Do I have to use genuine BRP accessories on a Can-Am?

No, but a genuine accessory is designed for your model and uses the intended mounting points. Our OEM vs aftermarket guide compares both options.

Full or half windshield: which should I choose?

A full windshield is the better choice if you ride in cold weather, rain or dust. A half windshield suits you if you want to cut wind to your face while keeping more airflow and less fogging.

Do I need a roof to install a windshield?

On many side-by-sides, yes: a full windshield often attaches to the roof. Check the required parts listed for your model before ordering.

How do I know an accessory fits my model?

Rely on the manufacturer's stated fitment for your exact model and year. If in doubt, ask our parts team with your serial number or see how to find a part number.

Can you install the accessories?

Yes, our service department can install accessories, including those that need electrical work like a winch or lighting.

Parts & Accessories

Side-by-Side Accessories: Which Ones to Add First?

By the Groupe Contant Team · Published October 17, 2026

Quick Answer

Which accessories should you add first to a new side-by-side?

Start with what protects you and what you'll use on every ride: a roof and windshield for weather, mirrors to see behind you, and underbody protection (skid plate, bumpers) if you ride rocky terrain. Then add by use: a winch and storage for work and hunting, lighting for evening rides, and doors or a full cab enclosure to ride through the winter.

A new side-by-side is rarely equipped exactly the way you'll use it. Accessories turn the same vehicle into a work tool, a hunting rig, or a closed, heated winter machine.

This guide sorts the most useful accessories by category and by use, so you invest first in what will actually make a difference. It doesn't list prices: they vary by model and brand, and our parts and accessories store shows them for the items offered.

Roof, Windshield and Mirrors: The Basics

Roof — Protects from sun, rain and branches. On many models it's also the base needed to install a full windshield, a rear window or a closed cab.
Full windshield or half windshield — A full windshield blocks wind, rain and dust; a half windshield deflects air while keeping a more open feel and less fogging. Some full windshields tilt or open partially for ventilation.
Glass or polycarbonate — As a general rule, glass resists scratches better and can take a wiper; polycarbonate is lighter and handles impacts well, but scratches more easily and needs gentle cleaning.
Mirrors — A panoramic center mirror and side mirrors are useful as soon as you ride in a group, on shared roads or with a trailer.

Doors and Closed Cab for Winter

In Quebec, side-by-side season doesn't end in the fall. Full doors (or half doors) combined with a roof, windshield and rear window form a closed cab that keeps snow and wind out. Some models are even offered with factory cabs that include heating.

Make sure each piece is designed for your exact model and that they work together: a windshield or doors made for one configuration won't always fit another. The Roofs, Doors & Cabs category groups these accessories.

Winch, Storage and Lighting

Winch — To pull yourself out of a mud hole, clear a fallen tree or lift a snow plow blade. Installation usually requires a model-specific mounting plate and wiring harness. Our winch guide explains how to choose one and use it safely.
Storage — Rear boxes, bags, coolers and tool holders. On Can-Am side-by-sides, many attach tool-free with the LinQ system; see our LinQ guide.
Lighting — Auxiliary LED bars and lights for rides home after dark, early-morning hunting or work in the woods. Follow the rules if you drive on an authorized public road.

Protection: Skid Plates, Bumpers and Side Guards

In rocky or wooded terrain, the underside of the vehicle takes the hits. A skid plate (heavy-duty plastic or aluminum) protects the frame and components; front and rear bumpers plus side guards (rock sliders) prevent costly repairs. On a work vehicle, a rear headache rack protects the cab from the load.

What to Prioritize by Use

Use	Add first	Then
Work / farm	Winch, skid plate, roof	Headache rack, storage, lighting
Hunting	Winch, storage, lighting	Gun or tool holders, roof
Trails / touring	Roof, windshield, mirrors	Storage, side guards
Winter	Roof, full windshield, doors	Rear window, winch and plow