitting in your garage. You already know it’s a beast on the trails, a reliable workhorse, and your ticket to weekend freedom. But keeping that powerful Rotax V-twin engine purring and the suspension soaking up bumps like a champ requires more than just fuel and a heavy thumb.
You’re in the right place. At FatBoysOffroad, we live and breathe this stuff. We’re here to give you the real-world, hands-on knowledge you need to maintain, troubleshoot, and even upgrade your machine. This isn’t just a manual regurgitated; this is a complete 2018 can am outlander 650 guide straight from the garage to you.
In this deep dive, we’ll cover the essential pre-ride checks that prevent trail-side breakdowns, step-by-step DIY maintenance, common problems to watch for, and the best mods to make your Outlander truly your own. Let’s get those hands dirty.
Why the 2018 Can-Am Outlander 650 is a Trail Legend
Before we wrench, let’s appreciate what we’re working with. The 2018 model sits in a sweet spot. It’s built on the proven G2 chassis, giving it a stable and comfortable ride, but it’s new enough to have modern features without being overly complicated.
The real star is the 62-horsepower, 649.6cc Rotax V-twin engine. It delivers smooth, predictable power that’s just as happy crawling over rocks as it is opening up on a fire road. It’s a fantastic middle-ground machine—more than enough power for almost any situation without being the intimidating monster its 850 or 1000cc brothers can be.
Key Benefits of the 2018 Can-Am Outlander 650
- Power-to-Weight Ratio: The 650 engine provides an excellent balance of thrilling power and nimble handling, making it a versatile choice for diverse terrains.
- Rider Comfort: The G2 chassis with its Torsional Trailing arm Independent (TTI) rear suspension offers one of the plushest rides in the industry. Long days on the trail are less fatiguing.
- Tri-Mode Dynamic Power Steering (DPS): This feature is a game-changer. It reduces steering effort at low speeds and provides the right amount of feedback at high speeds, significantly reducing rider fatigue.
- Proven Reliability: The Rotax V-twin platform is legendary. With proper care, these engines are known for their longevity and durability.
Your Pre-Ride Checklist: The 15-Minute Inspection That Saves Headaches
The most important maintenance you’ll ever do is the check you perform before every single ride. Skipping this is the fastest way to turn a fun day into a long walk home. This is one of the most crucial 2018 can am outlander 650 tips we can offer.
Grab a drink, put on some tunes, and walk around your machine. It only takes a few minutes.
- Tires & Wheels: Check the air pressure—refer to the sticker on your machine for specs. Look for any cuts, punctures, or bubbles in the sidewalls. Grab each wheel at the top and bottom and try to wiggle it; any excessive play could mean a bad wheel bearing or ball joint.
- Fluids: This is non-negotiable. Pull the dipstick and check the engine oil level and condition. Then, check the coolant level in the reservoir and the brake fluid level in its master cylinder on the handlebars. Always check fluids when the engine is cold and on level ground.
- Controls & Cables: Squeeze the brake levers. They should feel firm, not spongy. Test the throttle—it should snap back cleanly when you release it. Check the 4WD switch and ensure it engages.
- Lights & Electrics: Turn the key on. Test your headlights (high and low beams), taillights, and brake lights. A quick test now is better than getting caught on the trail after dark with no lights.
- Chassis & Driveline: Do a quick visual scan underneath. Look for any new drips, torn CV boots (the rubber boots on your axles), or bent suspension components. A torn CV boot is a cheap fix now but a very expensive axle replacement later.
Mastering Essential Maintenance: A DIY 2018 Can-Am Outlander 650 Care Guide
Ready to save some money and learn your machine inside and out? Here’s how to 2018 can am outlander 650 maintenance is done right in your own garage. Following these 2018 can am outlander 650 best practices will keep your rig running for years.
Changing the Engine Oil & Filter
This is the lifeblood of your Rotax engine. Don’t skip it.
- Tools Needed: Ratchet, T30 Torx bit, 17mm socket, oil filter wrench, drain pan, funnel, new crush washers.
- Parts: 2.1 quarts (2.0 L) of 5W-40 synthetic ATV oil, and a new oil filter (OEM or a quality equivalent like K&N or Hiflofiltro).
Step-by-Step:
- Warm up the engine for a few minutes to get the oil flowing.
- Locate the engine drain plug (a 17mm bolt) on the bottom of the engine and the oil tank drain plug (T30 Torx) just in front of it.
- Place your drain pan underneath, then remove both plugs and let the oil drain completely.
- While it’s draining, remove the old oil filter. A little oil will spill, so be ready.
- Clean the drain plug threads and install new crush washers. Reinstall and torque the plugs to spec (Engine: 18 lb-ft, Tank: 11 lb-ft).
- Wipe a thin film of new oil on the gasket of the new oil filter and install it hand-tight, plus another quarter turn.
- Refill with 2.1 quarts of fresh 5W-40 oil through the dipstick tube. Start the engine, let it run for 30 seconds, shut it off, wait a minute, and then re-check the level, adding if necessary.
Cleaning the Air Filter
A clogged air filter chokes your engine and robs it of power. Check it after every dusty ride.
