How to Bleed and Replace Brake Fluid on a 2009 Can-Am Renegade 500

Shop parts for a 2009 Can-Am Renegade 500 ATV.

This MotoSport guide covers step-by-step brake fluid replacement and bleeding for the 2009 Can-Am Renegade 500, plus model-specific notes owners should know. Follow the steps exactly to maintain reliable braking performance and protect hydraulic components.

What you need

  • DOT 4 brake fluid (fresh, unopened)
  • Clear bleed hose and collection bottle
  • Brake bleeder wrench or appropriately sized wrench
  • Syringe or turkey baster (to remove old fluid from reservoir)
  • Rags, brake cleaner, gloves and eye protection
  • Jack or ATV stand to lift wheels for access
  • New banjo crush washers (recommended when removing brake line fittings)

Model notes — 2009 Can-Am Renegade 500

  • The Renegade 500 uses DOT 4 brake fluid; do not mix DOT 3/5.1/5 unless specified on reservoir cap. Use DOT 4 only.
  • This model typically has single front master cylinder feeding dual/front calipers and a rear caliper line; bleeding order is important because master cylinder placement makes some calipers farther from it.
  • No factory ABS on most 2009 Renegade 500 trims — you won't need ABS-specific procedures. If your unit has aftermarket ABS, consult that system's instructions.
  • Brake lines on this ATV are routed for tight clearances; avoid kinking lines or over-twisting banjo fittings. Replace crush washers anytime a banjo bolt is disturbed.
  • Brake reservoir plastic is sensitive to contamination; keep the cap closed except when adding fluid and wipe any spilled fluid immediately to avoid paint/plastic damage.

Safety first

  • Work on a cool ATV on a stable, level surface with the engine off and key removed.
  • Protect painted surfaces from brake fluid. Use rags and brake cleaner if spills occur.
  • Wear eye protection and gloves. Dispose of old fluid per local regulations.

Preparation

  1. Raise the ATV so wheels can rotate freely if you need to actuate calipers. Securely support with stands.
  2. Clean around the brake reservoir cap. Remove cap and diaphragm carefully. Use a syringe/turkey baster to remove as much old fluid as possible from the reservoir.
  3. Top reservoir with fresh DOT 4 fluid to the fill line and reinstall the diaphragm and cap loosely to keep contaminants out while you work.

Bleeding strategy — order and general principle

Always start bleeding at the caliper farthest from the master cylinder and progress to the nearest. On the Renegade 500 this usually means:

  • If master cylinder is front-mounted between the handlebar area, bleed rear caliper first (farthest), then the front calipers (left or right based on distance). If in doubt, visually identify the longest hydraulic line run and start there.
  • Maintain reservoir level above the minimum at all times during bleeding to avoid introducing air into the master cylinder.

Step-by-step bleed (single-line, manual pump or pressure assist)

  1. Attach clear hose to the caliper bleed nipple and place the other end in a collection bottle partially filled with some fresh fluid to prevent air re-entering the line.
  2. Open the bleed nipple about 1/4 turn. Have an assistant slowly squeeze the brake lever or pedal until firm, then hold pressure.
  3. While the lever/pedal is held, tighten the bleed nipple, then instruct the assistant to release the lever slowly. Repeat pump-hold-open-tighten cycles until fluid runs clear and bubble-free into the bottle.
  4. Keep topping the reservoir as needed between cycles. Never let it fall to the minimum.
  5. When that caliper is clear, tighten the bleed nipple to spec-ish snug (do not overtighten), remove hose, clean the area, and move to the next caliper in the bleed order.
  6. Repeat the same procedure for each caliper until all lines are free of air. Final check: with all bleed nipples closed and wheels off the stands (or resting on ground), actuate the brake multiple times to confirm a firm lever/pedal and no sponginess.

If you have stubborn air or spongy brake lever

  • Use a vacuum bleeder or pressure bleeder for better results. A vacuum on the caliper or pressure at the reservoir helps expel trapped pockets.
  • If bubbles persist, flex the brake hose gently or rotate wheel to help dislodge trapped air, then repeat bleeding.
  • For master-cylinder-sourced air, bench-bleed the master cylinder if removal is required.

Reassembly, inspection & testing

  • Ensure all bleed nipples and banjo bolts are tightened and torqued per typical ATV practice; replace crush washers on banjo bolts when refitting.
  • Wipe clean any spilled brake fluid; reinstall the reservoir cap and diaphragm securely.
  • Check for leaks at calipers, lines and fittings while applying steady brake pressure.
  • Test ride slowly in a safe area, making repeated stops to verify consistent braking and pad seating. New fluid may require a short bed-in period for pads to regain full bite.

Maintenance tips specific to the Renegade 500

  • Bleed brakes every 1–2 years or sooner if fluid looks dark or contaminated. Moisture absorption reduces DOT 4 performance over time.
  • Inspect brake hoses for chafing at the pivot points and along the A-arm routing; replace any hose with cracks or bulges.
  • When replacing pads or caliper hardware, always clean mating surfaces and reuse torques. Use recommended lubricant on sliding pins only where specified.
  • Keep an on-hand spare reservoir cap diaphragm and a set of crush washers for quick field repairs.

Following this MotoSport procedure will restore reliable braking on your 2009 Can-Am Renegade 500. If you find internal master cylinder issues, caliper leaks, or persistent loss of pressure, consult a certified technician.

Related Shopping Categories

Shop Brake Fluid for a 2009 Can-Am Renegade 500 ATV.

Shop Brake Bleeders for a 2009 Can-Am Renegade 500 ATV.

Shop Brake Pads for a 2009 Can-Am Renegade 500 ATV.

Shop Brake Lines for a 2009 Can-Am Renegade 500 ATV.

Shop Brake Tools for a 2009 Can-Am Renegade 500 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.