Can Am Outlander 850 Oil Filter Location

Changing the oil on your Can-Am Outlander 850 should be a straightforward weekend job. It’s one of those essential maintenance tasks that keeps your rig’s V-Twin heart beating strong on the trail. But let’s be honest, finding that oil filter for the first time can feel like a treasure hunt without a map.

You’re ready to get your hands dirty, but you’re stuck before you even start. You’ve looked around the engine, and it’s not immediately obvious. Don’t worry, you’re not alone, and we’re here to give you that map.

This guide promises to pinpoint the exact can am outlander 850 oil filter location and provide a complete, step-by-step walkthrough. We’ll cover the tools you’ll need, pro tips to avoid a mess, and best practices to ensure your Outlander runs like a champ for years to come. Let’s get this done.

Why the Oil Filter’s Location and Regular Changes Matter

Before we grab the wrenches, it’s worth understanding why this matters. The oil filter is the kidney of your engine. It traps nasty contaminants like metal shavings, dirt, and carbon that can cause premature wear and tear.

A clean filter ensures a steady flow of clean oil, which is critical for lubricating moving parts, cooling the engine, and preventing sludge buildup. The benefits of knowing the can am outlander 850 oil filter location and changing it regularly are huge:

Enhanced Engine Longevity: Clean oil means less friction and wear, helping your powerful Rotax engine last longer.
Peak Performance: Proper lubrication allows your engine to deliver the power and torque you expect from an 850.
Improved Fuel Efficiency: A well-lubricated engine runs more efficiently, which can save you a bit of fuel on those long trail rides.
Prevents Costly Repairs: A $15 filter change is cheap insurance against thousands of dollars in potential engine damage down the road.

Ignoring this simple task is one of the fastest ways to hurt your ATV. Now, let’s gear up to do it right.

Gearing Up: The Right Tools and Parts for the Job

Walking back and forth to your toolbox is frustrating. A little prep work makes the whole process smoother. Before you start, gather everything you need so it’s within arm’s reach.

Essential Tools:

Socket Set: You’ll need an 8mm and 10mm socket for removing plastic covers and skid plates, and a 17mm socket for the engine oil drain plug.
Ratchet and Extension: A standard 3/8″ drive ratchet with a short extension will be perfect.
Oil Filter Wrench: A cap-style wrench (typically 65-67mm with 14 flutes for many Can-Am models) or a universal claw-type wrench is essential. Space is tight, so a cap wrench is often the best choice.
Torque Wrench: Crucial for properly tightening the drain plug without stripping the threads.
Oil Drain Pan: A pan with at least a 3-quart capacity is needed. A low-profile one works best.
Funnel: A clean funnel is a must for adding new oil without making a mess.
Rags or Shop Towels: You will have drips. Be prepared.
Nitrile Gloves and Safety Glasses: Protect your hands from oil and your eyes from any splashes.

Required Parts:

New Oil Filter: Use a quality filter. The OEM part is BRP #420256188, but quality aftermarket options from K&N, Hiflofiltro, or WIX are also available.
New Drain Plug Sealing Washer (Crush Washer): Always replace this. It’s a one-time-use part that prevents leaks. The BRP part number is #420250790.
Engine Oil: Your Outlander 850 takes approximately 2.1 US quarts (2.0 Liters) of 5W-40 Synthetic Blend Oil. Check your owner’s manual to confirm the exact type and capacity for your model year.

Pinpointing the Can Am Outlander 850 Oil Filter Location

Alright, let’s get to the main event. The hunt for the filter is over. This section provides the definitive can am outlander 850 oil filter location guide you’ve been looking for. On most Outlander 850 models, the filter is cleverly tucked away for protection.

The “Where”: Under the Right Footwell

As you face your ATV, focus on the right-hand side of the machine (the side with the brake pedal). The oil filter is located on the lower right side of the engine crankcase.

It’s positioned just forward of the rear brake pedal, tucked up behind the plastic body panels and often shielded by the factory skid plate. You won’t see it just by glancing at the engine from the side.

Accessing the Filter: Removing the Cover

To get a clear view and working space, you’ll need to remove a small section of the plastic skid plate or a dedicated access panel, depending on your model year.

Locate the Access Panel: Look directly underneath the right footwell area. You should see a section of the black plastic skid plate with several bolts.
Remove the Bolts: Using your 8mm or 10mm socket, carefully remove the bolts holding this panel in place. Keep them in a magnetic tray so you don’t lose them.
Set the Panel Aside: Once the bolts are out, the panel should come off easily, revealing the engine components it was protecting.

Visual Confirmation: What You’re Looking For

With the panel removed, look up into the space you just opened. You will see a small, black, cylindrical canister mounted vertically to the engine block. That’s your oil filter. It’s about the size of a small tomato paste can. Now that you know exactly how to find the can am outlander 850 oil filter location, you’re ready to get to work.

A Step-by-Step Guide to Changing Your Oil Filter

With the filter located and your tools ready, it’s time to perform the oil change. Follow these steps carefully for a clean and successful job. This is where we apply our knowledge with some can am outlander 850 oil filter location best practices.

