That Rotax V-Twin engine in your Can-Am Outlander 850 is the heart of your machine. It’s the source of the power that gets you over rocks, through mud, and down the trail with a grin on your face. But to keep that heart beating strong, you need to give it clean blood. We’re talking about fresh, high-quality engine oil.
I get it. Taking your rig to the dealer for every service can feel like a drain on your wallet and your time. You bought this machine for freedom, and that includes the freedom to wrench on it yourself. That’s why we’ve put together this comprehensive guide.
We promise this isn’t just another dry set of instructions. This is a complete walkthrough for your can am outlander 850 oil change, packed with pro tips from our years in the garage. We’ll cover why it’s so critical, the exact tools and parts you’ll need, a detailed step-by-step process, and how to avoid the common mistakes that trip up even seasoned DIYers. Let’s get those hands dirty.
Why a Regular Can-Am Outlander 850 Oil Change is Non-Negotiable
Skipping an oil change is one of the fastest ways to turn a powerful off-road machine into a very expensive paperweight. It’s the single most important piece of preventative maintenance you can perform. Let’s break down the core benefits of a can am outlander 850 oil change.
Engine Longevity and Peak Performance
Engine oil is a workhorse. It lubricates moving parts to reduce friction, cools critical components by carrying heat away, and cleans the engine by suspending dirt, metal shavings, and combustion byproducts.
Over time, that oil breaks down. It loses its viscosity (its ability to flow and coat parts properly) and becomes saturated with contaminants. Running old, dirty oil is like asking your engine to run a marathon while gargling mud—it leads to premature wear, reduced power, and poor fuel efficiency.
Preventing Catastrophic (and Costly) Repairs
A few quarts of oil and a filter cost a fraction of what a new engine does. When oil fails, metal grinds on metal. Bearings seize, pistons score cylinder walls, and the result is catastrophic failure.
A consistent oil change schedule is your best insurance policy against a four-figure repair bill and a ruined weekend. It’s a small investment that protects the most valuable part of your ATV.
Maintaining Warranty and Resale Value
If your Outlander is still under warranty, Can-Am requires you to follow the recommended service intervals. While you can perform the service yourself, keeping detailed records—receipts for oil and filters, and a log of dates and mileage—is crucial to prove you’ve done the work.
Furthermore, a well-maintained machine with a documented service history commands a much higher price when it’s time to sell or trade up. It shows the next owner you cared for your rig properly.
Gearing Up: The Right Tools & Parts for the Job
Walking into the garage prepared is half the battle. Scrambling for the right socket mid-job with oil dripping on the floor is no fun. Here’s a checklist of everything you’ll need for a smooth how to can am outlander 850 oil change experience.
Essential Tools Checklist
You don’t need a professional shop, but having these basics makes the job a breeze.
- Socket Set with Ratchet: You’ll need an 8mm, 10mm, and 17mm socket.
- Torque Wrench: Absolutely essential for preventing stripped drain plugs. We can’t stress this enough.
- Oil Filter Wrench: A cap-style or strap-style wrench will work.
- Funnel: A clean, long-necked funnel prevents messy spills when refilling.
- Oil Drain Pan: Get one with at least a 4-quart capacity to be safe.
- Shop Rags or Paper Towels: For cleanup. You will make a small mess. It’s okay.
- Nitrile Gloves: Protect your hands from used oil.
- Flat Surface: Always work on level ground for an accurate oil level reading.
The Correct Oil and Filter
Using the wrong fluids is a recipe for disaster. Your Outlander 850’s Rotax engine has specific needs.
- Engine Oil: The manufacturer recommends XPS 5W-40 Synthetic Blend Oil. You’ll need approximately 2.1 US quarts (2 liters). Always buy a little extra. Using a high-quality, powersports-specific synthetic oil is key.
- Oil Filter: Stick with the genuine BRP/Can-Am oil filter (Part #420956744) and the corresponding O-rings. Aftermarket is an option, but for warranty and peace of mind, OEM is a safe bet. The kit should come with the filter, a large O-ring for the filter cap, and a small O-ring for the drain plug.
The Complete Can-Am Outlander 850 Oil Change Guide: Step-by-Step
Alright, you’ve got your gear. Now for the main event. This detailed can am outlander 850 oil change guide will walk you through every step. Take your time, stay organized, and you’ll be done in under an hour.
Step 1: Warm Up the Engine
Let your ATV run for 3-5 minutes. Don’t get it scorching hot, just warm enough for the oil to thin out. This helps it drain faster and brings all the suspended contaminants out with it. Park it on a level surface and shut it off.
Step 2: Access the Drain Plug and Filter
On the left side of the engine (as you’re sitting on it), you’ll see the black plastic oil filter housing cover held on by three 8mm bolts. You’ll also need to locate the engine oil drain plug, which is a 17mm bolt on the bottom of the engine case. If you have a full skid plate, you may need to remove a section or the entire plate (usually with a 10mm socket) to get clean access.
Step 3: Drain the Old Oil
Place your drain pan directly under the 17mm drain plug. Make sure it’s positioned to catch a stream of oil. Using your ratchet, loosen the plug until you can turn it by hand. Carefully remove the plug, being ready for the warm oil to flow out. Let it drain completely for 5-10 minutes.
Step 4: Replace the Oil Filter
While the oil drains, move to the filter. Use your 8mm socket to remove the three bolts on the oil filter cover. Gently pull the cover off—a little oil might seep out. The old filter will come out with it. Pull the old filter off the cover and remove the large O-ring from the cover’s groove.
