Just bought a CanAm Defender LoneStar and with 2 year extended warranty and all the accessories I’ve added I’m just south of 45K invested. I agree with the thing you pointed out plus no dome light when u open the doors like Polaris North Star, no external antenna to pick up radio stations, and after the first rain the push out windshield does not seal properly at the top and leaks. Hopefully dealership has corrected with a bandaid fix but it is an engineering issue as frame is not straight all the way across. All in all I like the machine but a little disappointed at some of this for the money I have put into it. Great video
If everything works out, I’m picking up a 23 Lonestar Friday so I’ll have a video on it in comparison. My buddy has a 23 limited. Also I’m going to try and get with him for comparison. Thank you for the info and checking out the channel.
I have the '21 model and was going to upgrade because of the new doors but when I saw no locks I decided to hold onto my 21 for now. I hunt with it and leave plenty of valuables in the machine and I want to be able to lock it. Good video!
Hey yeff2. Great platform. I have the hd10 with 8 thousand on it. KEEP IT. Evey year they will change things up a little. But if it works stay with it. This machine is a game changer. I live in New mexico. Wr are able to use these buggies on the road. The hunting scene makes a big difference in staying out of gg the weather. The things I would do to keep your machine in goof shap to come is . Stay on top of the maintenance! I can't stress that enough. Especially the suspension bushings. That is a week spot for sure. Also learn how to aline your machine. This will save you tires from scrubbing. Good luck and spend some time in the garage taking care of her. She takes care of out on the trail.
I have a 2019 3 seater that I use to hunt with. Is only a DPS model so all my accessories I purchased after the fact (sport roof and winch were put on at the dealer when I picked it up) I’m kinda confused about your comment on the winch cable. Your package must come with a winch because I know can am offers a slightly higher rated one with a synthetic line. I went and bought the same one as you as an extra. I don’t mind the steel cable but if I ever kink it I’ll upgrade to synthetic and change the fairlead. I added the base model bumper and a 12” LED light bar. I also upgraded the low beams only to LED bulbs. Works real well and if I had done that first I would have NOT used a light bar. My biggest complaint other than the ones you listed are the differential drain plugs. They are too damn small. Real easy to strip.
Agree with winch rope. Had to unreel and reel cable back in when new. Oil filter is something you just have to deal with. Don't have full cab w/heat and a/c so can't comment. Other stuff you should have checked before buying. Big problem I had was having to buy (front&rear glass) and other small stuff that should have come with it. BTW I have '22 defender hd10 max lonestar
I have the same unit, in a 3 seater. I agree with your thoughts. I just finished mounting the boss v plow on it for the winter, and posted a quick video. I did add heavier shocks due to the plow weight, and to reduce the body roll some. Nice rig.
@@americandream_89 I had it on my ranger for the last 5-6 years, and it's a tank. Just take your time, and add some ballast in the back, and they are phenomenal. Check out that video, 375k views, of me pushing snow...ha. Now I will have heat this year, for the first time . I will be posting a video of the can am pushing, once winter hits. I added lights to the brush guard to help with visibility.
@@americandream_89 I'm forgot I logged in under my other profile. Go to Polaris ranger boss v plow. The profile I uploaded the videos under is my MacGyver515 profile. Sorry
Door locks are not a big deal for me. Only keeps honest people out. I use a heavy duty storage box bolted to the machine with a quality lock. It’s only a deterrent anyway. I agree the oil change is a pain. I have serviced my 2017 commander since new. Still annoys me and it’s a better set up than the defender. The easiest machine that I ever serviced was my 2012 rzr xp 900. They all have their good and bad points I guess. Great machine you have there. I may upgrade to a defender in a couple more years.
I have a 2021 with almost 8 thousand on it. I can pick this thing apart also. Everything i don't like . Even the oil change. I purchased through my dealer , life time oil change. I've had minor issues with my machine . But the platform is soiled except the front A are bushings. Again all upgradeable. I plane on having mine , till the dealership run out oil. But your right.That oil change thing is BS.