Simply unclip the seat, then remove the airbox lid. Carefully pull out the foam filter. Clean it with a dedicated foam filter cleaner and warm water. Let it dry completely, then re-oil it with foam filter oil, squeezing out any excess. Reinstall, and you’re done.
Inspecting the CVT Belt & Housing
The CVT belt is a critical wear item. To check it, you’ll need to remove the plastic CVT cover on the left side of the engine. Look for any glazing, cracking, or fraying on the belt. Check for excessive belt dust in the housing, which can be a sign of clutch alignment issues or a worn belt.
Diagnosing Common Problems with 2018 Can-Am Outlander 650 Models
No machine is perfect. Knowing what to look for can save you a world of trouble. Here are some of the most common problems with 2018 can am outlander 650 ATVs that we see come through the shop.
Engine Overheating
The V-twin engine can run hot, especially in slow, technical terrain. The radiator is prone to getting clogged with mud. If your temp light comes on, the first thing to do is stop and clean your radiator. A garden hose and some degreaser work wonders. If it’s clean and still overheating, you could have a bad fan, thermostat, or low coolant.
Electrical Gremlins
Can-Ams can sometimes have quirky electrical issues. A common culprit is the voltage regulator/rectifier or the stator. If your battery isn’t charging, your display is flickering, or the machine is hard to start, test your charging system. A simple multimeter can tell you if the stator and regulator are doing their job. A healthy system should read around 14 volts at the battery when the engine is running.
Suspension & Driveline Wear
This is a heavy, powerful machine. Over time, bushings, ball joints, and wheel bearings will wear out. The pre-ride check we mentioned earlier is your best defense. If you feel slop in the steering or hear clunking from the suspension, it’s time to put the ATV on a stand and start checking components for play. Replacing a set of A-arm bushings is a straightforward DIY job that makes a huge difference in handling.
Smart Upgrades & Performance Mods
Stock is great, but custom is better. Here are a few mods that offer the biggest bang for your buck.
Tires
The single best upgrade you can make. The stock tires are okay for general use, but a quality set of 6-ply or 8-ply aftermarket tires will dramatically improve traction, durability, and puncture resistance. Choose a tread pattern that matches the terrain you ride most often.
Skid Plates & Protection
The factory “skid plates” are thin plastic. A full set of aluminum or UHMW (Ultra-High Molecular Weight plastic) skid plates will protect your frame, engine, and differential housings from rocks and stumps. It’s cheap insurance for expensive components.
Clutch Kit
If you’ve added bigger tires or plan to do a lot of mudding or heavy towing, a clutch kit is a must. It recalibrates your CVT to better handle the increased load, preventing belt slippage, improving acceleration, and putting the power to the ground more effectively.
Sustainable Riding: An Eco-Friendly Approach to Your Outlander
Being a true off-roader means being a steward of the land. A sustainable 2018 can am outlander 650 is one that’s maintained and ridden responsibly. It’s about more than just performance; it’s about respect for the trails.
Adopting an eco-friendly 2018 can am outlander 650 mindset is simple:
- Proper Fluid Disposal: Never dump used oil or coolant on the ground. Take it to your local auto parts store or recycling center. They almost always accept it for free.
- Wash Your Machine: After a ride, wash your ATV thoroughly, especially the undercarriage. This prevents the transport of invasive plant species from one trail system to another.
- Stay on the Trail: Respect designated trails. Going off-trail causes erosion, damages sensitive habitats, and can get trails closed for everyone.
- Use Biodegradable Products: When possible, opt for biodegradable cleaners and lubricants. Every little bit helps reduce our impact.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2018 Can-Am Outlander 650
What is the top speed of a 2018 Can-Am Outlander 650?
A stock 2018 Can-Am Outlander 650 can typically reach speeds of around 65-70 mph, depending on rider weight, terrain, and conditions. However, its real strength is in its low-end and mid-range torque, not top-end speed.
What kind of fuel should I use in my Outlander 650?
Can-Am recommends using 87 octane unleaded gasoline. Using higher octane fuel will not provide any performance benefit in a stock engine and is just a waste of money. Avoid gasoline with more than 10% ethanol (E10) if possible.
How often should I service my 2018 Outlander 650?
The owner’s manual recommends the first service at 10 hours or 100 miles, with subsequent services every 100 hours or 1,200 miles. However, if you ride in very dusty, muddy, or wet conditions, you should perform key maintenance like oil changes and air filter cleanings much more frequently.
Owning a 2018 Can-Am Outlander 650 is an incredible experience. It’s a key that unlocks access to the great outdoors and endless adventure. By taking the time to understand your machine and perform these essential maintenance tasks, you’re not just protecting your investment—you’re ensuring it’s ready to go whenever adventure calls.
So get out there, get it dirty, and ride safe. We’ll see you on the trails.
- Can-Am Outlander Years To Avoid – A Mechanic’S Guide To Buying Smart - November 30, 2025
- Polaris Sportsman 570 Vs Can Am Outlander 700 – The Ultimate Off-Road - November 30, 2025
- Can Am Outlander Fuel Pump Problems – Your Complete DIY Diagnostic & - November 30, 2025