How to Bleed & Replace Brake Fluid on a 2012 Can-Am Renegade 800R

Shop parts for a 2012 Can-Am Renegade 800R ATV.

This MotoSport procedural guide shows how to drain, replace, and properly bleed the hydraulic brakes on a 2012 Can-Am Renegade 800R. Read fully before starting. Work in a well-ventilated area on level ground. Brake fluid is corrosive to paint & plastics; protect surfaces and dispose of fluid responsibly.

Tools & supplies

  • DOT 4 brake fluid (confirm with your owner’s manual; many Renegade 800R models use DOT 4)
  • Brake bleeder kit: clear hose, catch bottle, or a vacuum/pressure bleeder
  • Wrenches for bleed nipples (usually 8mm or 10mm) and master cylinder cover screws
  • Turkey baster or fluid syringe (for reservoir fluid removal)
  • Clean rags, nitrile gloves, safety glasses
  • Jack or ramps and stands to safely lift/support the ATV for wheel access
  • Small funnel, brake-clean spray, and a torque wrench if re-torquing caliper bolts

Model-specific notes for the 2012 Can-Am Renegade 800R

  • There are separate front and rear master cylinders/reservoirs on the Renegade 800R. The front master cylinder reservoir is located near the handlebar controls; the rear master cylinder & reservoir is mounted on the frame near the brake pedal area.
  • Bleed order: start with the brake circuit furthest from the master cylinder. For Renegade setups that use a single combined reservoir with two circuits, that usually means rear caliper (farthest) first, then the nearer front caliper. If uncertain, follow the system layout visible on your unit or the owner’s manual.
  • If your machine is equipped with ABS or an electronic brake system, consult the owner’s manual for ABS-specific bleeding procedures. ABS units can trap air in modulator valves and may require a scan tool or cycle routine; a standard gravity/vacuum bleed may not fully remove air from the ABS module.
  • Always check hose condition, caliper seals, and master cylinder boots while you have the system open. Replace cracked hoses or leaking seals before finalizing the job.

Preparation

  • Park ATV on level surface, engage parking brake, and secure against movement.
  • Clean the reservoir cap area to avoid contamination. Remove cover and diaphragm carefully.
  • Note current fluid level and color – dark, dirty fluid indicates it needs replacement. Use a turkey baster or syringe to remove most old fluid from the reservoir before adding new fluid to minimize contamination during bleeding.
  • Top off reservoir with fresh DOT 4 until near the max line; keep the cap loosely on to limit contamination but leave room for air escape during bleeding.

Method A – Two-person pump-and-hold bleed (common, reliable)

  1. Raise the wheel you will bleed first so the caliper is accessible. Remove wheel if needed to access the bleed nipple.
  2. Attach clear hose to bleed nipple and submerge the other end in a catch bottle partially filled with fresh fluid to prevent air re-entry.
  3. Have Assistant A sit on the seat and pump the brake lever/pedal slowly 3–5 times and then hold firm pressure.
  4. With pressure held, Assistant B opens the bleed nipple about 1/4 turn to let fluid & air escape. Close nipple before the lever/pedal is released. Repeat until no air bubbles exit and fluid is clear.
  5. Top off the master cylinder reservoir frequently to prevent running dry — never allow the reservoir to go below the minimum level while bleeding.
  6. Once clear, tighten bleed nipple to spec snug (hand tight plus a small turn; avoid over-torquing), wipe residue, and move to the next wheel following the recommended bleed order.

Method B – Vacuum or pressure bleeder (faster & one-person)

  1. Attach vacuum pump hose to the bleed nipple and a catch bottle. Pump vacuum while keeping the reservoir topped off.
  2. Open bleed nipple and allow fluid to flow until clear, then close nipple before stopping vacuum. Repeat for each caliper in correct sequence.
  3. Pressure bleeders screw onto the reservoir cap and push fluid through the system; this is efficient but ensure the cap seal is correct and watch fluid level to avoid overflow.

Gravity bleed (slow, low-tech)

  • Open bleed nipple and let gravity move fluid through the system into a catch bottle. This can take hours and is less effective at removing trapped air but is acceptable if you have time and patience.

Finishing steps

  • After bleeding all circuits, pump the brake lever/pedal and check for firm, consistent feel. If it feels spongy, repeat bleeding focusing on the circuit that still contains air.
  • Clean any spilled fluid from painted surfaces with brake cleaner and rinse with water quickly to minimize damage.
  • Reinstall reservoir diaphragm and cap; torque any removed fasteners to factory spec if known. Replace wheel(s) and lower machine.
  • Test ride at low speed in a safe area to confirm braking performance. Re-check fluid level after the first ride and inspect for leaks.
  • Properly dispose of used brake fluid following local regulations.

Troubleshooting & common issues

  • Persistent soft pedal after multiple bleeds may indicate worn master cylinder, caliper seals, or internal leaks; inspect components and replace if necessary.
  • Air stuck in ABS modulator may require specialized bleed routines or cycling with diagnostic equipment. If you suspect ABS air entrapment, a dealer or experienced shop can perform the ABS bleed.
  • If brake fluid repeatedly darkens quickly, caliper piston seals or internal contamination may be present — inspect calipers and replace fluid frequently until resolved.

Safety reminders

  • Never mix DOT 3, DOT 4, and DOT 5 (silicone) fluids. DOT 5 is not compatible with systems designed for glycol-based fluids.
  • Keep brake fluid away from skin & eyes. Wear gloves and safety glasses.
  • Do not let the reservoir run dry during bleeding or you will have to re-prime the system and repeat bleeding until air-free.

Follow this MotoSport-specific procedure and your Renegade 800R will have fresh fluid and dependable braking. If you encounter ABS or master-cylinder issues beyond basic bleeding, contact a qualified technician.

Related Shopping Categories

Shop Brake Fluid for a 2012 Can-Am Renegade 800R ATV.

Shop Brake Bleeders for a 2012 Can-Am Renegade 800R ATV.

Shop Brake Pads for a 2012 Can-Am Renegade 800R ATV.

Shop Brake Lines for a 2012 Can-Am Renegade 800R ATV.

Shop Brake Tools for a 2012 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.