How to Bleed & Replace Brake Fluid on a 2013 Can-Am Renegade 800R

Shop parts for a 2013 Can-Am Renegade 800R ATV.

This MotoSport guide walks you step-by-step through replacing and bleeding the brake fluid on a 2013 Can-Am Renegade 800R (MMY: CAN_AM;REN800R;2013). Follow these instructions carefully to maintain braking performance and safety. Use DOT 4 brake fluid unless your owner’s manual specifies otherwise. Always work on a cool vehicle and keep dirt away from open fluid reservoirs.

Tools & supplies

  • DOT 4 brake fluid (new, unopened bottle)
  • Clear plastic tubing to fit bleed nipples
  • Catch bottle or jar (marked for brake fluid)
  • Brake bleed wrench or correct-size open wrench
  • Rubber gloves, safety glasses
  • Clean rags and isopropyl alcohol for cleanup
  • Torque wrench (for caliper and banjo bolt checks)
  • Optional: vacuum bleeder or pressure bleeder
  • Zip-ties or clamps to hold tubing

Safety & prep

  • Work on level ground, engine off, parking brake not engaged if it interferes with bleeding procedure.
  • Block wheels/chock to prevent movement. Use jack stands if wheels removed.
  • Protect painted surfaces from spilled fluid — brake fluid is corrosive to paint. Wipe spills immediately with isopropyl alcohol.
  • Wear gloves & eye protection. Dispose of old fluid per local regulations.

Model notes for the 2013 Can-Am Renegade 800R

  • The Renegade 800R uses a hydraulic front and rear brake system with separate calipers. Bleed order is important because master cylinder location affects flow path.
  • This model typically uses DOT 4 fluid; confirm by checking reservoir cap labeling or owner’s manual before starting.
  • Some 2013 Renegade variants have dual front calipers and a rear caliper mounted close to the master cylinder — bleed the caliper farthest from the master cylinder first, then progress to the nearest.
  • If your unit has ABS or an electronic brake module, follow additional OEM procedures before/after bleeding (cycle ignition if required). If unsure, contact a dealer or MotoSport tech support for model-specific advice.

Step 1: Access the master cylinder reservoir

  • Locate the brake master cylinder reservoir (usually on handlebars for ATV). Clean the cap area thoroughly to prevent contamination.
  • Remove the cap and diaphragm. Mop up any old fluid on the cap and around the reservoir opening so dirt won’t fall in.

Step 2: Drain old fluid from the reservoir

  • Use a turkey baster or syringe to remove most of the old fluid from the reservoir. Don’t let the reservoir run dry during the procedure.
  • Refill with fresh DOT 4 fluid to the fill line. Keep the cap and diaphragm off while bleeding so you can monitor fluid level and top up as needed.

Step 3: Determine bleed sequence

  • Typical sequence: start with the caliper farthest from the master cylinder, then the next farthest, and finish with the closest. For many Renegade 800R setups this will be: rear caliper (if located farthest), right-front, then left-front — confirm by sighting hose routing from the master cylinder.

Step 4: Bleeding methods

Choose one:

  • Manual pump method (helper): Attach clear tubing to bleed nipple, place other end in catch bottle partially filled with old fluid to prevent air re-entry. Helper pumps the brake lever/pedal slowly while you open the bleed nipple about 1/4 turn to let fluid and air escape. Close nipple before helper releases lever. Repeat until clear, bubble-free fluid appears and no air is expelled. Keep reservoir topped off.
  • Vacuum or pressure bleeder (recommended for one-person operation): Connect device to bleed nipple (vacuum) or reservoir (pressure) per tool instructions. Use vacuum/pressure to draw fluid through each caliper until clear fluid exits, following same farthest-to-closest order. This is cleaner and faster.
  • Reverse/pressure flush (advanced): Push fluid from calipers back to reservoir using a calibrated pressure source at caliper bleeders. Use only if you understand potential ABS/electronic valve constraints; this method is not recommended for ABS systems unless OEM-approved.

Step 5: Bleed each caliper

  • Start with the chosen farthest caliper. Attach tubing to bleed nipple and submerge tube end in catch bottle. With helper method, have helper slowly pump the lever 6–10 times and hold pressure, then open nipple to let fluid flow. Close nipple, then release lever. Repeat until no air bubbles & fluid is clear.
  • Move to the next caliper and repeat. Always keep reservoir from running low to avoid drawing air back into the system.
  • Final caliper should be the one closest to the master cylinder.

Step 6: Final reservoir fill & check

  • Top the reservoir to the correct level — do not overfill. Reinstall diaphragm and cap securely.
  • Operate the brake lever/pedal several times to verify firm feel. If the lever is spongy, repeat bleeding until firm and bubble-free.
  • Inspect all bleed nipples, banjo bolts and fittings for leaks. Torque bolts to factory specs if you have them; otherwise tighten snugly and check for leaks after a short test ride.

Post-bleed and test ride

  • Wipe down components, remove tools, and clean any spilled fluid. Do not ride until the brakes feel firm at rest.
  • Perform a low-speed test in a safe area to verify braking performance. Test multiple stops to ensure no fade or sponginess appears.

Troubleshooting

  • Persistent spongy lever after thorough bleeding: inspect master cylinder, caliper seals, and brake lines for internal leaks or collapse; rubber hoses can swell with age and reduce performance.
  • Air keeps reappearing: check reservoir cap vent, reservoir seal, and all connections for loose fittings allowing external air in.
  • If ABS-equipped and you suspect module issues, a dealer-level scan or OEM procedure may be required to purge trapped air in the ABS unit.

Maintenance tips

  • Replace brake fluid every 1–2 years or sooner if contaminated. Old fluid absorbs moisture and reduces boiling point leading to reduced braking under heavy use.
  • Inspect brake pads, rotors, lines, and hose attachments while you have components exposed. Replace worn pads and rotors as needed.
  • Store unused brake fluid in a sealed container; moisture contamination degrades performance.

Performing a proper bleed and fluid replacement will keep your 2013 Can-Am Renegade 800R stopping reliably. If you’re uncomfortable with any step or if your ATV has ABS/electronics you don’t recognize, consult a qualified technician or reach out to MotoSport tech support for assistance.

Related Shopping Categories

Shop Brake Fluid for a 2013 Can-Am Renegade 800R ATV.

Shop Brake Bleeders for a 2013 Can-Am Renegade 800R ATV.

Shop Brake Pads for a 2013 Can-Am Renegade 800R ATV.

Shop Brake Lines for a 2013 Can-Am Renegade 800R ATV.

Shop Brake Tools for a 2013 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.