The Can-Am Defender is a beast of a machine, a true workhorse built for the toughest jobs and wildest trails. But let’s be honest, stepping into the used market can feel like a gamble. You hear whispers on forums and chatter at the trailhead about certain models having more than their fair share of shop time.
You’re looking for a rig that spends its time on the dirt, not on a lift. You need confidence in your purchase.
That’s exactly what this guide delivers. We’re cutting through the noise to give you the straight scoop from the shop floor. We’ll detail the specific can am defender years to avoid, pinpoint the exact problems to look for, and arm you with the knowledge to tell a solid machine from a future money pit.
Stick with us, and you’ll learn about the early model teething pains, the key mechanical weak spots to inspect, and which model years have truly earned their reputation for rock-solid reliability.
Why Some Defender Model Years Get a Bad Rap
Before we name names, it’s important to understand why certain years are more problematic. It’s rarely about a single faulty part; it’s usually about a pattern of issues that emerge during a model’s lifecycle.
The “First-Year Blues” Phenomenon
When a manufacturer releases a brand-new platform like the Defender in 2016, it’s undergone thousands of hours of testing. However, real-world use by thousands of owners always uncovers unexpected weaknesses. The first year or two of any new vehicle model is often where these “teething pains” surface.
These can range from minor electrical gremlins to more significant drivetrain or clutch issues. The manufacturer then uses this data to make running changes and improvements in subsequent model years.
Mid-Cycle Updates and Recalls
Sometimes, an update intended to fix one problem can inadvertently create another. More often, though, mid-cycle updates are a huge positive. For the Defender, a major update was the switch from the older QRS clutch to the much-improved pDrive clutch system, which drastically increased reliability and performance.
Always check for open recalls on any used machine. You can do this on BRP’s official website with the vehicle’s VIN. An owner who ignored recalls is a major red flag.
The Specific Can Am Defender Years to Avoid: A Detailed Breakdown
Alright, let’s get to the heart of the matter. While no machine is perfect, our experience and community feedback point to the earliest models as the ones requiring the most caution. This section will serve as your primary can am defender years to avoid guide by highlighting the most common problems.
The Early Birds (2016-2017): Proceed with Extreme Caution
The inaugural 2016 and 2017 models are the ones most frequently cited for issues. While many have been fixed or upgraded over the years, a stock, high-mileage early model can be a basket of potential problems. These are the top common problems with can am defender years to avoid.
- Clutching Issues: This is the big one. These models used the older QRS (Quick Response System) clutch. It was prone to premature wear, especially on rollers and sliders, leading to jerky engagement, belt slippage, and costly failures.
- Excessive Cabin Heat: Many early owners complained about significant heat radiating into the cab from the engine and exhaust, making for an uncomfortable ride on hot days. Can-Am later offered kits and made design changes to mitigate this.
- Drivetrain Noise: Some early units developed noisy differentials or prop shafts. The prop shaft carrier bearing, in particular, can be a point of failure.
- Early Electrical Gremlins: Issues with sensors, fussy 4WD actuators, and other minor electrical bugs were more common on these first-generation machines.
If you’re considering a 2016-2017 model, you must have proof of diligent maintenance and ideally, evidence of clutch upgrades or replacement.
The Mid-Cycle Models (2018-2019): Getting Better, But Still Inspect Closely
By 2018, Can-Am had started to iron out many of the initial kinks. These years represent a significant step up in reliability from the first two. However, they aren’t entirely without their own quirks to watch for.
The QRS clutch was still in use, so a thorough inspection of it is still critical. The fundamental design was the same, so the potential for wear remained. You should also start looking for wear-and-tear items like worn A-arm bushings and wheel bearings, which can cause sloppy steering and handling.
The Modern Era (2020+): The Gold Standard
The 2020 model year marked a massive turning point for the Defender lineup. The single biggest improvement was the fleet-wide adoption of the pDrive primary clutch. This system is vastly more durable, smoother, and requires less maintenance than the old QRS.
Additionally, Can-Am implemented numerous frame reinforcements, suspension tweaks, and quality-of-life improvements. If your budget allows, a 2020 or newer Defender is generally considered the safest bet for long-term reliability and is our top recommendation.
Your Pre-Purchase Inspection Guide: How to Spot a Lemon
Knowing the problem years is only half the battle. Here are some practical how to can am defender years to avoid tips for your physical inspection. This checklist can save you thousands. Don’t be afraid to get your hands dirty!
H3: The Frame and Suspension Check
Get on the ground with a good flashlight. Pay close attention to the welds where the A-arms mount to the frame. Look for any signs of stress cracks in the paint or bare metal. Grab each tire at the top and bottom and try to wiggle it; any significant play could mean bad ball joints or wheel bearings.
