So, you’ve got your hands on a 2022 Can-Am Outlander 650 XMR. You know the feeling—that mix of power, capability, and the sheer urge to find the deepest mud hole on the trail. It’s an incredible machine, built from the factory to conquer the muck that sends other ATVs scrambling for higher ground.
We agree, there’s nothing quite like it. But owning a specialized rig like the XMR means understanding its unique needs. Keeping it running strong isn’t just about rinsing it off after a ride; it’s about proactive care that prevents costly breakdowns and ensures it’s ready to dominate every single time you turn the key.
We promise this guide will give you the expert insights you need. We’re going to walk you through everything from the essential pre-ride checks and a detailed maintenance schedule to diagnosing the most common problems you might face. Consider this your complete 2022 can am outlander 650 xmr guide to maximizing performance and longevity.
What Makes the 2022 Can-Am Outlander 650 XMR a Mud-Slinging Legend?
Before we dive into the nuts and bolts, let’s appreciate what makes this ATV special. Understanding its factory-equipped advantages helps you understand what to maintain. The benefits of the 2022 can am outlander 650 xmr are baked right into its design, making it a formidable opponent for any trail.
The Heart of the Beast: The Rotax 650 V-Twin
At its core is the legendary 62-horsepower Rotax 650 V-Twin engine. This powerplant delivers smooth, reliable torque right when you need it to churn through thick mud. It’s not just about peak power; it’s about usable grunt in the low-to-mid RPM range where you’ll spend most of your time in the slop.
Factory-Installed Mud-Ready Gear
Can-Am didn’t just slap on some big tires and call it a day. The XMR comes with a factory-installed snorkel kit for the engine intake and CVT. This, combined with the relocated radiator, keeps critical components high and dry, away from performance-robbing mud and water. The radiator’s placement on the front rack ensures it gets clean air and is easy to clean.
Visco-4Lok Front Differential: True 4-Wheel Drive
This is a game-changer. Standard 4WD systems can still allow one front wheel to slip. With the push of a button, the Visco-4Lok system on the XMR locks the front differential completely. This provides true four-wheel-drive traction, sending equal power to both front wheels to pull you through the absolute worst obstacles.
Aggressive ITP Cryptid Tires and Suspension
The 28-inch ITP Cryptid tires are purpose-built for mud, with massive lugs that bite hard and self-clean. This rubber is mounted on a chassis supported by beefy, mud-tuned suspension, giving you the ground clearance and stability needed for deep ruts and uneven terrain.
Your Pre-Ride Checklist: 2022 Can-Am Outlander 650 XMR Best Practices
A five-minute check before every ride can save you hours of headaches and hundreds of dollars. This isn’t just about safety; it’s about catching small issues before they become trail-ending failures. These are the 2022 can am outlander 650 xmr best practices that every owner should adopt.
Fluids Are Life: Pull the dipstick and check your engine oil level. While you’re at it, glance at the coolant reservoir to ensure it’s between the ‘Min’ and ‘Max’ lines. A quick look at the brake fluid reservoir on the handlebars is also a must.
Tire Pressure & Condition: The factory-recommended pressure is a great starting point, but experienced riders often air down slightly for better traction. More importantly, inspect the sidewalls and tread for any cuts, punctures, or embedded objects. A damaged tire is a major safety hazard.
Controls & Electrical: Turn the key on. Check your headlights (high and low beams), taillights, and brake lights. Test the throttle for smooth operation—no sticking. If you have a winch, give it a quick “in” and “out” test to ensure it’s working before you need it.
Driveline & Suspension Quick Scan: Look at your CV boots (the rubber accordion-looking boots on your axles). Make sure they aren’t torn, as a torn boot lets in dirt and water, which will quickly destroy the CV joint. Give the machine a little shake to feel for any excessive play in the wheel bearings or A-arm bushings.
Radiator Check: Since the radiator is mounted up high, it’s easy to inspect. Make sure the fins are clear of any dried mud, leaves, or debris from the last ride. An obstructed radiator is the number one cause of overheating.
The Essential Maintenance Schedule: A DIYer’s Care Guide
Following a consistent maintenance schedule is the single most important thing you can do for your ATV. The XMR lives a hard life, and it needs a little extra love. This 2022 can am outlander 650 xmr care guide will keep you on track.
After Every Muddy Ride: The Crucial Wash-Down
This isn’t just about looking good. Caked-on mud holds moisture against metal parts, promoting rust. It can also hide leaks or damage and bake onto your radiator and engine, causing them to run hot.
Use a pressure washer carefully, avoiding direct spray on electrical connections, bearings, and seals. A good foam cannon and a soft brush can help loosen stubborn grime. Pay special attention to cleaning the radiator, suspension components, and the undercarriage.
Engine Oil & Filter Change (The Non-Negotiable)
Your Rotax engine works hard. Clean oil is its lifeblood. The owner’s manual gives you the official interval, but for a machine that sees heavy mud and water, we recommend cutting that interval in half.
Use a quality XPS Synthetic Blend Oil (5W-40) and a genuine BRP oil filter. This is not the place to cheap out. Changing the oil is a simple DIY job that pays massive dividends in engine longevity.
