Can Am Outlander Maintenance Required 90

You’re geared up for a weekend on the trails, you turn the key on your Can-Am Outlander, and there it is—that blinking, persistent “MAINT REQD 90” message staring back at you from the dash. Your first thought might be frustration, wondering if something serious is wrong or if you’re facing a mandatory, expensive trip to the dealership.

I’ve been there, and I can tell you that nine times out of ten, this message isn’t a sign of trouble. It’s a simple, pre-programmed reminder.

In this guide, I’m going to promise you three things: you’ll understand exactly what this message means, you’ll learn the simple steps to reset it yourself in under a minute, and most importantly, you’ll know what actual maintenance you should be doing to keep your rig running strong. We’ll cover the reset process, the critical service checks, and the common mistakes to avoid. Let’s get you back on the trail with confidence.

What Does “Maintenance Required 90” Actually Mean?

First things first, let’s clear the air. The can am outlander maintenance required 90 message is not a fault code. It doesn’t mean a sensor has detected a problem with your engine, transmission, or any other critical system.

Think of it as a simple calendar reminder set by BRP (the manufacturer). It’s a pre-programmed alert based on a set number of engine hours, designed to prompt you to perform routine service. The number “90” is just an internal code for this specific service reminder; it doesn’t stand for 90 hours or 90 miles.

This is a crucial distinction. A real issue would typically trigger a check engine light (CEL) and may even put your ATV into a “limp mode” to prevent damage. This message is just a friendly, albeit annoying, nudge to check your owner’s manual and perform scheduled upkeep.

The Benefits of Resetting the Can Am Outlander Maintenance Required 90 Message Yourself

While you can always take your Outlander to the dealer, learning how to handle this simple task yourself is a game-changer. This is one of the easiest ways to get more comfortable with your machine and take control of its upkeep. The benefits of can am outlander maintenance required 90 self-service are immediate and empowering.

Save Time and Money

The most obvious benefit is avoiding a trip to the dealership. That means no scheduling appointments, no trailering your ATV across town, and no paying a shop fee just for a tech to press a few buttons. That’s time and money you can put back into fuel and trail permits.

Gain Control Over Your Service Schedule

The factory reminder is based on a general estimate of use. But you know your riding habits best. If you just did a full service 10 hours ago, you don’t need to do it again. Resetting the light yourself allows you to perform maintenance on your schedule, not a pre-set timer’s.

Build Confidence as a DIY Mechanic

Every small task you master builds your confidence. Successfully resetting this light is a gateway to tackling bigger jobs like oil changes and filter cleanings. It’s a simple win that proves you’re more than capable of handling basic maintenance on your own rig.

Your Step-by-Step Can Am Outlander Maintenance Required 90 Guide

Alright, let’s get that pesky light turned off. This process is surprisingly simple and requires no tools. Here is how to can am outlander maintenance required 90 reset the message. Follow these steps exactly, and you’ll be done in less than 30 seconds.

Before You Begin: Safety First!

Always start with a safe setup. It’s a quick job, but good habits are everything in the garage.

Park your Outlander on a flat, level surface.
Ensure the transmission is in Park.
The engine must be OFF for this procedure.

The Reset Procedure

The key here is a quick sequence of button presses. Don’t overthink it; sometimes it takes a second try to get the rhythm down.

Turn the ignition key to the ON position. Do not start the engine.
Wait for the digital display and instrument needles to do their full startup sweep.
Using the MODE button on the left handlebar control, cycle through the display screens until you land on either the main Odometer or the total Engine Hours screen.
Press and HOLD DOWN the MODE button. Do not let it go.
While still holding the MODE button, quickly flick the headlight switch from low-beam to high-beam and back again, about 3-5 times. (Example: Low -> High -> Low -> High -> Low).
You should see the “MAINT REQD” message flash on the screen a few times and then disappear completely.
Once the message is gone, you can release the MODE button.
Turn the key to the OFF position, wait a few seconds, and then turn it back ON to confirm the message is cleared.

What if it Doesn’t Work? Troubleshooting Tips

Didn’t clear on the first try? No sweat. It happens. Here are a few things to check:

Timing is Key: The headlight toggle needs to be done fairly quickly while you’re holding the MODE button.
Correct Screen: Double-check that you are on the Odometer or total Engine Hours screen before you start holding the button.
Model Year Variations: On some very old or very new models, the procedure might vary slightly. If this doesn’t work, a quick check of an owner’s manual for your specific year is the next best step. But for most modern Outlanders, this is the standard process.

Beyond the Reset: What Maintenance Should You Actually Be Doing?

Resetting the light is easy. The important part is earning the right to reset it by doing the work. Ignoring the maintenance is how small issues turn into catastrophic, trail-ending failures. This is the core of any good can am outlander maintenance required 90 care guide.

