Let’s be honest, the Can-Am DS 250 is a blast. It’s the perfect quad for hitting the trails, exploring the backwoods, and introducing new riders to the thrill of off-roading. But all that fun puts wear and tear on your machine, and one of the most overlooked, yet critical, maintenance tasks is servicing the gearbox.
You probably agree that keeping your ATV in top shape is key to avoiding costly repairs and ruined weekends. That’s why we’re here. We promise that by the end of this guide, you’ll have the confidence and knowledge to change your can am ds 250 transmission oil yourself, saving money and ensuring your quad runs smoothly for years to come.
We’ll walk you through why this matters, what specific oil to use, a detailed step-by-step process with photos in mind, and some pro tips the dealership might not tell you. Let’s get those hands dirty.
Why Your DS 250’s Transmission Oil is More Important Than You Think
When we talk about the “transmission” on a DS 250, it can be a bit confusing. Your ATV has an automatic CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) that uses a belt, but the service we’re focused on here is for the gearbox that handles Forward, Neutral, and Reverse.
This gearbox is filled with a specific fluid—the transmission oil—that does three crucial jobs. It lubricates the internal gears, reduces friction and heat, and carries away tiny metal particles that flake off during normal operation. Ignoring it is a recipe for disaster.
Properly maintaining this fluid is one of the most significant benefits of can am ds 250 transmission oil care. It ensures crisp shifting, protects expensive internal components, and extends the life of your ride. It’s a small job with a huge payoff.
The Telltale Signs of Old or Low Transmission Fluid
Your DS 250 will often tell you when its gearbox oil needs attention. Keep an eye (and ear) out for these common problems with can am ds 250 transmission oil degradation:
- Clunky or Hard Shifting: Difficulty moving the shifter between Forward, Neutral, and Reverse is a classic sign of worn-out or low oil.
- Unusual Whining Noises: If you hear a new whining or grinding sound coming from the engine area, especially when shifting, your gears are likely crying out for fresh lubrication.
- Hesitation or Slipping: While often a CVT belt issue, extremely degraded gearbox oil can contribute to a feeling of hesitation when you try to get moving.
- Visible Leaks: Any dark, thick fluid dripping from the bottom of your engine case is a red flag that needs immediate investigation.
Choosing the Right Can Am DS 250 Transmission Oil
Using the wrong fluid is one of the fastest ways to damage your gearbox. Unlike your engine, which uses motor oil, the transmission requires a much thicker gear oil designed to handle the extreme pressure between gear teeth.
This section of our can am ds 250 transmission oil guide will clear up any confusion and make sure you grab the right bottle off the shelf.
What Oil to Use: The Official Spec
For the Can-Am DS 250, the manufacturer specifies a high-quality SAE 80W-90 API GL-5 rated gear oil. Let’s break that down:
- SAE 80W-90: This is the viscosity (thickness) rating. It means the oil performs well in a wide range of temperatures, from cold starts to hot trail rides.
- API GL-5: This is the critical part. The GL-5 rating means the oil contains special extreme pressure (EP) additives designed to protect hypoid gears, which are under immense stress in your ATV’s gearbox. Using an oil without a GL-5 rating will lead to rapid gear wear.
You can use the official BRP XPS brand, which is always a safe bet, or a reputable aftermarket equivalent from brands like Valvoline, Mobil 1, Lucas, or Amsoil. Both conventional and synthetic 80W-90 GL-5 oils will work great.
How to Change Your Can Am DS 250 Transmission Oil: A Step-by-Step Guide
Alright, time for the main event. This is a straightforward job that anyone with basic tools can handle in about 30 minutes. Following these steps will show you exactly how to can am ds 250 transmission oil service is done right.
Tools and Supplies You’ll Need
Gather everything before you start to make the process smooth. No running to the store with a dripping ATV.
- Ratchet with a 17mm socket (confirm size for your specific model year)
- Oil drain pan
- Funnel with a flexible tube
- 1 bottle (1 quart/liter) of SAE 80W-90 GL-5 gear oil (you won’t use it all)
- Shop towels or rags
- Nitrile gloves
- New crush washers for the drain and fill plugs (highly recommended)
Step 1: Prep and Warm-Up
First, park your DS 250 on a flat, level surface. This is critical for getting an accurate fluid level reading later.
