There’s nothing quite like the feeling of strapping into a Can-Am Maverick. You hit the ignition, the Rotax engine growls to life, and you know a day of adrenaline-fueled adventure on the trails awaits. It’s a machine built for pure, unapologetic performance.
But we both know that with great power comes great responsibility. To keep that high-performance beast running at its peak, you need to be more than just a driver—you need to be a smart owner. The difference between a trouble-free season and a weekend-ruining breakdown often comes down to knowledge and preparation.
We promise this comprehensive can am maverick side by side guide will give you the confidence to maintain, troubleshoot, and even upgrade your rig. We’ll walk you through essential pre-ride checks, tackle common problems head-on, explore popular mods, and even touch on how to be a responsible rider. Let’s get those hands dirty.
Understanding the Appeal: Benefits of a Can-Am Maverick Side by Side
So, why do so many riders bleed yellow and black? It’s not just hype. Can-Am has consistently pushed the envelope, and the Maverick lineup is a testament to that. Understanding these core benefits helps you appreciate what you’ve got and how to care for it.
The primary draw is, without a doubt, power and performance. Whether you have a naturally aspirated 1000R or a fire-breathing Turbo RR model, the Rotax engines are legendary for their potent delivery and thrilling sound. They’re designed to give you that pin-you-to-your-seat acceleration the moment you touch the throttle.
But power is useless without control. This is where Can-Am’s suspension technology, particularly the available Smart-Shox, comes into play. This semi-active suspension reads the terrain and driver input in milliseconds, adjusting damping on the fly to provide an incredibly smooth ride over brutal chop and keep the machine stable through high-speed corners.
Finally, there’s versatility. From the nimble Trail models designed for tight woods to the wide-stance X3 built for desert domination, there’s a Maverick for every terrain. This adaptability is one of the key benefits of can am maverick side by side ownership.
Your Pre-Ride Ritual: The Essential Can-Am Maverick Side by Side Care Guide
The most important maintenance happens before you even start the engine. A thorough pre-ride inspection takes just 10 minutes but can save you hours of frustration on the trail. Think of it as a conversation with your machine. This is one of the most crucial can am maverick side by side best practices.
We like to use a modified version of the motorcycle T-CLOCS checklist. It’s easy to remember and covers all the critical systems.
Tires & Wheels
Your only connection to the ground. Don’t neglect them.
- Air Pressure: Check all four tires with a quality low-pressure gauge. Running the correct pressure (check the sticker on your vehicle or your owner’s manual) is vital for handling and preventing flats.
- Condition: Look for cuts, punctures, or excessive wear on the tread and sidewalls.
- Lug Nuts: Give them a quick check to ensure they are tight. It’s a good idea to use a torque wrench and verify they are at the factory spec (usually around 80-100 lb-ft) every few rides.
Controls & Drivetrain
Make sure your inputs translate directly to the machine’s actions.
- Steering: Turn the wheel lock-to-lock. It should feel smooth, not notchy or loose.
- Pedals: The throttle and brake pedals should move freely and return crisply. The brake pedal should feel firm, not spongy.
- CV Axles: Peek behind the wheels at the rubber CV boots. Look for any rips or tears. A torn boot will quickly lead to a failed CV joint.
Lights & Electrics
Don’t get caught in the dark.
- Function Check: Turn the key on and test your headlights (high and low beams), brake lights, and any accessory lights.
- Battery Terminals: Ensure the battery terminals are clean and tight. Loose connections can cause a host of weird electrical issues.
Oils & Fluids
The lifeblood of your Maverick.
- Engine Oil: Pull the dipstick, wipe it clean, re-insert it fully, and pull it again. The oil level should be within the safe range.
- Coolant: Check the level in the coolant overflow reservoir. It should be between the ‘Min’ and ‘Max’ lines. Never open the radiator cap when the engine is hot.
- Brake Fluid: Look at the brake fluid reservoir. The fluid should be clear and the level should be adequate.
Chassis & Suspension
The skeleton of your rig.
- Visual Inspection: Do a quick walk-around. Look for any loose, broken, or missing bolts on the frame, A-arms, and trailing arms.
- Shock Check: Look for any signs of oil leaking from the shock absorbers. A leaking shock is a failed shock.
Common Problems with Can-Am Maverick Side by Side Models (And How to Fix Them)
Even the best machines have their quirks. Knowing the common problems with can am maverick side by side models can help you diagnose issues quickly and, in many cases, prevent them from happening in the first place.
Drive Belt Issues
The CVT drive belt is a wear item, and it’s the number one failure point that will leave you stranded. The classic sign of a failing belt is a burning rubber smell or a feeling of slipping under acceleration.
Pro Tip: Always carry a spare belt and the factory tool kit (or a dedicated belt changing tool). Breaking in a new belt is critical: ride for 20-30 miles at varying speeds under half-throttle, avoiding full-throttle starts, to let it seat properly in the clutches.
