How to Bleed and Replace Brake Fluid on a 2013 Can-Am Outlander MAX 650

Shop parts for a 2013 Can-Am Outlander MAX 650 ATV.

This step-by-step MotoSport guide walks you through safely replacing and bleeding the brake fluid on a 2013 Can-Am Outlander MAX 650 (MMY OLM650). Follow all safety precautions, use quality parts and the correct DOT-rated fluid, and perform the job on a stable surface.

Important model notes for the 2013 Can-Am Outlander MAX 650

  • The Outlander MAX 650 uses hydraulic disc brakes with a front master cylinder and a rear master circuit; use DOT 4 brake fluid unless the vehicle placard or owner’s manual specifies otherwise.
  • This model may have separate front and rear reservoirs; identify which reservoir feeds which calipers before beginning.
  • There is no factory ABS on this MMY; standard bleeding procedures apply, but confirm caliper & reservoir layout visually.
  • Replace rubber hoses or corroded fittings found during inspection. Age-related swelling or cracking is common on older ATVs.

Tools & supplies

  • DOT 4 brake fluid (fresh, unopened)
  • Clear vinyl hose that fits bleed nipples
  • Catch bottle or jar (marked for used brake fluid)
  • Wrench set for bleed nipples (typically 8mm or 10mm)
  • Turkey baster or syringe (to remove old fluid from reservoir)
  • Rags, brake cleaner, protective gloves, safety glasses
  • Floor jack or ATV stand and wheel chocks
  • Optional: pressure bleeder or vacuum bleeder

Safety first

  • Work on a flat, stable surface. Secure the Outlander with the parking brake and chocks.
  • Wear gloves & eye protection. Brake fluid is corrosive to paint & plastics.
  • Do not let old or new fluid contact painted surfaces. Wipe spills immediately with brake cleaner.
  • Never reuse brake fluid. Dispose of used fluid per local regulations.

Preparation

  1. Park ATV upright, engine off, key removed. Place on stand so wheels are off the ground.
  2. Locate brake fluid reservoir(s) on handlebars & rear master cylinder. Clean caps and area before opening.
  3. Remove reservoir cap(s) and diaphragm cover; loosely replace cap to limit contamination while you prep, then remove when ready to fill.
  4. If fluid is dark or contaminated, remove as much old fluid from the reservoir with a syringe or turkey baster before refilling with fresh fluid.
  5. Identify bleed screw sizes and positions on each caliper. Fit clear hose over a bleed nipple and route to a catch bottle partially filled with fresh fluid to avoid drawing air back in.

Bleeding sequence

Bleed starting at the wheel farthest from the primary master cylinder, then proceed to the next farthest, ending with the wheel closest to the master cylinder. For many Outlander configurations this sequence is typically: rear passenger side, rear driver side, front passenger side, front driver side. Confirm which master supplies which circuit on your machine.

Two-person pump-and-hold method

  1. Top reservoir with fresh DOT 4, keeping level between MIN & MAX.
  2. Have helper pump the brake lever/pedal slowly 6–10 times and hold pressure.
  3. Open the bleed nipple one turn to allow fluid and air to escape into hose. Close nipple before helper releases pressure.
  4. Repeat pump-hold-open-close until the expelled fluid is clear and free of bubbles.
  5. Keep reservoir topped up during process to prevent drawing air into the system.

One-person or vacuum/pressure bleeder method

  1. If using a pressure bleeder, pressurize reservoir per tool instructions and open bleed screws one at a time until clear fluid flows.
  2. If using a vacuum pump, attach to bleed nipple, crack the nipple, run until clear fluid appears, then tighten the nipple while vacuum remains.
  3. Always keep reservoir topped up and close bleed nipples securely after each wheel.

Reassembly & checks

  1. Once all wheels are bled and fluid runs clear, top the reservoir to the MAX mark, reinstall diaphragm and cap.
  2. Torque bleed nipples and caliper fasteners to factory spec if available. At minimum, ensure fittings are snug and leak-free.
  3. Spin wheels by hand to ensure free movement, then lower ATV to the ground.
  4. With engine off, apply brakes firmly several times to build pedal/lever firmness. If spongy, re-bleed affected circuit.
  5. Test ride slowly in a safe area to confirm braking performance before normal use.

Inspection items & maintenance tips specific to the Outlander MAX 650

  • Inspect master cylinder reservoir seals for aging; replace if brittle or leaking.
  • Check caliper pistons for corrosion or sticking. Overhaul or replace calipers if pistons don’t move smoothly.
  • Inspect brake lines for cracking or swelling; OEM rubber lines can degradeconsider steel-braided lines for longevity if you ride aggressively.
  • Rear parking brake linkage (if equipped) should be checked for proper adjustment after fluid replacement.
  • Keep a small spare bottle of DOT 4 in your garage for top-ups, but avoid storing opened bottles for long periods.

Common troubleshooting

  • Persistent soft lever/pedal: likely trapped air or leaking component. Re-check fittings, hoses, and calipers.
  • Brake drag after bleeding: caliper pistons or slides may be stuck, or bleed screw not fully closed.
  • Fluid contamination or rapid discoloration: source may be internal corrosion or a contaminated hose; inspect & replace as necessary.

Disposal

Collect used brake fluid in a sealed container and take it to a hazardous waste facility or approved recycling center. Do not pour on the ground or into drains.

If you need replacement reservoirs, calipers, hoses, or DOT 4 fluid specific to the 2013 Can-Am Outlander MAX 650, MotoSport stocks model-specific parts to keep your ATV stopping safely and reliably.

Related Shopping Categories

Shop Brake Fluid for a 2013 Can-Am Outlander MAX 650 ATV.

Shop Brake Bleeders for a 2013 Can-Am Outlander MAX 650 ATV.

Shop Brake Pads for a 2013 Can-Am Outlander MAX 650 ATV.

Shop Brake Lines for a 2013 Can-Am Outlander MAX 650 ATV.

Shop Brake Tools for a 2013 Can-Am Outlander MAX 650 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.