Can-Am Commander 800 Engine: The Ultimate Diyer'S Guide To Maintenance

Let’s be honest, that Rotax V-twin growl from your side-by-side is the soundtrack to your off-road adventures. It’s the heart of your machine, a dependable workhorse that pulls you through mud, climbs rocky inclines, and kicks up dust on the trail. But even the toughest powerplants need the right care to keep delivering that thrill ride after ride.

You’ve probably found yourself wondering if you’re doing enough to protect your investment, or maybe you’ve heard a new noise that has you worried. You’re in the right place. We promise to demystify this powerful motor and give you the confidence to handle its care yourself.

In this complete can am commander 800 engine guide from FatBoysOffroad, we’re popping the hood. We’ll break down what makes this engine special, walk through the most common problems you might face, provide a detailed maintenance schedule, and even share some tips for squeezing out a little extra performance. Let’s get greasy.

Under the Hood: What Makes the Can-Am Commander 800 Engine Tick?

Before you can properly care for it, you need to understand what you’re working with. The power behind your Commander is a legendary Rotax V-twin engine, specifically designed for the demands of off-roading. It’s not just a repurposed motor; it’s built for this life.

This engine is celebrated for its strong low-end torque, which is exactly what you need for crawling over obstacles and pulling out of thick mud. The V-twin configuration provides a smooth power delivery that’s both predictable and exhilarating. Understanding the benefits of can am commander 800 engine design helps you appreciate why it performs the way it does.

Key Specifications at a Glance

Engine Type: 799.9cc, V-twin, liquid-cooled, SOHC, 8-valve (4-valve/cyl)
Fuel System: Intelligent Throttle Control (iTC™) with Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Horsepower: Approximately 71 HP
Cooling: Liquid cooling system with a high-capacity radiator and fan
Transmission: CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) with high, low, park, neutral & reverse. Standard engine braking.

The Rotax Advantage: Power and Reliability

What does all that mean for you on the trail? The liquid cooling ensures the engine maintains optimal temperature even when you’re working it hard on a hot day. EFI provides crisp throttle response and reliable starting in any weather, from frosty mornings to sweltering afternoons.

The single overhead cam (SOHC) design is a proven, reliable setup that provides a great balance of performance and long-term durability. This is a motor built to be used, abused (within reason!), and easily maintained by a savvy DIYer like you.

Common Problems with Can-Am Commander 800 Engine and How to Spot Them

No machine is perfect, and after enough hours on the trail, you might run into a few hiccups. Knowing the common problems with can am commander 800 engine models can save you a ton of headache and money. Here’s what to watch out for.

Overheating Woes: Causes and Cures

One of the most frequent issues is overheating, especially after a muddy ride. Your temperature gauge starts climbing, and you risk serious engine damage.

The Culprit: Most often, it’s a radiator caked in mud. The mud acts like a blanket, preventing air from passing through the cooling fins. A failing radiator fan or low coolant level can also be to blame.
The Fix: After every muddy ride, thoroughly clean your radiator. Use a garden hose (not a high-pressure washer, which can bend the fins) to spray from the backside out. Check your coolant level before every ride and ensure your radiator fan kicks on when it’s supposed to.

Stalling and Rough Idling

If your Commander starts sputtering, stalling at idle, or feels hesitant when you hit the gas, it’s usually a fuel or air delivery problem. This is one of the most important can am commander 800 engine tips we can offer: start with the basics.

The Culprit: A clogged air filter is a prime suspect. Other possibilities include a weak fuel pump, fouled spark plugs, or even old, ethanol-heavy gasoline.
The Fix: Check and clean (or replace) your air filter regularly. Use a fuel stabilizer if the machine sits for long periods. If the problem persists, test your fuel pressure to check the pump and consider replacing the spark plugs—they’re cheap insurance.

The Dreaded “Limp Mode”

Limp mode is when the machine’s computer detects a serious fault and drastically reduces engine power to prevent damage. It’s frustrating, but it’s there to protect your engine.

The Culprit: This can be triggered by a wide range of issues, from a faulty sensor (like the throttle position sensor or a speed sensor) to electrical wiring problems. Sometimes, a severe overheating event will trigger it.
The Fix: The first step is to check the dash for any fault codes. These codes are your best clue. Check wiring harnesses for damage from rocks or branches. If you can’t find an obvious cause, this may be a time to consult a service manual or a trusted professional mechanic.

The Ultimate Can-Am Commander 800 Engine Care Guide

Preventing problems is always better than fixing them. A consistent maintenance routine is the key to a long, healthy life for your engine. This can am commander 800 engine care guide breaks it down into simple, manageable steps.

Your Pre-Ride Check: The 5-Minute Lifesaver

Before every single ride, take five minutes to do this. It’s one of the most crucial can am commander 800 engine best practices.

Check Engine Oil: Pull the dipstick, wipe it clean, re-insert it fully, and pull it out again. Ensure the level is between the marks.
Check Coolant Level: Look at the coolant overflow reservoir. The level should be between the ‘MIN’ and ‘MAX’ lines when the engine is cold.
Inspect Air Filter: Pop the cover off the airbox. Is the filter dirty? If you’ve been in dusty conditions, give it a clean or swap it out.
Visual Inspection: Look for any leaks, damaged hoses, or loose wires around the engine.