Step 5: Prep and Install the New Filter and Plug
Clean the drain plug and install the new small O-ring that came in your kit. Wipe the engine surface where the plug sits. Once the oil has slowed to a drip, reinstall the drain plug. Use your torque wrench to tighten it to 18 lb-ft (25 Nm). Do not overtighten!
Now, clean the oil filter housing. Install the new large O-ring onto the cover. Take your new oil filter and dip your finger in some fresh oil, then run a light coat on the filter’s rubber seal. This ensures a good seal. Place the new filter into the housing and reinstall the cover with the three 8mm bolts, tightening them snugly in a star pattern.
Step 6: Refill with Fresh Oil
Remove the oil fill cap/dipstick on the right side of the engine. Place your clean funnel in the opening and slowly pour in 2 quarts of your XPS 5W-40 oil. The spec is 2.1 quarts (2L), but it’s always best to start with a little less and top it off.
Step 7: Final Checks and Balances
Reinstall the dipstick. Start the engine and let it run for about 30 seconds. This circulates the new oil and fills the new filter. Shut it off and let it sit for a minute or two for the oil to settle.
Pull the dipstick, wipe it clean, reinsert it fully, and pull it out again to check the level. Add small amounts of oil as needed until the level is in the safe zone on the dipstick. Once the level is correct, check the drain plug and filter housing one last time for any leaks. Reinstall your skid plate if you removed it.
Pro Tips & Best Practices to Avoid Common Problems
Doing the job is one thing; doing it like a pro is another. Here are some of our favorite can am outlander 850 oil change tips to help you avoid the most common problems with can am outlander 850 oil change procedures.
Don’t Overtighten! (The Dreaded Stripped Plug)
The single biggest mistake DIYers make is overtightening the drain plug. The engine case is aluminum, and the plug is steel. The steel will always win, stripping the threads in the case. A torque wrench is not optional; it’s a required tool that saves you from a multi-hundred-dollar repair.
The “Double Gasket” Mistake
Sometimes, the old O-ring from the oil filter cover can get stuck in the engine housing groove. If you don’t notice it and install the new O-ring over it, you’ll have a massive oil leak as soon as you start the engine. Always visually inspect and run your finger through the groove to ensure it’s clean before installing the new O-ring.
Always Use New O-Rings
Your oil change kit comes with new O-rings for a reason. They are single-use seals that compress and harden with heat and time. Reusing them is asking for a leak. Don’t do it.
Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Oil Change Practices
Part of being a responsible off-roader is protecting the trails and the environment we love to ride in. A sustainable can am outlander 850 oil change is easy to do and makes a real difference.
Proper Oil and Filter Disposal
Used motor oil is a hazardous material. Never pour it down the drain, on the ground, or in the trash. Pour the used oil from your drain pan into the empty oil containers you just used.
Most auto parts stores (like AutoZone, O’Reilly, etc.) will accept used motor oil for recycling free of charge. Put your old oil filter in a sealed bag and take it with you; they often recycle those as well. This is the cornerstone of an eco-friendly can am outlander 850 oil change.
Minimizing Spills and Cleanup
Lay down some cardboard or an old mat under your work area to catch any drips. If you do have a small spill on your garage floor, kitty litter or an oil-absorbent powder works wonders to soak it up before you sweep it away for proper disposal.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Can-Am Outlander 850 Oil Change
What type of oil does a Can-Am Outlander 850 use?
The recommended oil is XPS 5W-40 Synthetic Blend Oil specifically designed for Rotax engines. In a pinch, any high-quality 5W-40 synthetic powersports/motorcycle oil with a JASO MA/MA2 rating will work, but using the OEM fluid is always the safest bet for performance and warranty.
How much oil does a Can-Am Outlander 850 take?
The oil capacity for the Outlander 850 is approximately 2.1 US quarts (2 liters) when changing the oil and filter. Always start by adding 2 quarts, then check the level and top off as needed.
How often should I change the oil on my Outlander 850?
Can-Am’s official service interval is every 625 miles (1,000 km) or annually, whichever comes first. However, if you ride in extremely dusty, wet, or muddy conditions, or frequently engage in heavy towing or high-RPM riding, we at FatBoysOffroad strongly recommend cutting that interval in half. Clean oil is cheap insurance.
Can I use regular car oil in my ATV?
No, you should not. Your Outlander has a wet clutch system, meaning the engine oil also lubricates the clutch. Automotive oils contain friction modifiers that can cause the clutch to slip and fail prematurely. Always use oil specifically rated for powersports or motorcycles with a JASO MA, MA1, or MA2 rating.
There you have it. You’ve just completed one of the most vital maintenance tasks on your machine. Taking the time to perform this can am outlander 850 oil change care guide yourself not only saves you money but deepens the connection you have with your ATV. You know the job was done right, with the right parts, and with care.
Now, clean up your tools, properly dispose of that old oil, and go enjoy the ride. You’ve earned it. Stay safe out there and keep the shiny side up!
- Can-Am Outlander Years To Avoid – A Mechanic’S Guide To Buying Smart - November 30, 2025
- Polaris Sportsman 570 Vs Can Am Outlander 700 – The Ultimate Off-Road - November 30, 2025
- Can Am Outlander Fuel Pump Problems – Your Complete DIY Diagnostic & - November 30, 2025