How to Bleed & Replace Brake Fluid on a 2012 Can-Am Outlander 800R XT-P

Shop parts for a 2012 Can-Am Outlander 800R XT-P ATV.

This MotoSport-exclusive guide walks you step-by-step through replacing and bleeding the brake fluid on a 2012 Can-Am Outlander 800R XT-P. Follow these instructions carefully to keep braking performance sharp and to avoid damage to brake components or bodywork. If your machine is equipped with ABS or a factory anti-lock option, read the ABS-specific note below before starting.

What you'll need

  • DOT 4 brake fluid (manufacturer recommends DOT 4; do not mix with DOT 5 silicone)
  • Clear plastic tubing that fits snugly over bleed nipples
  • Small clear catch container for old fluid
  • Assistant (recommended) or a one-way vacuum bleeder
  • Wrenches to fit bleed nipples (usually 8 mm or 10 mm)
  • Clean lint-free rags, brake parts cleaner
  • Gloves, eye protection
  • Torque wrench for reservoir cap if desired
  • Waste fluid container for proper disposal

Safety & prep

  • Work on a cool vehicle on a level surface. Use wheel chocks.
  • Protect painted surfaces with ragsbrake fluid will damage paint.
  • Clean the reservoir cap area before opening to avoid contamination.
  • Label or note which reservoir/circuit feeds which caliper if you have multiple reservoirs.

Model-specific notes for the 2012 Outlander 800R XT-P

  • The Outlander 800R XT-P uses DOT 4 brake fluid factory-recommended. Don't substitute DOT 5.
  • There are separate reservoirs/master-cylinder assemblies for front and rear braking circuits on many Outlander variants. Confirm which reservoir feeds the circuit you are bleeding; top the reservoir you are working on throughout the procedure.
  • If your 2012 Outlander has ABS/traction control, the ABS modulator may trap fluid and air. Bleeding ABS systems often requires a scan tool or a dedicated ABS bleed sequencesee the ABS note below.
  • After fluid replacement, brake lever and pedal feel can change. Perform a controlled brake check at low speed before riding normally.

Step-by-step: full fluid replacement and bleeding

  1. Locate reservoirs: typically a handlebar master cylinder for the front and a foot-operated master cylinder for the rear. Clean around caps, remove caps and diaphragms carefully.
  2. Inspect current fluid for color and contamination. Dark, dirty fluid indicates replacement is needed.
  3. Top the reservoir you are working on with fresh DOT 4 fluid. Keep the reservoir level above the minimum during bleeding to prevent new air intake.
  4. Start with the caliper farthest from the master cylinder and work toward the closest. On many ATVs this means: passenger-side front, driver-side front, then rear (or opposite depending on routing). Confirm routing visually before starting.
  5. Place clear tubing over the bleed nipple and into a catch container. Have an assistant slowly pump the brake lever/pedal several times, then hold pressure.
  6. While pressure is held, open the bleed nipple about a quarter to a half turn to allow fluid and air to flow into the tubing. Close the nipple before the assistant releases pressure. Repeat until clear, bubble-free fluid runs and only new fluid exits.
  7. Maintain reservoir level between minimum & maximum during the process. Add fluid as needed to prevent drawing air back into the system.
  8. Repeat for each caliper in the correct order. After the final caliper, top the reservoir, reinstall diaphragm and cap, and secure tightly.
  9. If using a vacuum bleeder: attach to bleed nipple, open nipple, pull fluid until clear, then close nipple before removing vacuum. Verify pedal/lever feel afterward.
  10. Clean any spilled fluid immediately. Torque bleed nipple to factory spec if available, and wipe fittings dry.
  11. Dispose of old fluid according to local hazardous-waste rules.
  12. Perform a firm brake test while stationary, then a low-speed test ride to confirm proper pedal/lever firmness and braking balance.

ABS-equipped Outlander bleeding note

If your XT-P is equipped with an ABS module, traditional bleeding may not purge the unit completely. The ABS modulator contains valves and chambers that trap air and require the modulator to be cycled electrically or via a manufacturer bleed routine. Without a tool that activates the ABS pump/valves, you may need to take the machine to a Can-Am dealer or a qualified shop. MotoSport recommends professional service for ABS bleeding if you don't have the proper diagnostic tool.

Common troubleshooting

  • Spongy lever/pedal after bleeding: likely remaining air or contaminated master-cylinder seals. Re-bleed, then inspect master cylinder for leakage or seal failure.
  • Brake pedal sinks slowly under pressure: possible internal leakinspect calipers & master cylinder for leaks.
  • Brakes grab unevenly after service: verify caliper mounting, pad condition, and that both circuits were bled properly.

Maintenance tips & intervals

  • Replace brake fluid every 1-2 years or sooner if fluid darkensMotoSport suggests a yearly inspection and change if you ride in wet/muddy conditions.
  • Keep an eye on pad wear, caliper slides, and flexible hose condition while servicing brakes.
  • Store DOT 4 brake fluid in a sealed container and use within manufacturer-recommended time after opening; brake fluid absorbs moisture over time.

If you run into ABS-specific complications, suspect component failure, or prefer not to work on the ABS modulator, schedule professional service. For OEM and replacement parts that fit your 2012 Can-Am Outlander 800R XT-P, find what you need at the MotoSport parts page linked above.

Related Shopping Categories

Shop Brake Fluid for a 2012 Can-Am Outlander 800R XT-P ATV.

Shop Brake Bleeders for a 2012 Can-Am Outlander 800R XT-P ATV.

Shop Brake Pads for a 2012 Can-Am Outlander 800R XT-P ATV.

Shop Brake Lines for a 2012 Can-Am Outlander 800R XT-P ATV.

Shop Brake Tools for a 2012 Can-Am Outlander 800R XT-P 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.