How to Bleed & Replace Brake Fluid on a 2013 Can-Am Outlander 650 DPS

Shop parts for a 2013 CAN-AM OL650DPS ATV.

This MotoSport guide walks you through a full brake fluid replacement and bleed procedure tailored for the 2013 Can-Am Outlander 650 DPS. Follow this step-by-step process, use the correct materials, and respect safety precautions to restore firm lever and pedal feel.

What you need

  • DOT 4 brake fluid (fresh, unopened)
  • Clear plastic tubing that fits snugly over bleed nipple
  • Brake bleeder bottle or catch container
  • Wrench set (8mm-12mm common sizes for bleed nipples)
  • Turkey baster or squeeze bottle to remove fluid from reservoir
  • Clean rags and isopropyl alcohol for cleanup
  • Jack or stands to raise wheels (if needed) and wheel chocks
  • Safety glasses and gloves

Model notes specific to the 2013 Can-Am Outlander 650 DPS

  • The OEM system uses DOT 4 brake fluid. DO NOT substitute DOT 5 (silicone) or mix incompatible fluids.
  • DPS means Dynamic Power Steering is present. Avoid getting brake fluid on power steering components & seals; brake fluid can damage plastic and painted surfaces.
  • Front calipers are dual-piston on many trims and have bleed nipples on the caliper body; the rear caliper has a single bleed nipple. Identify nipples before starting.
  • There is no ABS on most 2013 Outlander 650 DPS models, so manual bench or pressure bleeding is appropriate. If your unit has additional factory options, verify routing and components first.
  • Brake lines and fittings on older machines may be corrodedinspect hoses for cracks and fittings for rounded edges. Replace any suspect parts.

Safety first

  • Work on a level surface with the engine off and key removed.
  • Wear eye protection and gloves. Brake fluid is corrosive to paint and plastics.
  • Avoid skin contact; clean spills immediately with water and alcohol.
  • Support the ATV securely if removing wheels or raising it.

Preparation

  1. Park the Outlander on a level surface, set the parking brake, and chock wheels.
  2. Locate the brake master cylinder reservoir near the handlebars. Clean around the cap to prevent contamination.
  3. Remove the reservoir cap and diaphragm. Use a turkey baster or squeeze bottle to remove most old fluid from the reservoirdon't let the reservoir run dry if you plan to reuse the same system before topping with fresh fluid. Wipe the inside clean with a lint-free cloth.
  4. Fill the reservoir with fresh DOT 4 brake fluid to the recommended level but leave enough room for air expansion during bleeding.
  5. Identify bleed nipples on each caliper: front left, front right, and rear. Fit clear tubing over each nipple and route to a catch jar.

Bleeding order

Typical bleed order for the Outlander 650 DPS is:

  1. Right front (farthest from master cylinder)
  2. Left front
  3. Rear (closest to master cylinder)

Manual (pump) bleed method

  1. One helper method: Helper slowly pumps the brake lever/pedal several times and holds pressure.
  2. With pressure held, open the bleed nipple about 1/4 to 1/2 turn. Fluid and air will flow into the tubing. Close the nipple before the helper releases the lever/pedal to prevent air re-entry. Repeat until clear, bubble-free fluid emerges.
  3. After each caliper is bled, top the reservoir with fresh DOT 4 fluid. Never let the reservoir run dry.
  4. Work through the bleed order and repeat cycles until each caliper produces only clear fluid with no air bubbles.
  5. When finished, tighten bleed nipples to snug. Clean any spilled fluid and reinstall diaphragm and cap.

Pressure or vacuum bleeding (faster, single-operator)

  • Attach a hand vacuum pump to each bleed nipple, or use a pressure bleeder on the master cylinder, following the tool manufacturer's instructions.
  • Maintain steady reservoir level and repeat the bleed order until all bubbles are gone.
  • These methods reduce the chance of introducing air compared with manual pumping but still require attention to reservoir level.

Bench bleeding (if replacing master cylinder)

  • If you replace or rebuild the master cylinder, bench-bleed it before reinstallation using the manufacturer procedure: secure, fill, and cycle the piston until no bubbles appear from the return ports.

Final checks

  1. Verify brake lever and pedal feelfirm, with minimal travel. If spongy, repeat bleeding until solid.
  2. Inspect bleed nipples, hoses, and reservoir for leaks.
  3. Confirm fluid level in reservoir is at the proper mark after cycling brakes and reinstall cap securely.
  4. Wipe any spilled fluid from paint, plastics, and power steering components immediately.
  5. Test ride at low speed in a safe area to confirm braking performance before full use.

Maintenance tips & intervals

  • MotoSport recommends changing brake fluid every 12-24 months or sooner if the fluid appears dark or contaminated.
  • Inspect brake lines and caliper seals annually, or more often if you ride in wet/muddy conditions.
  • If you notice persistent soft brake feel, excessive lever travel, or contaminated fluid, service immediately.

Troubleshooting

  • Persistent air after repeated bleeding: check for leaky master cylinder seals or cracked hoses that draw in airreplace as needed.
  • Brake drag after bleeding: ensure bleed nipples are fully tightened and caliper pistons are free. Clean and lubricate slide pins if applicable.
  • Contaminated brake pads or rotors from fluid: replace affected pads and clean or replace rotors if needed.

Follow this MotoSport procedure to ensure safe, reliable braking on your 2013 Can-Am Outlander 650 DPS. If you encounter major component failures or are uncomfortable with any step, consult a qualified ATV technician.

Related Shopping Categories

Shop Brake Fluid for a 2013 CAN-AM OL650DPS ATV.

Shop Brake Bleeders for a 2013 CAN-AM OL650DPS ATV.

Shop Brake Pads for a 2013 CAN-AM OL650DPS ATV.

Shop Brake Lines for a 2013 CAN-AM OL650DPS ATV.

Shop Brake Tools for a 2013 CAN-AM OL650DPS 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.