You’ve got one of the most versatile side-by-sides ever built. The 2020 Can-Am Commander 800 is a true workhorse during the week and a certified trail monster on the weekend. It’s a machine that just begs to be pushed, whether you’re hauling firewood or blasting through a mud pit.
But you also know that a machine this capable deserves proper care to keep it running strong. You don’t want to be stranded miles from the trailhead with a preventable problem. You want to spend your time riding, not wrenching.
We promise this guide will give you the confidence to maintain, troubleshoot, and truly understand your machine. We’ll walk you through essential pre-ride checks, dive into core maintenance tasks, identify common issues before they become serious, and even share some pro tips to get the most out of your rig. Let’s get those hands dirty.
Unpacking the 2020 Can-Am Commander 800: More Than Just a UTV
Before we turn a wrench, let’s appreciate what we’re working with. The 2020 Can Am Commander 800 isn’t just another UTV; it carved out the “sport-utility” niche. It perfectly blends hard-working features with trail-taming performance.
At its heart is the legendary Rotax 800R V-twin engine, a 71-horsepower powerplant known for its reliability and punchy torque. This engine is the reason it can tow up to 1,500 pounds and still feel responsive on the trail.
The dual-level cargo box is another standout feature, giving you separate storage areas for tools, gear, and whatever else you need to haul. Paired with a capable suspension and Visco-Lok QE auto-locking front differential, it’s a machine that’s equally at home on a farm or a rocky incline. Understanding these core components is the first step in a solid 2020 can am commander 800 care guide.
Your Pre-Ride Ritual: The T-CLOCS Inspection Guide
The single most important habit you can develop is a thorough pre-ride inspection. It takes five minutes but can save you hours of frustration and hundreds of dollars. We use the T-CLOCS method—a system borrowed from motorcyclists that covers all the critical bases.
Tires & Wheels
Your tires are your only connection to the ground. Start here, every time.
- Pressure: Check the tire pressure when the tires are cold. The recommended PSI is usually on a sticker on the vehicle frame or in your owner’s manual. Improper pressure leads to poor handling and excessive wear.
- Condition: Look for cuts, punctures, or bubbles in the sidewalls. On a UTV, sidewall damage is a common point of failure.
- Lug Nuts: Give them a quick check to ensure they’re snug. You don’t need a torque wrench every time, but they shouldn’t be loose.
Controls & Cables
Next, make sure you can steer, stop, and go effectively.
- Brakes: Squeeze the brake pedal. It should feel firm, not spongy. A spongy feel indicates air in the lines.
- Throttle: Check for a smooth and snappy throttle response. It should return crisply when you let go.
- Shifter: Shift through the gears (Park, Reverse, Neutral, High, Low). It should engage positively without excessive force.
Lights & Electrics
Don’t get caught in the dark with a dead battery.
- Function Check: Turn the key on and test your headlights (high and low beams), taillights, and brake lights.
- Battery Terminals: Pop the seat or cover and look at the battery. The terminals should be tight and free of fuzzy green or white corrosion. A loose terminal can mimic a dead battery.
Oil & Fluids
Fluids are the lifeblood of your machine. This is non-negotiable.
- Engine Oil: Pull the dipstick, wipe it clean, re-insert it fully, and pull it again. The oil level should be between the marks. Check the color—it should be honey-brown, not black or milky.
- Coolant: Locate the coolant overflow reservoir. The fluid level should be between the ‘MIN’ and ‘MAX’ lines when the engine is cold.
- Brake Fluid: Check the level in the master cylinder reservoir. If it’s low, it could indicate worn brake pads or a leak.
Chassis & Suspension
Give the frame and running gear a quick visual inspection.
- Frame: Look for any obvious cracks or bends, especially after a rough ride.
- CV Boots: Peek behind each wheel at the rubber, ribbed CV boots on the axles. They should be intact. A torn boot lets dirt in and grease out, quickly destroying the CV joint.
- Bushings: Grab a tire at the top and bottom and try to wiggle it. Excessive play can indicate worn ball joints or A-arm bushings.
Essential Maintenance: The 2020 Can Am Commander 800 Care Guide
Moving beyond daily checks, this is the scheduled maintenance that ensures longevity. Following these 2020 can am commander 800 best practices will keep your machine out of the shop and on the trail.
The All-Important Oil Change
This is the most common DIY task and one of the most crucial. Do it right.
- Warm It Up: Run the engine for a few minutes to warm the oil, which helps it drain completely.
- Drain It: Place a drain pan under the engine, locate the drain plug, and remove it. Be ready for the hot oil.
