How to Bleed and Replace Brake Fluid on a 2013 Arctic Cat 500 CORE

Shop parts for a 2013 Arctic Cat 500 CORE ATV.

This MotoSport guide covers a complete, safe procedure to replace and bleed the hydraulic brake fluid on a 2013 Arctic Cat 500 CORE (MMY). Follow these steps carefully, use recommended supplies, and confirm fluid spec for your machine before starting.

Model notes & precautions

  • The Arctic Cat 500 CORE typically uses DOT 4 brake fluid; however, always verify the brake fluid specification printed on the master cylinder cap or in your owner's manual before purchasing fluid.
  • The 500 CORE uses a simple hydraulic system without factory ABSbleeding is done at caliper bleeder screws and the master cylinder reservoir.
  • Avoid mixing DOT 3, DOT 4, and DOT 5 (silicone) fluids. DOT 5 is not compatible with systems designed for glycol-based fluids.
  • Brake fluid is highly hygroscopic and corrodes paint and rubberprotect painted surfaces, wear nitrile gloves, and wipe spills immediately.
  • If your 500 CORE has aftermarket brake components, follow their bleed instructions first; aftermarket masters/calipers may require different procedures or fittings.

Tools & supplies

  • Fresh DOT 4 brake fluid (or the type specified for your bike)
  • Clear plastic tubing that fits bleeder nipples snugly
  • Brake fluid catch bottle or jar with a one-way valve or one-way squeeze bulb (bleeder kit)
  • Wrench that fits bleeder nipples (usually 8mm or 10mm)
  • Turkey baster or syringe to remove old fluid from reservoir
  • Disposable rags, gloves, safety glasses
  • Jack or stand to lift the ATV so wheels can spin freely
  • Small funnel and clean container for new fluid
  • Brake cleaner and a wire brush for cleaning around bleeders

Preparation

  • Park ATV on level ground, set parking brake, kill the engine, remove key.
  • Lift machine so the wheels are off the ground and can rotate freely.
  • Clean around master cylinder reservoir and each caliper bleeder. Remove dirt to avoid contamination.
  • Open the master cylinder reservoir cap and diaphragm; if very dirty, clean the top surface first and use a clean rag to avoid debris dropping in.
  • Using a turkey baster, remove as much old fluid from the reservoir as possible without introducing air.
  • Top reservoir with fresh fluid to the "MAX" mark. Keep the cap off during bleeding but protect the opening from debris.

Brake system bleeding order

Use the following general sequence: bleed the caliper farthest from the master cylinder first, then move progressively closer. For the 500 CORE the typical order is:

  • Rear brake caliper (if rear is independent)
  • Front caliper opposite the master (left/right order depends on your master location)
  • Front caliper nearest master

If your model has a combined system with a single master for both, follow the same far-to-near approach. If unsure, bleed each caliper until clear fluid and no air is present.

Manual two-person bleed method (recommended)

  1. Attach clear tubing to the bleeder nipple and place the other end in a catch bottle partially filled with clean brake fluid to prevent air re-entry.
  2. Have an assistant slowly depress the brake lever/pedal several times and hold it to build pressure.
  3. Open the bleeder screw about one-quarter to one-half turn while the lever is held down; fluid and air will flow into the tubing. Close the bleeder before the assistant releases the lever.
  4. Repeat: pump lever, hold, open bleeder, close bleeder, release lever. Keep the reservoir topped up between cycles to prevent air being drawn into master cylinder.
  5. Continue until the fluid coming out is clear of bubbles and appears new. Tighten bleeder to specified snugness (do not over-torque).
  6. Move to the next caliper in the bleed order and repeat.
  7. After the final caliper, pump the lever several times to check firmness. If soft or spongy, repeat bleeding at suspected calipers until lever is firm and consistent.

One-person vacuum or pressure bleeder method

If using a vacuum pump, attach tubing to the bleeder nipple and draw fluid while periodically opening and closing the bleeder. If using a pressure bleeder on the master cylinder, pressurize the reservoir per the bleed kit instructions and open bleeders in order until clear fluid flows. Always follow the bleed kit manufacturer's safety instructions.

Finishing steps

  • When bleeding is complete, top the master reservoir to the MAX mark, reinstall diaphragm and cap, and tighten caliper bleeder screws securely.
  • Clean all brake fluid residues with brake cleaner and wipe painted surfaces with a damp rag to remove any contamination.
  • Lower the ATV, spin wheels to ensure free movement, and test brakes at low speed in a safe area to verify firm pedal/lever feel before riding at speed.
  • Dispose of used brake fluid according to local hazardous waste regulations.

Troubleshooting & diagnostic tips

  • Persistent soft lever after thorough bleeding may indicate a faulty master cylinder, collapsed brake hose, or caliper seal issueinspect components and replace as needed.
  • Air trapped in the master cylinder can require bench-bleeding the master if bleeding calipers does not restore firmness.
  • Leaking bleeder screws or lines must be replaced; do not reuse damaged copper crush washersreplace them when reassembling.
  • If brakes feel grabby after fluid change, ensure you used the correct fluid type and that pads/calipers are clean and free of fluid contamination.

Parts and maintenance reminders specific to the 2013 Arctic Cat 500 CORE

  • Inspect master cylinder cap and diaphragm for cracking; the 500 CORE's exposed reservoir can be vulnerable to dustreplace degraded rubber parts to maintain a tight seal.
  • Check caliper and hose mounting hardware for corrosion after cold/wet seasons; replace corroded fasteners with OEM-spec replacements available through MotoSport.
  • Brake pads and rotors on the 500 CORE wear based on terrain and towing; inspect pad thickness and rotor condition while bleeding, and replace if near limits or scored.
  • Keep an eye on brake hose conditionsoft or swollen hoses degrade braking performance and should be replaced promptly with rated hoses.

Performing a full fluid replacement and proper bleed restores braking performance and extends component life. If you encounter persistent issues after following this guide, consult a qualified ATV technician for diagnosis and repair.

Related Shopping Categories

Shop Brake Fluid for a 2013 Arctic Cat 500 CORE ATV.

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Shop Brake Pads for a 2013 Arctic Cat 500 CORE ATV.

Shop Brake Lines for a 2013 Arctic Cat 500 CORE ATV.

Shop Brake Tools for a 2013 Arctic Cat 500 CORE 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.