Overheating
Mavericks, especially turbo models, generate a lot of heat. The most common cause of overheating is a radiator caked with mud, which blocks airflow.
After every muddy ride, take the time to thoroughly clean your radiator fins with a garden hose (don’t use a high-pressure washer, as it can bend the delicate fins). Also, ensure your coolant level is correct and the fan is kicking on.
Suspension and Drivetrain Noises
A “clicking” sound when turning often points to a worn-out CV joint in one of your axles. A “grinding” or “humming” noise that changes with speed is often a bad wheel bearing.
To check a wheel bearing, safely jack up a corner of the machine and try to wiggle the tire by grabbing it at the top and bottom (12 and 6 o’clock). Any significant play or wobble indicates a worn bearing that needs replacement.
Electrical Gremlins
Modern side by sides have complex electrical systems. A common issue is the machine going into “limp mode,” drastically reducing power. This can be caused by anything from a bad sensor to a loose battery connection or a wet wiring harness. Start with the basics: check all your fuses and ensure your battery terminals are spotless and tight.
How to Can-Am Maverick Side by Side: Maintenance You Can DIY
Here are some of the most important maintenance tasks you can easily perform in your own garage. This is how to can am maverick side by side ownership becomes truly rewarding. Always consult your owner’s manual for specific fluid types and torque specs.
Engine Oil and Filter Change
This is the most frequent and vital task. You’ll need the correct type of oil (BRP recommends XPS synthetic blend or full synthetic oil), a new oil filter, a drain pan, and basic wrenches. The process is straightforward: warm the engine, remove the drain plug to drain the old oil, replace the old filter, install the new filter, replace the drain plug, and refill with the specified amount of fresh oil.
Air Filter Service
Your Maverick’s engine breathes through an air filter, and on dusty trails, it gets dirty fast. A clogged filter robs power and efficiency. Remove the air filter cover, take out the filter, and inspect it. If it’s a paper filter, tap out the loose dust and replace it if it’s excessively dirty. If it’s a reusable foam filter, clean it with filter cleaner, let it dry completely, and then re-oil it with foam filter oil.
Drivetrain Fluid Checks
Your Maverick has three separate gearcases that need love: the front differential, the gearbox (transmission), and the rear differential. Each has a fill plug and a drain plug. Periodically, you should remove the fill plug and ensure the fluid level is right up to the bottom of the threads. These fluids should be changed according to the service interval in your manual.
Riding Responsibly: Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Practices
Being a part of the off-road community means being a steward of the land we love to ride on. Adopting some sustainable can am maverick side by side habits ensures the trails stay open for generations to come.
One of the best frameworks to follow is from the Tread Lightly! organization. This includes staying on designated trails, crossing streams only at designated points, and respecting private property.
When it comes to maintenance, think about your environmental impact. Use a drain pan for all fluid changes and take your used oil, coolant, and filters to a local auto parts store or recycling center for proper disposal. Never dump fluids on the ground. When washing your rig, consider using a biodegradable, eco-friendly can am maverick side by side cleaner to minimize chemical runoff.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Can-Am Maverick Side by Side
What kind of fuel should I use in my Maverick?
For all Turbo models (like the X3), you must use premium unleaded fuel with an octane rating of 91 or higher. Using lower-octane fuel can lead to engine knocking and severe damage. For non-turbo models, 87 octane is acceptable, but 91 is always recommended for optimal performance.
How often should I change the drive belt?
There’s no single answer, as it depends heavily on your riding style. A good rule of thumb is to inspect the belt for glazing, cracks, or missing cogs every 50 hours of use. As a preventative measure, many aggressive riders replace their belts every 100-150 hours, regardless of condition, to avoid a failure on the trail.
Can I make my Can-Am Maverick street legal?
This is highly dependent on your state and local laws. Some states are very friendly to street-legal UTVs, while others make it nearly impossible. Common requirements include a horn, mirrors, turn signals, a lighted license plate bracket, and a windshield. Check with your local DMV for the specific requirements in your area before buying any parts.
What’s the most important first upgrade for my Maverick?
Safety first, always. Before adding power or lights, your first upgrade should be a set of quality 4-point or 5-point harnesses to replace the stock seatbelts. They will hold you much more securely and are significantly safer in the event of a rollover. After that, protection like a full skid plate and A-arm guards are fantastic investments.
Owning a Can-Am Maverick is an investment in fun, and like any good investment, it requires a little upkeep. By following this can am maverick side by side care guide, you’re not just maintaining a machine; you’re ensuring countless hours of epic adventures.
Embrace the DIY spirit, learn your machine inside and out, and never stop exploring. Now get out there, stay safe, and have a blast on the trails!
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