My thoughts on owning a 2022-1/2 Defender HP10 Limited 6x6- The doors rattle horribly on any rough terrain. They are adjustable but are tightened down so much, the peg wants to flex, as Im trying to break the bolt loose. The tires have already been punctured (25 miles). Thankfully Ive plugged enough tires but those large gaps in between the lugs are a disaster for the rocks out in western Arkansas. Saw the 23' gets better looking 30" tires- wished Id waited. The location of the transmission intake is also bad. Sucks in a lot of dust. Thought about getting the interior kit, that's required for tracks but heard its really loud and Im not sure if it works with the enclosed interiors. Lastly while I get its a utility machine (mine is for our farm) but hell my enclosed tractors have a stereo and two speakers included. Ive found a DIY work around on a forum to add a Fusion MS-RA60 Bluetooth receiver and a pair of 5-1/4" speakers (placed into the front plastics above the windshield. Just think that's petty to not have that included. So far Ive swapped the winch to synthetic line (totally agree with you and Ive seen enough steel cables snap, to not want that energy slamming into my rig. Added the same LED bulbs as you. Work fantastic. Also added some inexpensive Niilight 12' bar light and some 4' pods. Adds enough for night riding on our property. Need to add some for reversing but waiting to see If ill buy Can Ams Headache rack or build my own. Lastly- added the pre filter to the intake, due to the amount of dust we get here in Arkansas. Overall its a solid machine that could be better, but so far its moved a couple tons of rip rap rock and other heavy items, that have really made having the 4' x 6' bed worth it. Keep up the great videos!
Glad to hear other people thoughts. Hopefully Can-am is taking noting. I’d love to test a 6x6. Currently I’m buying everything I’m reviewing and haven’t a need for a 6x6. So I’ll wait until they let me test or someone I know gets one. Congrats on the defender buddy
We are all saying the same thing, sometimes I just don't get it. I bought the 2021 Defender XMR because of the front and rear lockers, higher winch mount, synthetic rope, heavy duty arched A arms, 15" ground clearance. I am slowly building the cab. The only thing I won't have is air conditioning, but it's a trade off to have a more capable off road package. I definitely think they could do a better job of standardizing these options across the board. Also, Can Am get rid of your commodity surcharge, it is BS and not cool. Just tell us what the fricken price is instead of luring people and building up the price in the sales office. The price on the website should be the price plus applicable taxes!!!!!
If I was to do anything I’d get a limited and install a halo locker. I couldn’t lose the AC in Kentucky but I hear ya. They really need to just make smart lock standard. Also go to a video I have about (watch this before buying from your dealer). Many dealers are the ones screwing people over. I’ve only paid MSRP on all my units.
I put a Mr. RPM remote oil filter kit on. Very easy to install with two 2’ oil lines with swivels on each end. Has a Baldwin filter on it. Literally takes 15 minutes to change oil now.
@@americandream_89 I mounted mine to the left under the bed. On the drivers side just outside of engine compartment. I give you pictures but a guy come up and offered me $36,000 for it. And it was sold bought a used 2 door limited for now till the new crew comes in.
Just bought a 23 defender max from a 19 Polaris crew. The space to slide on the back seat is narrower than the Polaris. Not thrilled about that but it’s not the end of the world
Just bought the exact model and discovered no door locks! 😮 I’m totally “floored” why Can Am decided to leave that off. Have you found an aftermarket solve?
I use my Defender for work and agree with every item stated in this video. I would like to add that the tailgate is also a poor design that is not very rugged. I am hoping an aftermarket company will come up with an oil filter relocation kit.
I have a Defender Pro... you left out the winch clutch knob is on the wrong side 😆. Entirely agree about the LED and winch cable, haven't made it to an oil change yet, but it looks like it'll suck.
@@americandream_89 I'm liking the Pro a lot for working around the property. For going fast/playing I have a RR Maverick. I don't know that it'll be easier, the Pro is just a Defender Max with a longer bed and a tunnel where the footboards would be on the Max... that panel is inside the tunnel, which is why I figure it'll be tougher.
