The Top 10 Questions to Ask Your Used Can-Am Dealer Before Buying

Whether it's for scouting the off-road wilderness, tracking big game in the woods, or enjoying an exhilarating trail excursion with your posse, you've decided to take the plunge and purchase your ideal Can-Am, or side by side (SXS) vehicle.

One big issue: the price. Recent costs of new models with the latest gear have a median range of $15,000, which may quench your desire. So consider a used SXS from a reputable Can-Am dealer.

You won't have to absorb the depreciation of a brand-new vehicle the minute you take it off the lot, and there are deals to be had if you know what you are looking for, where to look, and what to ask.

Here are 10 questions you must pursue with any dealer before locking into a purchase. 

1. What Can-Am Brands Are in Stock?

Seasoned dealerships will carry the industry-standard models for new and used Can-Ams. Kawasaki, Can-Am, Polaris, and Yamaha are but a few of the best brands available, and all have product websites.

Do your research online, checking reviews and prices for the brand(s) you like best, and then contact a dealer who is both familiar with your choice and has a good selection of that brand in their showroom.   

2. Any Sale/Clearance/Demo Models?

Due to the increasing popularity of Can-Ams, enthusiasts are trading in their used models for the latest ones.

Check the dealer's website to see if they list any clearance vehicles, or simply ask to see these first when you arrive. There could be a new or even a floor model that might be a better deal, so it's worth pursuing.   

3. Can I Inspect/Test Drive the Vehicle?

A test drive is a must for any vehicle purchase, and your dealer will be expecting you to ask for this opportunity.

When driving the vehicle, pay attention to the handling, test all gears for smoothness, and check that all on-board controls are working properly. 

Before and after your test drive, check the oil, gasoline, and coolant levels to make sure they are adequate. And if you smell anything rancid in these fluids, mention this to the dealer.

Don't forget to do a complete inspection of any Can-Am you consider, looking for dings, dents, or rust, and tears or cracks in the axles, CV boots, and tires. A discount might be offered for cosmetic or other minor flaws.

4. What Extra Features and Equipment Are Included?

You'll want to know the seating, towing, storage, and fuel capacity of your Can-Am, as well as the included instrumentation. 

Other must-haves on your list: multiple cargo-boxes, a dash-controlled winch kit, bed rails, and mudguards. Be mindful of overly-tricked-out models, as their price may reflect unnecessary features for your needs and budget. 

5. What Is the Vehicle/Service History?

This is one of the most crucial areas of inquiry when looking at any used vehicle.

Check the odometer, learn the age of the vehicle, and ask if the dealer has done any routine or atypical maintenance on it themselves, as that may stifle some future cost to you. Find out how many previous owners the vehicle had, and why the last owner sold so you can sniff out any possible problems with the vehicle itself.

6. What Are My Financing Options?

If you can afford to pay cash upfront, ask the dealer for a cash payment discount. Many will comply, since a cash transaction is simpler, with less paperwork.  

If you're not able to make a cash purchase, ask the dealer about in-house financing options, and if they offer any financing incentives, such as delayed interest payments or rebates. Financing through the dealer is often faster and easier than through a traditional lender, such as a bank or credit union. And many lenders will offer service and parts as part of your monthly payment.  

7. What Is My Trade-In Value?

If you have a previous Can-Am for trade-in purposes, check its Kelly Blue Book value and know upfront if your dealer will accept a trade-in and at what value. Doing preliminary research on your vehicle's value is a must-do prior to negotiating a price. 

8. What Are the Warranty Terms?

Ask if the vehicle is under an existing warranty. Many Can-Am manufacturers only offer a one-year, but Kawasaki offers a standard 3- year warranty, currently the best in the industry.

Extended warranties can be expensive, so if you decide to include such coverage, negotiate that cost into a reasonable final purchase price with your Can-Am dealer.

9. Who Will Service My Can-Am?

Future service of your pre-owned SXS will be part of your ongoing relationship with your dealer, as you don't want any unexpected problems or repairs to put a long-term or full stop on your fun. 

Service departments with technicians who are intimately familiar with the major Can-Am brands should be a part of any respectable dealership, as well as a fully-stocked parts department.  

10.  Who Do I Contact With Questions After the Sale?

An experienced and helpful dealership will not forget you after the sale is made.

Especially if you are new to the Can-Am lifestyle, do not hesitate to ask questions after the purchase. After all, your dealer will want your complete satisfaction so you, your family, and friends will come back for an upgrade or another purchase!  

Things to Note Before You Visit Your Can-Am Dealer

When purchasing a used UTV, you need to do some comparative research, and the best place to start is with the website of a reputable Can-Am dealer. 

Some of the questions above can be answered with a simple web search, but make sure to pose them again when face-to-face with the dealer. If that dealer does not give you the time for an extended visit or is evasive with their answers, find the door. 

Stick with a dealer that will form a long-term understanding with you, their customer, and will be committed to helping find the Can-Am that not only fits your style and specs but also turns you into a power sports enthusiast for life!

Take a moment now to browse our site and view our extensive inventory.