Can Am Ds 90 Battery – The Ultimate Guide To Selection, Replacement

There’s nothing that kills the thrill of a trail ride faster than a dead ATV. You gear up, turn the key on your kid’s Can-Am DS 90, and all you get is a sad little click… or worse, complete silence. We’ve all been there, and it’s a major letdown.

At FatBoysOffroad, we believe a little know-how can save you a ton of frustration and money. This isn’t just another manual; this is your complete, hands-on guide to mastering your can am ds 90 battery. We promise to take the guesswork out of the equation.

In this article, you’ll learn how to spot a failing battery before it leaves you stranded, choose the perfect replacement without overspending, perform a safe and easy replacement yourself, and extend the life of your new battery with pro-level care tips. Let’s get that DS 90 firing up on the first try, every time.

Spotting the Signs: Common Problems with a Can-Am DS 90 Battery

Your ATV’s battery is the heart of its electrical system. When it starts to fail, it gives you warning signs. Learning to recognize these symptoms will help you address the issue before it ruins a day of riding.

Think of it as a health check-up for your quad. Catching these early can mean the difference between a simple charge and a full replacement.

Is Your Battery Trying to Tell You Something?

Slow Cranking: When you hit the start button, does the engine turn over sluggishly, like it’s struggling to wake up? This is the most classic sign of a weak battery that can’t deliver enough cranking amps.
Clicking Sound, No Start: You hear a rapid clicking from the starter solenoid, but the engine doesn’t turn. This means the battery has just enough juice to engage the solenoid but not enough to spin the starter motor.
Dim Lights: Turn on the headlights without starting the engine. If they look dim, weak, or yellow instead of bright white, your battery is low on power. They might brighten up once the engine is running, which points directly to a battery issue.
No Power at All: If you turn the key and get absolutely nothing—no lights, no sounds—the battery is likely completely dead or you have a loose or corroded connection.
Battery Case Swelling: Take a look at the battery itself. If the case is bulging or looks swollen, it’s a sign of overheating or internal failure. A swollen battery is a safety hazard and must be replaced immediately.

Quick Diagnostic Checks You Can Do Yourself

Before you rush out to buy a new battery, a couple of simple tests can confirm your suspicions. You’ll need a basic multimeter, a must-have tool for any DIYer.

Voltage Test (Static): Set your multimeter to DC volts. With the ATV off, touch the red probe to the positive (+) terminal and the black probe to the negative (-) terminal. A fully charged, healthy battery should read around 12.6 to 12.8 volts. A reading below 12.2 volts indicates it needs a charge, and below 12.0 volts often means it’s on its last legs.
Load Test (Cranking): Have a friend press the start button while you keep the multimeter probes on the terminals. It’s normal for the voltage to drop, but it shouldn’t fall below 9.6 to 10.5 volts. If it dips lower, the battery can’t hold a load and needs to be replaced.

Choosing Your Powerhouse: A Can-Am DS 90 Battery Guide

Not all batteries are created equal. Choosing the right one for your DS 90 ensures reliable starts and a longer service life. This part of our can am ds 90 battery guide will break down your options so you can make an informed choice.

Understanding Battery Types for Your ATV

The Can-Am DS 90 typically uses a small-format powersports battery. The most common replacement options fall into two categories.

AGM (Absorbent Glass Mat): This is the most popular and recommended type. The acid is absorbed in fiberglass mats, making the battery spill-proof and vibration-resistant—perfect for off-road abuse. They are maintenance-free and hold a charge well.
Conventional (Flooded Lead-Acid): These are the old-school batteries. They are often cheaper but require periodic maintenance, like checking and topping off the electrolyte levels with distilled water. They are also more prone to spilling if the ATV tips over. For a youth ATV, we strongly recommend an AGM battery for safety and convenience.

What to Look for on the Label

When you’re shopping, don’t just grab the first box that fits. Look for these key specs:

Battery Model Number: Your DS 90 likely uses a specific battery size, such as a YTX5L-BS or similar. Always check your owner’s manual or the label on your old battery to confirm the exact model for a perfect fit.
Cold Cranking Amps (CCA): This measures the battery’s ability to start an engine in cold weather. While less critical for a small 90cc engine, a higher CCA rating is generally an indicator of a higher quality battery.
Amp Hour (Ah) Rating: This tells you the battery’s storage capacity. A higher Ah rating means it can power accessories for longer with the engine off, though the DS 90 has few of these. Stick with the OEM-recommended Ah rating.

How to Can-Am DS 90 Battery Replacement: A Step-by-Step Walkthrough

Alright, you’ve diagnosed the problem and bought the right replacement. Now it’s time to get your hands dirty. This is a simple job that anyone can do with basic tools. Follow these steps for a safe and successful swap.

Tools and Safety Gear You’ll Need

Safety First: Put on safety glasses and gloves. Battery acid is corrosive.
Socket Set or Wrenches: You’ll likely need an 8mm or 10mm wrench or socket for the battery terminals.
Phillips Head Screwdriver: Often needed for the battery hold-down strap or bracket.
Terminal Brush or Wire Brush: To clean any corrosion off the cable ends.
Terminal Protector Spray (Optional): A good preventative measure to stop future corrosion.