Step 1: Prep and Safety First

Run the engine for 2-3 minutes. This warms the oil, helping it drain faster and more completely. Park the ATV on a level surface and put on your safety glasses and gloves.

Step 2: Drain the Old Oil

Place your drain pan under the engine. Locate the 17mm drain plug on the bottom of the crankcase. Using your 17mm socket, loosen the plug. Unscrew it the rest of the way by hand. Be ready for the hot oil to flow out. Let it drain completely for 5-10 minutes.

Step 3: Removing the Old Oil Filter

Slide the drain pan so it’s positioned underneath the oil filter. Fit your oil filter wrench onto the end of the filter and turn it counter-clockwise to loosen it. Once it’s loose, unscrew it by hand. Pro Tip: As you remove it, keep the open end tilted up to minimize spillage.

Step 4: Installing the New Filter

This is a critical step. Take a dab of new, clean engine oil on your fingertip and wipe a thin film onto the rubber gasket of the new oil filter. This ensures a proper seal and prevents the gasket from bunching up or tearing.

Carefully thread the new filter on by hand until the gasket makes contact with the engine. Then, tighten it an additional 3/4 of a turn by hand. Do not use the wrench to tighten it. Overtightening can damage the gasket and make it a nightmare to remove next time.

Step 5: Refill and Final Checks

Wipe the drain plug and the engine surface clean. Install the new sealing washer and reinstall the drain plug. Torque it to the specification in your service manual (typically around 15-20 ft-lbs). Do not overtighten!

Using a funnel, slowly add the recommended amount of new 5W-40 oil. Reinstall the dipstick, start the engine, and let it run for 30 seconds. This circulates the oil and fills the new filter. Shut it off, wait a minute, and then check the oil level on the dipstick, adding more if needed to reach the full mark. Finally, check for any leaks around the drain plug and filter.

Common Problems and Pro Tips for the Outlander 850 Filter

Even a simple job can have its hiccups. One of the most common problems with can am outlander 850 oil filter location is simply the tight space, which can lead to a few challenges. Here’s how to handle them like a pro.

The Stuck Filter Dilemma

If the previous person (or the factory) overtightened the filter, it can be incredibly difficult to remove. If your cap wrench is slipping, try a claw-type wrench that grips tighter as you turn. As a last resort, the old “screwdriver-through-the-filter” trick works, but it’s extremely messy and should only be done if you have no other option.

Mess-Free Removal Tricks

The filter’s vertical orientation means oil will spill out as you remove it. To catch the mess, you can form a small trough out of aluminum foil and place it under the filter to direct the oil into your drain pan. Alternatively, wrapping a plastic bag around the filter as you unscrew it can help contain the drips.

Choosing the Right Filter and Oil

While OEM parts are always a safe bet, high-quality aftermarket filters from reputable brands are perfectly fine. The most important thing is to ensure it’s the correct part number for your machine. Stick to the oil viscosity recommended in your owner’s manual to ensure proper engine protection in all temperatures.

Beyond the Basics: An Eco-Friendly Oil Change Care Guide

Being a responsible rider means taking care of the trails and the environment. A core part of any good can am outlander 850 oil filter location care guide is knowing how to handle the waste.

Used motor oil is a hazardous material. Never pour it down the drain, on the ground, or throw it in the trash. It can contaminate groundwater and harm the ecosystem. This is where sustainable can am outlander 850 oil filter location practices come in.

Pour your used oil from the drain pan into a sealed container, like the empty oil bottles you just used. Most auto parts stores (like AutoZone, O’Reilly, or Advance Auto Parts) and local recycling centers will accept used motor oil and oil filters for free. It’s an easy, eco-friendly can am outlander 850 oil filter location solution that protects our planet for future rides.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Can-Am Outlander 850 Oil Filter

How often should I change the oil and filter on my Outlander 850?

For most riders, Can-Am recommends an oil and filter change after the initial break-in period (around 10-25 hours) and then every 6 months, 100 hours of use, or 1,200 miles (2,000 km), whichever comes first. If you ride in extremely dusty, wet, or muddy conditions, you should change it more frequently.

What type of oil filter do I need for a Can-Am Outlander 850?

The standard OEM part number is BRP #420256188. Many quality aftermarket replacements exist, such as the K&N KN-152 or the Hiflofiltro HF152. Always double-check that the filter you buy is compatible with your specific model year.

Can I reuse the drain plug sealing washer?

No, absolutely not. The sealing washer (or crush washer) is a soft metal ring designed to deform and create a perfect seal when tightened. It is a one-time-use part. Reusing it is the number one cause of a leaky drain plug.

What happens if I overtighten the oil filter?

Overtightening the filter can crush the internal components, damage the rubber gasket leading to leaks, and make it nearly impossible to remove during your next oil change. Always follow the “hand-tight plus 3/4 turn” rule for a perfect seal without the headache.

You’ve got this. Now you know exactly where the filter is, how to get to it, and how to perform a clean, professional-grade oil change right in your own garage. Taking care of your machine is one of the most rewarding parts of being an off-roader. Stay safe on the trails and happy wrenching!

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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.