Can Am Renegade 800 Battery Size – Your Complete Guide To A Perfect

There’s nothing worse than gearing up for a ride, hitting the ignition on your Can-Am Renegade 800, and getting nothing but a weak click. A dead battery can kill a day on the trails before it even starts. The confusion over what to buy as a replacement—with all the codes, types, and sizes—only adds to the frustration.

We get it. You just want to get back out there. That’s why we’re here to help.

This guide promises to cut through the noise, giving you the expert insights you need to understand the correct can am renegade 800 battery size. We’ll cover the OEM standard, explore powerful upgrade options, walk you through a safe installation, and share pro tips to make your next battery last longer than ever.

Decoding the Can-Am Renegade 800 Battery Size: What You Need to Know

Before you can pick the perfect battery, you need to speak the language. Battery codes aren’t just random letters and numbers; they tell you everything about the battery’s size, terminal placement, and power.

Getting this right is the first step in our can am renegade 800 battery size guide. An incorrect size simply won’t fit in the battery tray, and the wrong terminal configuration can make connections impossible or dangerous.

The OEM Standard: YTX20L-BS Explained

For most Can-Am Renegade 800 models (specifically the 800R and 800 X xc variants), the standard, factory-spec battery is the YTX20L-BS.

Let’s break down that code so you know exactly what you’re looking at:

YT: This designates it as a powersports battery, designed by Yuasa, the industry leader. Many other brands use this same naming convention.
X20: This part of the code relates to the battery’s power output and overall physical size. Think of it as the performance rating.
L: This is critical. “L” stands for “Left,” meaning the negative terminal is on the left side when you’re looking at the front of the battery. Getting a battery with the positive on the left will mean your cables won’t reach.
BS: This indicates the battery is a “Bottle Supplied” or “Dry-Charge” AGM battery. It ships with the acid in a separate container, which you add to activate it before the first use.

Understanding Key Battery Terminology

Beyond the model number, you’ll see other specs that matter. Knowing these will help you make a smarter purchase.

Cold Cranking Amps (CCA): This is the big one. CCA measures the battery’s ability to start your engine in cold weather (0°F / -18°C). The high-compression V-twin engine in the Renegade 800 needs a strong punch, so a higher CCA is always better. The stock YTX20L-BS typically has around 270-310 CCA.
Amp Hours (Ah): This measures the battery’s capacity. Think of it as the size of the fuel tank. A higher Ah means the battery can run accessories like winches, light bars, or a stereo for longer without the engine running. The standard is around 18 Ah.
Dimensions: The physical size is non-negotiable. A standard YTX20L-BS is approximately 6.875″ (L) x 3.4375″ (W) x 6.125″ (H). Always double-check these measurements before buying.

Beyond Stock: Upgrading Your Renegade’s Power Source

The OEM battery is a reliable workhorse, but your riding style might demand more. If you’ve added power-hungry accessories, you’ll see huge benefits of can am renegade 800 battery size upgrades.

Modern battery technology offers significant improvements in power, longevity, and convenience. Let’s look at the two most popular upgrade paths.

The AGM Advantage: More Power, Less Maintenance

Most YTX20L-BS batteries are already AGM (Absorbent Glass Mat) batteries. Unlike old-school flooded lead-acid batteries, the acid in an AGM is absorbed into fiberglass mats, making them spill-proof and vibration-resistant—perfect for off-road abuse.

A premium AGM battery from a reputable brand can offer a higher CCA and a more robust internal construction than a budget option. They are the go-to choice for a reliable, powerful, and cost-effective upgrade over the base model battery.

Going Lightweight: The Benefits of Lithium Batteries

If you’re looking for the ultimate performance upgrade, a Lithium Iron Phosphate (LiFePO4) battery is the answer. These are a game-changer.

Massive Weight Savings: A lithium battery can be up to 70% lighter than its lead-acid equivalent. That’s a reduction of 8-10 pounds of dead weight on your machine.
Higher Cranking Power: Lithium batteries provide stronger, more consistent cranking power, resulting in faster, easier starts.
Longer Lifespan: While more expensive upfront, a quality lithium battery can last 2-4 times longer than a lead-acid battery, often making it a more sustainable can am renegade 800 battery size choice in the long run.
Low Self-Discharge: They can sit for months and lose very little charge, making them ideal for riders who don’t get out every weekend.

Pro Tip: If you switch to lithium, make sure your battery charger has a specific “Lithium” or “LiFePO4” mode. Using a standard lead-acid charger can damage the battery.

How To: Can-Am Renegade 800 Battery Replacement – A Step-by-Step Guide

Alright, you’ve got your new battery. Now it’s time for the easy part. This is a straightforward job that any DIYer can handle with basic tools. Following these can am renegade 800 battery size best practices will ensure a safe and successful swap.