Start the ATV and let it run for 3-5 minutes. This warms up the oil, making it thinner and allowing it to drain out more completely and quickly.
Step 2: Locate the Drain and Fill Plugs
On the left side of the engine (the shifter side), look down at the crankcase. You will see two bolts. The fill/check plug is the higher of the two, and the drain plug is at the very bottom.
Step 3: Drain the Old Oil
Slide your drain pan directly under the drain plug. Now, using your ratchet, first loosen and remove the top fill plug. This allows air to enter as the oil drains, preventing a vacuum and helping it flow out smoothly.
Once the fill plug is out, move to the bottom drain plug and carefully remove it. The old oil will start to drain immediately. Let it drain completely for 5-10 minutes.
Step 4: Clean and Reinstall the Drain Plug
While the oil drains, inspect the drain plug. It should have a magnetic tip designed to catch metal shavings. A small amount of fine, metallic fuzz is normal. However, if you see large chunks or slivers of metal, it could be a sign of a serious internal problem.
Wipe the plug clean, install a new crush washer, and reinstall it. Tighten it until it is snug. Do not overtighten! Stripping the threads in the aluminum case is an expensive mistake. A firm, one-handed turn on a standard ratchet is plenty.
Step 5: Refill with Fresh Oil
This is where our can am ds 250 transmission oil tips come in handy. The correct oil level is determined by the fill hole itself.
Place your funnel into the upper fill hole. Slowly pour in the new 80W-90 gear oil until it just starts to trickle back out of the hole. The capacity is approximately 300 ml (0.32 quarts), but the fill-to-spill method is the most accurate.
Once it starts to seep out, stop filling. The level is now perfect.
Step 6: Final Checks and Eco-Friendly Disposal
Wipe off any excess oil from the engine case. Reinstall the fill plug with a new crush washer and snug it down.
Now, for the final and crucial step: proper disposal. Pour your old, used gear oil from the drain pan into an empty, sealed container (like the one your new oil came in). Take it to your local auto parts store or recycling center. This is a key part of practicing sustainable can am ds 250 transmission oil maintenance and protecting our environment.
Pro Tips and Best Practices for Transmission Care
Changing the oil is just one part of a complete can am ds 250 transmission oil care guide. Following these best practices will keep your quad happy for the long haul.
How Often Should You Change the Oil?
The owner’s manual suggests a schedule, but a good rule of thumb is to change the transmission oil at least once a year or every 50-100 hours of riding. If you frequently ride in deep water, mud, or extreme dust, you should change it twice a year or even more frequently.
Reading the Old Oil: What to Look For
The condition of your old oil is a window into the health of your gearbox.
- Milky or Creamy Oil: This means water has contaminated the system, likely from riding through deep water. The oil is no longer protecting your gears and must be changed immediately.
- Burnt Smell or Very Dark Color: This indicates the oil has overheated and broken down. It’s lost its ability to lubricate effectively.
- Excessive Metal Shavings: As mentioned, a tiny bit of fuzz is okay. A large amount of debris on the magnetic plug points to excessive internal wear.
Frequently Asked Questions About Can Am DS 250 Transmission Oil
Can I use car engine oil in my DS 250 transmission?
Absolutely not. Engine oil lacks the extreme pressure additives (API GL-5) required to protect the gears in your ATV’s gearbox. Using the wrong fluid will cause rapid and catastrophic damage.
How much transmission oil does a Can-Am DS 250 take?
The approximate capacity is 300 ml (0.32 quarts). However, the most accurate method is to fill through the upper fill hole on a level surface until the fluid begins to seep back out. Do not simply measure and pour, as you may not have fully drained the old oil.
Is a synthetic gear oil better for the DS 250?
Synthetic 80W-90 GL-5 oil offers superior performance in very hot and very cold temperatures and can offer slightly better protection. While it’s a great upgrade, a high-quality conventional gear oil that meets the spec will still provide excellent protection for most riders.
There you have it—a complete walkthrough of one of the most important DIY jobs you can do for your ATV. Taking care of the can am ds 250 transmission oil is a simple, cheap, and effective way to ensure your quad is ready for whatever the trail throws at it.
Now you’re equipped to tackle this essential maintenance task with confidence. Grab your tools, get a little greasy, and keep that DS 250 ripping on the trails. Ride safe!
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