I went for the open cab on the Defender Pro, we use it a lot for spot spraying and other work where I thought the cab would get in the way. I’ve gotta get my Maverick back together, having both seems like a lot of fun! The Maverick has some work done to it, injectors, tune, burns av gas. I bought an LT70 Super/EG200 from a guy in Campbellsville back in March, didn’t realize you were so close!
From my reading on the net. Everyone says it’s possible but super expensive because you need a different ecu. As in one from a xmr defender. Everyone I know buys a halo locker. halo-performance.com/product/x3-and-defender-locker-kit/
Agree with everything you said. I would only add one thing....tires! The stock tires on the limited are garbage. The trail force seem like an after thought. I am now upgrading my stock tires to blackwater evo. Disappointing after spending $35k on my machine.
@@americandream_89 Dang it looks great, thanks for the timely response. I have an HD10 XT arriving in a few months and am wondering what (if anything) should be added to it.
@@americandream_89 I’m snagging a light bar for the front and rear (large front short back). You think that will be enough considering the halogens that come stock?
@@KrcIIXpalm rear light bar would help a ton. I’ve never needed one in the front with the LED upgrade. Get a front and rear glass windshield to. It will cut your dust down. Glass is expensive but it’s the only one that last.
Is the Polaris ultimate easier to change the oil in, compared to the limited. Did they ever change the hvac system screen in the 2023 limited or is it still an afterthought? Thanks buddy.
Polaris is much easier maintenance by a long shot. The defender on 23 still has the digital display that seems odd but works fine. I think both the defender and northstar will get power upgrades in 24-25 year
@@americandream_89 yes. Silver lake sand dunes in Hart Michigan. It’s 2000 acres of sand dunes right on Lake Michigan. We’d always take our lunch and chill there. Thanks for watching. What did you think?
@@ethanh9535 looks like a fun place. I’ve never been to the dunes. Never had a machine that seemed sand worthy. Will you be taking your defender there?
Anything else to complain about? Why did you buy it? Did you NOT research these things before your purchase? Oh, you pricked your finger on a steel winch rope? Did you also receive a paper cut while you were signing the paperwork? I’m amazed at your level of complaints about a machine you purchased!
Just bought a CanAm Defender LoneStar and with 2 year extended warranty and all the accessories I’ve added I’m just south of 45K invested. I agree with the thing you pointed out plus no dome light when u open the doors like Polaris North Star, no external antenna to pick up radio stations, and after the first rain the push out windshield does not seal properly at the top and leaks. Hopefully dealership has corrected with a bandaid fix but it is an engineering issue as frame is not straight all the way across. All in all I like the machine but a little disappointed at some of this for the money I have put into it. Great video
If everything works out, I’m picking up a 23 Lonestar Friday so I’ll have a video on it in comparison. My buddy has a 23 limited. Also I’m going to try and get with him for comparison. Thank you for the info and checking out the channel.
I have the '21 model and was going to upgrade because of the new doors but when I saw no locks I decided to hold onto my 21 for now. I hunt with it and leave plenty of valuables in the machine and I want to be able to lock it. Good video!
Heard that! I miss the locks. Complete goof by Can-am.
Thanks buddy
@@americandream_89did they add them back for 2023 or does canam still have their head up their ass lol
Hey yeff2. Great platform. I have the hd10 with 8 thousand on it. KEEP IT. Evey year they will change things up a little. But if it works stay with it. This machine is a game changer. I live in New mexico. Wr are able to use these buggies on the road. The hunting scene makes a big difference in staying out of gg the weather.
The things I would do to keep your machine in goof shap to come is . Stay on top of the maintenance! I can't stress that enough. Especially the suspension bushings. That is a week spot for sure. Also learn how to aline your machine. This will save you tires from scrubbing. Good luck and spend some time in the garage taking care of her. She takes care of out on the trail.
You are spot on with your list. Love your little dude.
Thanks a million buddy my son loves helping.
Agree with everything you said. Yet, I still ordered a 2023 because the rest of the machine is so good.
You will love it. Just want to give people information openly.
I have a 2019 3 seater that I use to hunt with. Is only a DPS model so all my accessories I purchased after the fact (sport roof and winch were put on at the dealer when I picked it up) I’m kinda confused about your comment on the winch cable. Your package must come with a winch because I know can am offers a slightly higher rated one with a synthetic line. I went and bought the same one as you as an extra. I don’t mind the steel cable but if I ever kink it I’ll upgrade to synthetic and change the fairlead.
