Let’s be honest. Keeping your kid’s Can-Am DS 70 running like a top is priority number one for trail-side fun. But when it comes to engine maintenance, something as fundamental as an oil change can feel a little intimidating if you haven’t tackled it before.
You agree that a healthy engine is a happy engine, right? The key to that health is clean, high-quality lubricant.
We promise that by the end of this guide, you’ll not only know exactly what can am ds 70 oil to use but also have the rock-solid confidence to perform a full oil change yourself. You’ll save time, money, and protect that little powerhouse for years of roosting and riding.
Get ready to dive in. We’ll cover everything from choosing the perfect oil and gathering your tools, a detailed step-by-step walkthrough of the process, common mistakes to sidestep, and some pro-level can am ds 70 oil tips to make the job smooth and easy.
Why the Right Oil is Non-Negotiable for Your DS 70
It’s easy to think “oil is oil,” but for a small, air-cooled engine like the one in the DS 70, the right lubricant is its lifeblood. These little engines work incredibly hard, rev high, and generate a ton of heat without a radiator to help them out.
The oil has three critical jobs:
- Lubrication: It creates a microscopic barrier between moving metal parts, preventing catastrophic wear on the piston, cylinder, and bearings.
- Cooling: It pulls heat away from the hottest parts of the engine, like the piston crown, and helps dissipate it.
- Cleaning: It suspends tiny particles of metal, carbon, and dirt, carrying them away from critical components until you drain the oil out.
Understanding the benefits of can am ds 70 oil that’s specifically designed for powersports is key. Unlike car oil, ATV-specific oil contains additives that stand up to the high-revving, high-heat environment of your Can-Am. Using the wrong stuff can lead to premature engine wear, poor performance, and a much shorter lifespan for the quad.
Choosing the Best Can-Am DS 70 Oil: Your Options Explained
Walking into an auto parts store can be overwhelming. Let’s cut through the noise and get right to what your DS 70 needs. This is the foundation of any good can am ds 70 oil guide.
What Oil Viscosity Do You Need?
Viscosity is simply a measure of an oil’s thickness or resistance to flow. For the Can-Am DS 70, the manufacturer strongly recommends a 5W-40 four-stroke engine oil.
The “5W” refers to its flow characteristics in cold weather (the “W” stands for Winter), and the “40” refers to its thickness at operating temperature. This multi-grade oil is perfect for providing quick lubrication on a cold start while maintaining a strong protective film when the engine is hot.
Synthetic vs. Semi-Synthetic Oil
You’ll see a few types on the shelf, but for the DS 70, your best bets are synthetic or semi-synthetic blends. Here’s the breakdown:
- Full Synthetic: This is the top-tier choice. It’s engineered for superior heat resistance, breakdown prevention, and longevity. If you ride hard or in hot climates, full synthetic is worth the extra couple of bucks.
- Semi-Synthetic (or Synthetic Blend): This is a great middle-ground, offering many of the benefits of full synthetic at a more budget-friendly price. It’s the most common recommendation and what BRP typically includes in their kits.
We recommend avoiding conventional (mineral-based) oil for these high-performance little engines. It simply doesn’t offer the same level of protection under stress.
Our Top Recommendations
The easiest and most foolproof option is the BRP XPS Oil Change Kit. It comes with the exact amount of the correct 5W-40 semi-synthetic oil and a new drain plug sealing washer. No guesswork involved.
If you prefer to buy separately, look for reputable powersports brands like Maxima, Motul, or Amsoil that offer a 5W-40 4-stroke ATV/motorcycle oil. Just ensure it meets API SL (or higher) and JASO MA/MA2 specifications on the bottle.
How to Can-Am DS 70 Oil Change: A Step-by-Step Guide
Alright, time to get your hands dirty. This process is straightforward and incredibly satisfying. Follow these steps for a perfect oil change every time. This is the core of our “how to can am ds 70 oil” section.
Tools and Supplies You’ll Need
Gather everything before you start. There’s nothing worse than having a quad with no oil in it while you run to the store for a forgotten tool.
- Ratchet with a 17mm socket (for the drain plug)
- Oil drain pan
- Funnel
- Clean rags or paper towels
- Nitrile or latex gloves (optional, but recommended)
- 0.95 US Quarts (0.9 Liters) of 5W-40 4-stroke ATV oil
- New drain plug sealing washer
- Brake cleaner or similar solvent for cleaning
Step 1: Warm Up the Engine
Start the ATV and let it run for 3-5 minutes. Don’t get it scorching hot, just warm enough to get the oil flowing. Warm oil drains faster and carries more of the suspended contaminants out with it.
Step 2: Locate and Prepare the Drain Plug
Park the DS 70 on level ground. Look underneath the engine on the left-hand side (shifter side). You’ll see the 17mm drain plug. Wipe the area around the plug with a clean rag to prevent any dirt from falling into the engine once it’s open.
