How to bleed and replace brake fluid on a 2010 Can-Am Renegade 800R

Shop parts for a 2010 Can-Am Renegade 800R ATV.

This MotoSport-exclusive guide shows technicians and owners how to safely replace and bleed the brake fluid on a 2010 Can-Am Renegade 800R (MMY CAN_AM;REN800R;2010). Procedures, cautions, and model-specific notes are tailored for this ATV. Follow every step carefully and work in a clean, well-lit area.

Quick model notes & warnings

  • Brake fluid type: use DOT 4 only. Do not mix with DOT 3 or silicone fluids.
  • System: hydraulic disc brakes front & rear; separate master cylinders for front (handlebar) and rear (foot) circuits on many Renegade models. Identify which master feeds which calipers before bleeding.
  • ABS: 2010 Renegade 800R generally does not have ABS. If your unit has an ABS module, consult a dealer; ABS systems require special procedures.
  • Paint & plastics: brake fluid will damage painted surfaces & plastic. Protect bodywork and clean spills immediately with water.
  • Torque & fittings: use caution on bleeder screws to avoid rounding. If a bleeder is stuck, apply penetrating oil and heat gently; don't exceed recommended torque when reinstalling.

Tools & supplies

  • DOT 4 brake fluid (fresh)
  • Clear hose that fits bleeder nipple
  • Catch bottle with some fresh brake fluid inside to prevent air intake
  • Brake bleeder wrench or correct-sized box/open wrench
  • Turkey baster or suction pump to remove fluid from reservoirs
  • Clean lint-free rags & plastic sheeting to protect bodywork
  • Gloves & safety glasses
  • Torque wrench (for caliper pins/banjo bolts, if you remove lines)
  • Optional: one-person pressure bleeder or vacuum bleeder for faster, cleaner work

Preparation

  1. Park the ATV on level ground, set the parking brake, and remove the key.
  2. Clean the reservoir cap area thoroughly to prevent contamination.
  3. Raise the wheels slightly so calipers are accessible, using stands rated for ATVs. Do not rely on the suspension jack alone.
  4. Locate the master cylinder reservoirs. Typically the front reservoir is on the handlebar; the rear reservoir is near the frame under the seat area.
  5. Identify which calipers each reservoir feeds. If unsure, trace lines visually or consult the vehicle service manual at MotoSport for confirmation.

Drain old fluid from reservoirs

  1. Remove the reservoir caps and diaphragms. Use a turkey baster or suction pump to extract as much old fluid as possible from each reservoir without introducing dirt.
  2. Wipe the inside lip of the reservoir with a clean rag. Do not remove the reservoir from the vehicle unless contaminated fluid or debris is present.

Bleeding order & general principle

Always start with the caliper farthest from its master cylinder and work toward the closest. For example, if one master feeds two front calipers, begin with the farthest front caliper, then the nearer one, then the rear circuit following the same farthest-to-closest rule. Keep the reservoir level above the minimum at all times to avoid drawing air back into the system.

Manual bench-style bleeding (two-person method)

  1. Fit clear hose onto the bleeder nipple and place the other end into a catch bottle partially filled with fresh DOT 4 fluid to prevent drawing air.
  2. Have an assistant slowly squeeze the brake lever or pedal several times and hold pressure. While held, crack the bleeder nipple a 1/4 to 1/2 turn until fluid and bubbles appear in the hose, then tighten the nipple. Repeat until no air bubbles appear, then release the lever/pedal. Do not allow the master reservoir to drop below minimum between cycles.
  3. Repeat this for each caliper in the correct order. Replenish reservoir with fresh fluid frequently.

Single-person vacuum or pressure bleeding

If using a vacuum bleeder, attach to the bleeder nipple and pull until fluid flows clear without air. If using a pressure bleeder on the master reservoir, pressurize per tool instructions and open bleeder screws in the same farthest-to-closest sequence until clear fluid runs, then close and move on.

Complete flush procedure

  1. After initial bleed, perform a system flush by repeatedly pulling new DOT 4 from the reservoir through the system until the expelled fluid is clean and free of discoloration.
  2. Top the reservoir to the proper level, reinstall diaphragms and caps securely.
  3. With the ATV still raised, press the brake lever/pedal repeatedly to confirm a firm, consistent feel. If sponginess remains, repeat bleeding for the affected circuit.

Reassembly & checks

  1. Torque any removed caliper bolts or banjo bolts to factory specs. If you don't have the spec on hand, tighten banjo bolts evenly and replace crush washers if removed.
  2. Clean any spilled fluid from the vehicle immediately. Inspect hoses and fittings for leaks.
  3. Lower the ATV and perform a cautious slow-speed brake test in a safe area, checking for proper stopping and pedal/lever firmness.

Troubleshooting

  • Persistent soft lever/pedal: check for air, leaking caliper piston seals, or collapsed hose. Replace damaged hoses or calipers as needed.
  • Bleeder nipple rounded or stuck: apply penetrating oil and tap gently; use the correct wrench size or a bleeder tool to avoid rounding.
  • Brake drag after bleeding: check caliper pistons for corrosion or sticking; clean and service calipers if needed.

Service intervals & recommendations

  • MotoSport recommends replacing brake fluid every 12 months or sooner if the fluid appears dark or contaminated.
  • Inspect rubber hoses and fittings annually for swelling, cracking, or leaks and replace any suspect parts with quality OEM or MotoSport-approved components.

Final notes specific to the 2010 Renegade 800R

  • The 800R is powerful and heavy; confident braking is critical. Ensure brake performance is verified after any service before riding at speed.
  • If you modified the braking system (aftermarket levers, braided lines, or big-bore master cylinders), follow the component maker's bleed protocol and use compatible DOT 4 fluid only.
  • Keep a record of service dates and fluid type used for resale value and maintenance tracking.

If you need model-specific replacement parts or brake components, MotoSport stocks application-matched items for the 2010 Can-Am Renegade 800R to complete the job correctly.

Related Shopping Categories

Shop Brake Fluid for a 2010 Can-Am Renegade 800R ATV.

Shop Brake Bleeders for a 2010 Can-Am Renegade 800R ATV.

Shop Brake Pads for a 2010 Can-Am Renegade 800R ATV.

Shop Brake Lines for a 2010 Can-Am Renegade 800R ATV.

Shop Brake Tools for a 2010 Can-Am Renegade 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.