I added the base model bumper and a 12” LED light bar. I also upgraded the low beams only to LED bulbs. Works real well and if I had done that first I would have NOT used a light bar.
My biggest complaint other than the ones you listed are the differential drain plugs. They are too damn small. Real easy to strip.
The limited come with that winch. I prefer the synthetic rope much more. Yeah the diff fill and drain plug is tight. I use a flex tube to fill
Agree with winch rope. Had to unreel and reel cable back in when new. Oil filter is something you just have to deal with. Don't have full cab w/heat and a/c so can't comment. Other stuff you should have checked before buying. Big problem I had was having to buy (front&rear glass) and other small stuff that should have come with it. BTW I have '22 defender hd10 max lonestar
Nice 👍 we have had several of these units. We really like the cab. All companies will leave some room for improvement. You satisfied with your unit?
I have the same unit, in a 3 seater. I agree with your thoughts. I just finished mounting the boss v plow on it for the winter, and posted a quick video. I did add heavier shocks due to the plow weight, and to reduce the body roll some. Nice rig.
I sometimes miss the agility of a 3 seater I just need the room more ha
I’ve never used a plow on one. Do they do well?
@@americandream_89 I had it on my ranger for the last 5-6 years, and it's a tank. Just take your time, and add some ballast in the back, and they are phenomenal. Check out that video, 375k views, of me pushing snow...ha. Now I will have heat this year, for the first time . I will be posting a video of the can am pushing, once winter hits. I added lights to the brush guard to help with visibility.
@@kbar6304 sweet. For some reason when I click your profile it says no videos?
@@americandream_89 I'm forgot I logged in under my other profile. Go to Polaris ranger boss v plow. The profile I uploaded the videos under is my MacGyver515 profile. Sorry
th-cam.com/video/-VJIC6eqhZQ/w-d-xo.html
Door locks are not a big deal for me. Only keeps honest people out. I use a heavy duty storage box bolted to the machine with a quality lock. It’s only a deterrent anyway. I agree the oil change is a pain. I have serviced my 2017 commander since new. Still annoys me and it’s a better set up than the defender. The easiest machine that I ever serviced was my 2012 rzr xp 900. They all have their good and bad points I guess. Great machine you have there. I may upgrade to a defender in a couple more years.
I’m miss the locks but will deal to own a defender. Polaris has always been easier to service in my experience. Thanks for watching.
I have a 2021 with almost 8 thousand on it. I can pick this thing apart also. Everything i don't like . Even the oil change. I purchased through my dealer , life time oil change. I've had minor issues with my machine . But the platform is soiled except the front A are bushings. Again all upgradeable. I plane on having mine , till the dealership run out oil. But your right.That oil change thing is BS.
Appreciate the input. Smart man on the life time oil change. I think they are a great machine.
My thoughts on owning a 2022-1/2 Defender HP10 Limited 6x6- The doors rattle horribly on any rough terrain. They are adjustable but are tightened down so much, the peg wants to flex, as Im trying to break the bolt loose. The tires have already been punctured (25 miles). Thankfully Ive plugged enough tires but those large gaps in between the lugs are a disaster for the rocks out in western Arkansas. Saw the 23' gets better looking 30" tires- wished Id waited. The location of the transmission intake is also bad. Sucks in a lot of dust. Thought about getting the interior kit, that's required for tracks but heard its really loud and Im not sure if it works with the enclosed interiors. Lastly while I get its a utility machine (mine is for our farm) but hell my enclosed tractors have a stereo and two speakers included. Ive found a DIY work around on a forum to add a Fusion MS-RA60 Bluetooth receiver and a pair of 5-1/4" speakers (placed into the front plastics above the windshield. Just think that's petty to not have that included. So far Ive swapped the winch to synthetic line (totally agree with you and Ive seen enough steel cables snap, to not want that energy slamming into my rig. Added the same LED bulbs as you. Work fantastic. Also added some inexpensive Niilight 12' bar light and some 4' pods. Adds enough for night riding on our property. Need to add some for reversing but waiting to see If ill buy Can Ams Headache rack or build my own. Lastly- added the pre filter to the intake, due to the amount of dust we get here in Arkansas. Overall its a solid machine that could be better, but so far its moved a couple tons of rip rap rock and other heavy items, that have really made having the 4' x 6' bed worth it. Keep up the great videos!
