2020 Can Am Outlander 450 Oil Capacity

Let’s be honest. You’re geared up in the garage, tools laid out, ready to give your rig the fresh oil it deserves. But then the nagging question hits: what is the exact 2020 Can Am Outlander 450 oil capacity? Pour in too little, and you risk catastrophic engine damage on the trail. Pour in too much, and you’re looking at blown seals and a smoky mess. It’s a simple question, but getting it wrong can be a costly mistake.

You’ve come to the right place. Here at FatBoysOffroad, we’ve been there, wrench in hand. We promise this guide will not only give you the exact, factory-spec oil capacity but will also provide you with the pro tips and best practices to make your next oil change smooth, clean, and perfect every time.

In this article, we’ll cover the precise oil volume, the right type of oil to use, a detailed step-by-step process, and how to avoid the common pitfalls that trip up even experienced DIYers. Let’s get that engine running right.

The Straight Answer: Your 2020 Can-Am Outlander 450 Oil Capacity

Let’s cut right to the chase. No more searching through forums or questionable owner’s manual PDFs. We’ve got the definitive answer for you.

The specified engine oil capacity for a 2020 Can-Am Outlander 450, when changing both the oil and the oil filter, is:

2.1 US quarts
2.0 Liters

This number is the most important piece of information for the job. Write it down on a piece of painter’s tape and stick it to your oil container if you have to. Getting this right is the foundation of a healthy engine.

A Crucial Pro Tip: Don’t Just Dump It In

Here’s a piece of advice that separates the amateurs from the pros. Never pour the full 2.1 quarts into the engine all at once. Even after draining, a small amount of old oil will remain in the engine’s nooks and crannies.

The best practice is to start by adding about 1.8 to 1.9 quarts first. Then, follow the proper procedure for checking the oil level (which we’ll detail below) and slowly top it off until you hit the perfect spot on the dipstick. This prevents overfilling, which can be just as damaging as under-filling.

Why Getting the Oil Capacity Right is Non-Negotiable

Understanding the correct 2020 Can Am Outlander 450 oil capacity isn’t just about following rules; it’s about protecting your investment and ensuring peak performance when you’re miles from civilization. The benefits of getting it right are huge, and the common problems from getting it wrong are severe.

The Dangers of Under-filling Your Engine

Running your engine with low oil is like asking a marathon runner to compete without water. It’s a recipe for disaster.

Increased Friction and Heat: Oil is the lifeblood that lubricates moving parts. Without enough of it, metal-on-metal friction skyrockets, generating excessive heat.
Premature Wear: This friction and heat rapidly wear down critical components like pistons, bearings, and the camshaft.
Complete Engine Seizure: In the worst-case scenario, the engine can get so hot that metal parts literally weld themselves together, seizing the engine completely. This is a catastrophic, and incredibly expensive, failure.

The Hidden Problems of Over-filling Your Engine

It might seem like adding a “little extra for good measure” is a good idea, but it’s not. Over-filling can cause a whole different set of problems.

Crankshaft Aeration: When the oil level is too high, the spinning crankshaft can whip the oil into a frothy, foamy mess. Aerated oil is a terrible lubricant because it’s full of air bubbles.
Blown Seals and Gaskets: The excess oil volume increases pressure inside the crankcase, which can force oil past seals and gaskets, leading to messy and damaging leaks.
Reduced Power and Performance: The engine has to work harder to churn through the excess oil, which can actually rob you of horsepower and lead to sluggish performance.

Choosing the Right Oil: More Than Just Capacity

Knowing the capacity is only half the battle. Using the correct type and viscosity of oil is equally important for protecting your Outlander’s Rotax engine. This is a key part of our 2020 can am outlander 450 oil capacity care guide.

Understanding Oil Viscosity (5W-40)

Can-Am specifies a SAE 5W-40 viscosity oil for the 2020 Outlander 450. Let’s quickly break down what that means:

5W: The “W” stands for “Winter.” This number indicates how well the oil flows at cold temperatures. A lower number means it flows better when cold, providing crucial lubrication on startup.
40: This number indicates the oil’s viscosity (thickness) at normal engine operating temperatures.

Using a 5W-40 oil ensures your engine is protected both during cold starts and when you’re working it hard on the trails.

Synthetic vs. Conventional: The FatBoysOffroad Verdict

For a high-performance machine like a Can-Am, this isn’t even a debate. You should always use a full synthetic oil.

Can-Am recommends their own XPS 5W-40 Synthetic Blend Oil, which is a great choice. However, any high-quality, powersports-specific (JASO MA/MA2 rated) full synthetic 5W-40 oil from reputable brands like Mobil 1, Amsoil, or Motul will provide superior protection.

Synthetic oil offers better resistance to heat breakdown, superior lubrication, and extended change intervals compared to conventional oil. It’s the best insurance policy you can buy for your engine.

