Ever hit a G-out on the trail and felt your spine compress? Or maybe you’ve wrestled with the handlebars through a tight, rocky section until your arms felt like jelly. We’ve all been there. You bought a powerful machine like a Can-Am Outlander for its capability, but sometimes the stock suspension and steering just don’t feel dialed in for your specific ride.
I promise you, there’s a better way. If your rig is equipped with it, that little switch on your handlebar for the can am outlander acs dps system is the key to unlocking a world of comfort and control you might not even know you have.
In this complete guide, we’re going to break it all down. We’ll dive into what ACS and DPS actually are, the real-world benefits you’ll feel on the trail, how to adjust them on the fly, and how to troubleshoot common problems. Let’s get your ride dialed in perfectly.
What Exactly Are ACS and DPS on Your Can-Am Outlander?
Before you can master the system, you need to know what you’re working with. “ACS” and “DPS” aren’t just fancy letters on a sticker; they represent two distinct technologies working together to transform your ride. Think of them as your personal suspension and steering technicians, ready for your command.
Decoding ACS: Air Control Suspension
The ACS, or Air Control Suspension, is an adjustable air-ride system for your rear shocks. At its heart is a small, onboard air compressor connected to a set of high-quality, high-pressure Fox Air Assist shocks.
Instead of being stuck with one spring rate, the ACS gives you six selectable presets. These are accessible right from a rocker switch on your handlebars. Pushing the switch up adds air pressure, making the rear suspension firmer. Pushing it down releases air, making it softer.
This allows you to change your ATV’s handling characteristics in seconds, adapting to whatever the trail, or your workload, throws at you.
Understanding DPS: Dynamic Power Steering
The DPS, or Dynamic Power Steering, is Can-Am’s intelligent, speed-sensitive power steering system. It’s designed to give you the right amount of steering assistance at the right time, which is a game-changer for reducing rider fatigue and improving control.
The Tri-Mode DPS offers three levels of assistance: MIN, MED, and MAX. At low speeds, like when navigating a technical rock garden or maneuvering in tight spots, it provides maximum assistance to make steering effortless. As your speed increases, it automatically reduces the level of assistance, giving you a better feel for the trail and preventing the steering from feeling “twitchy.”
The Core Benefits of Can-Am Outlander ACS DPS for Any Rider
So, what does all this tech actually mean for you when you’re behind the bars? It’s not just about comfort; it’s about capability and confidence. Integrating this system provides some of the best benefits of can am outlander acs dps that you’ll notice immediately.
- Unmatched Ride Customization: Riding solo on a smooth trail? Set the ACS to a soft setting for a plush ride. Bringing a passenger or hauling a heavy load in your rack? Firm it up to level the machine and prevent bottoming out. This on-the-fly adjustment is the system’s greatest strength.
- Dramatically Reduced Rider Fatigue: The DPS is your best friend on long rides. By taking the fight out of the handlebars in slow, technical terrain, it saves your arm, shoulder, and back muscles. You’ll end the day feeling fresher and ready for more.
- Improved Handling and Stability: A properly adjusted suspension keeps your tires planted. Firming up the ACS for aggressive, high-speed riding reduces body roll in corners and prevents the rear from squatting under acceleration. It gives you a more predictable and stable platform.
- True Work-and-Play Versatility: The ACS allows your Outlander to be a comfortable trail cruiser one minute and a capable workhorse the next. You can soften it for recreational riding and then max it out to handle the weight of firewood, tools, or gear without sagging.
How to Use Your Can-Am Outlander ACS DPS System Like a Pro
Knowing what the system does is one thing; using it effectively is another. This is your practical, step-by-step can am outlander acs dps guide to making adjustments on the trail. Don’t be afraid to experiment—finding your perfect settings is part of the fun.
Adjusting the ACS (Air Control Suspension)
Think of the six ACS settings as tools in your toolbox. You wouldn’t use a hammer to turn a screw, and you shouldn’t use a soft setting to carry a heavy load. Here’s how to can am outlander acs dps for suspension:
- Locate the Control: The ACS control is a rocker switch on your left handlebar controls. The digital display on your gauge cluster will show a shock icon with 1 to 6 bars representing the current setting.
- Adjust on the Go: With the engine running, simply press the “up” arrow on the switch to add air and increase the firmness (and ride height). You’ll hear the small onboard compressor kick on. Press the “down” arrow to release air and soften the ride.
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Know Your Settings:
- Levels 1-2: Maximum Comfort. Best for slow, casual riding on relatively smooth terrain when you’re riding solo with no extra gear.
- Levels 3-4: All-Purpose Riding. This is a great starting point for general trail riding with a normal load. It offers a good balance of comfort and performance.
- Levels 5-6: Maximum Load/Performance. Use these settings when carrying a passenger, hauling heavy gear, or for aggressive, high-speed riding where you need maximum ground clearance and stiffness to prevent body roll.
Pro Tip: Always set your suspension for the load before you start riding. If you load up the racks and then add air, the compressor has to work much harder to lift the weight.
Selecting Your DPS (Dynamic Power Steering) Mode
Adjusting your DPS is even simpler and is all about your personal preference and the terrain you’re tackling.
- Locate the Button: Find the DPS button on your controls, often near the gauge cluster or on the handlebar pod.
- Cycle Through Modes: With the key on, press the button to cycle through MIN, MED, and MAX. Your selection will be displayed on the screen.
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Match the Mode to the Mission:
- MIN: Provides the least assistance. Ideal for high-speed, open trails where you want more feedback from the terrain and a firmer steering feel.
- MED: The perfect “set it and forget it” mode for most riders. It offers a great balance of assistance for varied trail riding.
- MAX: Delivers the most assistance. Use this for slow-speed, technical challenges like rock crawling, deep mud, or navigating tight woods. It makes turning the wheels with minimal effort a breeze.
Common Problems with Can-Am Outlander ACS DPS and How to Troubleshoot Them
Like any system on your machine, the ACS and DPS can sometimes act up. Don’t panic. Many issues are simple fixes you can handle yourself. Here are some of the most common problems with can am outlander acs dps.
Problem: ACS Compressor Won’t Turn On
You press the button to add air, and… nothing. No sound, no change in suspension.
- Check the Fuse: This is the first and easiest check. Locate your fuse box (check your owner’s manual for its location) and inspect the fuse related to the ACS system. A blown fuse is a quick fix.
- Inspect Wiring: Look for any obvious damage to the wires leading to the compressor. A branch could have snagged and pulled something loose.
- Listen Closely: If the fuse is good, the issue could be the compressor relay or the compressor motor itself. If you’re not comfortable diagnosing electrical components, this is a good time to visit the shop.
Problem: Suspension Leaks and Won’t Hold Air
You set your suspension to level 5, and an hour later, it’s back down to level 2. You’ve got a leak.
- The Soapy Water Trick: Mix some dish soap and water in a spray bottle. With the system aired up, spray the air lines, fittings at the shocks, and the compressor connections. Look for bubbles forming—that’s your leak!
- Check the Fittings: Sometimes the small brass fittings can become loose over time. Gently tighten them (don’t overtighten!) and see if that solves the problem.
- Inspect the Air Lines: Carefully trace the thin black air lines from the compressor to each rear shock. Look for any cracks, abrasions where it might be rubbing on the frame, or kinks.
Problem: “CHECK DPS” Warning Light
A warning light for the power steering can be alarming, but it’s often a simple electrical gremlin.
- The Reboot: The oldest trick in the book works here, too. Turn the machine completely off, wait 30 seconds, and turn it back on. This can often reset the module.
- Check Your Battery: The DPS module is sensitive to voltage. A weak or dying battery, or loose/corroded battery terminals, is a very common cause of DPS faults. Ensure your battery is fully charged and the connections are clean and tight.
- Sensor Issues: If the light persists and steering is genuinely difficult, it could be a faulty speed sensor or an issue with the DPS module itself. This usually requires a trip to the dealer for a diagnostic scan.
Your Can-Am Outlander ACS DPS Care Guide: Best Practices for Longevity
Proper care prevents problems. Following a few simple maintenance steps will keep your advanced suspension and steering systems working flawlessly for years. This can am outlander acs dps care guide is all about prevention.
Regular Inspection and Cleaning
After every wash, take five minutes to look things over. Visually inspect the air lines for any signs of wear. Check that the compressor, located under the seat or a side panel, is free of caked-on mud and debris. A clean system is a happy system.
Sustainable Can-Am Outlander ACS DPS Habits
Thinking about a sustainable can am outlander acs dps approach is really about maximizing the life of your components. A well-maintained system doesn’t leak and doesn’t require premature replacement parts, which is eco-friendly by nature.
By preventing air leaks and ensuring the compressor only runs when needed, you reduce unnecessary wear. Furthermore, using the correct suspension setting for your load reduces overall strain on the entire drivetrain and frame, promoting a longer, more reliable machine life.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Can Am Outlander ACS DPS
Can I add the ACS DPS system to a base model Outlander?
While technically anything is possible with enough fabrication, it’s not practical. The wiring harness, ECU programming, specific shocks, compressor, and controls make it an incredibly complex and expensive retrofit. It is far more cost-effective to purchase a model that came with the can am outlander acs dps from the factory.
What are the best all-around settings to start with?
A fantastic starting point for general trail riding is ACS setting 3 and DPS on MED. This provides a comfortable ride with good control and moderate steering assist. From there, you can easily adjust up or down to fine-tune the feel for your personal preference and the day’s terrain.
Does cold weather affect the ACS system?
Yes, it can. Air pressure naturally drops in colder temperatures, so you may find you need to bump up the setting a level to get the same firmness you had on a warm day. The seals in the shocks and lines can also become less pliable in the extreme cold, so it’s a good idea to let the machine warm up a bit before making major adjustments.
How do I know if my DPS is actually failing?
The most obvious signs are a persistent warning light that won’t clear and a noticeable change in steering effort. If your steering suddenly becomes very heavy (like a non-power steering machine) or feels inconsistent—sometimes easy, sometimes hard—it’s a clear sign the DPS unit needs professional attention.
Mastering your Can-Am’s ACS and DPS is one of the most rewarding can am outlander acs dps tips we can offer. It takes a fantastic machine and tailors it specifically to you and your adventure. You paid for the technology, so don’t be afraid to use it!
Experiment with the settings, learn what feels right for different situations, and perform the basic checks to keep it all running smoothly. You’ll be rewarded with a safer, more comfortable, and more capable ride every single time.
Now get out there, dial it in, and conquer the trail. Ride smart and stay safe!
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