Can Am Maverick Years To Avoid - A Mechanic'S Guide To Smart Buying

So, you’ve got your eye on a Can-Am Maverick. I don’t blame you. It’s a beast of a machine that promises adrenaline-pumping fun on the trails. But stepping into the used market can feel like navigating a minefield. You’ve probably heard the whispers at the trailhead or seen the forum posts about certain models being “problem children.”

I agree, it’s tough to know who to trust. You want the thrill, not the constant repair bills and weekend-ruining breakdowns.

Here’s my promise to you: This guide is your inside track. As a tech who’s seen these machines on the lift and on the trail, I’m going to give you the straight scoop. We’ll cut through the noise and pinpoint the specific can am maverick years to avoid, why to avoid them, and exactly what to look for.

We’re going to break down the key model years with known issues, detail the common problems you might encounter, and arm you with a pre-purchase inspection checklist. By the end, you’ll be able to buy with the confidence of a seasoned pro.

Why Some Maverick Years Are More Troublesome Than Others

Before we name names, it’s important to understand why certain years get a bad rap. It’s rarely because BRP (the parent company of Can-Am) built a “bad” machine on purpose. It usually comes down to a few key factors.

First, you have the “first-year blues.” When a manufacturer launches a completely new platform, like the original Maverick or the game-changing X3, there are bound to be unforeseen issues that only show up after thousands of customers put them through real-world abuse. These are often addressed in later model years.

Second, look for major technology shifts. The jump from naturally aspirated to turbocharged engines is a great example. This introduces new complexities—more heat, more pressure, and more components that need to be perfectly dialed in. Early versions can have teething problems.

Finally, pay attention to recalls and Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs). A recall is a safety-critical fix, while a TSB is a manufacturer-recognized procedure to fix a common, non-safety-related problem. A year with multiple significant recalls is a definite red flag.

The Primary Can Am Maverick Years to Avoid (And What to Look For)

Alright, let’s get to the heart of this can am maverick years to avoid guide. If you’re shopping for a used Maverick, you need to apply extra scrutiny to these specific model ranges. This doesn’t mean every single machine from these years is a ticking time bomb, but the risk is significantly higher if they haven’t been properly updated or cared for.

The Early Birds (2013-2014): The Original Platform

The first-generation Maverick was a groundbreaking machine, but it had its share of rookie issues. These early models are tempting because of their low price, but you need to inspect them with a fine-toothed comb.

Frame Weakness: The most notorious issue was the frame, particularly around the front differential mounting points. Hard riding and big tires could lead to cracks. Get underneath with a bright flashlight and look for any signs of stress, cracking, or shoddy repair welds.
Early Visco-Lok Differentials: The front differential engagement could be slow and inconsistent compared to later versions. While not a catastrophic failure point, it’s less effective on technical terrain.
Driveline and Suspension: Early axles and ball joints weren’t as robust as those on later models. Check for torn CV boots, clicking sounds when turning, and excessive play in the wheel hubs.

The Turbo Transition (2015-2016): First-Gen Forced Induction

When Can-Am dropped a turbo into the Maverick, it changed the game. But with great power comes great responsibility—and new potential problems. These first-gen turbo models are where some of the most common problems with can am maverick years to avoid began to surface.

Heat Management: Stuffing a turbo into the chassis created a ton of heat. Early models were prone to cooking drive belts and could have issues with the intercooler fan. Check plastics around the engine and exhaust for any signs of melting or discoloration.
Fuel System Recalls: These years had significant recalls related to the fuel pump. It’s absolutely critical to check the VIN on BRP’s website to ensure this safety recall was performed.
Clutching: The factory clutch calibration wasn’t always perfect for the new power. Many owners upgraded to aftermarket clutch kits to improve belt life and performance. If the machine you’re looking at still has the stock clutch, budget for a potential upgrade.

The X3 Launch (2017): A New Beast with Teething Pains

The 2017 Maverick X3 was a revolutionary leap forward in performance and suspension. It’s an incredible platform, but the very first model year had some well-documented weak points that were quickly addressed in 2018 and beyond.

