Can Am Ds 650 Battery – The Ultimate Guide To Selection, Maintenance

You swing a leg over your legendary Can-Am DS 650, ready to tear up the dunes or trails. You hit the starter, and all you get is a weak groan or a disappointing click. We’ve all been there—that sinking feeling when the heart of your quad’s electrical system gives up the ghost.

A dead or dying battery can ruin a perfect ride day before it even begins. But don’t worry, you’ve come to the right place. At FatBoysOffroad, we believe every rider should have the confidence to manage their machine’s health.

This comprehensive guide will arm you with everything you need to know about your can am ds 650 battery. We’ll walk you through choosing the perfect replacement, performing a safe installation, diagnosing common issues, and mastering the maintenance that will keep you firing up on the first try, every time.

Understanding Your Can-Am DS 650 Battery: More Than Just a Box

Before you rush out and buy the first battery you see, it’s crucial to understand what makes a battery right for the mighty DS 650. This isn’t just any ATV; its big single-cylinder engine requires a solid punch of power to turn over. Getting the specs right is non-negotiable.

Key Battery Specifications You Can’t Ignore

When shopping, you’ll see a few key numbers. Here’s what they mean for you and your quad.

Cold Cranking Amps (CCA): This is the most important number. CCA measures a battery’s ability to start an engine in cold temperatures. The DS 650’s high-compression motor needs a battery with strong CCA to crank over effectively, especially on a chilly morning.
Amp Hour (Ah): This tells you about the battery’s capacity. A higher Ah rating means the battery can supply a lower current for a longer period. This is important if you run accessories like aftermarket lights or a GPS.
Dimensions: The DS 650 has a specific battery tray. You must get a battery that fits perfectly. An ill-fitting battery can vibrate excessively, leading to premature failure and potential damage. Always measure your old battery or check the manufacturer’s recommended size.

Common Battery Types for the DS 650: AGM vs. Lithium

You have two main choices for your quad, and each has its pros and cons. This is a core part of any good can am ds 650 battery guide.

AGM (Absorbent Glass Mat) Batteries:

This is the most common and reliable factory-style replacement. The electrolyte is absorbed in fiberglass mats, making them spill-proof and highly resistant to the intense vibration of off-roading. They offer excellent performance for their price.

Lithium (LiFePO4) Batteries:

Lithium is the premium, high-performance option. The biggest advantage is the massive weight savings—often 70-80% lighter than an AGM battery. They also provide stronger cranking power and have a much longer lifespan if maintained properly. The main drawback is their higher initial cost.

Diagnosing Common Problems with Your Can-Am DS 650 Battery

Is your battery truly dead, or is something else causing the issue? A little diagnostic work can save you time and money. Knowing how to troubleshoot is key to understanding the common problems with can am ds 650 battery systems.

The Telltale Signs of a Failing Battery

Your quad will usually give you warnings before the battery completely dies. Look out for:

Slow, sluggish engine cranking.
Headlights and dash lights that dim significantly during startup.
A clicking sound from the starter solenoid when you hit the start button.
The battery case appears swollen or is leaking fluid.
Difficulty holding a charge, even after using a charger.

How to Test Your Battery with a Multimeter

A simple multimeter is one of the best tools a DIYer can own. Here’s a quick and safe way to check your battery’s health.

Set your multimeter to DC Volts (look for a V with a straight line).
With the engine off, touch the red probe to the positive (+) terminal and the black probe to the negative (-) terminal.
A fully charged, healthy battery should read between 12.6V and 12.8V.
A reading below 12.2V indicates the battery is significantly discharged and may be failing.
A reading below 12.0V often means the battery is toast and unlikely to hold a charge again.

Is It the Battery or Something Else?

If your battery tests fine but you still have starting issues, the problem could lie elsewhere. Check your battery cables for corrosion or looseness at both the battery terminals and where they connect to the starter solenoid and frame ground. A bad connection can mimic a dead battery.

The Ultimate How-To Can-Am DS 650 Battery Replacement Guide

Swapping out the battery is a straightforward job you can definitely tackle at home. Just follow these steps carefully, and always prioritize safety.

