So, you’ve got the keys to a can am outlander 850. You already know it’s an absolute beast on the trails, a powerhouse of V-Twin torque that can conquer mud holes and climb hills with breathtaking ease. But you also know that with great power comes the need for great maintenance.
We promise this guide will give you the expert knowledge and confidence to keep your machine running strong, troubleshoot issues before they become trail-ending disasters, and make smart upgrades that truly enhance your ride. We’re here to turn you from just a rider into a capable and informed owner.
In this ultimate can am outlander 850 guide, we’ll cover everything from critical pre-ride checks and a detailed can am outlander 850 care guide to tackling the most common problems with can am outlander 850 models and exploring the best performance mods for your style. Let’s get those hands dirty.
What Makes the Can-Am Outlander 850 a Trail Dominator?
Before we dive into the nuts and bolts, let’s appreciate what we’re working with. Understanding the core of your machine helps you care for it better. The Outlander 850 isn’t just another ATV; it’s a piece of high-performance engineering.
The heart of the beast is the legendary Rotax 854cc V-Twin engine. This powerhouse is known for its incredible torque and responsive power delivery, thanks to the Intelligent Throttle Control (iTC). It’s what gives you that grin-inducing acceleration out of a corner.
It’s all wrapped in Can-Am’s G2 frame, which provides a stable and predictable ride. Paired with features like the Visco-Lok auto-locking front differential and impressive suspension travel, the benefits of can am outlander 850 ownership become clear: it’s a machine built for both aggressive trail riding and hard utility work, offering a blend of power, comfort, and capability that’s hard to beat.
The Pre-Ride Checklist: Your First Line of Defense
The most important maintenance you’ll ever do is the check you perform before every single ride. This five-minute routine can save you from a four-hour walk back to the truck. Think of it as a conversation with your machine.
Tires & Wheels
Your only connection to the trail. Check tire pressure with a reliable low-pressure gauge. Improper pressure leads to poor handling and an increased risk of flats. Also, give each wheel a quick shake to check for loose lug nuts or worn wheel bearings.
Controls & Fluids
Squeeze the brake levers—they should feel firm, not spongy. Test the throttle; it must snap back smoothly. Glance at the brake fluid reservoir and coolant overflow bottle. These quick visual checks can spot a leak before it becomes a major failure.
Lights & Electrics
Turn the key and test your headlights (high and low beams), taillights, and brake lights. If you have a winch, make sure it spools in and out correctly. A dead battery on the trail is a day-ruiner.
Chassis & Drivetrain
Visually inspect your A-arms, CV boots, and tie rods for any signs of damage, cracks, or tears. A torn CV boot is a cheap fix now but a very expensive CV axle replacement later if ignored. Also, check your engine oil level using the dipstick.
Essential Maintenance: The Can-Am Outlander 850 Care Guide
Following a regular service schedule is non-negotiable for keeping your Outlander 850 in peak condition. This is where you build reliability and trust in your machine. Here are the core tasks you should master.
Engine Oil & Filter Changes
Clean oil is the lifeblood of that Rotax V-Twin. Change the engine oil and filter according to the service intervals in your owner’s manual—or even sooner if you ride in extremely dusty, wet, or muddy conditions.
You’ll need a quality oil filter and the recommended oil, typically a 5W-40 synthetic blend like XPS. Using the right tools, like a proper oil filter wrench and a drain pan, makes the job clean and easy.
Air Filter Service
Your ATV’s engine breathes through the air filter. A clogged filter chokes the engine, robbing it of power and hurting fuel economy. After every dusty ride, remove the foam air filter, wash it with filter cleaner, let it dry completely, and then properly re-oil it with foam filter oil.
Drivetrain Fluid Checks
Your Outlander has three separate gearboxes: the front differential, the rear differential, and the main transmission. Check the fluid levels regularly and change them per the manual’s schedule. This is one of the most overlooked can am outlander 850 best practices, but it’s critical for drivetrain longevity.
CVT Belt and Clutch Health
The CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) belt is a wear item. Learn to recognize the signs of a failing belt: a burning rubber smell, slipping under acceleration, or a loss of top speed. Always carry a spare belt and the tools to change it on the trail.
