Can Am Outlander 2020: The Ultimate Owner’S Maintenance

So, you’ve got yourself a Can Am Outlander 2020. You already know it’s a beast of a machine, ready to tear up trails, haul gear, and deliver a serious dose of adrenaline. It’s a fantastic piece of engineering that blends power with utility.

But like any high-performance machine, it demands respect and proper care to keep it running at its peak. You don’t want to be that person stranded miles from the trailhead with a preventable issue.

We’re here to make sure that doesn’t happen. This is your complete can am outlander 2020 guide, straight from the shop floor at FatBoysOffroad. We’ll walk you through essential checks, routine maintenance, common problems, and smart upgrades to ensure your rig is always ready to ride.

First Things First: Your Essential Pre-Ride Checklist

Before you even think about turning the key, every single ride should start with a quick “walk-around.” This five-minute check can be the difference between a great day and a long walk home. Think of it as a conversation with your machine.

Here’s how to can am outlander 2020 pre-ride check like a pro:

Tires & Wheels: Check the pressure in all four tires. The correct PSI is on the tire sidewall and the vehicle’s warning label. Look for any cuts, punctures, or damage. Grab each wheel and give it a shake to check for loose lug nuts or bad wheel bearings.
Fluids: This is non-negotiable. Place the ATV on level ground. Check the engine oil level using the dipstick. Peek at the coolant reservoir to ensure it’s between the ‘MIN’ and ‘MAX’ lines. Check your brake fluid reservoirs (front and rear) to make sure they’re topped up.
Brakes & Throttle: Squeeze the brake levers and press the foot brake. They should feel firm, not spongy. Test the throttle lever; it should move smoothly and snap back into place when you release it.
Lights & Controls: Turn the key to the ‘ON’ position. Test your headlights (high and low beams), taillights, and brake lights. Honk the horn. Make sure all your controls are functioning as expected.
Look for Leaks: Scan the ground under your Outlander for any new drips or puddles. Common culprits are oil (brown/black), coolant (green/orange), or gear oil (smelly, thick).

Making this a habit is one of the most important can am outlander 2020 tips we can give you. It builds a connection with your machine and helps you spot small issues before they become big ones.

The Heart of the Beast: A Practical Can Am Outlander 2020 Care Guide

Routine maintenance is the key to longevity. Your owner’s manual has the factory-recommended service intervals, but your riding style and conditions (dusty, muddy, wet) should also dictate your schedule. If you ride hard, service it more often.

Changing the Engine Oil and Filter

This is the lifeblood of your Rotax engine. Clean oil lubricates, cools, and cleans internal components. Don’t skip it.

Warm It Up: Run the engine for a few minutes to warm the oil, which helps it drain completely.
Gather Your Tools: You’ll need a drain pan, a ratchet with a 17mm socket (for the drain plug), a filter wrench, a new oil filter (Part #420256188), a new O-ring, and about 2.1 quarts (2L) of XPS 5W-40 Synthetic Blend Oil.
Drain the Old Oil: Place the drain pan under the engine and remove the drain plug. Let it drain completely. Clean the plug and inspect the sealing washer.
Replace the Filter: The oil filter is on the right side of the engine. Use your filter wrench to remove the old one. Make sure the old rubber gasket comes off with it.
Install the New Filter: Lightly coat the gasket of the new filter with fresh oil. Screw it on by hand until it’s snug, then give it another quarter-turn with the wrench. Do not over-tighten.
Refill and Check: Reinstall the drain plug. Add the new oil through the fill port. Start the engine, let it run for 30 seconds, then shut it off. Wait a minute and check the oil level on the dipstick, adding more if necessary.

Cleaning the Air Filter

Your ATV breathes through its air filter. A clogged filter chokes the engine, robbing it of power and hurting fuel economy. In dusty conditions, check it after every ride.

Access the Airbox: The airbox is typically located under the seat. Remove the seat and unclip the airbox cover.
Inspect and Clean: Carefully remove the foam filter. If it’s just dusty, you can tap it out or use compressed air from the inside out. If it’s oily or caked with mud, wash it with foam filter cleaner and warm, soapy water.
Re-oil and Reinstall: Once the filter is completely dry, apply a light, even coat of foam filter oil. Squeeze out any excess. Reinstall it, making sure it seats perfectly in the airbox. A poor seal lets dirt bypass the filter and go straight into your engine.

Common Problems with Can Am Outlander 2020 Models (And How to Fix Them)

Even the best machines can have hiccups. Here are a few common problems with can am outlander 2020 models that we see in the shop, and what you can do about them.

Symptom: Engine Overheating

Your temperature light is flashing, and you can feel the heat radiating off the engine. This is a “stop right now” problem.