The 100-Hour / Annual Service: A Deeper Dive

This is your more involved service. Think of it as an annual physical for your machine. Along with an oil and filter change, you should:

Replace Spark Plugs: Keep your ignition system firing strong.
Change Gearbox & Differential Fluids: These oils break down too and are vital for your drivetrain.
Inspect CVT Belt and Clutches: Look for cracks or glazing on the belt and clean any dust out of the clutch housing.
Check Valve Clearance: This is a more advanced job. If you’re not comfortable with feeler gauges and turning the engine over by hand, it might be best to leave this to a pro. Your service manual will have the correct intervals and specifications.

How to Can-Am Commander 800 Engine Maintenance: A DIY Oil Change

Changing the oil is the single most important piece of maintenance you can do. Here’s a quick walkthrough on how to can am commander 800 engine oil changes yourself. Always consult your owner’s manual for specific torque specs and fluid capacities.

Tools and Parts You’ll Need

Ratchet and socket set (including a 17mm socket)
Torx bit set (specifically a T-30)
Oil filter wrench or pliers
Funnel
Drain pan
Shop towels or rags
~2.1 quarts (2 Liters) of XPS 5W-40 Synthetic Blend Oil (or equivalent Jaso MA / API SL rated oil)
New oil filter (e.g., Can-Am part #420256188)
New O-rings for the drain plugs

Step-by-Step Oil and Filter Change

Warm It Up: Run the engine for 2-3 minutes. This helps the oil drain faster and more completely. Don’t get it scalding hot!
Locate Drain Plugs: There are two drain plugs on the bottom of the engine. One for the engine crankcase (17mm hex head) and one for the oil tank (T-30 Torx on some models, inside a recessed hole).
Drain the Oil: Place your drain pan underneath. Remove the engine drain plug first, then the oil tank plug. Let it drain completely.
Remove the Oil Filter: The oil filter is located on the right side of the engine. Use your filter wrench to unscrew it. Be ready for a little more oil to spill out.
Install New Filter: Wipe the filter mounting surface clean. Apply a thin coat of new oil to the rubber gasket on the new filter. Screw it on by hand until it’s snug, then give it another 1/4 to 1/2 turn. Do not overtighten.
Replace Drain Plugs: Clean the drain plugs and install new O-rings. Reinstall them and torque to the manufacturer’s specification (typically around 15-20 ft-lbs).
Add New Oil: Remove the oil filler cap/dipstick. Using a funnel, slowly add the recommended amount of new oil.
Check the Level: Reinstall the dipstick, run the engine for 30 seconds to circulate the oil, then shut it off. Wait a minute, then check the oil level again, adding more if necessary to reach the full mark.

The Sustainable Can-Am Commander 800 Engine: Eco-Friendly Tips

Being an off-roader means being a steward of the trails we love. A sustainable can am commander 800 engine approach is not only good for the environment but also good for your machine.

Following a strict maintenance schedule is inherently eco-friendly. A well-tuned engine burns fuel more efficiently, producing fewer emissions. Fixing oil and coolant leaks promptly prevents these chemicals from dripping onto the trail.

When you perform your own maintenance, always dispose of used oil, coolant, and filters responsibly. Most auto parts stores have free recycling programs for used oil. An eco-friendly can am commander 800 engine is simply a well-maintained one.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Can-Am Commander 800 Engine

What type of oil is best for the Can-Am Commander 800 engine?

BRP recommends their XPS 5W-40 Synthetic Blend 4-stroke oil. If you use an alternative, make sure it is a high-quality oil rated for wet-clutch use (JASO MA, MA2) and meets API SL or higher specifications. Using the correct oil is critical for engine and transmission longevity.

How often should I check the valves on my Commander 800?

Your service manual will have the exact schedule. Generally, the first valve clearance inspection is recommended after the initial break-in period (around 25 hours), and then every 200 hours or 2,500 miles thereafter. If you notice hard starting or a loss of power, it might be worth checking them sooner.

Can I run regular 87 octane gasoline in my Commander 800?

Yes, the Can-Am Commander 800 engine is designed to run on regular unleaded gasoline with a minimum octane rating of 87. However, it’s highly recommended to use ethanol-free gasoline if you can find it, as ethanol can degrade fuel lines and attract moisture over time.

Why is my Commander 800 engine making a ticking noise?

A light ticking sound, often called “valve tick,” can be normal, especially when the engine is cold. It’s the sound of the valvetrain operating. However, if the noise is loud, changes with engine speed, or is a new development, it could indicate that your valves are out of adjustment or an issue with an internal component. It’s best to have it inspected.

Your Can-Am Commander 800 engine is a robust and powerful heart for your machine. By understanding how it works, what to look out for, and how to care for it, you’re not just a rider—you’re a true owner. You’re building a deeper connection with your UTV and gaining the skills to keep it on the trail for years to come.

So grab your tools, get familiar with your machine, and follow these best practices. The confidence you’ll gain is almost as rewarding as the ride itself. Now get out there, stay safe, and have a blast on the trails. FatBoysOffroad has your back!

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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.