You’ve scrolled through dozens of videos. You’ve watched a handful of creators make a can am commander oil change youtube tutorial look like a 10-minute job. It seems simple enough, right? But then the doubt creeps in. What size is that drain plug? What’s the right torque spec? What if the filter gets stuck? Those quick-cut videos often leave out the crucial details that separate a smooth job from a frustrating, oil-covered disaster.
We get it. At FatBoysOffroad, we believe every owner should have the confidence to wrench on their own machine. That’s why we’ve created this guide. It’s the perfect companion to those videos, designed to fill in the gaps, answer the questions you haven’t thought of yet, and give you the pro-level confidence to do the job right the first time.
Get ready to go beyond the basics. We’ll cover the exact tools you need, a detailed step-by-step process that leaves nothing to chance, common problems you might face, and the best practices that keep your Commander’s Rotax engine roaring for years to come.
Why a DIY Oil Change is a Game-Changer for Your Commander
Tackling your own maintenance is about more than just saving a few bucks at the dealership. It’s about building a deeper connection with the machine that takes you on epic adventures. Understanding the benefits of can am commander oil change youtube tutorials is the first step toward becoming a more capable and self-reliant owner.
Here’s why you should grab the wrenches:
- Absolute Quality Control: When you do the job yourself, you know exactly what oil and filter are going in. You control the process, ensuring no corners are cut and every bolt is torqued to factory specifications.
- Save Significant Money: Dealer labor rates can be steep. The money you save on just a few oil changes can easily pay for a quality set of tools that you’ll use for countless other jobs.
- Early Problem Detection: Being hands-on with your machine means you’re more likely to spot small issues before they become big, expensive problems. A small leak, a worn bushing, or a loose bolt are all things you’ll notice while you’re under there.
- Deep Rider-Machine Bond: There’s a unique satisfaction that comes from maintaining your own equipment. It builds confidence and a mechanical understanding that makes you a better, more prepared rider on the trail.
Gather Your Arsenal: Tools and Supplies for the Perfect Oil Change
Walking into a job with the right gear is half the battle. Nothing is more frustrating than having to stop mid-task to run to the auto parts store. Before you even think about loosening a bolt, gather everything on this list. This is your essential can am commander oil change youtube care guide checklist.
Essential Supplies:
- Engine Oil: The lifeblood of your Commander. We highly recommend the XPS 4-Stroke Synthetic Blend Oil specifically formulated for Rotax engines. Check your owner’s manual for the exact weight (like 5W-40) and capacity for your model year.
- Oil Filter: Don’t cheap out here. Use a genuine BRP/Can-Am oil filter (Part #420956744 or similar). It’s designed for the correct flow rate and filtration for your engine.
- Drain Plug Sealing Washers/O-Rings: Your oil change kit should come with these. Never reuse the old ones. This is the cheapest insurance against a slow, annoying leak.
- Shop Rags or Towels: You will make a mess. It’s inevitable. Have plenty on hand.
- Nitrile Gloves: Used motor oil contains contaminants you don’t want on your skin. Protect your hands.
Required Tools:
- Socket Wrench Set: You’ll need a metric set. A 17mm socket is typically needed for the engine drain plug.
- Torque Wrench: This is not optional. Over-tightening a drain plug can strip the threads in your engine case, leading to a catastrophic repair bill. A 3/8-inch drive click-style torque wrench is perfect.
- Oil Filter Wrench: The Can-Am filter has a handy nut welded to the end (often 17mm), but a dedicated oil filter cap wrench or strap wrench is good to have if it’s over-tightened.
- Funnel: A clean funnel with a long neck makes refilling the oil mess-free.
- Oil Drain Pan: Get one with at least a 5-quart capacity to be safe. A pan with a built-in spout makes disposal much cleaner.
The Ultimate How To Can Am Commander Oil Change YouTube Guide: Step-by-Step
Alright, you’ve got your gear, and you’re ready to go. We’re going to walk you through the process step-by-step. Take your time, stay organized, and you’ll be done before you know it.
Step 1: Prep Work & Safety First
First, start your Commander and let it run for 2-3 minutes. This warms the oil, making it thinner and allowing it to drain out more completely, taking suspended contaminants with it.
Park the machine on a level surface. This is critical for getting an accurate oil level reading later. Put on your safety glasses and nitrile gloves. Safety is always priority one.
Step 2: Draining the Old Oil
Locate the engine oil drain plug. On most Commander models, it’s on the bottom of the engine, often slightly recessed. It will be the lowest bolt on the oil pan.
Place your drain pan directly underneath the plug. Using your 17mm socket, break the plug loose with a firm, steady pull. Once it’s loose, you should be able to unscrew it the rest of the way by hand. Be ready—the oil will come out fast and hot.
Let the oil drain completely for at least 10-15 minutes. While it’s draining, clean the drain plug and inspect the magnet on the end for any large metal shavings (fine metallic fuzz is normal).
Step 3: Replacing the Oil Filter
The oil filter is located on the side of the engine. Place some rags underneath it, as some oil will spill out.
Using your 17mm socket or oil filter wrench, turn the filter counter-clockwise to remove it. Once it’s off, take one of your clean rags and wipe the filter mating surface on the engine block. Ensure the old filter’s rubber gasket didn’t stick to the engine—a “double gasket” situation will cause a massive oil leak.