H3: Engine and Drivetrain Deep Dive
Pop the engine cover and look for any oil or coolant leaks. A little dust is fine, but wet spots are a bad sign. On the test drive, listen for any whining from the differentials or clunking from the prop shaft when you go from forward to reverse. Ask the owner when the fluids were last changed. Hesitation is not a good sign.
H3: The All-Important Clutch Inspection
Ask if you can remove the clutch cover (it’s usually just a few bolts). The drive belt should be in good condition with no glazing or frayed edges. Look at the clutch sheaves (the metal faces the belt rides on). They should be smooth and clean, not grooved or blued from excessive heat. This is a critical check on any pre-2020 model.
H3: The Test Drive Checklist
This is where you learn the most. During the test drive, check for the following:
- Smooth Engagement: Does it take off smoothly from a stop, or does it shudder and jerk?
- 4WD System: Find a patch of gravel or dirt. Come to a complete stop, engage the 4WD and turf mode/rear locker, and make sure you hear and feel them engage.
- Brakes: Ensure the brakes feel firm and stop the machine straight without pulling.
- Noises and Vibrations: Listen for anything out of the ordinary. Rattles, clunks, or high-pitched whines need to be investigated.
The Benefits of Choosing the Right Defender Year
Following this advice offers huge advantages. The primary benefits of can am defender years to avoid are simple but powerful: you get a more reliable machine that translates directly to a better ownership experience.
- More Trail Time, Less Shop Time: The goal is to be out riding, not waiting on parts or paying for labor. A well-chosen year drastically reduces your chances of unexpected breakdowns.
- Increased Confidence: Whether you’re deep in the backcountry or just working on the back 40, you need a machine you can trust to start every time and get you home safely.
- Higher Resale Value: A well-maintained model from a “good” year will always hold its value better than a known “problem” year. Your smart purchase today pays dividends tomorrow.
- Sustainable Ownership: Choosing a durable rig leads to more sustainable ownership. You’ll spend less on replacement parts and avoid the frustrating cycle of constant repairs.
Best Practices for Maintaining Any Can-Am Defender
Even the best model year will turn into a headache if neglected. This simple can am defender years to avoid care guide applies to every machine and represents the best practices for longevity.
Regular Fluid Changes are Non-Negotiable
Your engine oil, front and rear differential fluid, and gearbox oil are the lifeblood of your machine. Follow the service intervals in your owner’s manual religiously. Using a quality synthetic oil like BRP XPS 5W-40 is always a good investment.
Keep That Clutch and Air Filter Clean
Dust is the enemy of your clutch and engine. Periodically remove the clutch cover and blow out the dust with compressed air. After every dusty ride, check your air filter. A clogged filter chokes your engine, robs power, and can lead to catastrophic engine damage. Don’t just knock it out; replace it when it’s dirty.
Frequently Asked Questions About Can-Am Defender Years to Avoid
Is the 2016 Can-Am Defender really that bad?
It’s not that every single 2016 model is a lemon, but they have the highest potential for problems, especially if they haven’t been properly maintained or upgraded. The QRS clutch and first-year design quirks are significant factors. A meticulously cared-for 2016 could be fine, but a 2020+ is a much safer bet for the average buyer.
What is the most reliable Can-Am Defender year?
Generally, any model from 2020 to the present is considered highly reliable. The introduction of the pDrive clutch and other running improvements made a massive difference. If your budget allows, aim for 2020 or newer for the best ownership experience.
Are Can-Am Defender maintenance costs high?
Maintenance costs are comparable to other major brands like Polaris or Honda. Parts are readily available. The costs become high when you have to fix major, known issues found on earlier models. By choosing a better year, you can keep your running costs to routine maintenance like oil, filters, and tires.
How can I check for recalls on a specific Defender?
It’s easy. Grab the 17-digit Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) from the seller. You can find it on a sticker in the glovebox or stamped on the frame. Go to the official BRP/Can-Am website, find their “Safety Recalls” page, and enter the VIN. It will tell you if any recalls are outstanding.
Choosing a used Can-Am Defender doesn’t have to be a roll of the dice. By focusing your search on the 2020-and-newer models and performing a thorough inspection on any year you consider, you put the odds firmly in your favor. The early 2016-2017 years aren’t “un-buyable,” but they demand expert-level scrutiny and a lower price to account for potential upgrades.
Do your homework, trust your gut, and use this guide to find a Defender that’s ready for years of hard work and epic adventures. Now get out there and get dirty!
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