So, you’re eyeing that sweet Can-Am Maverick X3 or a workhorse Defender, but the brand-new sticker price is making your wallet sweat. We get it. The allure of hitting the trails in a top-tier machine is strong, but so is the desire to not eat ramen for the next year. This is where the world of the used can am side by side opens up a world of opportunity.
You’ve probably heard the horror stories—someone buys a “lightly used” rig only to discover it’s a money pit with a bent frame and a grenaded transmission. That’s a legitimate fear, but it doesn’t have to be your story.
We promise this guide will arm you with the knowledge of a seasoned mechanic. We’re going to walk you through the entire process, from scrolling through listings at home to kicking the tires and getting your hands dirty on an in-person inspection. You’ll learn exactly what to look for, what questions to ask, and how to spot a gem from a polished-up lemon.
Why Buying a Used Can-Am is a Genius Move (If You Do It Right)
Let’s get one thing straight: buying used isn’t about being cheap; it’s about being smart. The benefits of used can am side by side ownership are huge, especially for your bank account.
- Depreciation is Your Friend: The biggest drop in value happens the second a new machine rolls off the showroom floor. The first owner takes that massive financial hit, not you. This means you can often get a two or three-year-old model with low hours for a fraction of the original price.
- More Machine for Your Money: That budget for a base-model new unit might just land you a top-tier used model with all the bells and whistles—winch, upgraded suspension, better tires—already installed and paid for by someone else.
- Proven Platforms: By the time a model has been out for a few years, any common factory issues or quirks are well-documented in forums and owner groups. You know exactly what potential problems to look for.
- A Sustainable Choice: Opting for a sustainable used can am side by side is also an eco-friendly move. You’re extending the life of a perfectly good machine, reducing manufacturing demand and waste. It’s the ultimate form of recycling for off-roaders.
The Ultimate Used Can Am Side by Side Inspection Guide
Alright, time to get down to business. Finding the right machine is a two-phase operation: digital recon and a boots-on-the-ground inspection. Don’t skip either step. This is the core of our used can am side by side guide.
Phase 1: The Online Investigation
Before you even think about driving to see a machine, you need to do your homework. A few hours of research here can save you a wasted trip.
First, narrow down your model. Are you a high-speed desert runner (Maverick)? A trail boss (Commander)? Or a ranch hand who likes to play (Defender)? Each has its own strengths and specific wear points.
Next, scrutinize the online ad. Look for clear, well-lit photos from all angles. An owner who takes pride in their machine will provide good pictures. Be wary of ads with blurry, dark photos or shots that conveniently hide one side of the UTV.
Finally, ask the seller for the VIN (Vehicle Identification Number). Run a VIN check online to look for accident history or theft reports. Ask them directly: “Do you have the title in hand, and is it in your name?” Title issues are a massive red flag. Walk away.
Phase 2: The Hands-On Mechanical Shakedown
This is where you separate the trail warriors from the trailer queens. Bring a good flashlight (a headlamp is even better), some gloves, and this checklist.
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Frame and Chassis Integrity:
Get down on your hands and knees. Inspect the entire frame, especially around the A-arm mounts, shock towers, and trailing arm connections. Look for cracked paint, which can indicate flexing and potential cracks underneath. Check for any non-factory welds or bent tubes. A tweaked frame is a deal-breaker.
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Suspension and Steering Check:
Grab a front tire at the top and bottom and try to wiggle it. Any significant play could mean a bad ball joint or wheel bearing. Do the same for the rear. Push down hard on the suspension at each corner. It should compress smoothly and rebound without bouncing. Look for any oil leaking from the shock shafts—a sign of blown seals.
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Engine and Drivetrain Deep Dive:
Always ask to see the machine cold. A cold start is very telling. Listen for any odd ticks, knocks, or smoke on startup. Check the engine oil dipstick. It should be a normal honey color, not milky (water) or sparkly (metal shavings). Do the same for the front and rear differential fluids if possible. Look for any oil or coolant leaks around the engine and under the machine.
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CVT / Clutch System:
Ask the owner when the CVT belt was last replaced. A worn belt or clutch will cause jerky engagement or slipping under load. If you can, ask to see inside the clutch cover. Look for excessive belt dust or grooves worn into the clutch sheaves.
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Wheels, Tires, and Brakes:
Uneven tire wear can point to alignment issues or a bent suspension component. Check the rims for major dents or cracks. Look at the brake pads and rotors. Are they worn down to the metal? Check the brake fluid reservoir for level and color.
