The Can-Am Outlander 700 is a versatile mid-size all-terrain vehicle built by BRP (Bombardier Recreational Products) that bridges the gap between smaller recreational ATVs and heavy-duty utility models. Whether you’re considering one for trail riding, farm work, hunting, or general property maintenance, understanding its capabilities, maintenance needs, and ownership considerations will help you decide if this model fits your requirements.
This guide covers what makes the Outlander 700 distinct, what to expect from performance and reliability, common maintenance and repair issues, buying considerations for used models, and how it compares to competing ATVs in the same class.
What Is the Can-Am Outlander 700 and What Makes It Popular?
The Can-Am Outlander 700 is a four-wheel-drive ATV equipped with a 686cc V-twin engine producing approximately 62 horsepower, offering a balance of power for recreational riding and enough capability for light-to-moderate utility work. It features independent suspension, selectable drive modes, and a towing capacity around 1,300 pounds, making it suitable for riders who need more than entry-level performance but don’t require the largest displacement engines.
Engine and Performance Characteristics
The Outlander 700 uses a liquid-cooled Rotax 686cc V-twin engine with electronic fuel injection. This engine design provides smooth power delivery across the RPM range and better fuel efficiency compared to older carbureted models.
Peak torque arrives low in the rev range, which helps when climbing steep terrain, pulling loads, or navigating mud and rocks. The CVT (continuously variable transmission) allows the engine to stay in its optimal power band without manual shifting, though belt maintenance becomes a regular ownership consideration.
Drivetrain and Traction Control
Most Outlander 700 models include Visco-Lok front differential, a system that automatically engages front-wheel drive when rear wheel slip is detected. You can also select two-wheel drive for lighter riding conditions to reduce drivetrain wear and improve fuel economy.
Higher trim levels may include Smart-Lok, which allows you to choose between full-time two-wheel drive, limited front engagement, or full-time four-wheel drive. This flexibility is useful when you move between hard-packed trails and soft or slippery terrain throughout a single ride.
Suspension and Ground Clearance
The Outlander 700 features double A-arm front suspension and a Torsional Trailing-arm Independent (TTI) rear suspension system. Travel ranges from approximately 8 to 9 inches depending on the model year and trim, which provides a comfortable ride over moderate obstacles.
Ground clearance typically sits around 10.5 to 11 inches, adequate for trail riding and light off-road work but not designed for extreme rock crawling. If you frequently cross deep ruts or tall obstacles, consider a lift kit or a model with factory-installed high-clearance suspension.
Common Maintenance Needs and Service Intervals
Regular maintenance on the Outlander 700 follows a schedule based on engine hours or miles, whichever comes first. Consult your owner’s manual for the exact intervals specific to your model year, as BRP has updated recommendations over the production run.
Oil and Filter Changes
Engine oil and filter changes are typically due every 100 hours or annually. Use the oil viscosity and specification listed in your owner’s manual, as incorrect oil can affect clutch performance in wet-clutch CVT systems.
Check the oil level before each ride using the dipstick or sight glass. Low oil can result from consumption, leaks at the valve cover gasket, or a damaged oil cooler line.
CVT Belt Inspection and Replacement
The CVT belt should be inspected every 50 hours or 500 miles and replaced when you notice cracks, fraying, glazing, or a reduction in width beyond the minimum specification. Belt life varies significantly based on riding style, load, terrain, and whether the machine frequently operates in dusty conditions.
Aggressive acceleration, high-speed riding in mud, and frequent heavy towing all shorten belt life. Clean the CVT cover and intake regularly to prevent dust from entering the clutch system, which accelerates wear.
Air Filter and Pre-Filter Care
Inspect and clean the foam pre-filter after every ride in dusty or muddy conditions and the main air filter every 25 hours. A clogged air filter reduces power, increases fuel consumption, and can allow dirt into the engine if the filter element tears.
Use the type of air filter oil specified by BRP and allow the foam to dry completely before reinstalling. Over-oiling can cause the oil to be drawn into the intake and foul the throttle body or sensors.
Differential and Transmission Fluid
Front and rear differential oil, as well as transmission fluid, require periodic replacement. Typical intervals range from 200 to 1,000 hours depending on use, but you should change these fluids sooner if you frequently ride through deep water.
Water contamination turns gear oil milky or cloudy. If you notice this during inspection, drain and replace the fluid immediately to prevent gear and bearing damage.
Brake System Maintenance
Inspect brake pads for thickness and the brake fluid reservoir for proper level every 50 hours. Replace pads when thickness falls below the minimum specification in your service manual, typically around 1 mm.
