2023 Can Am Side By Side – Your Essential Maintenance

So, you’ve got the keys to a 2023 Can-Am Side by Side. You can already feel the rumble, smell the trail, and taste the adventure. These machines are absolute beasts, designed to conquer just about any terrain you throw at them.

But here’s a truth every seasoned rider at FatBoysOffroad knows: the adventure on the trail tomorrow starts with the care you give your machine in the garage today. Neglect leads to breakdowns, and a breakdown in the backcountry is a day-ruiner, plain and simple.

We promise this comprehensive guide will give you the confidence and knowledge to properly maintain and troubleshoot your rig. We’ll walk you through pre-ride checks, essential maintenance tasks, how to spot common problems before they become serious, and even some best practices for responsible riding. Let’s get those hands dirty.

Understanding Your 2023 Can-Am: Models & Mindsets

Before we dive into the wrenches and rags, it’s crucial to understand what you’re riding. A 2023 Can-Am side by side isn’t just one vehicle; it’s a family of specialized machines. Knowing your model’s purpose helps you anticipate its needs.

This isn’t an exhaustive buyer’s guide, but a quick rundown to frame your maintenance mindset:

The Maverick Family (X3, Trail, Sport): These are the thoroughbreds. Built for high-speed desert runs and aggressive trail riding. They demand meticulous attention to suspension, belts, and air filters due to the extreme conditions they endure.
The Defender Family: The workhorse. Designed for utility, hauling, and farming. Its focus is on torque and reliability. Pay close attention to drivetrain fluids, chassis lubrication points, and load-bearing components.
The Commander Family: The jack-of-all-trades. It blends the sportiness of the Maverick with the utility of the Defender. It needs a well-rounded maintenance approach, checking everything from performance parts to utility features like the dump bed.

No matter your model, the core principles of care are the same. A well-maintained machine is a safe and reliable machine.

The Pre-Ride Ritual: Your Essential 2023 Can-Am Side by Side Checklist

Never, ever just hop in and rip. A simple 5-minute pre-ride inspection can save you hours of frustration and potentially prevent a serious accident. This is one of the most important 2023 can am side by side tips we can offer. Make it a habit.

We call it the T-CLOCS method, a classic acronym from the motorcycle world that works perfectly here.

T — Tires & Wheels

Your only connection to the ground. Give them the respect they deserve.

Check Air Pressure: Use a quality low-pressure tire gauge. Your owner’s manual has the correct PSI settings—they can differ from front to back. Under-inflation can cause a tire to de-bead, and over-inflation leads to a harsh ride and poor traction.
Inspect for Damage: Look for cuts, punctures, or bubbles in the sidewalls and tread.
Check Lug Nuts: Give them a quick check to ensure they’re snug. You don’t need a torque wrench for every pre-ride check, but they should never be loose.

C — Controls & Cables

Ensure you have full command of your machine before you need it most.

Steering: Turn the wheel lock-to-lock. It should be smooth, with no binding or strange noises.
Throttle & Brake Pedals: Make sure they operate smoothly and return to their original position without sticking.
Shifter: Shift through the gears (Park, Reverse, Neutral, High, Low). It should engage positively without excessive force.

L — Lights & Electrics

Being seen is just as important as seeing.

Test Everything: Quickly flick on your headlights (high and low beams), taillights, and brake lights.
Check the Dash: Make sure the instrument cluster powers up correctly and isn’t showing any warning lights.

O — Oil & Fluids

The lifeblood of your Can-Am. Low or dirty fluids are a recipe for catastrophic failure.

Engine Oil: Pull the dipstick, wipe it clean, re-insert it fully, and pull it out again to check the level. It should be between the ‘add’ and ‘full’ marks.
Coolant: Visually check the coolant level in the overflow reservoir. Never open a hot radiator cap.
Brake Fluid: Check the level in the brake fluid reservoir. If it’s low, it could indicate worn brake pads or a leak in the system.

C & S — Chassis & Suspension

Give the frame and suspension a quick once-over.

Look for Leaks: Scan the ground under your machine for any new drips.
Check Suspension: Look at your A-arms, trailing arms, and shocks. Check for any obvious damage, cracks, or leaking shock seals.
Inspect Axles/CV Boots: The black, rubber CV boots on your axles should be intact. A torn boot slings grease everywhere and allows dirt to destroy the joint inside.

Mastering Maintenance: A Proactive 2023 Can-Am Side by Side Care Guide

Regular maintenance goes beyond the pre-ride check. This is where you follow the service schedule in your owner’s manual to keep your machine in peak condition. Here are the big tasks you’ll encounter.

Engine Oil and Filter Changes

This is non-negotiable. Dirty oil loses its ability to lubricate, leading to premature engine wear. Always use a high-quality oil specifically designed for powersports engines, like XPS 4-stroke synthetic oil, which is BRP’s factory recommendation.

You’ll need a drain pan, the correct socket for the drain plug, a filter wrench, and a torque wrench to tighten the drain plug to spec. Over-tightening can strip the threads in your engine case, turning a simple job into a nightmare.

