There’s nothing quite like the smile on a young rider’s face as they kick up some dirt on their Can-Am DS 90. It’s a fantastic little machine for introducing the next generation to the joys of off-roading. But that smile can quickly turn to a frown when the quad won’t start, sputters, or just won’t run right. You’re left scratching your head in the garage, wondering where to even begin.
We’ve all been there. You agree that a weekend of fun can be derailed by a frustrating mechanical issue. That’s why we’re here. At FatBoysOffroad, we believe in empowering you to handle these hiccups yourself.
We promise this guide will walk you through the most common can-am ds 90 problems, from simple starting issues to pesky fuel system gremlins. We’ll give you a clear, step-by-step roadmap to diagnose the issue, find the culprit, and get that ATV running like new. You’ll learn how to check for fuel, test for spark, clean a carburetor, and perform the essential maintenance that keeps these problems from coming back.
The “Won’t Start” Conundrum: A DIYer’s Diagnostic Guide
The most frequent complaint we hear involves a DS 90 that cranks but just won’t fire up. Before you start throwing parts at it, let’s get back to basics. An engine needs three things to run: fuel, spark, and air. Nine times out of ten, one of these is your culprit.
Is It Getting Fuel?
A fuel delivery issue is the number one cause of starting problems. Start with the simplest checks first.
First, make sure the fuel petcock (the little switch on the side of the fuel tank) is turned to the “ON” or “RES” (reserve) position. It’s an easy thing to overlook! Next, check if you have fresh gasoline in the tank. Gas that’s been sitting for months, especially ethanol-blended fuel, can go bad and clog things up.
To confirm fuel is reaching the engine, you can carefully loosen the drain screw at the bottom of the carburetor bowl. If fuel dribbles out, you know it’s getting that far. If not, you may have a clogged fuel line or a stuck petcock.
Do You Have Spark?
If you’ve confirmed you have fuel, the next step is checking for a healthy spark. This is the electrical jolt that ignites the fuel-air mixture.
You’ll need a spark plug socket to do this. Carefully remove the spark plug wire, then unscrew the spark plug from the engine cylinder head. Re-connect the plug to the wire, and hold the threaded part of the plug against a metal part of the engine block. Safely have a helper crank the engine. You should see a bright, blue spark jump across the plug’s electrode.
If you see a weak, orange spark or no spark at all, you could have a fouled spark plug, a bad plug wire, a faulty ignition coil, or an issue with the CDI box. A new spark plug is an inexpensive first step.
Can It Breathe?
The final piece of the puzzle is air. The engine needs a clean, steady supply of air to mix with the fuel. A severely clogged air filter can literally choke the engine, preventing it from starting.
Locate the airbox (usually under the seat) and remove the cover. Pull out the foam air filter. If it’s caked in dirt, oil, and grime, it’s long overdue for a cleaning or replacement. A clean filter is one of the most important parts of a healthy engine.
Common Problems With Can-Am DS 90 Problems: Sputtering & Stalling
So, you got it started, but it runs rough, bogs down under throttle, or stalls out. This is another classic symptom, and it almost always points back to the fuel system. This section of our can-am ds 90 problems guide will help you pinpoint the issue.
The Clogged Carburetor Culprit
The carburetor on the DS 90 has tiny passages called jets that can get clogged with microscopic debris from old fuel. The most common symptom of a clogged pilot jet is an engine that will only run with the choke on.
Cleaning the carb isn’t as scary as it sounds. You’ll need to remove it from the ATV, take off the float bowl on the bottom, and carefully remove the jets. Use a can of carb cleaner with a straw to spray through every single passage. Never use a metal wire to poke through the jets, as you can easily damage them. A thorough cleaning often brings a poorly running quad right back to life.
Old Gas & Ethanol Woes
We can’t stress this enough: modern gasoline is the enemy of small engines. The ethanol in pump gas attracts water and can break down over time, leaving gummy deposits that wreak havoc on your fuel system.
