How To Change Oil Can Am Outlander 850

That V-twin rumble in your Can-Am Outlander 850 is the sound of pure, unadulterated freedom. But keeping that beast running strong for years of trail-shredding adventures means giving it the care it deserves. Nothing is more fundamental to engine health than a regular oil change.

Feeling a little intimidated by the process? Don’t be. We promise to walk you through exactly how to change oil can am outlander 850 models, step-by-step, so you can tackle this job with the confidence of a seasoned pro. You’ll save a trip to the dealer, pocket some cash, and build a deeper connection with your machine.

In this complete guide, we’ll cover the essential tools you’ll need, the exact procedure from draining to filling, common mistakes to sidestep, and even how to handle the job in an eco-friendly way. Let’s get those hands dirty!

Why a DIY Oil Change on Your Outlander 850 is a Game-Changer

Sure, you could take your ATV to the dealership, but where’s the fun in that? Performing your own maintenance is one of the most rewarding parts of ownership. Understanding the benefits of how to change oil can am outlander 850 yourself goes beyond just saving money.

The Core Benefits of Regular Maintenance

Engine Longevity: Fresh oil is the lifeblood of your Rotax engine. It lubricates moving parts, reduces friction, cleans away contaminants, and helps regulate temperature. Sticking to a regular schedule is the single best thing you can do for engine health.
Peak Performance: Old, broken-down oil can’t protect your engine effectively, leading to power loss and sluggish performance. A fresh fill keeps that V-twin running crisp and responsive.
Early Problem Detection: When you’re under your machine, you get a chance to spot other potential issues. You might notice a torn CV boot, a loose bolt, or a small leak before it becomes a major, trail-ending problem.
Cost Savings: The most obvious benefit! You’ll save significantly on labor costs from the dealership, and the only expense is for the oil and filter.
Empowerment and Knowledge: There’s a huge sense of satisfaction that comes from maintaining your own rig. You’ll understand your Outlander better and be more prepared to handle minor issues on the trail.

Gather Your Gear: Tools and Parts for the Job

Walking into a job unprepared is a recipe for frustration. Before you even think about loosening a bolt, let’s get your arsenal ready. Having everything within arm’s reach makes the process smooth and efficient.

Essential Parts

Engine Oil: The heart of the operation. Your Outlander 850 requires approximately 2.1 US quarts (2.0 Liters) of 5W-40 synthetic oil. We strongly recommend using BRP XPS 4-Stroke Synthetic Oil. It’s specifically formulated for your Rotax engine.
Oil Filter: Don’t reuse the old one! Always install a new filter with every oil change. The BRP Can-Am Oil Filter Kit (Part #705600912 or similar) is your best bet as it often includes the necessary O-rings and crush washer.
New Drain Plug Sealing Washer (Crush Washer): This is critical for preventing leaks. It’s a one-time-use item. Most oil filter kits include one.

Essential Tools

Ratchet with extension
17mm socket (for the engine drain plug)
8mm socket (for the oil filter cover bolts)
Torque wrench (highly recommended to prevent over-tightening)
Oil filter wrench or pliers (if the filter is stuck)
Funnel (long and narrow works best)
Oil drain pan (with at least a 3-quart capacity)
Nitrile gloves (to keep your hands clean)
Shop rags or paper towels (for inevitable drips)
Safety glasses

The Complete How to Change Oil Can Am Outlander 850 Guide: Step-by-Step

Alright, you’ve got your gear, and you’re ready to go. This is the core how to change oil can am outlander 850 guide. We’ll break it down into simple, manageable phases. Follow these steps, and you’ll be done in under an hour.

Step 1: Preparation is Key

First, start your Outlander and let it run for 2-3 minutes. This warms the oil, making it less viscous and allowing it to drain more completely. Don’t get it scorching hot, just warm enough to flow easily.

Park the ATV on a level surface. This is crucial for getting an accurate oil level reading later. If you need to lift it for better access, use proper jack stands. Never work under a machine supported only by a jack.

Clean the area around the drain plug and oil filter cover. A quick wipe with a rag prevents dirt and grime from falling into your engine when you open it up.

Step 2: Draining the Old Oil

Place your drain pan directly under the engine drain plug. It’s located on the bottom of the engine, usually on the right side of the crankcase.

Using your 17mm socket and ratchet, loosen the drain plug. Turn it counter-clockwise. Once it’s loose, finish unscrewing it by hand. Be ready for the oil to start flowing and pull the plug away quickly to avoid a mess.

Let the oil drain completely. This can take 5-10 minutes. While it’s draining, inspect the magnetic tip of the drain plug for any large metal shavings—a few tiny specks are normal, but large chunks could indicate a serious internal problem.

Clean the drain plug thoroughly and install the new sealing washer. Once the oil has slowed to a drip, reinstall the drain plug and tighten it to the manufacturer’s specification, which is typically 15 lb-ft (20 Nm). Do not overtighten!

Step 3: Replacing the Oil Filter

With the drain pan still in place, move it under the oil filter housing. It’s a round cover on the right side of the engine held on by three bolts.

Use your 8mm socket to remove the three bolts. Keep them in a safe place. Gently pry the cover off. A little more oil will spill out, which is normal.

Pull the old oil filter straight out. You might need to give it a little wiggle. Take a moment to inspect the old filter for any debris.