Step 3: Drain the Old Oil
Slide your oil drain pan directly under the plug. Using your 17mm socket, turn the plug counter-clockwise to loosen it. Once it’s loose, finish unscrewing it by hand. Be ready for the oil to flow out. Let it drain completely for 5-10 minutes.
Step 4: Crucial Step: Clean the Oil Screen
This is one of the most important can am ds 70 oil best practices. The DS 70 doesn’t have a disposable oil filter; it has a reusable metal screen. Once the oil is drained, the screen and a small spring will come out with the drain plug. Separate them, spray the screen liberally with brake cleaner until it’s perfectly clean, and inspect it for any large metal shavings (a bad sign).
Step 5: Reinstall the Plug and Screen
Wipe the drain plug clean. Place the spring back on it, followed by the clean screen. Most importantly, use a new sealing washer. Re-using the old one is a prime cause of leaks. Thread the plug back into the engine by hand to avoid cross-threading. Snug it up with the 17mm socket. Do not over-tighten! A good rule of thumb is “snug, plus another quarter-turn.” The torque spec is around 15 ft-lbs (20 Nm) if you have a torque wrench.
Step 6: Refill with Fresh Oil
Unscrew the oil filler cap/dipstick on the right side of the engine. Place your funnel in the opening and slowly pour in about 0.8 quarts of your new 5W-40 oil. The total capacity is 0.95 quarts, but it’s always best to add less and top it off.
Step 7: The Final Check
Wait a minute for the oil to settle. To check the level, re-insert the dipstick but do not screw it in. Just rest the cap on the threads, pull it out, and wipe it clean. Insert it again, resting it on the threads, and pull it out to read the level. It should be between the “MIN” and “MAX” marks. Add small amounts of oil as needed until it’s at the “MAX” line. Screw the cap back in securely, and you’re done!
Common Problems with Can-Am DS 70 Oil Changes (and How to Avoid Them)
Even a simple job can go wrong. Here are some of the most common problems with can am ds 70 oil changes that we see, and how you can easily avoid them.
Stripping the Drain Plug
This is the number one DIY mistake. The engine case is aluminum, which is soft. Always use the correct 17mm socket (not an adjustable wrench) and never over-tighten the plug. The new sealing washer does the sealing, not brute force.
Using the Wrong Oil
We can’t stress this enough. Do not use standard 10W-30 car oil. It lacks the additives needed for your ATV’s engine and can cause premature wear. Stick to the 5W-40 powersports-specific oil.
Overfilling or Underfilling
Too much oil can cause seals to blow and create excess pressure, while too little will starve the engine of lubrication. Always use the dipstick method (resting on the threads) to get a perfect fill level.
Forgetting the Oil Screen
Draining the oil and refilling it without cleaning the screen is like taking a shower and putting your dirty clothes back on. That screen is your engine’s only filtration. Make cleaning it a non-negotiable part of your can am ds 70 oil care guide.
Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Can-Am DS 70 Oil Disposal
Being a responsible rider means taking care of the environment, too. Used motor oil is toxic and must be disposed of properly. Practicing sustainable can am ds 70 oil disposal is easy.
Once you’re done, pour the old oil from your drain pan into the now-empty new oil bottle. Seal it tightly. Nearly all auto parts stores (like AutoZone, Advance Auto Parts, O’Reilly) will take your used motor oil for recycling, completely free of charge. It’s a simple step that keeps our trails and water clean.
Frequently Asked Questions About Can-Am DS 70 Oil
What type of oil does a Can-Am DS 70 take?
The Can-Am DS 70 requires a 5W-40 4-stroke ATV/motorcycle oil. A high-quality semi-synthetic or full synthetic oil is highly recommended for best performance and engine protection.
How much oil does a Can-Am DS 70 hold?
The total oil capacity is approximately 0.95 US quarts (0.9 Liters). It’s always best practice to add about 0.8 quarts first, then use the dipstick to check and top off the level precisely to the “MAX” mark.
Can I use car oil in my Can-Am DS 70?
No, you should never use standard passenger car oil in your DS 70. Car oils lack the specific additives required to handle the high-revving, high-heat conditions of a powersports engine, which can lead to rapid wear and potential engine damage.
Does the Can-Am DS 70 have an oil filter?
The DS 70 does not have a conventional spin-on or cartridge-style oil filter. Instead, it uses a reusable metal oil screen located behind the drain plug. This screen must be removed and thoroughly cleaned during every oil change.
You’ve got this. Performing your own maintenance is one of the most rewarding parts of being an off-road enthusiast. You’re not just saving money; you’re building a deeper connection with your machine and ensuring it’s safe and reliable for every ride.
Now you have the expert knowledge and the step-by-step plan. Grab your tools, get a little greasy, and keep that DS 70 ripping on the trails for years to come. Ride safe out there!
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