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

Shop parts for a 2012 CAN_AM OLM800RXP ATV.

This MotoSport guide walks you through a safe, complete brake fluid change and bleed for the 2012 Can-Am Outlander MAX 800R XT-P (MMY CAN_AM;OLM800RXP;2012). Follow these steps precisely. If you don't feel comfortable performing brake work, have a qualified technician do it.

What you need

  • DOT 4 brake fluid (use manufacturer-specified fluid only)
  • Clear plastic tubing to fit bleeder nipples
  • Catch bottle (marked for brake fluid)
  • Wrench set sized for bleeder screws
  • Vacuum pump or pressure bleeder (optional but recommended)
  • Clean rags, brake cleaner, and gloves
  • Floor jack or ramps and stands to lift and secure the machine
  • Small brush or toothbrush for reservoir cap area

Important model notes for the 2012 Outlander MAX 800R XT-P

  • The machine uses a separate front master cylinder on the handlebars and a rear master cylinder near the foot controls; service both reservoirs.
  • Some 2012 XT-P models may be fitted with ABS or a combined braking system; if ABS is present, cycle the ABS module per factory guidance or consult a dealer before flushing to avoid triggering errors.
  • Bleed in the correct sequence: farthest caliper first, then the next farthest, ending with the nearest caliper to each master cylinder.
  • Keep reservoirs topped during the entire procedure to prevent air entry into the system.
  • Brake fluid is hygroscopic and corrosive to paint and plasticsavoid spills and dispose of used fluid responsibly.

Pre-bleed preparation

  1. Park on level ground, place in park/neutral, and secure with the parking brake and wheel chocks.
  2. Raise the machine to access wheels and calipers; secure on stands.
  3. Clean around each reservoir cap and caliper bleeder screw to avoid contamination.
  4. Open both master cylinder reservoirs (front & rear). Remove old fluid from each reservoir with a syringe or turkey baster until level is low but not empty.
  5. Top reservoirs with fresh DOT 4 fluid. Do not mix fluid types.

Bleed order

Typical order:

  • Front caliper farthest from the front master cylinder (usually right/front)
  • Front caliper closest to the front master cylinder (usually left/front)
  • Rear caliper(s) for the rear master cylinder follow farthest to nearest

Bleeding methods (choose one)

Two-person pump-and-hold method

  1. Person A sits on the machine and slowly pumps the brake lever/pedal several times and holds pressure.
  2. Person B opens the bleeder screw (about a quarter turn) until fluid flows into the tubing into the catch bottle; close screw before lever/pedal is released.
  3. Repeat until clear, bubble-free fluid appears, then tighten the bleeder to spec hand-tight plus small turn.
  4. Keep the reservoir topped after every few cycles.
  5. Proceed through bleed order for both master cylinders.

Vacuum or pressure bleeder (recommended for a cleaner, faster job)

  1. Attach clear tubing to bleeder screw; place other end in the catch bottle.
  2. Apply vacuum at the bleeder nipple or pressure to the reservoir per tool instructions.
  3. Open bleeder screw and wait until clear fluid with no bubbles flows; close screw and move to next caliper.
  4. Monitor reservoir; keep fluid level topped.

Finishing steps

  1. Once all calipers are bled and fluid is clear, fill reservoirs to the proper level and install caps securely.
  2. Clean any spilled fluid immediately with brake cleaner; protect painted surfaces.
  3. Cycle the brakes several times with the engine off to build firm lever/pedal feel. If spongy, re-bleed the affected circuit.
  4. Lower the machine, remove stands, and perform a low-speed test in a safe area to confirm brake performance.
  5. Record the service date and mileage; recommended replacement interval is generally every 12-24 months depending on use and environment.

Troubleshooting

  • Persistent sponginess: likely trapped air or contaminated master cylinderbleed again and inspect the master cylinder seals.
  • Brake fluid level dropping rapidly: check for external leaks at hoses, calipers, and master cylinder.
  • ABS-related faults after bleeding: cycle ABS by riding per owner manual or consult a dealer if warning lights persist.

Safety & disposal

  • Wear eye protection and gloves; brake fluid harms skin and paint.
  • Never reuse old fluid; store unopened fluid sealed and use within manufacturer shelf-life.
  • Dispose of used fluid per local hazardous-waste regulations.

Follow these MotoSport instructions to return braking performance to safe, predictable operation on your 2012 Can-Am Outlander MAX 800R XT-P. If you encounter ABS faults, damaged components, or uncertain results, stop and contact a qualified technician or MotoSport parts specialist for help.

Related Shopping Categories

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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.