Glad to hear other people thoughts. Hopefully Can-am is taking noting. I’d love to test a 6x6. Currently I’m buying everything I’m reviewing and haven’t a need for a 6x6. So I’ll wait until they let me test or someone I know gets one. Congrats on the defender buddy
Stuttgart here🤙🏼
@@JB-uj8mz thanks for checking the channel out buddy
We are all saying the same thing, sometimes I just don't get it. I bought the 2021 Defender XMR because of the front and rear lockers, higher winch mount, synthetic rope, heavy duty arched A arms, 15" ground clearance. I am slowly building the cab. The only thing I won't have is air conditioning, but it's a trade off to have a more capable off road package. I definitely think they could do a better job of standardizing these options across the board. Also, Can Am get rid of your commodity surcharge, it is BS and not cool. Just tell us what the fricken price is instead of luring people and building up the price in the sales office. The price on the website should be the price plus applicable taxes!!!!!
If I was to do anything I’d get a limited and install a halo locker. I couldn’t lose the AC in Kentucky but I hear ya. They really need to just make smart lock standard.
Also go to a video I have about (watch this before buying from your dealer). Many dealers are the ones screwing people over. I’ve only paid MSRP on all my units.
@@americandream_89The 24 Limiteds have smart Lok now. 👍
@@jimh.412 th-cam.com/video/A1ejCANfTwo/w-d-xo.htmlsi=S3ezB1Ov87AtrSs2
If you get the MUD version, the "Smart Lock" is standard. Come on CANAM, IMPROVE IMPROVE IMPROVE!
Yes sir 👌 they need a XMR limited defender!
The 2024 Limited Defenders come with smart Lok now. I have A 2022 XMR Defender and the smart Lok is great.
I put a Mr. RPM remote oil filter kit on. Very easy to install with two 2’ oil lines with swivels on each end. Has a Baldwin filter on it. Literally takes 15 minutes to change oil now.
On a limited? If so crew or single cab?
@@americandream_89 4 door limited
@@donaldwilson227 thanks for the info buddy. I didn’t think it would fit between the cab panel.
@@americandream_89 I mounted mine to the left under the bed. On the drivers side just outside of engine compartment. I give you pictures but a guy come up and offered me $36,000 for it. And it was sold bought a used 2 door limited for now till the new crew comes in.
@@americandream_89 the remote filter will, not the one that you put spin on in same location.
As a 2020 owner I will add squeaky brakes and suspension and fuel pump issues.
Agree on breaks. What fuel pump problems did you have. So I’ve got further knowledge of people’s problems.
Just bought a 23 defender max from a 19 Polaris crew. The space to slide on the back seat is narrower than the Polaris. Not thrilled about that but it’s not the end of the world
I’m assuming when you said (slide on ) you meant in?
Just bought the exact model and discovered no door locks! 😮 I’m totally “floored” why Can Am decided to leave that off. Have you found an aftermarket solve?
Several individuals have made a decent solution but it involves drilling holes in your door and disassembling it.
I use my Defender for work and agree with every item stated in this video. I would like to add that the tailgate is also a poor design that is not very rugged.
I am hoping an aftermarket company will come up with an oil filter relocation kit.
Great to know. I think a company has but can’t remember the company. I’ll try and look.
www.mrrpmcycle.com/product/mrrpm-engine-oil-cooler-adapters/?fbclid=IwAR0244Tj4-l3DUQA7gWWJVbYhrTKYDPTxtoWNeAAhr_RNhaKbKXtNeJGimU
Never seen one on a defender so not sure if it fits limited edition
@@americandream_89 Unfortunately that unit does not fit the limited models.