Tackling Common Problems with Can-Am Outlander 850 Models
No machine is perfect. Being aware of the common issues means you can proactively address them or troubleshoot them effectively on the trail. This knowledge is one of the most valuable can am outlander 850 tips you can have.
Overheating Woes
The number one enemy of the Outlander 850, especially for mud riders, is overheating. The radiator is mounted low and can easily get caked with mud, blocking airflow.
- The Fix: After every muddy ride, thoroughly clean your radiator fins. A garden hose with a nozzle works well. For serious mud enthusiasts, a radiator relocator kit is the ultimate solution, moving it up high and out of the muck.
Electrical Gremlins
Modern ATVs have complex electrical systems. Issues like a flickering display, intermittent power steering (DPS) faults, or a check engine light often boil down to a few key culprits.
- The Fix: Start with the basics. Ensure your battery terminals are clean and tight. Check the main grounding points on the frame. Apply dielectric grease to major electrical connectors to keep water and corrosion out.
Premature Wear Items
The Outlander 850’s power and weight can be tough on components like wheel bearings, A-arm bushings, and ball joints, especially if you run larger, heavier tires.
- The Fix: Be diligent about greasing all the zerk fittings on your suspension. When parts do wear out, consider upgrading to heavy-duty aftermarket brands like All Balls Racing or SuperATV, which often last much longer than stock components.
Smart Upgrades: How to Can-Am Outlander 850 for Your Ride
Modifying your machine is half the fun! But the best mods are the ones that solve a problem or enhance the machine for your specific needs. Focus on function before flash.
Tires & Wheels
The single best upgrade you can make. The right tires transform your ATV’s performance. An all-terrain tire like the Maxxis Bighorn 2.0 is a great all-around choice, while a dedicated mud tire like the ITP Cryptid is essential for swamp riders.
Protection and Armor
If you ride rocky terrain, full-body skid plates are a must. A tough aluminum or UHMW (Ultra-High-Molecular-Weight) plastic skid plate will protect your engine, frame, and drivetrain components from devastating impacts.
Winch and Recovery Gear
A winch is not a luxury; it’s an insurance policy. A reliable 3,500 lb winch from a brand like WARN or Superwinch will get you or your buddies unstuck. Pair it with a recovery kit that includes a tree saver strap, a snatch block, and shackles.
Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Can-Am Outlander 850 Practices
Being a responsible off-roader means protecting the trails we love for future generations. A few simple habits can make a huge difference.
Adopting a sustainable can am outlander 850 mindset starts with respecting the environment. Always follow Tread Lightly! principles by staying on designated trails and avoiding sensitive areas.
When performing maintenance, be an eco-friendly can am outlander 850 owner. Collect all used fluids like oil and coolant in sealed containers and take them to an auto parts store or local recycling center for proper disposal. Never dump them on the ground or down a drain.
Finally, wash your machine at a car wash or on a gravel/grass area away from streams and lakes. This prevents mud and potential invasive species from contaminating local waterways.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Can-Am Outlander 850
What is the best oil for a Can-Am Outlander 850?
The manufacturer recommends XPS 5W-40 Synthetic Blend Oil. Sticking with the factory-recommended oil is always a safe bet to ensure proper lubrication and engine protection, especially while under warranty.
How often should I service my Outlander 850?
Your owner’s manual has the official service schedule. A good rule of thumb is to perform a basic service (oil change, air filter clean, grease suspension) every 25-50 hours of ride time, depending on the conditions you ride in.
Is the Can-Am Outlander 850 reliable?
Yes, the Can-Am Outlander 850 is a very reliable machine when properly maintained. Like any high-performance vehicle, it requires consistent attention. Neglect is the primary cause of most major failures.
What are the first mods I should do to my Outlander 850?
The best first mods focus on protection and capability. We recommend a quality set of tires for your terrain, a full skid plate for underbody protection, and a reliable winch for recovery.
Your Can-Am Outlander 850 is more than just a machine; it’s your ticket to adventure. By investing a little time in understanding and caring for it, you ensure that it will be ready to perform whenever you are. Keep up with maintenance, ride smart, and never stop exploring. Stay safe out there on the trails!
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