How to bleed and replace brake fluid on a 2013 Yamaha Grizzly 550 4X4
Shop parts for a 2013 YAMAHA GRIZZLY550 ATV.
This MotoSport service guide walks you through fully flushing and bleeding the hydraulic brakes on a 2013 Yamaha Grizzly 550 4X4. Follow these steps carefully to restore firm pedal feel and remove moisture or contamination from the system. This procedure is written for the stock hydraulic front and rear disc brakes on the Grizzly 550 and assumes basic mechanical skill.
Tools & materials
- Fresh DOT-spec brake fluid per Yamaha recommendation (check your owner's manual for DOT 3 or DOT 4 specification)
- Clear plastic tubing that fits snugly over bleed nipples
- Catch container for old fluid
- Open-end wrench sized for bleed nipples (usually 8 mm or 10 mm)
- Syringe or fluid pump, or a pressure/vacuum bleeder
- Clean rags, brake cleaner, gloves, eye protection
- Jack or ramps and wheel chocks (optional to remove wheels for easier access)
- Torque wrench for caliper bolts if removed
Model notes specific to the 2013 Grizzly 550
- The Grizzly 550 uses separate master reservoirs for front and rear or a combined reservoir with separate circuits depending on trim; locate the master cylinder(s) on the handlebar for front and near the master cylinder for the rear brake.
- No factory ABS system on the standard 2013 Grizzly 550; bleeding is straightforward hydraulic work.
- The Grizzly is sensitive to paint and plastics — spilled brake fluid will damage finish. Cover bodywork and wipe spills immediately.
- Use only the DOT rating specified in your manual. Mixing DOT 3 and DOT 4 is possible but will change boiling point; always top up with correct fluid and replace entire system fluid if switching types.
- If your unit has aftermarket calipers, braided lines, or a proportioning valve, confirm bleed order and hardware differences before starting.
Preparation
- Park on a level surface, engage parking brake, and chock wheels. If you'll remove wheels for access, support the ATV securely on jack stands.
- Clean the area around the master cylinder cap and bleed nipples with brake cleaner. Remove cap, diaphragm, and rubber boot. Keep the reservoir covered with clean plastic to minimize contamination.
- Inspect lines, hoses, and calipers for leaks, cracks, or swollen hoses. Replace any damaged components before bleeding.
- Have fresh fluid ready in a sealed container. Do not reuse or top off with old fluid.
Bleeding strategy & sequence
Use the principle of starting with the caliper farthest from the master cylinder and finishing with the nearest. On the Grizzly 550 common sequence is:
- Rear caliper far side (passenger/right side) → Rear caliper near side (driver/left side)
- Front caliper far side → Front caliper near side
If your Grizzly has a single combined master reservoir for front and rear, still follow farthest-to-nearest logic. If you have two separate reservoirs, treat each circuit independently.
Bleeding by hand (pump-and-hold) step-by-step
- Top the master reservoir with fresh fluid but do not overfill. Keep the cap off but cover the opening to limit contamination.
- Attach clear tubing to the bleed nipple of the caliper you are starting with. Place the other end into a catch jar partially filled with fresh fluid to prevent air from being drawn back in.
- Have an assistant slowly pump the brake lever or pedal 3-5 times and then hold firm pressure on the lever/pedal.
- With the lever/pedal held, open the bleed nipple 1/4 to 1/2 turn until fluid and bubbles flow into the tubing. Close the nipple before the assistant releases the lever/pedal. Repeat until the fluid running out is clear and bubble-free.
- Keep the master reservoir topped up during the process. If it runs dry, air will enter the system and you must start over.
- Repeat for each caliper in the sequence. After the final caliper is bled, pump the pedal/lever gently to confirm firmness. Check reservoir level and secure the cap.
Using a pressure or vacuum bleeder
Attach the bleeder to the reservoir per the bleeder manufacturer instructions or connect vacuum to the caliper bleed nipple and pull until clear fluid appears. Use the same sequence of farthest-to-nearest and keep reservoir level topped. Pressure bleed tools speed the job and reduce the need for an assistant.
Complete fluid replacement (full system flush)
- Follow the bleeding steps but continue until reservoir fluid is the new fluid and all lines and calipers have new fluid. Replace reservoir diaphragms and caps when done.
- Dispose of old brake fluid responsibly; it is hazardous waste.
Final checks
- Verify firm, non-spongy pedal/lever feel at rest. If it remains soft, repeat bleeding procedure until all air is purged.
- Inspect all nipples, hoses, and fittings for leaks with brakes applied and released.
- Test the brakes at low speed in a safe area before returning to normal use.
- Torque any caliper or wheel fasteners to factory specifications if you removed wheels or calipers.
Service intervals & tips
- Brake fluid absorbs moisture over time; MotoSport recommends replacing brake fluid every 1-2 years or sooner if performance degrades.
- Store new brake fluid sealed and use it promptly — it will absorb moisture from air after opening.
- If you ride in wet, salty, or muddy conditions, inspect the brake system more frequently and consider yearly fluid changes.
- Keep a small supply of the correct DOT brake fluid in your trail kit for emergency top-offs, but only use sealed containers.
Troubleshooting
- Persistent soft pedal after proper bleeding suggests a leak, collapsed hose, or internal master cylinder issue — inspect and replace as needed.
- Contaminated or dark fluid indicates it's time for a full flush.
- Spongy or inconsistent braking after bleeding can be caused by air trapped in ABS components on other machines; the 2013 Grizzly 550 without ABS should purge with standard bleeding.
Performing a full brake fluid replacement and proper bleeding will keep your 2013 Yamaha Grizzly 550's braking strong and reliable. If you encounter damaged components or you are unsure at any point, contact a certified technician.
Related Shopping Categories
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Shop Brake Lines for a 2013 YAMAHA GRIZZLY550 ATV.
Shop Brake Tools for a 2013 YAMAHA GRIZZLY550 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.