Your Can-Am Traxter is a beast on the trail and a workhorse on the farm. You rely on it to start every time and power through tough jobs. But even the most rugged machines need consistent care to stay in fighting shape, and the single most important maintenance task you can perform is a routine oil change.
We get it—taking your machine to the dealer can be a hassle and expensive. That’s why we’re here to promise you that with the right guidance, you absolutely have the skills to tackle this job yourself. This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step of a Can-Am Traxter engine oil, filters and oil change, empowering you to save money and keep your rig running like new.
In this post, we’ll cover why this service is so critical, list the exact tools and parts you’ll need, provide a detailed step-by-step walkthrough, and share some pro tips to avoid common pitfalls. Let’s get our hands dirty!
Why a Regular Can-Am Traxter Engine Oil, Filters and Oil Change is Non-Negotiable
Think of engine oil as the lifeblood of your Traxter’s Rotax engine. It does more than just lubricate moving parts. Ignoring this crucial service is one of the fastest ways to cause expensive, catastrophic engine damage.
Understanding the full benefits of Can-Am Traxter engine oil, filters and oil change helps motivate you to stick to a schedule. Fresh oil and a new filter are your first line of defense against wear and tear.
Key Benefits of Routine Oil Changes
- Superior Lubrication: Fresh oil creates a protective film between critical engine components like pistons, cylinders, and bearings, drastically reducing friction and heat.
- Engine Cooling: Oil plays a vital role in cooling your engine by carrying heat away from the combustion chamber. Old, broken-down oil can’t do this effectively, leading to overheating.
- Cleaning Power: Modern engine oils contain detergents that clean away sludge, carbon deposits, and other harmful contaminants. The oil filter then traps these particles, preventing them from circulating and causing damage.
- Improved Performance and Fuel Economy: A well-lubricated engine runs more efficiently. You’ll notice better throttle response and potentially even a slight improvement in fuel consumption.
- Extended Engine Life: This is the big one. Consistent oil changes are the cheapest insurance policy you can buy to ensure your Traxter’s engine lasts for thousands of hours.
Gearing Up: Tools and Parts You’ll Need for the Job
Having everything ready before you start makes the process smooth and frustration-free. Nothing is worse than having oil draining out and realizing you’re missing the right tool. Here’s your checklist.
Essential Parts
- Engine Oil: The most critical part. Always check your owner’s manual, but most modern Traxter models use XPS 5W-40 Synthetic Blend Oil. You’ll typically need around 2.1 US quarts (2 liters), but buy a bit extra just in case.
- Oil Filter: Use a high-quality, OEM-equivalent oil filter. BRP part numbers often change, but a common one is #420956744. An XPS Oil Change Kit (like #703500904) is a great all-in-one solution that includes the oil, filter, and new O-rings.
- New O-Rings and a Crush Washer: These should come with a new filter or in an oil change kit. Never reuse the old ones, as this is a primary cause of leaks.
Essential Tools
- Ratchet with extension
- 8mm and 17mm sockets
- Torx T30 bit
- Oil filter wrench or cap-style socket
- Torque wrench (highly recommended)
- Oil drain pan (at least 3-quart capacity)
- Funnel
- Nitrile gloves
- Shop rags or paper towels
The Ultimate Can-Am Traxter Engine Oil, Filters and Oil Change Guide: A Step-by-Step Walkthrough
Alright, you’ve got your supplies. Now it’s time for the main event. This detailed how to Can-Am Traxter engine oil, filters and oil change section will guide you through every action. Follow these steps carefully for a perfect result.
Step 1: Prep Your Traxter and Workspace
Park your Traxter on a level surface. A flat garage floor is ideal. This ensures you get an accurate oil level reading later and that all the old oil drains out properly. Lay down some cardboard or a mat under the engine area to catch any potential drips.
Step 2: Warm Up the Engine (Briefly!)
Start the engine and let it run for just 2-3 minutes. You don’t want it scorching hot, just warm. Warming the oil thins it out, allowing it to drain more completely and quickly, taking more contaminants with it.
Step 3: Locate the Drain Plug and Oil Filter
On most Traxter models, you’ll need to remove a small plastic skid plate panel on the passenger side to access the engine. Use your T30 Torx bit to remove the screws holding it in place. You will now see the engine oil drain plug (a 17mm bolt) and the black oil filter housing nearby.
Step 4: Drain the Old Engine Oil
Place your drain pan directly under the drain plug. Using your 17mm socket, loosen the plug. Once it’s loose, finish unscrewing it by hand. Be ready for the warm oil to flow out quickly! Let it drain completely for 5-10 minutes until it’s just a slow drip.
Step 5: Remove and Replace the Oil Filter
While the oil is draining, you can tackle the filter. Use your 8mm socket to remove the two bolts holding the oil filter cover on. Gently pull the cover off. The old filter will come out with it. Pay attention to the large O-ring on the cover and the small one on the bolt post—remove both.
Clean the inside of the filter cover with a rag. Install your new, small O-ring on the bolt post and the new, large O-ring on the cover. Lightly lubricate both O-rings with a dab of fresh engine oil. This is a crucial step for a good seal. Pop the new filter into the housing and reinstall the cover, tightening the 8mm bolts snugly.