Common Problems with Used Can-Am Side by Sides to Watch For
Every brand has its quirks. Knowing the common problems with used can am side by side models can help you focus your inspection. This isn’t to scare you off, but to make you an informed buyer.
Drivetrain and Clutch Wear
The CVT system is a wear-and-tear item. Hard riding, big tires, and poor maintenance can smoke a belt and damage clutches. Listen for squealing or chirping when taking off, which can signal a worn belt or misaligned clutches. The Smart-Lok front differential on some models is robust, but always test its engagement during the test drive.
Suspension Bushings and Bearings
Can-Ams are built to perform, which means they get ridden hard. A-arm bushings, ball joints, and wheel bearings are the most common wear points. As mentioned in the inspection, any clunking or excessive play in the suspension or wheels means you’ll be spending money on parts like a SuperATV A-Arm Bushing Kit or All Balls Racing Wheel Bearings soon.
Electrical Gremlins
Look carefully at any aftermarket wiring. A poorly installed light bar or stereo can create a nightmare of parasitic drains and shorts. Check that all factory lights, the gauge cluster, and the 4WD switch work correctly. On models with the D.E.S.S. key system, ensure the machine recognizes the key without errors.
The Test Drive: How to Used Can-Am Side by Side Like a Pro
The test drive is non-negotiable. If the seller won’t let you drive it, walk away. This is where you learn how to used can am side by side to reveal its secrets. Follow these used can am side by side best practices for a thorough evaluation.
- Listen Carefully: Pay attention to any new noises. Clicks or pops when turning could be bad CV joints. A humming or grinding that changes with speed could be a bad wheel bearing or differential issue.
- Feel the Ride: Does the machine pull to one side? Is there a vibration in the steering wheel or seat? These can indicate alignment, tire, or driveline problems.
- Test All Systems: Find a safe, open area. Test the acceleration—it should be smooth and responsive. Test the brakes—they should be firm and stop you straight. Most importantly, cycle through 2WD, 4WD, and the differential lock (if equipped). Make sure it engages and, just as importantly, disengages smoothly.
- Get it Warm: Drive it long enough for the engine to reach full operating temperature. Watch the temp gauge. Overheating can signal a bad water pump, clogged radiator, or a failing fan.
Your Post-Purchase: Used Can-Am Side by Side Care Guide
Congratulations, you found a great machine! Now what? Your first weekend should be dedicated to a “baseline” service. This is the foundation of your used can am side by side care guide.
Assume none of the fluids are fresh. Start by changing the engine oil and filter, transmission oil, and both front and rear differential fluids. Use a quality fluid like Amsoil Synthetic UTV/ATV Oil. This gives you a known starting point for your maintenance intervals.
Next, pull the air filter. Clean or replace it. A dirty air filter is a quick way to kill engine performance and longevity. Finally, inspect the CVT belt. Even if it looks good, having a spare on hand is one of the smartest things you can do.
Adopting an eco-friendly used can am side by side mindset means performing regular maintenance to prevent leaks and ensure it runs efficiently. Always dispose of used fluids and parts at a proper recycling facility.
Frequently Asked Questions About Used Can-Am Side by Sides
What are considered high hours/miles on a used Can-Am?
This is subjective and depends heavily on the type of use. 200 hours of easy farm work is very different from 200 hours of mud bogging or racing. Generally, under 100 hours/1,500 miles is considered low. Over 300 hours/5,000 miles is getting up there, and your inspection needs to be extra thorough.
Are a lot of aftermarket parts a bad sign?
Not necessarily, but it requires more scrutiny. Quality upgrades from reputable brands (think SuperATV, HCR, S3 Power Sports) can be a huge plus. However, a machine loaded with cheap, poorly installed accessories can be an electrical and mechanical nightmare. Look at the quality of the installation—is the wiring a rat’s nest? Are the welds clean? This tells you a lot about the previous owner.
How much should I budget for immediate maintenance after buying?
It’s a smart practice to set aside at least $500 to $1,000 right off the bat. This will cover all your baseline fluid changes, a new air filter, a spare CVT belt, and potentially a set of wheel bearings or bushings that you discovered were worn during your inspection. Factoring this into your total cost helps you make a smarter offer.
Buying a used Can-Am doesn’t have to be a gamble. By going in with a plan, a sharp eye, and the knowledge from this guide, you can confidently sort the great deals from the great disasters. You’re not just buying a machine; you’re buying access to adventure, and doing your homework ensures those adventures are fun, not frustrating.
Now you’ve got the checklist. Go find that perfect rig, get your hands dirty with that first service, and we’ll see you out on the trails. Stay safe and ride hard!
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