How to Bleed & Replace Brake Fluid on a 2013 Honda TRX500 Rubicon 4X4

Shop parts for a 2013 Honda TRX500 Rubicon 4X4 ATV.

This proprietary MotoSport guide walks you through safely flushing and replacing the brake fluid on your 2013 Honda TRX500 Rubicon 4X4 (MMY: Honda;TRX500RUBI;2013). Follow each step closely, use the recommended materials, and observe safety precautions specific to this model.

What you need

  • Honda-recommended DOT 4 brake fluid (do not mix with DOT 5 silicone)
  • Clear hose that fits bleeder nipples
  • Brake bleeder bottle or catch container
  • Disposable gloves, safety glasses
  • Brake cleaner and rags
  • 10mm wrench for bleeder nipples (verify on your calipers)
  • Torque wrench (for reassembly/tightening banjo bolts)
  • Assistant (for pedal/lever pumping) or a vacuum/pressure bleeder
  • Jack/stands or ramps to lift wheels for access (if necessary)

Model notes for the 2013 TRX500 Rubicon

  • The TRX500 Rubicon uses a hydraulic disc braking system front and rear. Use DOT 4 fluid for optimal performance and corrosion protection.
  • Brake reservoirs: front master cylinder located on the handlebar; the rear master/reservoir is mounted near the rear brake lever/pedal area. Keep both reservoirs capped and clean when servicing.
  • This model does not use ABS; bleeding is manual and follows a farthest-to-closest sequence relative to each master cylinder.
  • Avoid contaminating painted/plastic surfaces with fluid; DOT fluids damage finishes.

Safety first

  • Work in a well-ventilated area on a level surface; engage parking brake and stabilize the ATV on stands.
  • Wear gloves & eye protection; brake fluid is corrosive to skin and paint.
  • Never reuse old fluid; dispose of used fluid responsibly.

Overview of the procedure

Bleed and replace fluid by removing old fluid from the reservoir and each caliper, then refill with fresh DOT 4 while drawing air out of the system. Use the farthest-to-closest caliper sequence relative to each master cylinder to ensure complete air removal.

Step-by-step: complete fluid replacement

  1. Preparation: Park the ATV, raise it if necessary so wheels can turn, and clean the reservoir caps and surrounding area to prevent contamination. Remove the caps and diaphragm(s) from both front and rear reservoirs.
  2. Inspect: Check brake lines, hoses, and calipers for cracks, leaks, or deteriorated rubber. Replace any suspect parts before bleeding.
  3. Drain old fluid from reservoirs: Use a syringe or turkey baster to remove as much old fluid as possible from each reservoir. Wipe the inside of the cap and the rim with a clean rag.
  4. Refill reservoirs: Add DOT 4 brake fluid up to the max line. Keep the reservoir level high during the procedure to prevent drawing air into the master cylinder.
  5. Determine bleed order: For each master cylinder bleed the calipers starting with the caliper farthest from that master cylinder and move to the closest. Typical ATV sequence: far rear, near rear, far front, near front (verify distances visually on your machine).
  6. Attach clear hose to bleeder nipple and place other end in a catch bottle partially filled with fresh fluid to prevent air re-entry.
  7. Bleeding with an assistant (manual): Have an assistant slowly pull and hold the brake lever (or press the pedal) while you open the bleeder nipple about 1/4 turn. Fluid & bubbles will flow. Close the nipple before the lever/pedal is released. Repeat until only clean fluid with no air bubbles emerges. Keep reservoir topped between cycles.
  8. Bleeding with vacuum/pressure tool: Connect tool to bleeder nipple or reservoir per tool instructions. Operate tool until clear fluid with no bubbles appears; monitor reservoir level and top up as needed.
  9. Repeat for each caliper in sequence: Continue the farthest-to-closest order until fluid runs clear and bubble-free from every caliper.
  10. Final reservoir fill & inspection: Refill reservoirs to the max line, reinstall diaphragms and caps. Pump the brake lever/pedal several times to confirm firm, consistent pressure. Check for leaks at bleeder screws, banjo bolts, and hose fittings.
  11. Tightening & torque: Ensure bleeder nipples are snug (do not overtighten) and torque any banjo or line fittings to manufacturer specs if you removed them. If unsure, use moderate factory-equivalent torque values and consult a service manual for exact numbers.
  12. Test ride: Carefully test brakes at low speed in a safe area to confirm braking effectiveness and pedal/lever firmness before returning to full use.

Troubleshooting

  • Spongy lever/pedal after bleeding: Re-bleed, paying close attention to the farthest caliper first and ensuring the reservoir never goes below the minimum line.
  • Persistent air: Consider bench-bleeding the master cylinder or using a pressure/ vacuum bleeder to pull trapped air from internal passages.
  • Leaking bleeder screw: Replace the screw or bleeder rubber cap. Replace damaged copper washers on banjo fittings to stop leaks.

Maintenance tips & intervals

  • Replace brake fluid every 2 years or sooner if the fluid appears dark or contaminated.
  • Inspect hoses and caliper seals annually and after heavy use or long rides.
  • When replacing hoses, use OEM-quality parts built to handle DOT 4 fluid and ATV operating pressures.

Final notes specific to your TRX500 Rubicon

  • Keep an eye on the reservoir diaphragms and caps designed for this model; they help prevent contamination when stored outdoors or ridden in mud.
  • The front master cylinder is small and can draw air quickly if reservoir level drops during bleedingmaintain fluid level vigilantly.
  • After service, recheck mounting hardware and clean any spilled fluid immediately to protect plastics & paint.

Related Shopping Categories

Shop Brake Fluid for a 2013 Honda TRX500 Rubicon 4X4 ATV.

Shop Brake Bleeders for a 2013 Honda TRX500 Rubicon 4X4 ATV.

Shop Brake Pads for a 2013 Honda TRX500 Rubicon 4X4 ATV.

Shop Brake Lines for a 2013 Honda TRX500 Rubicon 4X4 ATV.

Shop Brake Tools for a 2013 Honda TRX500 Rubicon 4X4 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.