@@franksinapi2121 that’s what I figured looking at it
I have a Defender Pro... you left out the winch clutch knob is on the wrong side 😆. Entirely agree about the LED and winch cable, haven't made it to an oil change yet, but it looks like it'll suck.
You like the pro?? I love the bed on those. It may be easier on the pro changing oil
@@americandream_89 I'm liking the Pro a lot for working around the property. For going fast/playing I have a RR Maverick.
I don't know that it'll be easier, the Pro is just a Defender Max with a longer bed and a tunnel where the footboards would be on the Max... that panel is inside the tunnel, which is why I figure it'll be tougher.
@@RutherfordConLLC I had a Maverick before we got into cab SxS. I can’t get away from the heat and air 🤣 I often miss that power though
I went for the open cab on the Defender Pro, we use it a lot for spot spraying and other work where I thought the cab would get in the way. I’ve gotta get my Maverick back together, having both seems like a lot of fun! The Maverick has some work done to it, injectors, tune, burns av gas.
I bought an LT70 Super/EG200 from a guy in Campbellsville back in March, didn’t realize you were so close!
@@RutherfordConLLC Campbellsville Ky??
I had the evo turbo kit on my Maverick. Ran great but liked belts to lol
Would it be possible to swap out to a smart lok?
From my reading on the net. Everyone says it’s possible but super expensive because you need a different ecu. As in one from a xmr defender. Everyone I know buys a halo locker.
halo-performance.com/product/x3-and-defender-locker-kit/
Agree with everything you said. I would only add one thing....tires! The stock tires on the limited are garbage. The trail force seem like an after thought. I am now upgrading my stock tires to blackwater evo. Disappointing after spending $35k on my machine.
I think the new 23 30” tires will solve most people’s issues. I think the trail tires are better than the big horn’s previously
@@americandream_89 yes, my '22 27" tires are too small. I look forward to upgrading to ITPs. Cheers,
@@utvsteve yeah 27” tires are pointless. Congrats on the new ride.
What did you do to achieve that stance? ie., tires, lift and spacers?
That’s just factory stance. They are pretty wide from factory
@@americandream_89 Dang it looks great, thanks for the timely response. I have an HD10 XT arriving in a few months and am wondering what (if anything) should be added to it.
@@KrcIIXpalm headlights are a must.
th-cam.com/video/nB0Rd8AcnYE/w-d-xo.html
@@americandream_89 I’m snagging a light bar for the front and rear (large front short back). You think that will be enough considering the halogens that come stock?
@@KrcIIXpalm rear light bar would help a ton. I’ve never needed one in the front with the LED upgrade. Get a front and rear glass windshield to. It will cut your dust down. Glass is expensive but it’s the only one that last.
Is the Polaris ultimate easier to change the oil in, compared to the limited. Did they ever change the hvac system screen in the 2023 limited or is it still an afterthought?
Thanks buddy.
Polaris is much easier maintenance by a long shot. The defender on 23 still has the digital display that seems odd but works fine.
I think both the defender and northstar will get power upgrades in 24-25 year
@@americandream_89 thanks so much.
@@ethanh9535 no problem buddy. I watched some on that place. It’s the dunes correct?
@@americandream_89 yes. Silver lake sand dunes in Hart Michigan. It’s 2000 acres of sand dunes right on Lake Michigan. We’d always take our lunch and chill there. Thanks for watching. What did you think?
@@ethanh9535 looks like a fun place. I’ve never been to the dunes. Never had a machine that seemed sand worthy. Will you be taking your defender there?
That oil filter deal would keep me from buying this unit at all.
It's something I point out to make sure people know. I'll deal with it for the comfort.
How about the damn cheap ass tailgates?🤦♂️
I personally haven’t had any trouble out of ours. But I have seen many complain about it.
Anything else to complain about? Why did you buy it? Did you NOT research these things before your purchase? Oh, you pricked your finger on a steel winch rope? Did you also receive a paper cut while you were signing the paperwork? I’m amazed at your level of complaints about a machine you purchased!
You obviously don’t watch my channel 🤣 good luck trolling else where
And what happened to the other Defender and the Polaris you used to have
We sold those units.