How to Maintain Your Can-Am Maverick for Peak Performance

Oct. 10 2024 Maintenance By Escondido Cycle Center

The Can-Am Maverick is designed for rugged terrain and extreme off-road adventures, but like any high-performance vehicle, it requires regular maintenance to keep it running smoothly. Proper care ensures that your Maverick delivers peak performance and extends the life of its components. In this guide, we'll explore the essential steps to maintain your Can-Am Maverick and ensure it's ready for any adventure.

1. Regular Engine Maintenance

Check and Change the Engine Oil

The engine oil is the lifeblood of your Can-Am Maverick's engine. Regular oil checks and changes are crucial to keep the engine running smoothly and prevent wear.

Frequency: Check the oil level before every ride and change the oil every 50-100 hours of operation, depending on how hard you use the vehicle.
How to Do It: Drain the old oil, replace the oil filter, and refill with the recommended oil grade for your Maverick.

Inspect and Replace the Air Filter

The air filter keeps dirt, dust, and debris from entering the engine, which is especially important for off-road driving.

Frequency: Check the air filter after every off-road adventure, especially in dusty environments.
How to Do It: Clean or replace the air filter when it becomes dirty or clogged.

2. Tire Maintenance

Your Can-Am Maverick’s tires take the brunt of off-road terrain, so keeping them in good shape is essential for both safety and performance.

Check Tire Pressure

Proper tire pressure ensures better handling, fuel efficiency, and longer tire life.

Frequency: Check tire pressure before every ride.
Optimal PSI: Refer to the owner's manual for the recommended PSI for your specific Maverick model.

Inspect Tire Tread and Condition

Off-roading can wear down your tires quickly, so check for signs of wear, punctures, or cuts that could lead to a blowout.

When to Replace: Replace tires when the tread depth reaches 2/32 of an inch or if there’s visible damage.

3. Suspension Care

The suspension system is vital for absorbing shocks from rough terrain, ensuring a smooth ride and protecting your vehicle from damage.

Check Suspension Components

Inspect shocks, bushings, and other suspension components regularly for wear and damage.

Frequency: Inspect after every few rides, especially if you've tackled rough trails.
What to Look For: Look for leaks, bent parts, or worn-out bushings, and replace as necessary.

Grease Suspension Components

Greasing the suspension components helps them move smoothly and reduces wear.

Frequency: Grease suspension joints and bushings every 1,000 miles or sooner if you ride in wet or muddy conditions.

4. Brake System Maintenance

The brake system is critical for safety, especially when riding on steep or rocky terrain.

Inspect Brake Pads

Worn brake pads reduce stopping power and increase the risk of accidents.

Frequency: Check brake pads every few months or after hard riding sessions.
When to Replace: Replace brake pads if the thickness is less than 1/8 inch or if you hear squealing sounds.

Check Brake Fluid Levels

Low brake fluid can lead to poor braking performance, so it's important to maintain proper fluid levels.

Frequency: Check brake fluid levels monthly.
How to Do It: Top off brake fluid with the manufacturer-recommended type if it's low, and replace every two years.

5. Drivetrain and Transmission Care

The drivetrain and transmission are critical components of your Can-Am Maverick, responsible for transferring power from the engine to the wheels.

Inspect the Drive Belt

The drive belt is essential for delivering power to your wheels. A worn or damaged belt can lead to poor performance and even breakdowns.

Frequency: Inspect the drive belt every 1,000 miles or after heavy use.
When to Replace: Replace the belt if it's frayed, cracked, or showing signs of wear.

Check and Change Transmission Fluid

Transmission fluid keeps the transmission running smoothly and prevents wear.

Frequency: Change transmission fluid every 1,500 miles or as recommended in the owner’s manual.
How to Do It: Drain the old fluid, replace the filter, and refill with the manufacturer-recommended fluid.

6. Electrical System and Battery Maintenance

Your Can-Am Maverick’s electrical system powers everything from the headlights to the ignition, so keeping it in good shape is important.

Inspect the Battery

Off-roading vibrations and exposure to the elements can affect battery life.

Frequency: Check battery terminals for corrosion and ensure the battery is properly secured before every ride.
When to Replace: Replace the battery every 3-5 years or if it shows signs of weakness.

Check the Wiring

Loose or damaged wires can lead to electrical failures, so check for any visible damage.

Frequency: Inspect the wiring every few months or after intense rides.
How to Do It: Tighten any loose connections and replace any frayed or damaged wires.

7. Clean Your Can-Am Maverick Regularly

Cleaning your Can-Am Maverick after every ride is one of the simplest yet most effective ways to maintain it. Dirt, mud, and debris can cause long-term damage if left unchecked.

Wash the Exterior

A clean exterior helps prevent rust and keeps moving parts from getting jammed with dirt.

Frequency: Wash your Maverick after every ride, especially after riding in muddy or wet conditions.
How to Do It: Use a hose and mild detergent to wash the body, wheels, and undercarriage. Avoid using high-pressure washers on sensitive areas like the engine.

Clean the Radiator and Vents

Off-roading can clog your radiator and vents with dirt and mud, leading to overheating.

Frequency: Clean the radiator and vents after every muddy or dusty ride.
How to Do It: Use a soft brush or compressed air to clear out debris from the radiator and cooling vents.

8. Store Your Can-Am Maverick Properly

When not in use, proper storage of your Can-Am Maverick can prevent issues such as rust, battery drain, and tire flat spots.

Keep It in a Covered Space

Store your Maverick in a garage or covered area to protect it from the elements.

Use a Battery Tender

If you plan on storing your Maverick for an extended period, connect the battery to a tender to prevent it from draining.

Lift the Vehicle

If possible, elevate the Maverick or its tires to prevent flat spots from developing on the tires during long-term storage.

Conclusion

By following these maintenance tips, you can ensure that your Can-Am Maverick delivers top performance every time you hit the trails. Regular checks, proper cleaning, and timely replacements of parts are key to keeping your UTV in peak condition. Whether you're an off-road veteran or new to the world of UTVs, maintaining your Maverick is essential to enjoying years of thrilling adventures.

At Team ECC, we offer expert advice, services, and parts for your Can-Am Maverick to help you keep it running smoothly. Contact us today for more information or to schedule a maintenance check.