The Obvious First: Is your radiator caked in mud? This is the #1 cause. The radiator needs airflow to cool the engine. Shut it down, let it cool, and carefully clean the radiator fins with a low-pressure hose.
Check Coolant Level: If the radiator is clean, check your coolant reservoir. If it’s low, you may have a leak. Look for drips or white, crusty residue around hoses.
Fan Function: Once the engine is cool, turn the key on. The cooling fan should cycle on and off as the engine heats up. If it never turns on, you could have a blown fuse, a bad relay, or a faulty fan motor. This is a good time to consult a service manual or a pro.

Symptom: The Engine Cranks but Won’t Start

You turn the key, the starter churns, but the engine won’t fire up. It’s frustrating, but usually simple.

Fuel, Spark, Air: An engine needs these three things. Start with the easiest. Is the fuel tank empty? Is the fuel pump priming (you should hear a whirring sound when you turn the key on)?
Check the Spark Plug: Pull the spark plug wire and use a spark plug socket to remove the plug. Is it black and sooty (too rich) or wet with fuel (flooded)? A clean, properly gapped plug is essential. A simple spark tester can confirm if you’re getting spark.
Safety Switches: Remember, the Outlander has safety switches. Make sure it’s in Park or Neutral and that the brake lever is squeezed when you try to start it.

Symptom: Electrical Gremlins (Flickering Lights, Weak Power)

Electrical issues can be intimidating, but start with the basics.

The Battery: The battery is the heart of your electrical system. Check that the terminals are clean and tight. A multi-meter should show around 12.6 volts with the machine off. If it’s below 12.2V, it needs a charge.
Check Your Fuses: The fuse box is usually near the battery. Pull each fuse and visually inspect it for a broken filament. Always replace a blown fuse with one of the same amperage.

Trail-Ready Mods: Smart Upgrades for Your Outlander

One of the biggest benefits of can am outlander 2020 models is their versatility. A few smart upgrades can transform your machine for your specific needs.

Tires: The single best upgrade you can make. The stock tires are okay for general use, but a good set of 6-ply or 8-ply tires designed for your local terrain (mud, rocks, hardpack) will improve traction, durability, and ride quality.
Skid Plates: If you ride in rocky terrain, full-coverage skid plates made from UHMW plastic or aluminum are cheap insurance. They protect your frame, A-arms, and engine from costly damage.
Winch: Don’t go into the backcountry without one. A 2500lb or 3500lb winch from a reputable brand like Warn or Superwinch can get you (or your buddy) out of a sticky situation. Learn how to use it safely before you need it.

Sustainable Can Am Outlander 2020 Best Practices for the Modern Rider

Being a true off-roader means respecting the trails we love. An eco-friendly can am outlander 2020 isn’t about compromising performance; it’s about riding smart and maintaining your machine responsibly.

Adopting sustainable can am outlander 2020 habits ensures our riding areas stay open for generations to come. It’s all about following the “Tread Lightly!” principles.

Stay on the Trail: Stick to designated routes to prevent erosion and habitat damage.
Proper Fluid Disposal: When you change your oil or coolant, take the used fluids to an auto parts store or local recycling center. Never dump them on the ground or down a drain.
Wash Responsibly: Use a biodegradable, phosphate-free soap when washing your ATV. Try to wash it on a grassy area away from storm drains to allow the ground to filter the water naturally.
A Maintained Machine is a Green Machine: A well-tuned engine with a clean air filter burns fuel more efficiently, producing fewer emissions and using less gas. Fixing oil leaks prevents harmful chemicals from dripping onto the trail.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Can Am Outlander 2020

What is the top speed of a 2020 Can-Am Outlander?

The top speed varies by model (450, 570, 650, etc.), but most Outlanders are electronically limited to around 60-75 mph for safety. Honestly, on the trail, torque and handling matter far more than top speed.

What kind of fuel should I use in my 2020 Outlander?

Most Can-Am Outlander models are designed to run on regular unleaded gasoline with an octane rating of 87 or higher. Try to use ethanol-free fuel if you can find it, as it’s better for the fuel system, especially during storage.

How often should I check the CVT belt?

This depends heavily on your riding style. If you do a lot of slow, technical riding, rock crawling, or pull heavy loads, you should inspect your belt more often. A good rule of thumb is to check it during every other oil change or at least once a year. Look for glazing, cracks, or missing cogs.

Taking care of your Can Am Outlander 2020 is part of the ownership experience. It builds confidence, saves you money, and ensures that when you’re ready to ride, your machine is too. Get your hands dirty, learn your machine inside and out, and don’t be afraid to ask for help.

Now, grab your tools, follow these best practices, and get that rig ready for its next adventure. Stay safe out there and happy trails!

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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.