Tools and Safety Gear You’ll Need

Safety Glasses & Gloves
Socket Set or Wrenches (typically 8mm or 10mm)
Wire Brush or Battery Terminal Cleaner Tool
Dielectric Grease
Your new, fully charged battery

Step-by-Step: Removing the Old Battery

Locate the Battery: On the DS 650, the battery is typically located under the seat. Remove the seat to gain access.
Disconnect the Negative Terminal FIRST: Using your wrench, loosen the nut on the black, negative (-) terminal. Wiggle the cable off and tuck it away from the battery post to prevent accidental contact. This is a critical safety step!
Disconnect the Positive Terminal: Now, loosen the nut on the red, positive (+) terminal and remove the cable.
Remove the Battery Hold-Down: There will be a strap or bracket holding the battery in place. Unhook or unbolt it.
Lift the Old Battery Out: Carefully lift the battery straight up and out of the tray. Be aware, it’s heavier than it looks!

Step-by-Step: Installing the New Battery

Clean the Terminals and Tray: Use your wire brush to scrub any corrosion off the cable ends. A clean connection is vital. Wipe out the battery tray as well.
Place the New Battery: Gently lower the new battery into the tray, ensuring it’s seated correctly.
Secure the Hold-Down: Re-install the strap or bracket to hold the new battery firmly in place so it can’t bounce around.
Connect the Positive Terminal FIRST: This time, you’ll work in reverse. Attach the red, positive (+) cable to the positive terminal and tighten the nut securely.
Connect the Negative Terminal: Now, attach the black, negative (-) cable to the negative terminal and tighten it down.
Apply Dielectric Grease: Add a small dab of dielectric grease over the terminals. This isn’t for conductivity; it’s to seal out moisture and prevent future corrosion—one of the best can am ds 650 battery tips.

With everything connected, try starting your DS 650. It should fire right up with new life!

Maximizing Lifespan: The Can-Am DS 650 Battery Care Guide

A new battery is an investment. With a little care, you can significantly extend its service life. Follow these can am ds 650 battery best practices to get the most out of it.

The Power of a Battery Tender

ATVs often sit for weeks or months between rides. During this time, the battery naturally self-discharges. A “battery tender” or “smart charger” is a small device that monitors your battery’s voltage and applies a slow, trickle charge only when needed. It prevents sulfation (crystal buildup on the plates) and keeps the battery in peak condition, ready for your next adventure.

Best Practices for Off-Season Storage

If you’re storing your DS 650 for the winter, don’t just let the battery sit in the quad. For optimal life, remove the battery, store it in a cool, dry place off of concrete floors, and connect it to a battery tender. This simple step can easily double your battery’s lifespan.

Benefits of a Quality Can-Am DS 650 Battery Upgrade

Investing in a premium AGM or Lithium battery offers more than just starting your engine. The benefits of a can am ds 650 battery upgrade are felt every time you ride.

Enhanced Cranking Power: A high-quality battery with a strong CCA rating will spin the engine over faster, leading to quicker, less stressful starts, especially in the cold.
Trail Reliability: The last thing you want is to be stranded miles from your truck. A dependable battery gives you peace of mind, knowing your machine will start when you need it to.
Support for Accessories: If you’ve added an LED light bar, a winch, or other electrical accessories, a stronger battery is essential to handle the extra load without issue.

Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Can-Am DS 650 Battery Practices

Being a responsible rider extends to how we handle old parts. A sustainable can am ds 650 battery approach is easy and important.

Old lead-acid batteries are highly toxic and must never be thrown in the regular trash. Fortunately, they are also highly recyclable. Nearly any auto parts store, service shop, or recycling center that sells batteries will accept your old one for free. They are required by law to have a recycling program, making this an easy, eco-friendly can am ds 650 battery choice.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Can-Am DS 650 Battery

What size battery does a Can-Am DS 650 take?

The most common replacement battery size for the DS 650 is the YTX14-BS. However, always double-check the dimensions of your existing battery or consult your owner’s manual, as some models or aftermarket trays may differ.

Can I use a car battery charger on my DS 650 battery?

It’s not recommended. Most car chargers have too high of an amperage rate for a small powersports battery and can overheat or damage it. Always use a charger specifically designed for motorcycles or ATVs, preferably a “smart” charger or tender with a setting of 2 amps or less.

How long should a Can-Am DS 650 battery last?

With proper care and regular use of a battery tender, a quality AGM battery should last 3 to 5 years. A lithium battery can last even longer, often 5 to 8 years. Neglect can kill a battery in a single season.

Why does my DS 650 battery keep dying?

If you’ve replaced the battery and it still dies quickly, you may have a “parasitic draw” (something drawing power when the key is off) or a faulty charging system (stator or voltage regulator). A mechanic can perform tests to diagnose these more complex issues.

Taking charge of your Can-Am DS 650’s battery health is one of the most empowering skills you can learn as a rider. By understanding how it works, how to care for it, and how to replace it safely, you ensure more time on the trail and less time in the garage. Now get out there and make some dust!

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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.