CFMoto and its line of CForce ATVs are seemingly gaining more popularity in the off-roading community by the day.
With its powerful V-Twin engine, attractive build style, and ability to fit a rear passenger, the CFMoto CForce 800 is looked at as one of the best values in the ATV industry.
And while owners have plenty of good things to say about this model, they have also identified a number of common CFMoto CForce 800 problems that affect the model as a whole.
These common problems include:
- EVAP system issues
- Power steering failure
- Excessive exhaust heat
- Overheating
This guide will detail each issue and proven ways to overcome them if experienced.
EVAP System Issues
CFMoto installs an EVAP system in each of their CForce 800 models to comply with emissions regulations for the state of California.
This EVAP system is supposed to prevent fuel vapors from escaping the fuel tank and releasing into the atmosphere.
But what this EVAP system also does is cause the CForce 800 to suffer from stalling issues due to vapor lock.
If experiencing this while riding, the issue can be temporarily resolved by loosening the gas cap and relieving the pressure build up.
But so long as the EVAP system is installed, your vehicle will continue to experience this issue.
Removing The EVAP System
To remove or bypass the EVAP system and put these stalling issues to rest, you’ll need to locate the EVAP canister.
It usually sits in the rear cubby, and there’s a vacuum hose that connects it to the throttle body of the machine.
You’ll need to disconnect this vacuum hose from where it connects to the throttle body in the engine compartment beneath the seat of the CForce.
Disconnecting it will disable the EVAP canister, and you can remove both the canister and vacuum hose or leave them in place.
Disconnect Fuel Tank Vent Line
There is also a vent line that runs from the fuel tank that will need to be disconnected. Once disconnected, you should see a check valve on the end of the vent line.
Remove this valve and redirect the unplugged vent line towards the ground, so that it hangs freely and can overflow any fuel beneath the vehicle. It should now be able to breathe properly.
This is the last step in removing the EVAP system from your machine, and should fix any vapor lock and stalling issues.
The CForce 400 and CForce 500 are both installed with this same EVAP system and experience the same issues.
Power Steering Failure
The CForce 800 also has a tendency to suffer from its power steering unit going out. This seems to happen randomly, with the power steering failing suddenly while riding.
As a heavier model, the 800 can be difficult to steer and control without the power steering function, so owners will want to get it fixed as soon as possible.
This issue was so prevalent among 2021 models that CFMoto issued a recall on all 2021 CForce 800’s.
2021 models are covered under warranty for an upgraded electric power steering unit and replacing of the power assist wire connection.
While 2022+ units are installed with the upgraded parts, this issue is known to happen in them as well. Many times it is simply the power steering fuse that has gone bad.
You’ll need to locate it in the front of the vehicle near the battery and fuse box and replace it.
You’ll have an easier time accessing it if you remove the battery, and may want to relocate it for easier access in the future.
If your power steering has gone out, this fuse should be the first place you check as it is a simple and inexpensive fix.
Excessive Exhaust Heat
One of the drawbacks with CFMoto’s line of CForce’s is that they tend to throw out more exhaust heat than most other ATV models. And the CForce 800 is no different.
Riders may find that the side of the ATV where the exhaust vents will become very hot from this exhaust heat, especially when driving in low gear at prolonged slower speeds.
The outer plastic may become hot enough that it’s uncomfortable on the legs.
To alleviate this, owners can install a heat shield or titanium exhaust wrap on and around the exhaust pipe. This should cut down the heat.
Upgrading to a bolt-on exhaust will help as well.
Overheating
On the same subject, the engine in the CForce 800 is prone to overheating. This tends to happen for a few different reasons.
- Clogged Radiator
- Radiator Fan
- Air Bubble Blockage
Clogged Radiator
As the CForce 800 is meant for trail riding, the radiator tends to become clogged with mud, sand, grass, or other debris over time. This will lead to overheating.
Owners should be sure to clean out the radiator fins frequently, especially after muddy riding.
If your radiator is caked with mud or dirt, you may need to remove the grill and soak it in all purpose cleaner like Simple Green.
After soaking, spray out any remaining debris with a hose.
Radiator Fan
The engine in the CForce 800 is factory-set for the radiator fan not to trigger until the engine reaches temperatures upwards of 215+ degrees.
This can lead to it not triggering in time to keep the engine cool enough, especially on hotter days.
Owners can have their ECU tuned, which will reprogram the fan to engage at lower temperatures of around 190 degrees to better prevent this overheating.
Additionally, owners can look at installing a toggle switch that bypasses the temperature sensor so that they can start the fan at their discretion.
Air Bubble Blockage
One of the most common causes of overheating is an air bubble forming in the coolant system.
This air bubble will make it difficult for coolant to be pumped and flow properly, which leads to overheating.
If you’re experiencing overheating and can’t seem to pinpoint the cause, this is likely your issue.
Once air is in the coolant system, it will need to be bled out or the engine will continue to overheat.
Conclusion
Fortunately, most of these common CForce 800 problems can be overcome with some simple modifications or light troubleshooting.
For more on CFMoto ATVs, check out the following guides before you hit the trail:
