Ever wrestle your ATV through a tight, rocky trail and end the day feeling like you just went ten rounds in a boxing ring? We’ve all been there. Fighting the handlebars through ruts, mud, and technical climbs isn’t just tiring—it can be downright dangerous.
At FatBoysOffroad, we promise to give you the straight scoop on making your ride better, safer, and more fun. This comprehensive can am outlander dps guide is your key to unlocking the full potential of your machine’s power steering system.
In this article, you’ll learn exactly what Dynamic Power Steering (DPS) is, how to use its different modes to your advantage, how to troubleshoot common issues, and the best practices for keeping it in prime condition for years of trail dominance.
What Exactly is Can-Am’s Dynamic Power Steering (DPS)?
Think of the Can-Am Outlander DPS as more than just simple power steering. It’s a smart system designed to make your ride easier and more precise. Unlike the basic power steering in some cars that provides constant assistance, DPS is speed-sensitive.
This means it gives you maximum steering assistance at low speeds when you need it most—like navigating a tight, wooded trail or loading your quad onto a trailer. As your speed increases, the system intelligently reduces the assistance, giving you better feedback and a more stable feel on fast-paced fire roads.
How It Works: The Brains Behind the Brawn
The DPS system isn’t magic, but it’s close. It relies on a few key components working together in perfect harmony:
- Electric Motor: This is the muscle. It’s a small but powerful motor attached to the steering column that applies torque to help you turn the handlebars.
- Electronic Control Unit (ECU): This is the brain. It constantly reads data from your ATV’s speed sensor.
- Speed Sensor: This tells the ECU how fast you’re going, allowing it to calculate the perfect amount of steering assist for that exact moment.
When you turn the handlebars, the ECU tells the electric motor precisely how much force to apply, making your steering input feel effortless yet responsive.
DPS vs. No Power Steering: A Night and Day Difference
If you’ve ever ridden an older ATV without power steering, you know the struggle. Every rock and rut yanks the handlebars, fighting you for control. This constant battle leads to sore arms, shoulders, and a whole lot of fatigue.
With DPS, that fight is over. The system absorbs the harsh impacts, so you just feel a gentle nudge instead of a violent jerk. It’s a true game-changer that lets you ride longer, tackle tougher terrain, and finish the day with energy to spare.
The Core Benefits of Can-Am Outlander DPS on the Trail
Understanding the why behind the tech helps you appreciate what it does for you on every ride. The benefits of Can-Am Outlander DPS go far beyond just making the steering feel lighter. It fundamentally improves your entire off-road experience.
- Drastically Reduced Rider Fatigue: This is the big one. By doing most of the heavy lifting, DPS allows you to focus on picking your lines, not wrestling the machine. More energy means longer, more enjoyable rides.
- Enhanced Control and Precision: At low speeds, like rock crawling or navigating a muddy bog, DPS allows for small, precise steering adjustments that would be nearly impossible with manual steering. You can place your tires exactly where you want them.
- Minimized Kickback and Bump Steer: When your front tire smacks a hidden rock or root, the force travels up the steering stem and tries to rip the handlebars from your hands. DPS acts as a damper, absorbing the majority of that impact. This is a massive safety feature that can prevent loss of control and potential injury.
- Effortless Low-Speed Maneuvering: Whether you’re backing up a trailer, plowing snow, or navigating a packed staging area, the maximum assistance at zero speed makes the Outlander feel incredibly nimble and easy to handle.
How to Use Your Can-Am Outlander DPS: A Practical Guide
Most Can-Am Outlander models with DPS feature a Tri-Mode system, giving you three distinct levels of assistance. Knowing how to Can-Am Outlander DPS settings work for different situations is key to getting the most out of your machine. You can typically cycle through these modes using a button on your handlebar controls.
When to Use MIN (Minimum Assistance)
MIN mode provides the least amount of power steering assistance. This setting is perfect for high-speed, predictable trails like graded dirt roads or open fields.
By reducing the assistance, you get more direct feedback from the terrain through the handlebars. This creates a more connected and stable feeling when you’re moving fast, preventing the steering from feeling “twitchy” or overly sensitive.
When to Use MED (Medium Assistance)
MED is your go-to, all-around setting. It offers a fantastic balance of assistance and trail feedback, making it ideal for the majority of riding conditions.
From mixed-speed forest trails to moderately rocky sections, MED provides enough help to prevent fatigue without isolating you completely from what the tires are doing. If you’re unsure which mode to use, start with MED.
When to Use MAX (Maximum Assistance)
Switch to MAX when the going gets tough. This mode provides the highest level of steering assistance and is designed for slow, technical challenges.
Engage MAX for deep mud, serious rock crawling, or navigating extremely tight and twisty terrain. It will absorb the harshest hits and allow you to turn the handlebars with minimal effort, even if the front tires are wedged against an obstacle. It’s also the best mode for utility work like plowing snow.
Common Problems with Can-Am Outlander DPS and How to Fix Them
While the Can-Am DPS system is generally reliable, like any component on a hard-working ATV, it can develop issues. Here are some of the most common problems with Can-Am Outlander DPS and what to look for.