Brake fluid should be replaced every two years regardless of mileage to prevent moisture absorption, which lowers the boiling point and can lead to brake fade. Use only DOT 4 brake fluid or the specification listed in your owner’s manual.
Common Problems and Troubleshooting
While the Outlander 700 is generally reliable when maintained, several known issues appear across various model years. Understanding these helps with diagnosis and prevents minor problems from becoming expensive repairs.
Engine Overheating
Overheating can result from a clogged radiator, low coolant, a failing water pump, or prolonged low-speed operation in high ambient temperatures. Clean the radiator and screen regularly, especially after riding in mud or dusty conditions.
If the temperature warning light comes on, stop riding immediately and allow the engine to cool. Check the coolant level when the engine is cold and inspect for leaks at hoses, the water pump weep hole, and the radiator cap.
Electrical and Battery Issues
Battery drain when the ATV sits unused, especially in cold weather, is common. A parasitic draw from accessories, a failing voltage regulator, or a weak battery can cause hard starting.
Test the battery voltage with a multimeter; a fully charged battery reads around 12.6 to 12.8 volts. If voltage drops below 12.4 volts after sitting overnight with no accessories running, test for parasitic draw or replace the battery.
CVT Belt Slipping or Burning
Belt slipping occurs when the belt glazes, the clutches wear, or debris enters the CVT system. Symptoms include a burning rubber smell, reduced acceleration, and higher-than-normal engine RPM without a corresponding increase in speed.
Remove the CVT cover and inspect the belt for glazing, the primary and secondary clutches for wear, and the sheaves for scoring. Replace the belt and clean the clutch components with isopropyl alcohol or a dedicated CVT cleaner.
Fuel Pump and Injector Problems
A failing fuel pump or clogged fuel filter can cause poor starting, rough idle, or power loss at high RPM. Listen for the fuel pump priming when you turn the key to the on position; you should hear a brief whirring sound.
If the pump does not prime, check the fuse, relay, and wiring before replacing the pump. Fuel injectors can become clogged if the ATV sits with fuel in the tank for extended periods, especially with ethanol-blended gasoline.
Buying a Used Can-Am Outlander 700
The Outlander 700 was produced across multiple model years with various updates and trim levels. When evaluating a used unit, verify the model year, trim, and any factory options to understand what features and specifications apply.
What to Inspect Before Purchase
- Engine condition: Check for oil leaks, coolant leaks, unusual noises, and smooth idle. A compression test can reveal internal wear if the machine has high hours.
- CVT belt and clutches: Remove the CVT cover if possible and inspect belt condition and clutch wear. Replacing a belt is inexpensive, but worn clutches are costly.
- Suspension bushings and ball joints: Lift the front wheels and check for play in the A-arms and tie rods. Worn bushings cause clunking and poor handling.
- Frame and plastics: Look for cracks in the frame, bent A-arms, or damaged skid plates that indicate hard use or crashes.
- Electrical system: Test all lights, the winch if equipped, the instrument cluster, and the electric start. Corroded connections are common on ATVs used in wet conditions.
- Tires and brakes: Check tire tread depth and brake pad thickness. Replacing tires is a significant expense.
Service History and Usage
Ask the seller for maintenance records, including oil changes, belt replacements, and differential fluid changes. An ATV used primarily on trails typically experiences less wear than one used for heavy hauling or farm work.
High-hour machines are not necessarily bad buys if they have been maintained, but budget for additional maintenance and potential part replacement. Low-hour machines that sat unused for long periods may have fuel system issues, dried seals, or battery problems.
Model Year and Trim Differences
Can-Am has updated the Outlander 700 across production years with changes to suspension, instrumentation, drivetrain options, and accessories. Verify which features are present on the specific unit you’re considering rather than assuming all 700 models are identical.
XT and XMR trim levels typically include upgraded suspension, larger tires, better brakes, and additional accessories. These trims command higher resale prices but offer better capability for demanding use.
Modifications and Accessories
Common upgrades for the Outlander 700 include winches, cargo racks, skid plates, hand guards, and aftermarket exhaust systems. When evaluating a used ATV with modifications, ensure the work was done correctly and does not void any remaining warranty coverage.
Winch Installation Considerations
A winch is useful for self-recovery and moving obstacles, but it adds electrical load to the charging system. Verify that the winch is wired correctly with proper fusing and that the battery and alternator can handle the additional draw.
Poorly installed winches can cause electrical fires, battery drain, or interference with engine sensors. Test the winch under load and inspect the wiring for secure connections and proper routing away from hot or moving components.
Tire Upgrades and Gearing
Larger or more aggressive tires improve traction and ground clearance but increase unsprung weight, strain the drivetrain, and can affect speedometer accuracy. If the previous owner installed oversized tires, check for premature wear on CV joints, ball joints, and wheel bearings.
