How to bleed & replace brake fluid on a 2008 Can-Am Renegade 800

Shop parts for a 2008 Can-Am Renegade 800 ATV.

This MotoSport service guide walks you through safely flushing and replacing the brake fluid on a 2008 Can-Am Renegade 800. Follow each step methodically, observe all safety precautions, and use quality parts and DOT-rated brake fluid as specified for your machine.

What you need

  • Fresh DOT 4 brake fluid (check your reservoir cap for specification)
  • Clear plastic tubing & collection bottle
  • Brake bleeder wrench or correct-size wrench for bleeder valves
  • Vacuum pump or hand syringe (recommended for cleaner, faster bleeding)
  • Clean rags, brake cleaner, rubber gloves, eye protection
  • New banjo bolt crush washers (recommended when removing banjo bolts)
  • Torque wrench and OEM torque specs (refer to MotoSport service notes below)
  • Motor-operated jack or ATV stand to keep wheels off the ground

Safety first

  • Work on a cool ATV, away from open flames. Brake fluid damages paint and plastic – clean spills immediately.
  • Stabilize the Renegade on level ground with the parking brake released when bleeding rear circuits, and wheels elevated and chocked when needed.
  • Wear gloves & eye protection; dispose of old fluid per local regulations.

Model notes for the 2008 Can-Am Renegade 800

  • The Renegade 800 uses separate master cylinder reservoirs for the front and rear braking systems. The front lever reservoir is on the right handlebar; the rear reservoir is located near the chassis/master cylinder for the foot brake. Confirm which reservoir feeds which circuit before beginning.
  • Many 2008 Renegade 800s are non-ABS; if your machine has a factory ABS module or aftermarket electronic brake components, follow additional manufacturer-specific procedures to avoid damaging sensors. If unsure, consult the vehicle tag or service record before beginning.
  • Banjo bolt fittings on the calipers should be inspected for corrosion and replaced crush washers always replaced to ensure leak-free reassembly.
  • If the machine has plastic reservoir caps or diaphragms showing hardening or cracking, replace them when you replace the fluid.

Preparation

  1. Park ATV on level surface, put transmission in park/neutral, and lift the wheels off the ground. Remove wheels if needed for clear caliper access.
  2. Clean the area around reservoir caps and bleeder valves to prevent contamination. Remove reservoir caps and diaphragms to allow fluid to flow and for air to escape.
  3. Inspect hoses, lines, and calipers for leaks or damage. Replace any compromised components before bleeding.

Bleeding order & strategy

Always bleed the brake circuit starting from the caliper farthest from the master cylinder and move to the nearest. For the Renegade 800 this typically means:

  • Rear caliper first (if rear is farthest from the front master cylinder)
  • Left front caliper next
  • Right front caliper last

If your machine has separate master cylinders for front & rear, treat each reservoir/circuit independently and bleed each system completely before moving on.

Step-by-step bleed using vacuum or syringe (recommended)

  1. Attach clear tubing to the caliper bleeder valve and insert the other end into a clean bottle partially filled with old fluid to avoid drawing air back into the system.
  2. Have an assistant slowly apply steady pressure to the brake lever or pedal (about normal operating pressure) while you open the bleeder valve 1/4 to 1/2 turn. If using a vacuum pump, operate the pump while the lever/pedal is held in the resting position.
  3. Collect fluid until clear, bubble-free fluid flows. Close the bleeder valve before the assistant releases the lever/pedal to avoid drawing air back in.
  4. Repeat pumping/opening cycles until no air bubbles appear and the fluid is clean at that caliper. Replenish the reservoir frequently to keep it from running dry.
  5. Move to the next caliper in the bleed order and repeat until all circuits are clear and responsive.
  6. When finished, tighten all bleeder valves to manufacturer specification, clean spilled fluid, and reinstall reservoir diaphragms & caps.

Alternative pump-and-hold method (if no vacuum tool)

  1. Assistant pumps the brake lever/pedal several times and holds firm pressure.
  2. Open bleeder valve to allow fluid and air out, then close the valve before the assistant releases pressure.
  3. Repeat until fluid runs clean and bubble-free. Keep reservoir topped up at all times.

Finishing steps

  • Confirm pedal/lever firmness — it should be firm with no sponginess. If spongy, repeat the bleed process until solid.
  • Torque banjo bolts and bleeder valves to OEM specs. If those exact values are not on hand, lightly snug and consult MotoSport service documentation for proper figures before final road use.
  • Clean all brake fluid from painted surfaces with brake cleaner and water, then dry. Replace any contaminated parts as required.
  • Lower the ATV, reinstall wheels, and perform a slow low-speed test in a safe area to verify braking performance before regular riding.

Troubleshooting & common issues

  • Persistent spongy brakes after bleeding often indicate remaining air, a leaking line, or a faulty master cylinder. Inspect hoses and fittings closely.
  • If excessive fluid is required repeatedly, inspect calipers and wheel cylinders for leaks or internal seal failure.
  • Contaminated fluid that appears dark or dirty should be fully flushed; don't mix fluid types. Always use the DOT rating recommended for your Renegade.

Parts & maintenance tips from MotoSport

  • Replace banjo crush washers any time you undo hydraulic fittings.
  • Keep a maintenance log noting fluid type, date, and mileage/hours. Brake fluid should be replaced periodically to avoid moisture buildup which reduces boiling point.
  • Use OEM or high-quality replacement components for master cylinders, hoses, and calipers to preserve braking performance and safety.

Following these steps will provide a clean, air-free brake system on your 2008 Can-Am Renegade 800. If you encounter unusual symptoms or electronic brake components, contact a qualified technician. MotoSport recommends using correct-spec parts and fluids for reliable stopping power.

Related Shopping Categories

Shop Brake Fluid for a 2008 Can-Am Renegade 800 ATV.

Shop Brake Bleeders for a 2008 Can-Am Renegade 800 ATV.

Shop Brake Pads for a 2008 Can-Am Renegade 800 ATV.

Shop Brake Lines for a 2008 Can-Am Renegade 800 ATV.

Shop Brake Tools for a 2008 Can-Am Renegade 800 ATV.

Disclaimer: This guide is provided for general informational purposes only and is not intended to replace your motorcycle's official owner's manual. Always refer to your manufacturer's documentation for model-specific instructions, torque specifications, safety procedures, and maintenance requirements. If you are unsure or inexperienced, consider seeking assistance from a qualified mechanic or technician.