Having just purchased a Cforce 500s I was interested in locating all of the items that one needs to keep a check on. Needless to say the Owners Manual was not exactly a good reference. I was able to figure out how to remove the seat (latch at rear of seat), get access to the oil dip stick, but when it came to the items under the hood I ran into a blank wall. Went down to my dealer to see if they could show me how, but they did not have a 500s (sales are real good). Talked to one of the mechanics that works on the CFMoto and he gave me a "basic" idea but said it was a "bitch" to get the access panel off. Went home and attempted to follow his directions. Being careful I didn't get aggressive and didn't have any luck. Figured the best thing to do was go to the source and sent a email to CFMoto Customer Service. Got an answer back in about 2-3 hours. Here is their response.
Here are some steps to follow. Just a heads up it is fairly difficult to do. (No kidding....my remark)
Here are some instructions for opening the front access panel on a 400/500S ATV:
NOTE: In some instances, a first-time customer may choose to perform front rack removal to avoid damage of the access panel, then try it again with the rack assembled once they understand it’s construction.
Front panel access
Your vehicle is equipped with an access panel under the front rack.
To remove the panel:
1. Lift the nose of the panel until you release the pin from the grommet.
2. Lift up lightly on the nose of the panel and press down in the center, then apply force toward the rear of the machine to release the six (6) L-shaped fasteners and remove the panel.
NOTE: Releasing the L-shaped fasteners may require a few tries and high pushing effort to release a new panel.
To reinstall the panel:
1. Start at the rear of the cover and align the six (6) L-shaped fasteners into position.
2. Press down in the center of the panel and pull it toward you to lock the L-shaped fasteners.
3. Guide and push the nose pin into the grommet to secure the panel.
Now for step 1 on removal. You either have to have very strong fingers or do what I did. I got a flat-blade screwdriver (fairly large) and wrapped a cloth around it for protection. Inserted it in the opening just below the Emblem and pried up and out (using screwdriver and fingers) the grommet came out. Then followed step #2 and after some very frustrating time got it open. Note: I did remove the front rack.
Needles to say I'm impressed with the response I received from Customer Service, but think that a serious engineering change needs to be made to the panel to make it easier to remove. Of course hopefully you will not need to get into it that often.