How to Bleed and Replace Brake Fluid on a 2010 Can-Am Outlander 800R
Shop parts for a 2010 Can-Am Outlander 800R ATV.
This MotoSport service guide walks you through a complete brake-fluid replacement and bleeding procedure specific to the 2010 Can-Am Outlander 800R (MMY CAN_AM;OL800R;2010). Follow these steps to restore brake feel and maintain safe stopping performance. Read all safety steps before beginning.
Notes specific to the 2010 Can-Am Outlander 800R
- The Outlander 800R uses hydraulic front (hand) and rear (foot) brakes with separate reservoirs. The front master cylinder reservoir is on the right handlebar; the rear reservoir is generally located under the seat or on the frame near the brake pedalremove the seat/panels to access if needed.
- Most 2010 Outlander 800R models use DOT 4 brake fluid from the factory. Do not mix fluid types; if you are unsure, use DOT 4. Always check markings on the reservoir cap before topping off.
- If your machine is fitted with any ABS or electronic brake assist option, follow manufacturer ABS-specific bleeding steps or consult a dealer. The majority of 2010 Outlander 800R machines do not have ABS, but confirm by inspection.
- Wear nitrile gloves and eye protection. Brake fluid damages paint and plastics & is hygroscopic — replace fluid at recommended intervals or sooner if contaminated.
Tools & supplies
- DOT 4 brake fluid (new, unopened)
- Clear plastic hose (fits bleeder nipple)
- Catch bottle for old fluid
- Wrench for bleeder nipples (usually 8 mm or 10 mm depending on nipple size)
- Turkey baster or syringe to remove old fluid from reservoirs
- Clean lint-free rags and isopropyl alcohol for cleanup
- Brake bleeder kit (vacuum pump) or a helper for manual two-person bleeding
- Small clamp/zip-tie to secure hose to nipple
- Torque wrench (if you want to torque bleeder screw to spec; otherwise snug plus one-eighth to one-quarter turn)
Preparation
- Park bike on level surface. Secure with parking brake off so calipers can move freely. Chock wheels if necessary.
- Remove seat and panels as required to access rear reservoir. Clean around reservoirs and caps to prevent contamination. Remove the cap & diaphragm and cover opening with a clean rag to limit moisture exposure.
- Pump either lever/pedal a few times and hold to build a bit of pressure, then open reservoir to assess fluid color. If fluid is dark or contaminated, plan to fully flush both systems.
- Label which side is front/rear and which calipers have separate lines if applicable. Keep all fluid and rags away from painted surfaces.
Bleed sequence (recommended)
Always bleed starting with the caliper furthest from the reservoir and finish with the closest. For the Outlander 800R this typically means:
- Front brake lines: right-hand caliper (if separate) then left-hand caliper, finish at front master cylinder.
- Rear brake: start at rear caliper(s) then finish at rear master cylinder reservoir.
Step-by-step: Replace & bleed fluid (two-person method)
- Fill the front reservoir with new DOT 4 fluid to the max line. Do not let the reservoir run dry during the procedure.
- Attach clear hose to the bleeder nipple on the caliper you are starting with and put the other end in a catch bottle partially filled with fresh fluid to prevent air from being drawn back in. Have your helper sit on the machine (or apply brake pressure) to operate the lever or pedal and hold steady.
- Helper slowly pulls the brake lever/pedal while you open the bleeder nipple about a quarter to half turn. Old fluid and bubbles will flow into the bottle. Close the nipple before the helper releases the lever/pedal. Repeat until clear, bubble-free fluid flows and the lever feel is firm.
- Top the reservoir as needed after each cycle to avoid drawing air into the system. Move to the next caliper following the bleed sequence until finished.
- Once all calipers are bled, perform several firm lever/pedal applications and hold to check for soft spongy feel. If spongy, repeat bleeding until firm. Reinstall caps and diaphragm, ensuring a clean seal.
Step-by-step: Single-person vacuum-bleed method
- Attach vacuum pump to bleeder nipple with clear hose and place the other end of the hose in a catch bottle partially filled with fluid.
- Open the bleeder nipple and apply vacuum while an assistant is not required. Slowly suck fluid until clear and bubble-free fluid is drawn. Close nipple before releasing vacuum.
- Top reservoir frequently. Work through calipers in the recommended sequence until all lines are clear of air and fluid is new.
Final checks & reassembly
- After bleeding both systems, tighten bleeder nipples snugly. If you have torque specs in your service manual follow them; otherwise tighten to a firm snug plus a small fraction turn — avoid overtightening.
- Wipe any spilled fluid immediately. Reinstall reservoir caps, seat, and panels. Ensure lines are routed correctly and not pinched.
- Test brake lever and pedal feel slowly while stationary, then make a slow, cautious test ride in a safe area to confirm proper stopping and no dragging or unusual noises.
- Record the service date and mileage. Replace fluid again sooner if contamination or moisture is suspected.
Troubleshooting
- Persistent soft lever or pedal after bleeding: re-check for air in lines, collapsed hoses, leaky master cylinder seals, or a bad caliper piston seal. Inspect for external leaks.
- If brake fluid keeps getting dark quickly, the system may have internal corrosion or a deteriorating rubber hose that needs replacement.
- If you see bubbles that never clear — trace for an open connection or a cracked hose that allows air ingress, or a leaking master cylinder.
Maintenance tips
- Change brake fluid every 1-2 years or sooner if your riding conditions are wet or performance drops. Fresh DOT 4 fluid keeps boiling point high and reduces moisture-related issues.
- Keep a small service kit with spare bleeder caps, a bit of clear hose, and a bottle of DOT 4 fluid on hand for field topping between services.
- Always store brake fluid in a sealed container away from moisture and sunlight.
Following this proprietary MotoSport guide will help keep the braking system on your 2010 Can-Am Outlander 800R responsive and safe. If you're uncomfortable with the procedure or suspect ABS/electrical complications, consult a certified technician or MotoSport service specialist.
Related Shopping Categories
Shop Brake Fluid for a 2010 Can-Am Outlander 800R ATV.
Shop Brake Bleeders for a 2010 Can-Am Outlander 800R ATV.
Shop Brake Pads for a 2010 Can-Am Outlander 800R ATV.
Shop Brake Lines for a 2010 Can-Am Outlander 800R ATV.
Shop Brake Tools for a 2010 Can-Am Outlander 800R 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.