You didn’t buy a Can-Am Commander to let it collect dust. You bought it for the thrill of the trail, the mud-flinging corners, and the pure capability that comes with a Rotax engine. But keeping that high-performance heart beating strong depends on one thing more than any other: using the right oil.
We get it. Staring at a wall of oil bottles with codes like “5W-40” and “JASO MA2” can feel like deciphering a secret language. You just want to know what to put in your machine to keep it running flawlessly, and you’re worried about making a costly mistake.
This is your ultimate can am commander oil type guide. We promise to cut through the noise and give you the clear, expert advice you need. We’ll break down exactly what BRP recommends, what those numbers mean, why synthetic is king, and even walk you through a perfect oil change. Let’s get your Commander the lifeblood it deserves.
Why the Correct Can-Am Commander Oil Type is Non-Negotiable
Think of engine oil as more than just a lubricant. It’s a complex fluid engineered to perform multiple critical jobs under extreme stress. Choosing the wrong one is like asking a marathon runner to compete in flip-flops—it’s just not going to end well.
The Heart of Your Machine: The Rotax Engine
Your Commander’s Rotax engine is a masterpiece of engineering, designed for high-revving power and torque. These tight-tolerance engines generate immense heat and internal pressure, especially when you’re pushing it hard on the trail.
The correct oil creates a resilient, microscopic film that prevents metal-on-metal contact between crucial components like the pistons, cylinders, and bearings. This is the first and most important line of defense against premature wear.
Beyond Lubrication: What Engine Oil Really Does
A high-quality oil does more than just reduce friction. Its additive package is designed to:
- Clean: Detergents and dispersants in the oil capture microscopic carbon deposits and sludge, keeping internal passages clean and preventing blockages.
- Cool: Oil circulates through the hottest parts of your engine, carrying away heat that the coolant system can’t reach.
- Protect: Anti-corrosion agents neutralize harmful acids that form during combustion, preventing rust and pitting on internal surfaces.
- Seal: It helps form a tight seal for the piston rings against the cylinder wall, ensuring maximum compression and power.
The High Cost of Getting It Wrong
Using the wrong oil, or stretching your oil change intervals too long, leads to common problems with can am commander oil type choices. These can include engine overheating, loss of power, and ultimately, catastrophic failure. Car oil, for example, lacks the specific additives needed for the shared sump system in many powersports vehicles, which can cause clutch slippage and transmission damage. This isn’t a place to cut corners.
Decoding the Numbers: Understanding Oil Viscosity (5W-40 vs. 10W-50)
The most common question we hear revolves around the numbers on the bottle. This is the oil’s viscosity grade, and it’s crucial. For nearly all Can-Am Commanders, the factory-specified oil is a 5W-40 synthetic blend or full synthetic oil.
What “5W-40” Actually Means
This is a multi-grade viscosity rating, perfect for a machine that operates in a wide range of temperatures. Let’s break it down:
- 5W: The “W” stands for “Winter.” This number indicates how easily the oil flows at cold temperatures. A lower number (like 5W) means the oil is thinner when cold, allowing it to circulate quickly and protect your engine immediately upon startup.
- 40: This number represents the oil’s viscosity at normal operating temperature (around 212°F or 100°C). It ensures the oil is thick enough to provide a strong protective film when the engine is hot and under load.
Using a 5W-40 oil ensures your Commander is protected from a cold morning start to a hot afternoon on the trails.
BRP’s Official Recommendation: XPS Oil
BRP (Bombardier Recreational Products), the parent company of Can-Am, specifically formulates its own line of XPS (Xtreme Performance Series) oils. The go-to product is their XPS 4T 5W-40 Synthetic Blend Oil. It’s engineered to meet the exact demands of the Rotax engine.
For a hassle-free experience, we highly recommend the XPS Oil Change Kit. It comes with the correct amount of oil, a new oil filter, and new O-rings and a drain plug sealing washer. It takes all the guesswork out of the job.
When to Consider a Different Viscosity
While 5W-40 is the standard, there are rare exceptions. If you operate exclusively in extremely hot desert climates (consistently above 100°F) and engage in heavy-duty work like towing or racing, some owners opt for a 10W-50 oil. However, for 99% of riders, sticking with the manufacturer-recommended 5W-40 is one of the most important can am commander oil type best practices.
Synthetic vs. Conventional: The Ultimate Showdown
The next big decision is the oil’s base: conventional, synthetic blend, or full synthetic. For a high-performance machine like a Commander, the choice is clear.
The Benefits of Full Synthetic Oil
Full synthetic oil is chemically engineered in a lab for purity and uniformity. Unlike conventional oil, which is refined from crude oil, synthetic oil has molecules that are all the same size. This provides superior performance in every way.
- Better Temperature Stability: It resists breaking down (thermal degradation) at high temperatures and flows better at low temperatures.
- Enhanced Wear Protection: It provides a stronger, more durable lubricating film, even under extreme pressure.
- Cleaner Operation: It produces far fewer deposits and sludge, keeping your engine cleaner for longer.
- Longer Life: Full synthetic oils last longer, allowing for extended drain intervals (though you should always follow your owner’s manual recommendations).
What About Synthetic Blends?