Air Filter Maintenance: Your Engine’s Lungs
Your air filter is the only thing stopping fine dust and grit from entering your engine and causing catastrophic damage. After every dusty or muddy ride, inspect your air filter. Clean and re-oil foam filters or replace paper filters as needed. A clogged filter robs your machine of power and efficiency.
Differential and Gearbox Fluid Checks
The front and rear differentials, along with the gearbox, can be susceptible to water intrusion after deep water crossings. Check these fluids regularly. If the oil looks milky or creamy, it means water has gotten in and you must change it immediately to prevent severe gear damage.
Common Problems with 2022 Can-Am Outlander 650 XMR (And How to Fix Them)
Even the toughest machines have their quirks. Knowing the common problems with 2022 can am outlander 650 xmr helps you spot trouble early and know what to do about it. Here’s what we see most often in the shop.
Overheating Issues
Symptom: The temperature gauge climbs into the red, or the fan runs constantly, even on cool days.
Cause: 99% of the time, this is a clogged radiator. Even though it’s relocated, fine mud and debris can get packed between the fins, blocking airflow.
Solution: A thorough cleaning. Sometimes you need to remove the plastic shrouds to get direct access with a hose and a soft brush. Gently spray from the back to the front to push debris out the way it came in. Never use a high-pressure jet directly on the delicate fins.
Belt Slippage and CVT Maintenance
Symptom: You hit the throttle, the engine revs, but the ATV doesn’t move as it should. You might also smell burning rubber.
Cause: The CVT drive belt is slipping. This can be caused by water getting into the CVT housing, a worn-out belt, or glazed clutch sheaves.
Solution: If you’ve been in deep water, you may just need to drain the CVT housing using the drain plug. If the belt is old (check for cracks and glazing), replace it with a high-quality OEM or aftermarket belt like one from G-Boost or Dayco. While you’re in there, clean the clutch faces with a Scotch-Brite pad and brake cleaner to remove any glaze.
Electrical Gremlins and Corrosion Prevention
Symptom: Intermittent starting issues, malfunctioning lights, or a finicky 4WD switch.
Cause: Mud and water are the enemies of electrical systems. Corrosion can build up on terminals and in connectors.
Solution: Prevention is key. Periodically go through your main electrical connections (battery terminals, starter solenoid, main fuses) and apply a thin coat of dielectric grease. This waterproofs the connection and prevents corrosion from starting. This is one of the most valuable 2022 can am outlander 650 xmr tips we can offer.
Sustainable Off-Roading: An Eco-Friendly Approach
Being a true off-roader means respecting the trails that give us so much joy. A sustainable 2022 can am outlander 650 xmr experience is about responsible ownership. It ensures our riding areas stay open for generations to come.
Tread Lightly Principles
Always stay on marked trails. Avoid creating new bypasses around obstacles, as this causes erosion. Cross streams only at designated points and be mindful of sensitive vegetation. The goal is to leave the trail better than you found it.
Proper Fluid Disposal
When you perform your maintenance, never dump used oil, coolant, or other fluids on the ground. Collect them in a sealed container and take them to your local auto parts store or municipal recycling center. Most places will take them for free. This is a core tenet of being an eco-friendly 2022 can am outlander 650 xmr owner.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2022 Can-Am Outlander 650 XMR
What’s the best engine oil for the 650 XMR?
We strongly recommend using the BRP-branded XPS 5W-40 Synthetic Blend Oil. It’s specifically formulated for the high demands of the Rotax V-Twin engine. If you can’t get XPS, a high-quality, wet-clutch compatible (JASO MA2 rated) 5W-40 synthetic oil from a reputable brand like Mobil 1 or Amsoil is a good alternative.
How often should I grease the chassis?
The Outlander has several grease points (zerks) on its suspension and driveline components. After every few rides, especially after a deep cleaning or wet ride, it’s a great idea to hit every zerk with a grease gun until you see fresh grease pushing out the old stuff. Use a good quality marine-grade waterproof grease.
Can I add bigger tires without a lift kit?
The 2022 XMR 650 comes with 28-inch tires, which is quite large from the factory. You can typically go up to a 29.5-inch tire without any modifications. Going to a 30-inch or larger tire will likely require a lift kit and potentially clutch modifications to compensate for the increased rotating mass and altered gear ratio.
Is the Visco-4Lok system reliable?
Yes, the Visco-4Lok is a very robust and reliable system. It’s electronically actuated and generally trouble-free. The most common issues are related to the switch or wiring, not the differential itself. Keeping your electrical connections clean and protected is the best way to ensure it works every time you need it.
Your 2022 Can-Am Outlander 650 XMR is more than just a machine; it’s a key to incredible adventures. By investing a little time in understanding and caring for it, you’re not just maintaining an asset—you’re ensuring it’s always ready to deliver the performance and reliability you expect.
Follow this guide, perform your checks, and don’t be afraid to get your hands dirty. The connection you build with your rig through regular maintenance makes every ride that much more rewarding.
Now get out there, ride smart, and own the mud. We’ll see you on the trails!
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