Now, grab your new oil filter. A crucial pro tip: dip your finger in some new oil and lubricate the O-rings on the new filter and the large O-ring on the filter cover. This ensures a perfect seal. Some mechanics also like to pre-fill the new filter about halfway with fresh oil to help get oil pressure up faster on startup.

Install the new filter, making sure it’s seated correctly. Reinstall the cover and tighten the three 8mm bolts snugly in a star pattern to ensure even pressure. The torque spec is around 7 lb-ft (10 Nm)—just be gentle, they don’t need to be cranked down.

Step 4: Filling with Fresh Oil

Remove the oil fill cap/dipstick on the left side of the engine. Insert your funnel and slowly pour in approximately 1.8 quarts of your fresh 5W-40 synthetic oil. Don’t dump the full 2.1 quarts in all at once!

Remove the funnel and reinstall the dipstick, screwing it all the way in. Now, remove it again and check the level. The oil should be between the “MIN” and “MAX” marks. Add small amounts of oil as needed until you reach the “MAX” line. Overfilling is just as bad as underfilling.

Once the level is correct, securely tighten the fill cap. Start the engine and let it run for about 30 seconds. This circulates the new oil and fills the new filter. Turn the engine off and let it sit for a minute. Re-check the oil level and top it off to the “MAX” line if necessary.

Finally, do one last check around the drain plug and filter cover for any signs of leaks.

Pro Tips and Best Practices for a Flawless Oil Change

Following the steps is one thing, but incorporating these how to change oil can am outlander 850 best practices will elevate your DIY game. This is the stuff that separates the rookies from the pros.

Always Use a Torque Wrench: Stripping the threads on an aluminum engine case is a costly and heartbreaking mistake. A torque wrench is a cheap insurance policy against over-tightening the drain plug and filter bolts.
Document Everything: Keep a small logbook in your garage. Note the date, mileage/hours, and the type of oil and filter used. This creates a valuable service history for your machine.
Read the Old Oil: When the old oil is in the drain pan, look at it. Is it milky? That could indicate coolant is getting into the oil. Does it smell heavily of fuel? That might point to an issue with your fuel system.
Give it a Final Wipe-Down: After you’re sure there are no leaks, use a rag and some brake cleaner to wipe off any residual oil from the engine case. This makes it easier to spot any new leaks in the future.

Common Problems and Mistakes to Avoid

We’ve seen it all in the shop. Learning from others’ mistakes is a lot less painful than making them yourself. Here are some common problems with how to change oil can am outlander 850 maintenance that you should actively avoid.

Forgetting the Sealing Washer: Reusing the old crush washer or forgetting it entirely is the #1 cause of a leaky drain plug. Always use a new one.
The Wrong Oil: Using automotive oil instead of a powersports-specific oil is a huge mistake. ATV engines run hotter and at higher RPMs, and they require oil with specific additives for wet clutch performance and transmission protection. Stick to the recommended 5W-40 synthetic.
Over-Tightening: We can’t stress this enough. An over-tightened drain plug can strip the threads in your engine case, turning a simple job into a nightmare repair. Use a torque wrench.
Inaccurate Oil Level Check: Make sure the ATV is perfectly level and that you screw the dipstick all the way in before pulling it out for a reading. An incorrect reading can lead to over or under-filling.

Sustainable & Eco-Friendly Oil Change Practices

Part of being a responsible rider is protecting the trails and environment we love to explore. A sustainable how to change oil can am outlander 850 service is easy to do.

Used motor oil is highly toxic and must never be poured down a drain, onto the ground, or thrown in the trash. A single oil change can contaminate one million gallons of fresh water.

The solution is simple. Pour your used oil from the drain pan into a sealed container, like the empty oil bottles from your new oil. Most auto parts stores (like AutoZone, O’Reilly, or Advance Auto Parts) and many local recycling centers will accept used motor oil and filters for free. This is the core of an eco-friendly how to change oil can am outlander 850 care guide.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Can-Am Outlander 850 Oil Change

What kind of oil does a Can-Am Outlander 850 take?

The Can-Am Outlander 850 requires a 5W-40 4-stroke synthetic oil specifically designed for powersports engines. The manufacturer highly recommends using BRP’s own XPS 5W-40 Synthetic Blend Oil for optimal performance and engine protection.

How much oil does a Can-Am Outlander 850 hold?

The engine oil capacity for the Outlander 850 is approximately 2.1 US quarts (2.0 Liters) when changing the oil and filter. Always start by adding slightly less and use the dipstick to bring it to the perfect level.

How often should I change the oil on my Outlander 850?

Refer to your owner’s manual for the official service interval. As a general rule for most riders, changing the oil every 50 hours of use, 1000 miles, or at least once a year (whichever comes first) is a solid maintenance schedule.

Conclusion: Keep Your Rig Ready for the Trail

Congratulations! You’ve just completed one of the most essential maintenance tasks for your Can-Am Outlander 850. By taking the time to do it yourself, you’ve not only saved money but also gained valuable insight into your machine’s health.

Regular oil changes are the cornerstone of a reliable ATV that’s always ready for the next adventure. Now that you’ve mastered this skill, you can hit the trails with the confidence that your engine is protected and performing at its absolute best.

Stay safe, keep wrenching, and we’ll see you on the trail!

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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.