Front Differential Failures: This is the big one for the ’17s. The front diff was a known weak link and could fail under heavy load, especially with larger tires. Many have been replaced with upgraded 2018+ units or robust aftermarket versions. Ask for receipts.
Radius Rods and Plate: The rear radius rods and the plate they mount to on the frame were not as strong as they needed to be. It’s common to see them bent or the plate torn. Look for aftermarket, high-clearance rods and a reinforced frame plate—this is a good sign.
Steering Rack and Power Steering Recalls: There were important recalls for steering components on some 2017 models. Again, a VIN check is non-negotiable. Losing steering on the trail is a nightmare scenario.

Your Pre-Purchase Inspection Guide: How to Spot a Lemon

Knowing the problem years is half the battle. Now you need to know how to inspect a potential purchase. This is one of the most important can am maverick years to avoid best practices. Don’t be shy—get your hands dirty. If the seller won’t let you look at these things, walk away.

Frame and Suspension Check: Grab a good light and crawl all over the machine. Look at every weld, especially around the A-arm mounts and differential mounts. Check the rear radius rod plate for any pulling or tearing. Push and pull on the wheels to check for worn ball joints and wheel bearings.
Drivetrain Deep Dive: Look for any fluid leaks from the engine, transmission, or differentials. Ask the seller if you can pull the CVT clutch cover. A light dusting of black powder is normal, but chunks of rubber, a glazed belt, or excessive buildup means trouble. Check the axles for play.
Engine and Electrical: Ask for a cold start. Watch for any smoke or odd noises. Let it warm up fully and make sure the radiator fan kicks on. Test all the lights, the 4WD switch, and check the display for any warning codes. A clean air filter is a good sign of a caring owner.
The Paper Trail: This is a big one. Ask for service records. More importantly, get the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) and run it on the official BRP recall website. This is a free check that could save you from a major safety hazard.

The Benefits of Choosing the Right Year: More Than Just Money

Following this advice offers huge advantages. The primary benefits of can am maverick years to avoid are obvious: you save money on repairs and have a more reliable machine. But it goes deeper than that.

Choosing a well-sorted model year gives you peace of mind. You spend your weekends riding, not wrenching. It’s also a massive safety benefit, as you’re avoiding models with known failures in critical components like steering and frames.

From a long-term perspective, this is a more sustainable approach to ownership. A reliable machine that you keep for years creates less waste than one that’s constantly breaking and needing major parts. A well-maintained UTV is also less likely to leak fluids on the trail, which is a simple way to be more eco-friendly in our sport.

Frequently Asked Questions About Can Am Maverick Years to Avoid

Is a 2017 Can-Am Maverick X3 always a bad buy?

Not at all! But it requires more homework. If a 2017 X3 has had the recalls performed, and the owner has proactively upgraded the known weak spots (like the front differential and radius rods), it can be a fantastic machine for a great price. The key is to find one that has been sorted by a knowledgeable owner.

What is considered the most reliable Can-Am Maverick year?

Generally speaking, the 2019 and newer Maverick X3 models are considered the most robust and reliable right out of the box. By this point, BRP had worked out the initial kinks, strengthened the frame and key components, and introduced the fantastic Smart-Lok front differential on many trims.

Can I just fix the problems on an older “year to avoid”?

Absolutely. The aftermarket support for the Can-Am Maverick is incredible. You can buy stronger frames, bulletproof differentials, and upgraded clutch kits. However, you must factor the cost of these essential upgrades into the purchase price. A cheap 2017 X3 isn’t cheap anymore if you have to immediately spend $3,000 on a new front end.

This is where your can am maverick years to avoid care guide starts before you even own the machine—by budgeting for preventative upgrades.

Your Ride, Your Choice

Buying a used side-by-side is a huge investment, and knowledge is your best tool. By understanding the specific can am maverick years to avoid and knowing how to inspect for their common faults, you shift the power into your hands.

Don’t rush the process. Check the VIN, inspect the machine thoroughly, and trust your gut. A well-cared-for machine, even from a “problem year,” can be a great buy if the price is right and the right updates have been made. A neglected machine from a “good year” can be a total nightmare.

Do your homework, make a smart choice, and you’ll be rewarded with a killer rig and countless hours of off-road adventure. Stay safe, and we’ll see you on the trail!

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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.