A synthetic blend, like the standard XPS oil, is a mix of conventional and synthetic base oils. It offers some of the benefits of full synthetic at a lower price point. It’s a great option and meets BRP’s minimum requirements, but full synthetic is an undeniable upgrade for those who demand the absolute best protection.
How to Change Your Can-Am Commander’s Oil: A Step-by-Step Guide
Knowing how to can am commander oil type selection works is half the battle. Now, let’s put that knowledge into practice. This is a straightforward job any DIYer can handle with the right tools and a little patience.
Tools and Supplies You’ll Need
- Fresh Engine Oil (Correct type and quantity – check your manual, it’s typically around 2.1 quarts or 2 liters)
- New Oil Filter (We recommend the BRP filter, part #420956744 or equivalent)
- Drain Pan
- Funnel
- Ratchet and Socket Set (including a T30 Torx bit for the filter cover)
- Torque Wrench
- New Drain Plug Sealing Washer and O-rings (included in XPS kits)
- Shop Rags or Paper Towels
- Nitrile Gloves
The Step-by-Step Process
- Warm It Up: Run the engine for 3-5 minutes. This warms the oil, making it flow out faster and carrying more contaminants with it. Don’t get it scorching hot.
- Get Situated: Park your Commander on level ground. Place the drain pan directly under the engine oil drain plug, which is located on the bottom of the engine.
- Remove the Drain Plug: Using the correct size socket, loosen and remove the engine oil drain plug. Be ready for the oil to start flowing immediately.
- Access the Filter: While the oil drains, locate the oil filter housing on the side of the engine. Use a T30 Torx bit to remove the three bolts holding the cover on.
- Replace the Filter: Pull the old filter straight out. Clean the inside of the housing with a clean rag. Pro-tip: Lightly coat the O-rings on the new filter and the filter cover with fresh oil before installation. This ensures a perfect seal.
- Reinstall and Torque: Once the oil has finished draining, wipe the drain plug area clean. Install a new sealing washer on the drain plug and reinstall it. Torque it to the manufacturer’s specification (typically around 18 lb-ft or 25 Nm). Do not overtighten! Reinstall the oil filter cover and torque its bolts to spec (around 7 lb-ft or 10 Nm).
- Refill with Fresh Oil: Using a clean funnel, pour the specified amount of new 5W-40 oil into the engine. Start with slightly less than the full amount.
- Check the Level: Reinstall the dipstick, run the engine for about 30 seconds to circulate the new oil, then shut it off. Wait a minute, then remove the dipstick, wipe it clean, reinsert it fully, and check the level. Add oil as needed to reach the “Full” mark.
- Final Inspection: Check for any leaks around the drain plug and filter housing. Clean up any spills.
Eco-Friendly and Sustainable Can-Am Commander Oil Type Best Practices
Being a responsible off-roader means protecting the trails we love. This extends to how we handle our maintenance. Following an eco-friendly can am commander oil type care guide is simple and impactful.
Proper Disposal is Key
Used motor oil is a hazardous material. Never, ever pour it down a drain, on the ground, or in the trash. A single oil change can contaminate one million gallons of fresh water.
Pour your used oil from the drain pan into a sealed container, like the empty oil bottles. Most auto parts stores (like AutoZone, O’Reilly) and local municipal recycling centers will accept used motor oil and filters for free. It’s an easy and essential step.
Minimizing Spills
Use a large, stable drain pan to prevent spills. Keep a bag of kitty litter or oil absorbent on hand to quickly clean up any drips. A little prep work goes a long way in keeping your garage and the environment clean.
Frequently Asked Questions About Can-Am Commander Oil Type
How often should I change the oil in my Can-Am Commander?
For a new machine, the first service is critical and usually occurs at around 25 hours or 600 miles. After that, BRP recommends an oil and filter change every 100 hours, 2,000 miles, or at least once a year, whichever comes first. If you ride in extremely dusty or muddy conditions, you should change it more frequently.
Can I use regular car oil in my Commander?
Absolutely not. This is one of the most critical can am commander oil type tips. Most car oils contain friction modifiers that are not compatible with the wet clutch system found in many powersports engines. Using it can cause severe clutch slippage and transmission damage. Always use a 4T/4-Stroke oil specifically rated for powersports use, preferably with a JASO MA or MA2 rating.
What’s the oil capacity for a Can-Am Commander?
The oil capacity is generally around 2.1 U.S. quarts (2.0 liters), but this can vary slightly by model and year. Your owner’s manual is the definitive source for this information. Always verify the exact amount for your specific machine.
Is it okay to switch between synthetic and conventional oil?
Yes, you can switch. If you are moving from conventional to synthetic, you don’t need to do any special “flushing.” However, once you experience the benefits of full synthetic, we doubt you’ll ever want to switch back.
Choosing the right oil for your Can-Am Commander isn’t just routine maintenance; it’s the single best thing you can do to ensure a long, powerful life for your machine. By sticking with a high-quality 5W-40 full synthetic oil, changing it regularly, and using an OEM-quality filter, you’re giving that Rotax engine the ultimate protection.
Now you have the expert knowledge to do the job with confidence. Take care of your machine, and it will take care of you on the trail. Stay safe, get muddy, and ride on!
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