How to Bleed & Replace Brake Fluid on a 2013 Suzuki King Quad 400ASi 4X4 AUTO

Shop parts for a 2013 Suzuki King Quad 400ASi 4X4 AUTO ATV.

MotoSport's step-by-step guide for flushing and bleeding the brake system on the 2013 Suzuki King Quad 400ASi 4X4 AUTO. This procedure replaces contaminated fluid, removes air, and restores firm pedal/lever feel. Follow this exactly, and consult the factory service manual for torque specs and any model-specific diagrams.

What you need

  • Fresh, sealed DOT brake fluid (use the grade specified in your owner's manual – DOT 3 or DOT 4 are common; do not mix fluid types)
  • Brake bleeder wrench or box wrench set
  • Clear plastic tubing, small diameter, to fit bleeder nipples
  • Catch bottle for old fluid
  • Hand vacuum bleeder or helper for manual bleeding
  • Clean rags, brake cleaner, rubber gloves, safety glasses
  • Jack/stands or ramps if needed for wheel access
  • Drain pan and proper disposal container for contaminated fluid

Model-specific notes for the 2013 King Quad 400ASi

  • This ATV uses a hydraulic front brake lever and a separate hydraulic rear brake pedal with independent reservoirs. Bleed each circuit separately.
  • The King Quad 400ASi does not usually have ABS. If an ABS unit is present, special procedures are required — consult your service manual or a professional.
  • Because this model is frequently used in wet/muddy conditions, contaminants and moisture ingress accelerate fluid degradation. Inspect and replace fluid every 1-2 years if used off-road often.
  • Avoid getting brake fluid on painted plastics & finishes; it will damage the finish.
  • When working on brakes, put the ATV in Park (or neutral with parking brake engaged if applicable) and secure on stands to prevent movement.

Preparation

  • Park on level ground, shut off the engine, remove key.
  • Clean reservoir caps to prevent contamination when opened.
  • Remove reservoir cap(s) and diaphragm/foam inserts. Keep them clean and re-use unless contaminated.
  • Top reservoir(s) to the recommended level with new fluid before starting. Keep the cap loosely fitted while bleeding to minimize air entry but avoid contamination.
  • Identify the bleeder nipple(s) on each brake caliper. Front and rear systems are bled separately.

Bleeding order

Bleed each master circuit independently. For each master cylinder, start with the caliper farthest from that master cylinder and finish with the nearest. On this model that typically means:

  • Front master (handlebar lever) – farthest front caliper first, then the nearer one.
  • Rear master (foot pedal) – farthest rear caliper first, then the nearer one.

Bleeding procedure – manual (helper) method

  1. Attach clear tubing to the caliper bleeder nipple and route the tubing into a catch bottle partially filled with fresh fluid to prevent air re-entry.
  2. Have your helper slowly squeeze the brake lever or press the pedal several times and hold it down.
  3. Open the bleeder nipple about a quarter turn to let fluid and bubbles flow into the tube. Close the nipple before the helper releases the lever/pedal.
  4. Repeat: pump the lever/pedal, hold, open the nipple, close, and repeat until you see clean, bubble-free fluid in the tube and the lever/pedal feels firm.
  5. Keep the reservoir topped with fresh fluid during the entire procedure to avoid drawing more air into the system.
  6. When finished with that caliper, tighten the bleeder to factory snugness (consult manual for torque), remove tubing, and move to the next caliper following the bleeding order.

Bleeding procedure – vacuum or pressure bleeder

  1. Connect the vacuum bleeder or pressure bleeder per tool instructions to the caliper or reservoir respectively.
  2. Activate the tool and open bleeder nipple; allow fluid to flow until clear, bubble-free fluid runs and reservoir level stabilizes.
  3. Close bleeder nipple, relieve tool pressure, and repeat on remaining calipers in the correct order.

Final steps

  • Top reservoir(s) to the proper mark and reinstall clean diaphragms and caps.
  • Wipe any spilled fluid and clean components with brake cleaner as needed.
  • Properly torque bleeder screws and reservoir caps per the service manual.
  • Dispose of old brake fluid responsibly at a recycling center.
  • Test brakes while stationary first: cycle lever/pedal to confirm firmness. Then perform a low-speed test ride in a safe area to confirm braking performance before regular use.

Troubleshooting

  • Persistent spongy lever/pedal: re-bleed the circuit and check for leaks at hoses, calipers, and master cylinder.
  • If air keeps appearing, inspect for soft/swollen hoses or cracked seals and replace faulty components.
  • If the master cylinder reservoir level drops quickly, locate and repair the leak before using the ATV.

Maintenance tips from MotoSport

  • Replace brake fluid every 1-2 years for frequent off-road use; moisture content rises in wet environments, accelerating corrosion and seal wear.
  • Keep a sealed spare bottle of the correct DOT fluid with your toolkit for top-ups on long rides.
  • Inspect brake lines, caliper seals, and mounting hardware when bleeding – replace per the service schedule or if any wear is visible.

Following this guide will restore safe, reliable braking on your 2013 Suzuki King Quad 400ASi 4X4 AUTO. If you encounter internal master cylinder problems or ABS complications, consult a certified technician or MotoSport service recommendations.

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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.