How to bleed and replace brake fluid on a 2009 Can-Am Renegade 800R ATV

How to Bleed & Replace Brake Fluid on a 2009 Can-Am Renegade 800R

Shop parts for a 2009 CAN_AM REN800R ATV.

This MotoSport-exclusive service guide walks you through safely flushing and bleeding the hydraulic brakes on a 2009 Can-Am Renegade 800R. Follow every step carefully & keep the work area clean. Use only DOT4 brake fluid unless the vehicle manual specifically instructs otherwise.

What you need

• DOT4 brake fluid, fresh sealed bottle
• Clear plastic tubing that fits snugly over bleed nipples
• Brake fluid catch bottle or jar, clamp or clip for tubing
• Wrench set (metric) for bleed nipples & banjo bolts
• Turkey baster or syringe (optional) to remove reservoir fluid
• Clean rags & isopropyl alcohol for cleaning contact points
• Torque wrench for re-installing banjo bolts (use OEM specs)
• Latex or nitrile gloves & eye protection
• Jack stands or secure ATV lift to stabilize machine

Model notes for the 2009 Can-Am Renegade 800R

• Factory system uses DOT4 hydraulic fluid. Do NOT use mineral-oil based systems or DOT5 silicone fluid.
• The Renegade 800R does not typically have ABS on 2009 models – bleeding is manual for each caliper.
• Brake plumbing is compact; routing and bleeder access can be tight around the A-arms and engine. Secure the steering so lines are not stressed while working.
• There are separate front and rear master cylinder reservoirs on some trims — confirm which reservoir feeds which circuit before starting.
• Inspect brake hoses for cracks, swelling or leaks before bleeding. Replace any soft or bulging hoses; MotoSport parts listings have replacement hoses and fittings.

Safety & preparation

• Work on a level surface. Securely chock wheels and stabilize the ATV on jack stands or a lift.
• Wear gloves & eye protection. Brake fluid damages paint & plastics – clean spills immediately.
• Keep the reservoir cap closed until you're ready to add fluid to limit contamination.
• Record the fluid color & condition before draining – dark, dirty fluid indicates an immediate need to flush.

Step-by-step procedure

1. Identify reservoirs & bleeding sequence

Confirm which master cylinder reservoir serves the front and which serves the rear. Typical bleeding order: start at the caliper furthest from its master cylinder and work toward the closest. For many Renegade layouts that means rear caliper first, then right front, then left front — but confirm plumbing on your unit.

2. Top up & remove old fluid

• Remove the reservoir cap. Use a turkey baster or syringe to remove most old fluid from each reservoir to avoid pushing contaminated fluid back into the system.
• Refill with fresh DOT4 to the max line. Keep the cap loosely in place to prevent contamination while still allowing venting.

3. Bench-bleed the master cylinder if removed

If you must remove the master cylinder for service, bench-bleed it before reinstalling: secure the cylinder in a vise with ports up, push fluid through the ports with a syringe or loop small hoses from port to reservoir while depressing the piston slowly until bubbles stop.

4. Open the first bleed nipple

• Fit clear tubing over the first caliper bleed nipple and route to a catch bottle partially filled with fresh fluid to prevent air re-entry.
• Loosen the nipple one quarter to one half turn with the correct wrench. Do not fully remove it.

5. Pump or depress the brake lever/pedal

• Assistant method: Have an assistant slowly depress the brake lever/pedal several times and hold it down. Open the bleed nipple briefly to let fluid and air escape, then close nipple before the assistant releases the lever. Repeat until fluid runs clear and bubble-free.
• Vacuum pump method: Attach a vacuum bleeder to the nipple, pump until no air bubbles appear. Refill reservoir periodically so it never runs dry.
• Gravity or pressure bleeders are acceptable provided you maintain reservoir level and use a licensed pressure bleeder per instructions.

6. Monitor reservoir level

Keep the reservoir at or near the max line throughout the process. Running the reservoir dry will introduce air into the ABS/modulator or hard lines and create longer troubleshooting.

7. Repeat for each caliper

Move to the next furthest caliper and repeat the bleed cycles until each circuit is clear of bubbles. Finish with the caliper closest to its master cylinder.

8. Final checks & pedal feel

• With all nipples tightened to the correct snugness, pump the brakes slowly to build firm pressure. The lever/pedal should feel firm with no spongey travel.
• Torque any banjo bolts or caliper hardware to factory specs. Inspect for leaks at fittings, hoses & calipers.
• Wipe all fluid strayings with isopropyl alcohol. Recheck fluid level after a short test drive and re-tighten if needed.

Bleed tips & troubleshooting

• If the pedal remains spongy after bleeding all calipers, check for air trapped in the ABS/modulator (if equipped) or in-line valves. Some situations require a scan-tool actuated cycle or additional pressure bleeding.
• Always replace the reservoir cap diaphragm if cracked or collapsed. A bad diaphragm allows moisture in & shortens fluid life.
• Never reuse drained brake fluid. Dispose of old fluid properly according to local regulations.
• If you see foam or persistent micro-bubbles, raise the wheel end slightly to help dislodge trapped air, then continue bleeding.

Service intervals & parts recommendation

• MotoSport recommends replacing brake fluid at least every 2 years or sooner if you ride aggressively, in wet conditions, or notice degraded braking. Fresh DOT4 maintains boiling-point performance — important for heavy use.
• Inspect and, if necessary, replace worn pads, caliper seals, hoses, and reservoir components while you have the system open. Use OEM-spec or high-quality aftermarket parts to maintain braking performance.

Final warnings

• Brake fluid is corrosive to paint & plastics. Avoid spills — clean immediately if any contact occurs.
• If you are not confident performing a clean bleed from start to finish, seek professional service. Improper bleeding can lead to brake failure.

Follow these steps to restore firm, reliable brakes on your 2009 Can-Am Renegade 800R. For replacement hoses, seals, pads or hardware suited to this model, see the MotoSport parts page above.

Related Shopping Categories

Shop Brake Fluid for a 2009 CAN_AM REN800R ATV.

Shop Brake Bleeders for a 2009 CAN_AM REN800R ATV.

Shop Brake Pads for a 2009 CAN_AM REN800R ATV.

Shop Brake Lines for a 2009 CAN_AM REN800R ATV.

Shop Brake Tools for a 2009 CAN_AM REN800R 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.