Air Filter Maintenance

For an off-road vehicle, this is arguably more critical than the oil change. Your Can-Am breathes in a massive amount of dusty air. A clogged or dirty filter robs power and, if it fails, allows dirt directly into your engine.

Inspect it after every dusty ride. Tap out the loose dirt. Use compressed air from the inside out to blow out finer particles. Replace it when it’s visibly stained or damaged. Don’t cheap out on this part.

CVT Belt Inspection and Care

Your Can-Am uses a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT), which relies on a heavy-duty rubber belt. Heat is the number one killer of these belts. A shredded belt on the trail means you’re not going anywhere.

Periodically remove the CVT cover and inspect the belt for cracks, glazing, or missing cogs. Blow out any dust with compressed air. Learning how to 2023 can am side by side CVT systems work will save you a lot of grief. Always carry a spare belt and the tools to change it.

Troubleshooting Common Problems with Your 2023 Can-Am Side by Side

Even with perfect maintenance, things can sometimes go wrong. Recognizing the early signs of common problems with 2023 can am side by side models can prevent a small issue from becoming a huge repair bill.

Symptom: Engine is Overheating

Possible Cause 1: Clogged radiator. Your radiator is a magnet for mud and debris. A caked-on layer of mud prevents air from passing through to cool the engine.
The Fix: Gently wash the radiator fins with a garden hose (not a high-pressure washer, which can bend the fins).
Possible Cause 2: Low coolant or air in the system.
The Fix: Top off the coolant and follow the proper “burping” procedure in your service manual to remove air pockets. If the problem persists, you may have a faulty thermostat or water pump, and it’s time to see a professional.

Symptom: Clicking Noise When Turning

Possible Cause: Worn or damaged CV joint. This is a classic sign. The clicking will be most prominent during sharp, slow-speed turns.
The Fix: This usually requires replacing the entire axle shaft. It’s a manageable DIY job with the right tools, but if you’re not comfortable, this is a good one for the shop. Ignoring it will eventually lead to a broken axle.

Symptom: Machine Feels Sluggish or Won’t Reach Top Speed

Possible Cause: Worn CVT belt or dirty clutches. A worn belt will slip, and dirty clutch sheaves prevent the belt from moving smoothly.
The Fix: Replace the belt. While you have the cover off, clean the primary and secondary clutch sheaves with a brake cleaner and a Scotch-Brite pad to remove any belt residue.

Sustainable & Eco-Friendly Riding: 2023 Can-Am Side by Side Best Practices

Being a part of the off-road community means being a steward of the trails we love. A few simple habits can ensure these areas remain open and beautiful for generations to come. This is a core part of any good 2023 can am side by side guide.

Tread Lightly

The most important rule of eco-friendly 2023 can am side by side riding is to stay on designated trails. Going off-trail can cause soil erosion, damage fragile ecosystems, and lead to trail closures for everyone. Avoid spinning your tires unnecessarily, as it tears up the trail surface.

Proper Fluid Disposal

When you change your oil, coolant, or other fluids, never dump them on the ground or down a drain. Used oil is highly toxic. Store it in a sealed container (like the one your new oil came in) and take it to your local auto parts store or municipal recycling center. Most accept used oil for free.

Pack It In, Pack It Out

This is simple. Whatever you bring with you on the trail—water bottles, snack wrappers, broken parts—must come back with you. Leave the trail cleaner than you found it.

Frequently Asked Questions About the 2023 Can-Am Side by Side

What is the proper break-in procedure for a new 2023 Can-Am?

The break-in period is critical for seating piston rings and ensuring a long engine life. For the first 10-20 hours, vary your speed and avoid prolonged full-throttle operation or sustained high RPMs. Avoid heavy towing. Perform your first service (oil and filter change) right on schedule as outlined in your owner’s manual.

How often should I have my Can-Am professionally serviced?

Your owner’s manual provides a detailed service schedule based on hours of use or mileage. While you can handle many tasks like oil changes and filter cleaning, it’s wise to have a certified technician perform major services, like valve adjustments or in-depth diagnostics, at the recommended intervals.

What are the must-have accessories for a new owner?

Safety and recovery gear should always come first. A good list to start with includes: a helmet (always), a winch, a basic tool kit, a tire plug kit and inflator, and a fire extinguisher. After that, accessories like roofs, windshields, and extra lighting enhance comfort and capability.

Can I use regular car oil in my Can-Am?

Absolutely not. Automotive oils contain friction modifiers that are not compatible with the wet clutch systems found in some powersports engines and lack the additives needed to handle the high-RPM, high-heat environment. Using the wrong oil can cause serious damage. Stick with a powersports-specific, JASO MA/MA2 rated oil like the recommended XPS products.

Owning a 2023 Can-Am Side by Side is your ticket to incredible experiences. By investing a little time in understanding and caring for your machine, you ensure that every one of those experiences is a great one. This 2023 can am side by side care guide is your starting point, not the finish line. Always refer to your factory service manual for specific procedures and torque specs.

Now, do that pre-ride check, gear up, and get out there. The trails are waiting.

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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.