How to Bleed and Replace Brake Fluid on a 2013 Can-Am Outlander MAX 500 XT
Shop parts for a 2013 Can-Am Outlander MAX 500 XT ATV.
This MotoSport-exclusive guide covers step-by-step brake fluid replacement and bleeding for the 2013 Can-Am Outlander MAX 500 XT (MMY CAN_AM;OLM500XT;2013). Follow these procedures carefully to restore firm, consistent brakes. If you are unsure at any point, stop and consult a qualified technician.
What to know about the 2013 Outlander MAX 500 XT braking system
- Dual-circuit hydraulic disc brakes front and rear with separate master cylinders for front and rear circuits; no factory ABS on this model.
- Factory-recommended brake fluid: DOT 4. Use clean, sealed DOT 4 fluid only; do not mix DOT 5 (silicone) with DOT 4/3.
- Reservoir locations: front master cylinder at handlebar, rear master cylinder near the foot controls/rear brake pedal. Always service the reservoir closest to its calipers first according to distance/farthest-caliper principle.
- Inspect brake lines, fittings, caliper seals, and banjo bolts for leaks or corrosion before replacing fluid.
Tools & supplies
- DOT 4 brake fluid (one sealed bottle)
- Clear plastic tubing to fit bleed nipples
- Brake bleeder bottle or clean catch container
- Wrenches (typically 8mm-11mm depending on bleed nipple sizing)
- Vacuum bleeder or hand pump (optional but speeds process)
- Clean rags, gloves, eye protection
- Torque wrench for caliper/banjo bolts if removed
- Jack or ramps to stabilize ATV and lift wheels if needed
Preparation
- Park on level ground, engine off, key removed. Secure vehicle to prevent rolling.
- Clean around reservoirs and calipers to prevent contamination entering the system.
- Remove old fluid from reservoirs using a syringe or turkey baster to minimize spill; top up with fresh DOT 4 as you proceed. Keep reservoirs capped between steps to reduce moisture absorption.
- If brake hoses or calipers are to be replaced, change them first and torque banjo bolts to manufacturer spec; then proceed with bleeding.
Bleeding order and general principle
Always bleed the brake circuit that is farthest from its reservoir first, then progress to the closest. For each caliper: attach clear tubing to the bleed nipple, place the other end in a catch bottle partially filled with fresh fluid to avoid air re-entry. Keep the reservoir topped during the entire procedure.
Step-by-step bleed using the two-person pump method (no vacuum tool)
- Have an assistant pump the brake lever/pedal slowly several times and hold pressure on the lever/pedal.
- Open the bleed nipple about a quarter to a half turn to allow fluid and air to escape into the tubing. Close nipple before the assistant releases the lever/pedal. Repeat until no bubbles are visible in the tubing and fluid runs clear.
- Maintain reservoir fluid level between steps to prevent drawing new air into the system.
- Once the caliper is bubble-free, tighten the bleed nipple to spec and move to the next caliper following the farthest-to-closest rule.
- Finish by pumping the lever/pedal and checking for a firm, non-spongy feel. If spongy, repeat bleeding sequence.
Step-by-step using a vacuum bleeder or pressure bleeder
- Connect vacuum or pressure bleeder to the reservoir per tool instructions and fill with DOT 4.
- Open each bleed nipple one at a time (farthest first). Allow vacuum/pressure to draw fluid until clear and bubble-free.
- Close nipple, move to next caliper. Keep reservoir topped.
- Verify pedal/lever firmness after all calipers are done.
Specific caliper sequence suggestion for Outlander MAX 500 XT
- Identify which reservoir feeds which calipers. For most setups, bleed the rear circuit first (farthest rear caliper), then the front circuit. If there are two front calipers, bleed the one farthest from the front master cylinder first, then the closest.
- If in doubt, follow the general rule: farthest from reservoir to closest.
Post-bleed checks & safe break-in
- Check for leaks at bleed nipples, banjo bolts, and fittings. Tighten if necessary.
- Dispose of contaminated brake fluid per local hazardous-waste regulations; do not reuse or pour down drains.
- Test brakes at low speed in a safe area to bed-in new fluid and confirm firm pedal/lever feel before normal riding.
- Re-check fluid level after first short ride and top as needed.
Troubleshooting
- Persistent spongy feel: likely trapped air or a leak. Re-bleed and inspect lines, master cylinder seals, and caliper pistons.
- Brake fading or contaminated fluid: flush entire system and replace with new DOT 4 fluid.
- Soft pedal that becomes firmer after pumping: may indicate internal master cylinder seal issues; consider master cylinder rebuild or replacement.
Notes specific to MMY CAN_AM;OLM500XT;2013 owners
- This ATV's twin-seat MAX configuration increases curb weight and may alter brake loading; inspect pads and rotors more frequently if you carry two-up or heavy loads.
- Factory front and rear master cylinders can be sensitive to moisture in fluidkeep bottles sealed and do not leave reservoirs open longer than necessary to avoid moisture contamination.
- If your machine is used in deep-water crossings, inspect rear brake components and lines for water intrusion after each event and re-bleed if any sign of contamination emerges.
- Parking brake/cable (if equipped): check its operation after bleeding the hydraulic system; adjust or lubricate cable if binding is observed.
Maintenance schedule recommendations
- Inspect pads, hoses, and fittings every 3 months or 250 miles (whichever comes first).
- Replace brake fluid every 1-2 years or sooner if exposed to moisture, heavy use, or contamination.
Perform brake service in a clean, controlled area. If you encounter internal master cylinder or caliper seal failure, or if you are uncomfortable with any step, stop and contact a professional mechanic. Proper bleeding and clean DOT 4 fluid will keep your Outlander MAX 500 XT stopping reliably.
Related Shopping Categories
Shop Brake Fluid for a 2013 Can-Am Outlander MAX 500 XT ATV.
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Shop Brake Lines for a 2013 Can-Am Outlander MAX 500 XT ATV.
Shop Brake Tools for a 2013 Can-Am Outlander MAX 500 XT 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.