The Replacement Process: Step-by-Step

Locate the Battery: On most Can-Am DS 90 models, the battery is located under the seat. Remove the seat by unlatching it according to your owner’s manual.
Disconnect the Negative Terminal FIRST: This is the most important safety step. Use your wrench to loosen the nut on the black, negative (-) terminal. Once loose, wiggle the cable off the post and tuck it away from the battery so it can’t accidentally make contact. This prevents sparks.
Disconnect the Positive Terminal: Now, you can safely loosen the nut on the red, positive (+) terminal. Remove the cable and move it aside.
Remove the Hold-Down: There will be a rubber strap or a metal bracket holding the battery in place. Unhook or unscrew this bracket and set it aside.
Lift Out the Old Battery: Carefully lift the old battery straight up and out of the battery tray. Be mindful that even small batteries can be heavy.
Clean the Area: Before installing the new battery, inspect the battery tray and cable ends. Use your wire brush to clean any white or greenish corrosion off the cable terminals. A clean connection is crucial.
Install the New Battery: Place your new can am ds 90 battery into the tray, making sure it’s oriented correctly with the terminals in the right position. Secure it with the hold-down strap or bracket you removed earlier.
Connect the Positive Terminal FIRST: Now you’ll do the reverse of the removal. Attach the red, positive (+) cable to the positive terminal and tighten the nut securely. Don’t overtighten, but make sure it’s snug.
Connect the Negative Terminal LAST: Attach the black, negative (-) cable to the negative terminal and tighten it. You might see a tiny, harmless spark as you make the connection—this is normal.
Apply Protector (Optional): If you have terminal protector spray, give the terminals a light coating to prevent corrosion.
Test It Out: Put the seat back on, turn the key, and fire it up! It should start right up with newfound energy.

Pro-Level Care: The Ultimate Can-Am DS 90 Battery Care Guide

Want to get the most life out of your new battery? A little proactive maintenance goes a long way. These are the can am ds 90 battery best practices we use in our own shop to keep our machines reliable.

Keep It Charged, Keep It Happy

The number one killer of powersports batteries is letting them sit in a discharged state. Sulfation—the formation of lead sulfate crystals on the battery plates—can permanently reduce its capacity.

The solution is simple: a battery tender or smart trickle charger. This is not the same as a regular battery charger. A tender uses a multi-stage charging process that monitors the battery’s voltage and delivers a small, slow charge only when needed. It keeps the battery topped off without overcharging it.

Pro Tip: If you’re storing the ATV for the winter or for more than a month, connect a battery tender. It’s the single best investment you can make for battery health.

Regular Inspections

Every few rides, take a quick peek at your battery. Here are some key can am ds 90 battery tips for your inspection:

Check for Cleanliness: Keep the top of the battery and the terminals clean and free of dirt and grime.
Look for Corrosion: Check for that fuzzy white or green buildup on the terminals. If you see any, disconnect the battery (negative first!) and clean it off with a wire brush and a mixture of baking soda and water.
Ensure Tight Connections: Gently wiggle the battery cables. They should be completely solid. If they move, tighten them up. A loose connection can mimic a dead battery and prevent proper charging.

Sustainable Power: Eco-Friendly Can-Am DS 90 Battery Practices

Being an off-roader means respecting the trails and the environment. That extends to how we handle our parts, including batteries. A sustainable can am ds 90 battery approach is all about smart usage and responsible disposal.

Lead-acid batteries contain hazardous materials and should NEVER be thrown in the regular trash. Doing so is harmful to the environment and illegal in most places.

The Right Way to Recycle

The good news is that lead-acid batteries are one of the most recycled consumer products in the world. Here’s how to handle your old one:

Take It to the Retailer: When you buy a new battery, nearly every auto parts store or battery retailer will take your old one for recycling, often for free. Many states have a “core charge” system, where you pay a small deposit that you get back when you return the old battery.
Local Recycling Centers: Your local municipal waste or recycling center will have a designated area for hazardous waste, including batteries.

By recycling, you’re ensuring the lead, plastic, and acid are reused, which is a huge win for the planet. This is the cornerstone of any eco-friendly can am ds 90 battery lifecycle.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Can-Am DS 90 Battery

What size battery does a Can-Am DS 90 take?

Most Can-Am DS 90 models use a standard powersports battery size, commonly a YTX4L-BS or YTX5L-BS. However, model years can vary slightly. The absolute best way to be certain is to check your owner’s manual or look at the label on the battery currently in your ATV.

How long should a Can-Am DS 90 battery last?

With proper care, a quality AGM battery should last between 3 to 5 years. Factors that shorten its life include frequent deep discharges, extreme temperatures, and long periods of inactivity without a battery tender. If you follow our can am ds 90 battery care guide, you can expect to be on the higher end of that range.

Can I use a car battery charger on my ATV battery?

It’s generally not recommended. Most car battery chargers deliver too high of an amperage (charging rate) for a small ATV battery. Using one can overheat and permanently damage the battery. Always use a charger specifically designed for motorcycles or powersports vehicles, preferably a “smart” charger or battery tender with a low-amp setting (usually 1-2 amps).

Why does my new battery keep dying?

If a new battery dies quickly, you might have a “parasitic draw” or a charging system problem. A parasitic draw is when a component continues to draw power even when the key is off. A faulty stator or voltage regulator could also be failing to recharge the battery while the engine is running. If you’ve ruled out leaving the key on, it’s time to test the ATV’s charging system, which may require help from a professional.

Taking care of your Can-Am DS 90’s battery isn’t complicated, but it does require a little attention. By understanding how to choose, replace, and maintain it, you’re ensuring more time on the trails and less time in the garage. Now get out there and ride with confidence!

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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.