Can Am Outlander G2 - The Ultimate DIY Owner'S Maintenance Bible

So, you own a can am outlander g2. You’ve got one of the most capable and legendary ATV platforms ever built, a machine that’s equally at home hauling firewood as it is conquering a black diamond trail. It’s a beast, no doubt about it.

But you also know that keeping a legend running strong takes more than just gas and a heavy thumb. You’ve probably wondered about that weird noise, or if you’re using the right oil, or what that check engine light really means. You’re in the right place.

We promise this isn’t another generic owner’s manual. This is the battle-tested, grease-under-the-fingernails guide for the real world. In this comprehensive can am outlander g2 guide, we’ll dive into essential maintenance, troubleshoot the most common problems you’ll face, explore smart upgrades, and share some pro-level tips to keep your machine ripping for years to come.

What Makes the Can-Am Outlander G2 a Trail Icon?

Before we grab the wrenches, let’s understand what we’re working with. The “G2” stands for Generation 2, a revolutionary chassis Can-Am introduced around 2012. It was a massive leap forward from the original platform, and its core design is so good, they still use it today.

The Groundbreaking SST G2 Frame

The heart of the machine is the Surrounding Spar Technology (SST) G2 frame. Unlike traditional tube frames, it’s a single, beefy steel spar that runs down the center. This design offers a lower center of gravity, better handling, and fewer welds to crack (though not zero, as we’ll discuss).

The other key ingredient is the Torsional Trailing arm Independent (TTI) rear suspension. This setup allows the wheels to move straight up and down, keeping your tire contact patch flat on the ground for incredible traction and a smoother ride. These are some of the core benefits of can am outlander g2 machines.

A Buffet of Rotax Power

The G2 platform has been paired with a whole family of legendary Rotax V-Twin engines. Whether you have the dependable 570, the workhorse 650, the trail-shredding 850, or the arm-stretching 1000R, you’ve got a powerhouse between your legs. Each one has its own personality, but they all share a need for clean fluids and regular check-ups.

Your Essential Can-Am Outlander G2 Care Guide

Great rides start in the garage. Following these can am outlander g2 best practices will save you from long walks back to the truck and expensive repair bills. This is your go-to maintenance checklist.

The Pre-Ride Inspection: A 5-Minute Lifesaver

Never, ever skip this. It takes five minutes and can catch a small issue before it becomes a catastrophic failure on the trail. Think T-CLOC:

T – Tires & Wheels: Check for proper air pressure. Look for cuts or punctures. Grab each wheel and check for wobbly bearings.
C – Controls & Cables: Test your throttle for smooth operation. Check brake lever feel and ensure your 4WD switch is working.
L – Lights & Electrics: Flick on your lights—high beams, low beams, and brake lights. A quick test ensures you can see and be seen.
O – Oil & Fluids: Pull the dipstick and check the engine oil level. Peek at the coolant overflow and brake fluid reservoirs. Look for any drips underneath the machine.
C – Chassis & Suspension: Glance over the frame, A-arms, and axles. Look for cracked boots on your CV axles, and make sure all bolts seem tight.

Fluid Changes: The Heartbeat of Your Machine

Clean fluids are the cheapest insurance you can buy for your engine and drivetrain. Stick to your service manual’s intervals, or even shorten them if you ride in extreme conditions like deep mud or water.

Engine Oil & Filter: This is non-negotiable. Use a quality oil like BRP XPS 5W-40 Synthetic Blend and a fresh oil filter every time. A good magnetic drain plug is a cheap upgrade to catch metal shavings.
Gearbox & Differential Fluids: Your front and rear differentials and your gearbox need love, too. Use the specified 75W-90 (rear diff) and 75W-140 (front diff/gearbox) synthetic gear oil. This is a simple drain-and-fill job that many people forget.

Grease, Clean, and Protect

A little preventative maintenance goes a long way. After every wash, take ten minutes to hit all the grease zerks on your A-arm bushings and driveshaft U-joints with a quality marine grease. This pushes out water and grime, saving you from squeaks and premature wear.

When washing, try to avoid pressure washing directly into electrical connectors, wheel bearings, or engine seals. A good wash followed by a coat of a plastic-protectant spray will keep your G2 looking sharp and make the next cleanup easier.

Common Problems with Can-Am Outlander G2 (And How to Fix Them)

No machine is perfect. After seeing hundreds of these rigs in the shop, we know their quirks. Here are the most common problems with can am outlander g2 models and what to do about them.

The Dreaded Frame Issues

While the G2 frame is strong, early models (especially 2012-2015) were known to develop cracks, particularly around the front upper A-arm mounts and the rear upper shock mounts. Regularly inspect these areas for any signs of stress or cracking paint.

The Pro Fix: The best solution is prevention. A quality aftermarket gusset kit (like those from S3 Power Sports or BRP’s own race-spec kit) welds in to reinforce these weak spots. If you’re buying a used G2, this is the first thing to check for.

