How to Bleed and Replace Brake Fluid on a 2012 Can-Am Outlander 800R
Shop parts for a 2012 Can-Am Outlander 800R ATV.
This step-by-step MotoSport guide explains how to drain, flush, and bleed the brake system on a 2012 Can-Am Outlander 800R (MMY CAN_AM;OL800R;2012). Follow these instructions carefully to maintain braking performance and safety. Use recommended parts and DOT specification fluid available from MotoSport when replacing components or topping off fluid.
Tools & supplies
- DOT 4 brake fluid (clean, unopened container)
- Clear plastic tubing that fits over bleeder nipples
- Brake bleeder bottle or clean catch bottle with one-way valve
- Wrench set for bleeder nuts (typically 8mm or 10mm)
- Phillips & flat screwdrivers
- Turkey baster or fluid syringe (for reservoir fluid removal)
- Clean rags, gloves, safety glasses
- Jack or ATV stand to lift wheels if needed
- Torque wrench (for caliper & wheel fasteners)
Pre-checks specific to the 2012 Outlander 800R
- Park on level ground, engine off, parking brake engaged. Remove key from ignition to avoid accidental start.
- Inspect brake lines, calipers, and master cylinder for leaks, cracked hoses, corrosion, or damaged fittings. Replace any damaged parts before bleeding.
- The Outlander 800R uses DOT 4 fluid from the factory. Do not mix DOT 4 with DOT 5 silicone fluid.
- If the machine has ABS or antilock option, note that the ABS unit may trap air. If ABS is present and bleeding through the calipers does not restore firm pedal/lever feel, ABS-specific bleed procedures or a scan tool activation cycle may be required.
Safety notes
- Brake fluid is corrosive to paint & plastics. Wipe spills immediately.
- Never reuse removed brake fluid. Dispose of old fluid per local regulations.
Procedure: drain & replace brake fluid
- Remove reservoir cap(s) on front and rear master cylinders. The Outlander typically has a combined front/rear reservoir with internal divider; identify both chambers and keep caps covered to minimize contamination.
- Use a turkey baster or syringe to remove as much old fluid from the reservoir as possible. Dispose of it properly.
- Top the reservoir with fresh DOT 4 fluid to the upper fill mark. Keep fluid level monitored during the procedure to avoid drawing air into the system.
- Start with the wheel farthest from the master cylinder and work toward the closest. For most quads this means: rear wheel first, then passenger-side front, then driver-side front. If unsure, identify which caliper is farthest from the master cylinder and start there.
- Raise the wheel or place ATV on stand to access bleeder nipple if needed. Clean bleeder nipple and surrounding area.
- Attach clear tubing to the bleeder nipple and place the other end in a catch bottle partially filled with a little fresh fluid to prevent air being drawn back in.
- Have an assistant slowly pull and hold the brake lever (or press the brake pedal) while you open the bleeder nipple about a quarter turn. Fluid and air will flow into the tubing. Close the nipple before the assistant releases the lever/pedal. Repeat until no air bubbles appear and only clean fluid flows. Keep reservoir topped between cycles.
- Torque bleeder nipple to spec (light snug; typically 8-12 Nm depending on hardware) and wipe clean. Repeat for each caliper using the same process.
- After all wheels are bled, pump the brake lever/pedal with engine off to confirm firm pressure. If the lever feels spongy, repeat bleeding sequence.
- If the machine has ABS and the lever remains soft after conventional bleeding, perform ABS activation cycles per factory service procedure or consult a dealer. ABS units can hold air that requires pump/valve actuations to purge.
- Clean reservoir cap sealing surfaces and reinstall caps. Wipe all hardware and painted surfaces to remove spilled fluid.
Full system flush recommendation
For a full system flush remove old fluid from the reservoir, top with fresh fluid, then bleed each caliper until the fluid runs clear. Repeat reservoir draw-and-refill if fluid remains dark. Regular replacement interval is recommended every 1-2 years or sooner if contamination or moisture is suspected.
Torque & fastener notes
- Bleeder nipple: snug to factory spec (do not overtighten).
- Caliper mounting bolts: torque to factory spec to avoid warpage or thread damage.
Common issues & model-specific tips
- Reservoir design – the Outlander 800R reservoir often has internal partitions; ensure you are topping both chambers if separate. Keep caps loosely seated when bleeding to avoid contamination but tight enough to reduce spillage.
- ABS-equipped units – air trapped in ABS modulator requires either the OEM bleed routine or a specialized bleed kit/scan tool to cycle solenoids. If you cannot achieve firm brakes after standard bleeding, contact a MotoSport tech or dealer for ABS service options.
- Leaky seals or corroded lines — if you find degraded hoses or leaking calipers, replace those parts before bleeding. Old rubber hoses can expand under pressure and mask bleeding efforts.
- Use fresh, unopened DOT 4 only. Mixing fluids or using contaminated bottles can reduce boiling point and performance.
Verification & road/test checklist
- With machine on ground and lights/engine off, confirm firm lever/pedal feel under steady application.
- Perform slow-speed stops in a safe area to verify braking performance and check for leaks.
- Recheck fluid level after a short test ride and top to full if needed.
Keep a maintenance record showing date and mileage/hours of brake fluid service. For replacement parts, DOT 4 fluid, or caliper/bleeder hardware specific to the 2012 Can-Am Outlander 800R, find MotoSport parts & accessories using the provided parts page link above.
Related Shopping Categories
Shop Brake Fluid for a 2012 Can-Am Outlander 800R ATV.
Shop Brake Bleeders for a 2012 Can-Am Outlander 800R ATV.
Shop Brake Pads for a 2012 Can-Am Outlander 800R ATV.
Shop Brake Lines for a 2012 Can-Am Outlander 800R ATV.
Shop Brake Tools for a 2012 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.