Step 6: Reinstall the Drain Plug
Wipe the drain plug and the area around the drain hole clean. Install the new crush washer onto the drain plug. Thread the plug back into the engine by hand to avoid cross-threading. Use your torque wrench to tighten it to the factory specification, which is typically around 18 ft-lbs (25 Nm). Do not over-tighten!
Step 7: Refill with Fresh Engine Oil
Locate the oil fill cap on the top of the engine (it has an oil can symbol on it). Remove it and place your funnel inside. Slowly pour in 2 quarts of the recommended 5W-40 oil. Do not dump it all in at once. Reinstall the fill cap.
Step 8: Final Checks and Cleanup
Start the engine and let it run for about 30 seconds. This circulates the new oil and fills the new filter. Shut it off and wait a minute for the oil to settle. Now, remove the dipstick, wipe it clean, reinsert it fully, and pull it out again to check the level. Add small amounts of oil as needed until the level is at the top of the “safe” or cross-hatched area on the dipstick. Do not overfill! Finally, reinstall the skid plate panel.
Pro Tips and Best Practices for a Flawless Oil Change
Following a guide is one thing, but incorporating a few pro habits elevates your work. This Can-Am Traxter engine oil, filters and oil change care guide includes tips that separate beginners from seasoned DIYers.
- Double-Check Your O-Rings: Make sure the old large O-ring from the filter cover came off. Sometimes it sticks inside the engine housing, and installing the new one on top of it will cause a massive leak.
- Inspect the Old Oil: When the oil is draining, look at it. Is it milky? That could indicate coolant is mixing with your oil—a serious problem. Are there shiny metal flakes in it? That signals significant internal engine wear.
- Keep it Clean: Before you remove the drain plug or oil filter cap, wipe the area around them. This prevents any dirt or grime from falling into your engine.
- Log Your Maintenance: Keep a small notebook or a phone app to log the date, engine hours, and mileage of every oil change. This is one of the best Can-Am Traxter engine oil, filters and oil change best practices for maintaining vehicle value and staying on schedule.
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Troubleshooting Common Problems After an Oil Change
Even with careful work, issues can pop up. Here are some common problems with Can-Am Traxter engine oil, filters and oil change and how to fix them.
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Problem: A drip is coming from the drain plug.
Solution: You either re-used the old crush washer or didn’t tighten the plug to the correct torque. Let the machine cool, drain the new oil into a clean pan, install a new washer, and torque the plug correctly. You can reuse the new oil.
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Problem: Oil is leaking from around the oil filter cover.
Solution: The most likely cause is a pinched, un-lubricated, or doubled-up O-ring. You’ll need to remove the cover, inspect/replace the O-ring, ensure it’s properly seated and lubed, and reinstall.
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Problem: The oil pressure light comes on after starting.
Solution: Shut the engine off immediately! You may have forgotten to add oil, or the level is dangerously low. Double-check the dipstick and add oil as needed.
Sustainable Service: Eco-Friendly Oil and Filter Disposal
Being a responsible off-roader means taking care of the environment, too. A sustainable Can-Am Traxter engine oil, filters and oil change is easy to do. Never, ever dump used oil on the ground or in the trash.
Pour your used oil from the drain pan into the empty oil bottles you just used. Place the old filter in a plastic bag to prevent drips. Nearly all auto parts stores (like AutoZone, O’Reilly, or Advance Auto Parts) accept used motor oil and filters for recycling, completely free of charge. This is the simplest way to complete an eco-friendly Can-Am Traxter engine oil, filters and oil change.
Frequently Asked Questions About Your Traxter’s Oil Change
What type of oil is best for my Can-Am Traxter?
Always default to your owner’s manual. However, the vast majority of modern Rotax engines in Traxters call for a 5W-40 synthetic or synthetic-blend oil. Using a high-quality, power-sports-specific oil like the XPS brand is highly recommended as it’s formulated for the high-revving, high-heat conditions of these engines.
How often should I change the oil in my Traxter?
BRP recommends the first oil change after the initial break-in period (around 25 hours). After that, the standard interval is every 100 hours or 2,000 miles (3,000 km), or at least once a year, whichever comes first. If you operate in extremely dusty, wet, or high-load conditions, consider changing it more frequently, like every 50 hours.
Can I use regular car oil in my Can-Am Traxter?
It’s strongly advised not to. While the weight might be similar, automotive oils lack the specific additives required for the shared clutch and transmission systems in many powersports vehicles. Using the wrong oil can lead to clutch slippage and premature wear. Stick to a Jaso MA/MA2 rated oil designed for UTVs.
Congratulations! You’ve successfully performed one of the most vital maintenance tasks for your side-by-side. Taking the time to handle your own Can-Am Traxter engine oil, filters and oil change not only saves you money but connects you more deeply with your machine. Now you can hit the trails with the confidence that your engine is protected and ready for whatever you throw at it.
Ride safe, work smart, and we’ll see you on the trail!
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