A Step-by-Step 2020 Can Am Outlander 450 Oil Capacity Guide

Ready to get your hands dirty? This section covers how to 2020 can am outlander 450 oil capacity is properly managed during an oil change. Follow these steps for a clean, professional-grade job right in your own garage.

Tools and Supplies You’ll Need

Gather everything before you start to avoid frantic mid-job searches.

Ratchet with a 17mm socket (for the drain plug)
Oil filter wrench (cap style or strap style)
Funnel
Oil drain pan
Nitrile gloves
Shop towels or rags
Torque wrench (highly recommended)
2.1 US quarts of 5W-40 synthetic powersports oil
A new oil filter (e.g., BRP #420956744, or a quality aftermarket equivalent from K&N, Hiflofiltro, etc.)
A new drain plug sealing washer

The Oil Change Process: From Drain to Fill

Warm It Up: Run the ATV for 3-5 minutes. This warms the oil, making it flow out much faster and carrying more contaminants with it. Don’t get it scorching hot, just warm to the touch.
Position and Prep: Park the Outlander on a level surface. Clean the area around the oil filter housing and the engine drain plug to prevent dirt from entering the engine. Place your drain pan underneath.
Drain the Old Oil: Using your 17mm socket, loosen and remove the engine oil drain plug located on the bottom of the engine. Let the oil drain completely. This can take 5-10 minutes.
Replace the Filter: While the oil is draining, use your oil filter wrench to remove the old oil filter. Be prepared for a little more oil to spill out.
Prep the New Filter: Take your new oil filter and apply a thin film of fresh oil to the rubber O-ring gasket. This ensures a good seal and prevents it from sticking next time. Also, replace the sealing washer on your drain plug.
Install and Torque: Once the oil has stopped dripping, clean the drain plug area and reinstall the drain plug with its new washer. Tighten it to the factory spec of 18 lb-ft (25 Nm). Do not over-tighten! Now, screw on the new oil filter and tighten it hand-tight plus another quarter-turn.
Start the Refill: Using a clean funnel, pour in approximately 1.8 quarts of your fresh 5W-40 synthetic oil. Pause here.
The “Burp and Check”: Reinstall the dipstick. Start the engine and let it run for about 30 seconds. This circulates the new oil and fills the new oil filter. Shut the engine off and wait a minute for the oil to settle.
Final Top-Off: Remove the dipstick, wipe it clean, and fully screw it back in. Remove it again to get an accurate reading. The oil level should be between the “MIN” and “MAX” marks. Slowly add small amounts of oil, re-checking each time, until the level is at the top of the cross-hatched “MAX” area.
Clean Up and Dispose: Clean up any spills. Pour your used oil from the drain pan into a sealed container and take it to your local auto parts store or recycling center for proper, eco-friendly disposal.

Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Oil Change Practices

Being an off-roader means respecting the environment we love to ride in. Adopting a few sustainable 2020 can am outlander 450 oil capacity practices is easy and responsible.

Always use a drain pan to catch every drop. Never let used oil spill onto the ground or go down a storm drain. A single oil change can contaminate a million gallons of fresh water.

Most auto parts stores and municipal waste facilities accept used motor oil for recycling free of charge. This is the cornerstone of an eco-friendly 2020 can am outlander 450 oil capacity service. It’s a simple step that makes a huge difference.

Frequently Asked Questions About the 2020 Can-Am Outlander 450 Oil Capacity

How often should I change the oil on my 2020 Outlander 450?

The official Can-Am recommendation is after the initial 25-hour break-in period, and then every 100 hours, 1,860 miles (3000 km), or 12 months, whichever comes first. However, if you ride in extremely dusty, muddy, or wet conditions, we at FatBoysOffroad strongly recommend cutting that interval in half.

What oil filter do I need for the 2020 Outlander 450?

The OEM BRP part number is 420956744. Quality aftermarket alternatives include the K&N KN-152 or the Hiflofiltro HF152. Always double-check the part number for your specific model before purchasing.

Can I use regular car oil in my ATV?

No, you should not. ATV engines, which often share oil with the transmission and clutch, require specific additives found in powersports-rated oils (look for the JASO MA or MA2 rating). Car oils contain friction modifiers that can cause your ATV’s wet clutch to slip.

What should I do if I accidentally overfilled the oil?

Don’t panic, and definitely don’t start the engine. The easiest way to remove a small amount of excess oil is to slightly loosen the drain plug and let some oil drip out into your drain pan. Re-tighten it and check the level again. Repeat until the level is correct. If you’ve significantly overfilled it, it’s best to drain it all and start the filling process over.

Mastering your ATV’s maintenance is one of the most rewarding parts of ownership. Knowing the correct 2020 Can Am Outlander 450 oil capacity and following the right procedure gives you the confidence that your machine is protected and ready for whatever the trail throws at you.

By using the right amount of high-quality synthetic oil, following a clean procedure, and checking your work, you’re ensuring your Outlander’s Rotax engine will deliver reliable power for years to come. Now, get out there and ride with confidence!

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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.