The Dreaded “DPS” or “CHECK ENGINE” Light
If a fault is detected in the system, a warning message will often appear on your display, and the system may enter a “limp mode,” where steering assistance is disabled. The first step is to check for fault codes, which requires a diagnostic tool or a trip to the dealer.
However, before you panic, do a simple check. The most common culprit is a weak or failing battery. The DPS motor draws a lot of power, and if the system voltage drops too low, it will shut itself off to protect the components. Ensure your battery is fully charged and the terminals are clean and tight.
Steering Feels Stiff, Intermittent, or Jerky
If the power steering works sometimes but not others, or feels notchy, the problem is almost always electrical. Use this checklist:
- Check Battery and Terminals: As mentioned, this is problem #1. Clean any corrosion with a wire brush and ensure the connections are rock-solid.
- Inspect Wiring Harness: Carefully trace the wires leading to and from the DPS motor. Look for any chafed, pinched, or corroded wires or connectors. Pay close attention to the main connectors on the DPS unit itself.
- Check the Fuses: Locate the fuse box (check your owner’s manual) and inspect the fuse related to the DPS system. A blown fuse indicates a deeper electrical issue you’ll need to trace.
Loud Whining or Grinding Noises
A consistent, loud whining noise coming from the steering column area while turning is a bad sign. This often indicates an internal failure of the electric motor or the gears within the DPS unit. Unfortunately, this is not a simple DIY fix and usually requires replacing the entire DPS assembly.
When to Call a Pro: Know Your Limits
While you can diagnose and fix simple electrical connection issues, be honest about your skills. The DPS unit is an expensive and critical safety component. If you’ve checked the basics (battery, fuses, visible wiring) and the problem persists, or if you suspect an internal failure, it’s time to take it to a qualified technician. Don’t risk your safety by attempting complex electrical repairs without the right tools and knowledge.
Your Can-Am Outlander DPS Care Guide: Maintenance and Best Practices
Proper care is the best way to prevent problems. Following this simple Can-Am Outlander DPS care guide will help ensure your system stays reliable for years.
Electrical System Health is Key
The health of your DPS is directly tied to the health of your ATV’s electrical system. Always use a battery tender when your quad is stored for long periods. Regularly inspect your battery terminals for corrosion and ensure all main ground connections on the frame are clean and tight.
Keep It Clean, But Be Smart About It
Mud and grime can trap heat and moisture, which is bad for electrical components. Keep the area around the DPS unit clean. However, never spray a high-pressure washer directly at the DPS motor or its electrical connectors. This can force water past the seals and cause catastrophic failure. Use a low-pressure hose and a soft brush instead.
Listen to Your Machine
One of the best Can-Am Outlander DPS tips is to simply pay attention. If you start to hear a new noise or feel a change in steering behavior, investigate it immediately. Catching a problem early—like a loose connector or a faint motor whine—can save you from a much bigger and more expensive repair down the road.
Thinking Green: Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Can-Am Outlander DPS Practices
Being a responsible off-roader also means thinking about our environmental impact. While an ATV itself isn’t a “green” machine, you can still adopt sustainable Can-Am Outlander DPS habits.
Proper Maintenance Reduces Waste
The most eco-friendly Can-Am Outlander DPS practice is preventative maintenance. A well-cared-for DPS unit will last the life of the ATV. By keeping your electrical system healthy and the unit clean, you prevent premature failure. This means fewer broken parts and used fluids ending up in landfills and less demand for manufacturing new replacement components.
Responsible Riding Habits
Using your DPS correctly can also help protect the trails we love. By using MAX mode in sensitive areas like mud or loose soil, you can maintain precise control and momentum without spinning your tires excessively. This reduces trail erosion and damage to delicate ecosystems, ensuring the trails remain healthy for everyone to enjoy.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Can-Am Outlander DPS
Can I add DPS to my non-DPS Can-Am Outlander?
Yes, you can! Several aftermarket companies, like SuperATV or EZ-Steer, offer high-quality bolt-on power steering kits. While it’s a significant upgrade requiring some mechanical skill to install, it’s a fantastic way to add a modern feature to an older base-model machine.
What does it mean when my DPS light is flashing?
A flashing DPS light, often accompanied by a fault code on the display, indicates the system has detected a problem and has likely disabled itself for safety. The flashing pattern can sometimes indicate the specific type of fault. Check your battery and connections first, but you may need a diagnostic tool to read the specific code.
Is the Tri-Mode DPS really worth the extra cost?
Absolutely. The ability to tailor steering assistance to the terrain is a massive advantage. While any power steering is better than none, the versatility of the Tri-Mode system makes the Outlander perform better in a wider variety of conditions, from high-speed runs to technical crawls.
How much power does the DPS system draw from the battery?
The DPS motor can draw a significant amount of current, especially when under heavy load (like turning the wheels at a standstill in MAX mode). This is why a healthy, fully charged battery is critical. If you run a lot of electrical accessories like a winch, light bars, or heated grips, consider upgrading to a high-quality AGM battery to ensure you have enough power for everything.
The Can-Am Outlander DPS system is a brilliant piece of engineering that transforms the riding experience. By understanding how it works, using the modes correctly, and performing basic maintenance, you ensure that it remains your best ally on the trail.
Now you have the knowledge. Get out there, dial in your ride, and conquer those trails with confidence. Stay safe and happy riding!
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