- Replace the Filter: While it’s draining, use an oil filter wrench to remove the old filter. Dab a bit of new oil on the gasket of the new filter and spin it on until it’s hand-tight, plus another quarter turn.
- Refill: Reinstall the drain plug (with a new crush washer if required) and torque it to spec. Refill with the correct amount of a quality oil like XPS 5W-40 Synthetic Blend. Check the level with the dipstick.
Air Filter Service
Off-roading means dust. Your engine’s lungs need to be clean. Access the airbox, remove the filter, and inspect it. If it’s a paper filter, tap out the loose dirt and replace it if it’s filthy. If it’s a reusable foam filter, wash it with filter cleaner, let it dry completely, and then re-oil it with foam filter oil.
Drivetrain and Differential Care
Your 4WD system needs love, too. Regularly check the fluid levels in your front and rear differentials. Look for small plugs on the diff housings. The fluid should be right up to the bottom of the fill hole. Also, locate all the grease zerks on your suspension A-arms and driveshaft U-joints. A few pumps from a grease gun keep everything moving smoothly and quietly.
CVT Belt Inspection
The Commander uses a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT), which relies on a heavy-duty rubber belt. This belt is a wear item. Remove the CVT cover and inspect the belt for glazing (a shiny surface), cracks, or fraying cords. One of the best 2020 can am commander 800 tips is to always carry a spare belt and the simple tool kit needed to change it on the trail.
Common Problems with the 2020 Can Am Commander 800 (And How to Fix Them)
Even the best machines have their quirks. Knowing the common problems with 2020 can am commander 800 models helps you diagnose issues quickly.
Overheating Issues
If your temp light comes on, the first suspect is a mud-caked radiator. The radiator sits up front and gets plastered. Power wash it from the back side (pushing mud out the way it came in) to clean the fins. Also, ensure your coolant level is correct and that the radiator fan is kicking on when it gets hot.
Drivetrain Noises
A clicking sound when turning often points to a worn-out CV joint. A constant whine that changes with speed could be a sign of low fluid or wear in your differentials. A clunk when you go from forward to reverse can be worn U-joints or suspension bushings. Isolating these sounds helps you pinpoint the problem.
Electrical Gremlins
Many starting or running issues are surprisingly simple. Always check that your battery terminals are clean and tight first. Next, find the main frame ground and ensure it’s secure. Can-Ams also have a brake pressure sensor that prevents starting unless the brake is applied; a faulty sensor can be a head-scratcher.
Sustainable Off-Roading: Eco-Friendly Best Practices
Being a true off-road enthusiast means protecting the trails we love. A sustainable 2020 can am commander 800 experience is about responsibility.
Tread Lightly
This is the golden rule. Stay on marked trails. Avoid creating new paths or tearing up sensitive areas like meadows and stream banks. The goal is to leave the trail in better condition than you found it.
Proper Fluid Disposal
When you change your oil or coolant, never dump it on the ground. Store used fluids in a sealed container and take them to an auto parts store or local recycling center. This is a core part of being an eco-friendly 2020 can am commander 800 owner.
Preventing Leaks
Your pre-ride inspection is key here. By catching a torn CV boot or a slow oil drip in your garage, you prevent those fluids from contaminating the trail. A clean machine is a happy machine and a happy environment.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2020 Can-Am Commander 800
What kind of oil does a 2020 Can-Am Commander 800 take?
The manufacturer recommends a 5W-40 synthetic blend oil specifically designed for Rotax engines, like the BRP XPS brand. Using a high-quality, powersports-specific oil is crucial for engine longevity.
What is the top speed of a 2020 Can-Am Commander 800?
Stock, the 2020 Commander 800 can reach speeds of around 60-65 mph. Top speed can be affected by tire size, load, and terrain conditions.
How often should I change the drive belt?
There’s no set mileage, as it depends heavily on your riding style. It’s best to inspect it every 50 hours of use. If you do a lot of slow, technical riding, towing, or use oversized tires, you should check it more frequently.
Is the 2020 Can-Am Commander 800 reliable?
Yes, the Rotax 800 platform is known for its strong reliability. Like any high-performance machine, its dependability is directly tied to how well it’s maintained. Following the service schedule in this 2020 can am commander 800 guide is the key to a long and trouble-free ownership experience.
Your Commander 800 is an incredible machine, built for adventure. By investing a little time in routine checks and maintenance, you’re not just preventing breakdowns—you’re building a deeper connection with your ride. You’re learning its sounds, its feel, and what it needs to perform at its best.
Now you have the knowledge. Get out in the garage, get familiar with your rig, and get ready for your next adventure. Stay safe, tread lightly, and have a blast out there. That’s the FatBoysOffroad way.
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