Tools You’ll Need

10mm wrench or socket
Phillips head screwdriver
Terminal cleaning brush or sandpaper
Dielectric grease (optional but highly recommended)
Safety glasses and gloves

Safety First: Pre-Installation Checklist

Before you touch a single bolt, park your Renegade on a flat, level surface. Ensure the ignition is off and the key is out. Putting on safety glasses and gloves is a non-negotiable step to protect against sparks or acid.

The Removal and Installation Process

Locate the Battery: On the Renegade 800, the battery is located under the seat. Remove the seat to access the battery compartment. You’ll see a plastic cover and a hold-down strap or bracket.
Remove the Hold-Down: Use your screwdriver or wrench to remove the bracket holding the battery in place. Set the hardware aside somewhere you won’t lose it.
Disconnect the Negative Terminal FIRST: This is the most important safety step. Using your 10mm wrench, loosen the bolt on the black (negative, “-“) terminal. Once it’s loose, wiggle the cable off the post and tuck it away from the battery. This prevents accidental short-circuits.
Disconnect the Positive Terminal: Now, you can safely loosen the bolt on the red (positive, “+”) terminal. Remove the cable and tuck it aside.
Remove the Old Battery: Carefully lift the old battery straight out of the tray. Be aware, lead-acid batteries are heavy!
Clean the Terminals: Before installing the new battery, inspect the cable ends. Use a terminal brush to scrub away any white or greenish corrosion. A clean connection is key to performance.
Install the New Battery: Place your new battery into the tray. If your new battery came with new nuts and bolts, use them. Apply a small dab of dielectric grease to the battery posts to prevent future corrosion.
Connect the Positive Terminal FIRST: When installing, you do the reverse of removal. Attach the red (positive, “+”) cable to the positive post and tighten the bolt securely.
Connect the Negative Terminal: Now, connect the black (negative, “-“) cable to the negative post and tighten it.
Secure the Battery: Re-install the hold-down bracket to ensure the battery is snug and won’t vibrate excessively. Replace the plastic cover and the seat.

That’s it! Turn the key and listen to that engine roar back to life.

Common Problems with Can-Am Renegade 800 Battery Size and Solutions

Even with the right information, things can sometimes go sideways. Here are a few common problems with can am renegade 800 battery size and how to troubleshoot them.

“My New Battery Doesn’t Fit!”

This usually happens when an online retailer lists an incorrect battery. Always verify the dimensions (Length x Width x Height) of the battery you’re buying against the YTX20L-BS standard before you click “purchase.” If it doesn’t fit, don’t force it. Return it for the correct size.

“It Drains Too Fast!”

If a brand new, fully charged battery dies quickly, you may have a “parasitic draw.” This means an electrical component is drawing power even when the key is off. This could be a faulty voltage regulator, a stuck relay, or an aftermarket accessory that’s wired incorrectly. Diagnosing this can be tricky, and you may need a multimeter or help from a professional mechanic.

Corrosion and Connection Issues

The number one killer of performance is a bad connection. If your terminals are fuzzy with white or green corrosion, the electricity can’t flow properly. Regular cleaning is a core part of our can am renegade 800 battery size care guide. A tight, clean connection is just as important as the battery itself.

Choosing a Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Battery Option

In the off-road world, we have a responsibility to protect the trails we love. Making an eco-friendly can am renegade 800 battery size choice is easier than you think.

A high-quality AGM or Lithium battery that lasts 5-8 years is far more sustainable than buying a cheap, budget battery that you have to replace every 1-2 years. It creates less waste and uses fewer resources over time.

Most importantly, never throw an old battery in the trash. Lead-acid batteries are highly toxic but also highly recyclable. Almost any auto parts store or battery retailer will take your old battery for free recycling when you purchase a new one. It’s the law in many places and the right thing to do everywhere.

Frequently Asked Questions About Can-Am Renegade 800 Battery Size

What is the stock battery size for a Can-Am Renegade 800?

The standard OEM battery size for most Can-Am Renegade 800 models is a YTX20L-BS. Always confirm this against your owner’s manual or the label on your existing battery.

Can I use a car battery in my Renegade?

Absolutely not. A car battery is physically huge and will not fit. More importantly, powersports batteries are specifically designed to handle the intense vibration and jarring impacts of off-roading, whereas a car battery is not.

How often should I replace my ATV battery?

The average lifespan of a lead-acid powersports battery is 2-4 years. A premium AGM or a Lithium battery can last much longer, from 5 to 8 years or more with proper care. If your battery struggles to hold a charge or crank the engine, it’s time for a replacement.

Is a lithium battery worth the extra cost for my Renegade 800?

It depends on your needs. If you’re a performance-oriented rider looking to save weight, or if you have a lot of electrical accessories (winch, lights, GPS), the higher power and longer life of a lithium battery can be a fantastic investment. For the casual weekend rider, a quality AGM is often more than sufficient.

Choosing the right battery for your Renegade 800 doesn’t have to be a headache. By understanding the basics of size, power, and type, you can make an informed choice that keeps your machine ready for action whenever you are. Now get out there, stay safe, and have fun on the trails!

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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.