Always use fresh, high-quality gasoline. If the ATV is going to sit for more than a few weeks, add a good quality fuel stabilizer to the tank. This is one of the easiest and most effective preventative maintenance steps you can take.
Electrical Gremlins: Chasing Wires and Weak Sparks
If you’ve ruled out fuel and air, it’s time to dig into the electrical system. These issues can be a bit trickier, but often come down to a few common components.
The All-Important Battery Check
While the DS 90 has a kick-start backup, the electric start relies on a healthy battery. A weak battery might have enough juice to turn the engine over slowly but not enough to power the ignition system for a strong spark.
Use a multimeter to check the battery voltage. A fully charged battery should read around 12.6 volts or higher. If it’s below 12.2 volts, it needs a charge. Also, check the battery terminals for any corrosion and make sure the connections are clean and tight.
Inspecting the Tether Cord & Kill Switch
This is a big one! The DS 90 has safety features like a tether cord kill switch on the rear grab bar and a kill switch on the handlebars. If the tether cap is missing or the switch is faulty, you will get no spark.
Make sure the tether cap is securely in place. Wiggle the handlebar kill switch back and forth a few times; sometimes the internal contacts get dirty. These switches are common failure points that can mimic a much more serious electrical problem.
Best Practices: Your Can-Am DS 90 Problems Care Guide
The best way how to solve can-am ds 90 problems is to prevent them from happening in the first place. A little routine maintenance goes a long way. Following these can-am ds 90 problems best practices will save you time, money, and frustration.
The Pre-Ride Checklist That Saves Headaches
Before every ride, take five minutes to do a quick walk-around. This simple habit can catch a small issue before it becomes a major breakdown on the trail.
- Tires: Check for proper air pressure and look for any cuts or damage.
- Chain: Check the tension. It should have about 1 inch of slack. Lube it if it looks dry.
- Brakes: Squeeze the brake levers to ensure they feel firm and engage properly.
- Fuel & Oil: Check the levels.
- Controls: Make sure the throttle snaps back freely and all switches work.
Sustainable Maintenance and Eco-Friendly Tips
Being a responsible off-roader includes taking care of your machine and the environment. When performing maintenance, always use a drain pan to catch old fluids like engine oil.
Take used oil to a local auto parts store or recycling center for proper disposal. Using high-quality, long-lasting parts and fluids is also a form of sustainable can-am ds 90 problems management, as it reduces waste and the frequency of repairs. This is an eco-friendly can-am ds 90 problems approach that benefits everyone.
Frequently Asked Questions About Can-Am DS 90 Problems
Why does my DS 90 only run with the choke on?
This is a textbook symptom of a clogged pilot jet in the carburetor. The choke circuit is providing the extra fuel the engine isn’t getting from the clogged jet. The carburetor needs to be removed and thoroughly cleaned.
What kind of engine oil should I use in a Can-Am DS 90?
The Can-Am DS 90 uses a 4-stroke engine. You should always use a high-quality 4-stroke ATV or motorcycle oil, typically in a 10W-40 viscosity. Do not use regular car oil, as it lacks the additives needed for the ATV’s clutch and transmission.
How do I adjust the throttle limiter on the DS 90?
The throttle limiter is a great safety feature. It’s a small screw located on the throttle housing on the right handlebar. Turning the screw inwards (clockwise) will limit how far the throttle can be pushed, reducing the ATV’s top speed. Turning it outwards (counter-clockwise) will increase the available speed.
Tackling these can-am ds 90 problems is well within the reach of a determined DIYer. By working through these steps logically—checking for fuel, spark, and air first—you can solve the vast majority of issues that pop up. Regular maintenance is your best defense against being stuck in the garage.
Now, grab your tools, follow this guide, and get that little ripper back on the trail where it belongs. Stay safe, have fun, and keep on riding!
- 2018 Honda Accord Tire Size – The Ultimate Guide To Perfect Fit, - December 18, 2025
- 2012 Honda Accord Fuse Box Diagram – Your Ultimate Guide To DIY - December 18, 2025
- 2013 Honda Accord Fuse Box Diagram – Your Essential Guide To - December 18, 2025