Overheating on the Trail

Is your temp light flashing? The number one cause of overheating on any ATV is a mud-caked radiator. Before you suspect a bad fan or sensor, give your radiator a thorough cleaning from the backside, pushing the dirt out the way it came in.

If it’s still running hot, check that your radiator fan is kicking on. If it isn’t, you could have a blown fuse, a bad fan motor, or a faulty temperature sensor. For serious mud riders, a radiator relocation kit is one of the best mods you can make.

Drivetrain Woes: Clicks, Clunks, and Whines

Your drivetrain takes a beating. Here’s what to listen for:

Clicking on Turns: This is the classic sign of a bad CV joint in one of your axles. It’s usually caused by a torn rubber boot that lets dirt and water in. You can replace the whole axle or rebuild the joint if you’re feeling adventurous.
Clunky Engagement: Can-Am’s Visco-Lok front differential can sometimes be clunky or slow to engage. This is somewhat normal, but excessive noise could point to internal wear. Regular fluid changes are key.
Belt Issues: A squealing or slipping sensation under power points to a worn drive belt. Keep a spare belt and the simple tools to change it on the trail. It can turn a trip-ending failure into a 20-minute fix.

Smart Upgrades: How to Can-Am Outlander G2 for Your Riding Style

The stock G2 is great, but the right mods can transform it into your perfect machine. This is a quick-start guide on where to spend your money for the biggest impact.

Tires: The #1 Performance Upgrade

Nothing changes how your ATV performs more than tires. Don’t just buy the biggest, most aggressive tire you can find. Match it to your terrain.

For All-Around Trail Riding: Look at 6-ply all-terrain tires like the Maxxis Bighorn 2.0 or ITP TerraCross R/T. They offer a great balance of grip, durability, and smooth ride.
For Mud: If you live in the deep stuff, you need a dedicated mud tire. Something like an ITP Cryptid or System 3 XTR370 will paddle through slop that would swallow a stock tire.

Protection and Armor

The factory plastic skid plates are better than nothing, but not by much. A full set of aluminum or UHMW (Ultra-High Molecular Weight plastic) skid plates will protect your frame, engine, and differentials from rocks and stumps. A-arm guards are another smart investment to prevent a bent control arm from ending your day.

Sustainable Can-Am Outlander G2 Best Practices

Being a responsible rider is about more than just power and performance. A sustainable can am outlander g2 mindset means protecting the trails we love and making our machines last.

Tread Lightly & Ride Responsibly

This is the golden rule of off-roading. Stay on designated trails, cross water at approved crossings, and avoid tearing up sensitive areas. Pack out everything you pack in. The goal is to leave the trail better than you found it.

Eco-Friendly Maintenance in the Garage

Your responsibility doesn’t end on the trail. An eco-friendly can am outlander g2 care routine is easy to adopt.

Proper Fluid Disposal: Never dump used oil, coolant, or gear lube on the ground or down a drain. Take it to your local auto parts store or municipal recycling center. They’ll almost always take it for free.
Use Biodegradable Cleaners: When washing your rig, opt for biodegradable soaps and degreasers that won’t harm the environment.
Repair, Don’t Just Replace: Instead of tossing a part with a minor issue, see if it can be repaired. Rebuilding a CV joint or replacing a wheel bearing is cheaper and creates less waste than buying a whole new axle or hub.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Can-Am Outlander G2

What years are the Can-Am Outlander G2 models?

The G2 platform was introduced for the 2012 model year on the 800R and 1000 models. It was then rolled out to the mid-cc models like the 500, 570, and 650 in the following years and is still the basis for the modern Outlander.

Is the Can-Am Outlander G2 a reliable ATV?

Absolutely. The Rotax engines are famously durable and the G2 chassis is tough. However, like any high-performance machine, it demands consistent maintenance. If you follow the can am outlander g2 care guide, change your fluids, and address the common weak spots, it will be incredibly reliable.

How often should I change the oil in my G2 Outlander?

BRP recommends changing the oil after the initial break-in period, and then every 620 miles (1000 km) or 50 operating hours, or at least once a year. If you frequently ride in very dusty, wet, or muddy conditions, we at FatBoysOffroad recommend cutting that interval in half.

What is the best first modification for a G2 Outlander?

Tires, hands down. A good set of tires matched to your terrain will provide the single biggest improvement in performance and capability. After that, a winch and good skid plates are the next best investments for safety and peace of mind.

The can am outlander g2 is an incredible machine that has earned its place in the off-road hall of fame. It’s powerful, comfortable, and ridiculously capable. By understanding its systems, staying on top of maintenance, and addressing its known quirks, you’re not just an owner—you’re a true enthusiast.

Now you have the knowledge and the can am outlander g2 tips to do the job right. Get those tools out, give your rig the love it deserves, and get ready for your next adventure. Ride hard, and ride safe!

Author
Recent Posts

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.