The Essential Engine Service

Your engine is the heart of your machine. Treat it right.

Oil and Filter Change: This is non-negotiable. Use a quality oil like BRP’s XPS or a comparable synthetic ATV/UTV oil that meets the specs in your manual. Always change the filter at the same time.
Air Filter Check: Pull out your air filter. If you ride in dusty or muddy conditions, do this more often. Clean it if it’s a reusable filter (like a K&N) or replace it if it’s a paper element. A clogged air filter robs power and chokes your engine.

Drivetrain and Chassis Checks

Power is useless if you can’t get it to the ground reliably.

Fluid Levels: Check the fluid levels in your front and rear differentials and your gearbox. Look for any signs of milky-looking fluid, which indicates water contamination.
Grease Zerks: Grab your grease gun and hit every zerk fitting you can find—A-arms, driveshaft yokes, and steering components. This pushes out water and dirt and keeps everything moving smoothly.
CVT Belt Inspection: Take a look at your CVT belt for any glazing, cracking, or missing cogs. A failed belt on the trail is a day-ruiner.

Brakes, Wheels, and Tires

Stopping is just as important as going. These are critical safety checks.

Brake System: Check your brake fluid level in the reservoir. Inspect your brake pads for thickness. If they’re getting thin, replace them before they start grinding on your rotors.
Tires and Wheels: Set your tire pressures to the recommended PSI. While you’re there, inspect the tread and sidewalls for any cuts, punctures, or damage. Check that your lug nuts are tight.

Common Problems and Mistakes to Avoid

Understanding the common problems with can am outlander maintenance required 90 alerts is mostly about avoiding bad habits. Here are the top mistakes we see at the shop.

Mistake #1: Ignoring the Message Entirely

Some riders just get used to the blinking light and tune it out. This is a huge mistake. The reminder exists for a reason. Forgetting to change your oil or grease your chassis will absolutely lead to premature wear and expensive repairs down the road.

Mistake #2: Resetting Without Performing Maintenance

This is the cardinal sin. Clearing the code to get rid of the annoyance without doing the work is like hitting snooze on a fire alarm. You’re defeating the entire purpose of the system and flying blind on your machine’s health.

Mistake #3: Confusing it with a Serious Fault Code

Don’t panic when you see “MAINT REQD.” Remember, it’s a timer, not a trouble code. If you see a Check Engine Light, or your machine is running poorly or in limp mode, that’s when you need to stop and diagnose a real problem, potentially with an OBD-II scanner for ATVs.

Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Can Am Outlander Maintenance Practices

Being a responsible rider extends to how we care for our machines in the garage. Adopting a few sustainable can am outlander maintenance required 90 habits is easy and makes a difference.

Responsible Fluid Disposal

Never, ever dump used oil, coolant, or brake fluid down a drain or on the ground. Collect it in a sealed container and take it to your local auto parts store or municipal recycling center. Most places accept it for free.

Choose Quality Parts for Longevity

This is one of the best eco-friendly can am outlander maintenance required 90 tips. Using high-quality synthetic oils, robust filters, and durable parts might cost a little more upfront, but they often last longer. This means fewer fluid changes and fewer discarded parts over the life of your ATV.

Clean, Don’t Just Replace

Where possible, choose to clean and reuse. A high-quality reusable air filter can be cleaned dozens of times, saving countless paper filters from the landfill. A simple wipe-down of parts before reassembly can also extend their life.

Frequently Asked Questions About Can Am Outlander Maintenance Required 90

Will resetting the maintenance light myself void my warranty?

No. Resetting the reminder light will not void your warranty. However, failing to perform the required maintenance can. As long as you do the service outlined in your owner’s manual and keep receipts for the oil and parts you use, you are in full compliance with your warranty requirements.

How many hours does it take for the “MAINT REQD 90” message to appear?

The exact interval is programmed by BRP and can vary slightly by model year, but it’s typically set to trigger around every 50 to 100 engine hours to align with the major service intervals recommended in the owner’s manual.

What tools do I need to reset the maintenance light?

Absolutely no tools are needed! The entire reset procedure is done using just your ignition key and the built-in handlebar controls (the MODE button and headlight switch).

Can I change the maintenance reminder interval?

Unfortunately, no. This interval is hard-coded into the ATV’s Engine Control Unit (ECU) by the manufacturer and is not adjustable by the user or even most dealers.

That’s all there is to it. The “MAINT REQD 90” message is more of a partner than a problem—a helpful reminder to give your Outlander the attention it deserves. By learning to reset it and, more importantly, performing the essential checks, you’re taking an active role in the reliability and longevity of your machine.

So next time that light pops up, don’t sweat it. See it as an opportunity. Grab your tools, give your rig a once-over, and clear that code with the satisfaction of a job well done. Stay safe, stay prepared, and we’ll see you on the trails.

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.