Take your new filter and apply a thin film of fresh oil to the rubber gasket with your finger. This ensures it seals properly without binding. Screw the new filter on by hand until it makes contact, then give it another 3/4 to one full turn. Do not overtighten.
Step 4: The Refill – Precision is Key
Now that the old filter is off and the oil is drained, install the drain plug with a new sealing washer. Thread it in by hand to avoid cross-threading, then tighten it with your torque wrench to the factory spec (typically around 18-22 ft-lbs, but always check your service manual).
Remove the oil fill cap/dipstick. Place your clean funnel and slowly add the specified amount of new oil. Your owner’s manual is your best friend here. Don’t just dump the whole container in; add about 80% of the capacity first.
Step 5: Final Checks and Clean-Up
Install the oil fill cap. Start the engine and let it run for about 30 seconds. This circulates the new oil and fills the new filter. Shut the engine off.
Wait a minute for the oil to settle, then remove the dipstick, wipe it clean, re-insert it fully, and pull it out again to check the level. Add small amounts of oil as needed until the level is at the top of the “full” mark. Do not overfill!
With the level correct, do one final check around the drain plug and oil filter for any signs of leaks. If all is dry, you’re done! Transfer your used oil from the drain pan into an old milk jug or the empty oil container for recycling.
Beyond the Basics: Can Am Commander Oil Change YouTube Best Practices
Want to take your DIY game from good to great? These are the little things that seasoned mechanics do to ensure a perfect job every time. Incorporate these can am commander oil change youtube tips into your routine.
- Inspect the Magnetic Plug: That little magnet on your drain plug is a window into your engine’s health. A fine, silvery paste is normal wear. However, if you find larger metal chunks or slivers, it’s a sign of a potential internal issue that needs professional diagnosis.
- Pre-Fill the Filter (If Possible): If your oil filter is mounted vertically, you can pour a small amount of new oil into it before installation. This helps reduce the time the engine runs with low oil pressure on the initial startup.
- Keep a Maintenance Log: Use a simple notebook or a phone app to log the date, mileage/hours, and services performed. This helps you stay on schedule and provides a valuable record if you ever decide to sell your machine.
Troubleshooting Common Problems with Can Am Commander Oil Change YouTube Videos
Sometimes, things don’t go as smoothly as they do in the edited videos. Here’s how to handle some of the most common problems with can am commander oil change youtube DIY jobs.
Problem: The Drain Plug is Stripped or Stuck.
Solution: If the head is rounding off, stop immediately. A six-point socket provides a better grip than a 12-point. You can also try a bolt extractor socket. If it’s truly stuck, a sharp tap on the end of the wrench with a hammer can help break it free. If you strip the threads in the pan, a professional repair (like a Heli-Coil or Time-Sert) is necessary.
Problem: The Oil Filter Won’t Budge.
Solution: This usually happens when the last person didn’t lube the gasket or over-tightened it. A good strap wrench or cap-style wrench is your best bet. As a last resort, you can carefully drive a long screwdriver through the body of the filter to use as a lever, but be prepared for a huge mess.
Problem: You Overfilled the Engine with Oil.
Solution: Too much oil is just as bad as too little. It can cause foaming, loss of pressure, and blown seals. The easiest way to remove a small amount is to slightly loosen the drain plug and let it drip out slowly until the level is correct. If you’ve added way too much, you’ll have to drain it all and start over.
Sustainable Maintenance: Eco-Friendly Can Am Commander Oil Change YouTube Practices
Being an off-roader means respecting the environment we love to explore. Following a sustainable can am commander oil change youtube process is a crucial part of responsible ownership.
Used motor oil is a hazardous material and must be disposed of properly. Never, ever dump it on the ground or in the trash. It can contaminate groundwater and harm wildlife.
Most auto parts stores (like AutoZone, O’Reilly, or Advance Auto Parts) will accept used motor oil for recycling free of charge. Simply pour your old oil into a sealed container and drop it off. It’s an easy, eco-friendly can am commander oil change youtube habit that makes a big difference.
Frequently Asked Questions About Your Can Am Commander Oil Change
How often should I change the oil in my Can-Am Commander?
For a new machine, the first oil change is critical and should be done after the initial break-in period (around 25 hours or 600 miles). After that, a good rule of thumb is every 100 hours, 2,000 miles, or at least once a year, whichever comes first. If you ride in extremely dusty, wet, or high-load conditions, you should change it more frequently.
Can I use regular car oil in my Commander?
No, you should not. Powersports engines, especially those with a wet clutch system (which many UTVs have integrated with the transmission), require specific oils with friction modifiers that are different from automotive oils. Using car oil can cause clutch slippage and damage. Stick with a high-quality, powersports-specific oil like XPS.
What is the oil capacity for a Can-Am Commander?
The capacity varies slightly between models and years (e.g., Commander 800 vs. 1000). It’s typically around 2.1 to 2.5 quarts (2.0 to 2.4 liters). Always consult your owner’s manual for the exact specification for your machine to avoid over or under-filling.
You’ve now got the knowledge and the confidence to tackle this essential maintenance task. Doing your own oil change is a rewarding process that saves you money and puts you in control of your Commander’s health. So grab your tools, put on some tunes, and get to it. Your machine will thank you for it on the next trail ride.
Stay safe, wrench smart, and we’ll see you on the trails!
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