Some riders install gear reduction kits to compensate for larger tires, which restores low-end torque but reduces top speed. Consult your owner’s manual or a qualified ATV technician to determine appropriate tire sizes and whether gearing changes are necessary.
Operating and Safety Considerations
The Outlander 700 is a powerful machine that requires proper safety equipment and operating knowledge. Always wear a DOT-approved helmet, eye protection, gloves, long sleeves, long pants, and over-the-ankle boots.
Never carry a passenger unless the ATV is designed and equipped for two riders with footrests, handholds, and a rated capacity for the additional weight. Check the vehicle capacity plate and owner’s manual for passenger restrictions specific to your model.
Loading and Towing Limits
The Outlander 700 typically has a rear cargo rack capacity around 200 pounds and a towing capacity near 1,300 pounds when properly equipped with a hitch. Do not exceed these limits, as overloading strains the frame, suspension, brakes, and drivetrain.
When towing, use a trailer with brakes if required by local law and ensure the load is balanced and secured. Towing heavy loads increases stopping distance and affects handling, especially on slopes and in turns.
Riding in Water and Mud
The Outlander 700 can handle shallow water crossings, but submerging the engine intake or exhaust can cause severe damage. Know the location of your air intake and avoid water deeper than the recommended maximum depth in your owner’s manual.
After riding through water, check all fluids for contamination, inspect brakes for reduced effectiveness, and dry electrical connections. Water in the CVT system accelerates belt wear and can cause slipping.
Comparing the Outlander 700 to Competitors
The Outlander 700 competes with models like the Polaris Sportsman 570, Honda FourTrax Rancher, Yamaha Grizzly 700, and Kawasaki Brute Force 650. Each offers different strengths in power, suspension, reliability, and price.
Advantages of the Outlander 700
The Outlander 700 provides strong mid-range power, a comfortable ride, and versatile drivetrain options. The independent rear suspension offers better wheel articulation than solid-axle designs, improving traction on uneven terrain.
Can-Am’s build quality and fit-and-finish are generally strong, and the availability of accessories and trim levels allows you to choose a configuration that matches your needs. The CVT system is smooth and requires no shifting, which simplifies operation.
Potential Drawbacks
CVT belts require more frequent replacement than automatic transmissions on some competitors, adding to long-term ownership costs. Parts and service may be less accessible in rural areas compared to brands with more extensive dealer networks.
Some riders report higher fuel consumption compared to single-cylinder competitors, though the V-twin engine delivers smoother power. Resale value varies by region and model year, so research local market conditions before purchasing.
Cost of Ownership
Ownership costs include insurance, storage, fuel, routine maintenance, parts replacement, registration, and repairs. These vary significantly based on how you use the ATV, how many hours you ride per year, and whether you perform your own maintenance.
Routine Maintenance Budget
Budget for annual oil changes, air filter cleaning or replacement, CVT belt replacement every 1,000 to 2,000 miles depending on use, and brake pad replacement every few years. Differential and transmission fluid changes add to the cost every few seasons.
If you take the ATV to a dealer or shop for service, labor costs can exceed parts costs for routine maintenance. Learning to perform basic tasks yourself reduces expenses but requires tools, a service manual, and mechanical aptitude.
Insurance and Registration
ATV insurance is often required for off-road trail permits and may be mandatory depending on where you operate the machine. Rates depend on coverage levels, your location, age, riding experience, and the value of the ATV.
Check with your state or provincial motor vehicle agency for registration requirements, fees, and whether off-road vehicles need titles or permits for legal operation on trails or public land.
Is the Can-Am Outlander 700 Right for You?
The Outlander 700 suits riders who want a versatile mid-size ATV capable of trail riding, light utility work, and recreational use without the cost and weight of larger displacement models. It offers enough power for most tasks, a comfortable ride, and good build quality when maintained properly.
If you primarily need an ATV for heavy hauling, plowing, or extreme conditions, a larger model like the Outlander 850 or 1000 may be more appropriate. For lighter recreational use or tighter budgets, a smaller engine like the Outlander 570 provides adequate performance at lower cost.
Before purchasing new or used, clarify your intended use, budget for total ownership costs, and test ride the Outlander 700 alongside competitors to ensure it meets your expectations for power, comfort, and handling. Verify all specifications, features, and maintenance requirements with the manufacturer, dealer, or owner’s manual for the specific model year and trim you are considering.
Whether you’re navigating technical trails, managing property, or enjoying weekend rides, the Outlander 700 delivers a practical balance of capability and everyday usability that has made it a popular choice in the mid-size ATV category.