How to Bleed and Replace Brake Fluid on a 2013 Yamaha Grizzly 700 4X4 EPS
Shop parts for a 2013 YAMAHA GRIZZLY7E ATV.
This MotoSport guide walks you through a safe, effective brake fluid change and bleeding procedure for the 2013 Yamaha Grizzly 700 4X4 EPS. Follow every step, use the correct tools and fluid, and perform a final check before riding.
What you need
- DOT4 brake fluid (clean, unopened container)
- Clear plastic tubing to fit bleeder nipples
- Catch bottle (halffilled with fresh fluid to prevent air draw-back)
- Wrenches for bleeder nipples and banjo bolts (metric set)
- Disposable gloves, shop rags, and safety glasses
- Brakebleeding kit or hand vacuum pump (optional but recommended)
- Torque wrench (for reassembly per manual)
- Jack or ramps and stands for secure access (if needed)
Important model notes for the 2013 Grizzly 700 4X4 EPS
- The Grizzly 700 has separate front and rear braking circuits; front uses dualcaliper setup and rear is a single caliper. Bleed and change fluid on each circuit independently.
- EPS refers to electric power steering; avoid spilling brake fluid on EPS components or connectors. Brake fluid will damage paint and many plastics.
- The reserve fluid reservoir(s) are located under the front cowling area near the handlebars for front, and near the rear brake master cylinder for the rear. Keep reservoirs capped when not actively refilling to limit contamination.
- Use DOT4 only. Do not mix with DOT3 or DOT5 silicone fluid.
- Inspect calipers, hoses, banjo fittings, and rubber seals during the service. The Grizzly 700 is prone to caliper piston corrosion in wet/salty climates; replace seals or calipers if pistons bind or leak.
Preparation
- Park the ATV on a level surface, engage park brake, and disconnect the battery ground to avoid accidental EPS or ignition activation while you work.
- Clean around reservoir caps and bleeder nipples to prevent contamination. Wear safety gear.
- Locate bleed nipples on each caliper and identify master cylinder reservoir caps. Keep the reservoir cap vent clean and loosely reinstalled while bleeding to allow fluid flow.
Brake fluid replacement strategy
Replace the fluid circuit by circuit. Do one complete circuit at a time (rear circuit first, then front), so no mixing of old and new fluid between circuits and to ensure consistent pedal feel.
Stepbystep bleeding & fluid replacement
- Rear circuit first: locate rear master cylinder and reservoir. Remove cap, and top to just below the rim with DOT4 fluid.
- Attach clear tubing to the rear caliper bleeder nipple; place the other end into the catch bottle partially filled with fresh fluid.
- Have an assistant fully depress and hold the rear brake lever/pedal. Open the bleeder nipple about a 1/2 turn to let fluid and air escape into the bottle. Close the nipple before the assistant releases the pedal. Repeat until fluid leaving the tube is clean and free of bubbles, keeping the reservoir topped off during the process to prevent air intake.
- If you use a vacuum pump, run the pump at the bleeder while an assistant cycles the brake slowly from released to firm; monitor reservoir level and stop when clear fluid appears and no bubbles are drawn.
- Wipe the nipple clean, torque any banjo or bleed fasteners to factory spec, and replace the dust cap. Refill reservoir to proper level and loosely reinstall cap.
- Front circuit: remove front cowling if needed to access reservoir(s). For dual front calipers bleed one caliper at a time. Many technicians bleed the caliper farthest from the master cylinder first (on the Grizzly that is typically the left caliper), then the nearest, but bleeding each caliper until clear fluid and no bubbles is the priority.
- Repeat the same openpump/close cycle as rear: attach tubing, have an assistant operate lever, open bleeder, close before release, and top off reservoir frequently. Use vacuum or pressure kit if preferred for easier singleperson operation.
- When all calipers are clear and fluid is clean, ensure reservoir(s) are filled to the correct level, tighten caps, and reassemble any removed cowling or guards.
Recommended checks and final tests
- Check for leaks at bleeder nipples, banjo bolt washers, and hose fittings. Replace crush washers if any bleed banjo bolts were removed.
- Pump the brake levers/pedal several times with the engine off to confirm firm feel. If spongy, repeat bleeding until firm and bubblefree.
- Road/slowspeed test in a safe open area to verify braking performance. Recheck fluid level after initial test ride and inspect for leaks.
- Properly dispose of old brake fluid according to local regulations. Do not reuse or dump on the ground.
Troubleshooting
- Persistent spongy lever with no visible air in fluid: inspect master cylinder seals and caliper pistons for wear or leakage; internal seal failure may require rebuild or replacement.
- Difficulty getting air out of a caliper: remove the caliper and benchbleed if necessary; frozen pistons require caliper service or replacement.
- Fluid contamination or dark, burntsmelling fluid: perform a full system flush and inspect components for overheating or damage.
Maintenance tips specific to the Grizzly 700
- Service interval: change brake fluid every 1-2 years or sooner if exposed to heavy water/mud riding. DOT fluid absorbs moisture over time, which reduces boiling point and accelerates corrosion.
- Keep the EPS electrical connectors dry during service. Corrosion in electrical connectors is common in wet environments; clean and apply dielectric grease where appropriate.
- Check brake pad wear and rotor condition while bleeding. Replace pads in pairs and replace or resurface rotors showing deep grooves or warping.
- Record the service in your maintenance log and note the date/mileage/hours for future reference.
Following this MotoSport procedure will restore brake performance and extend the life of your Grizzly 700 braking system. If you encounter seized components or uncertain symptoms, consult a professional technician or reference the factory service manual for torque specs and detailed component service.
Related Shopping Categories
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Shop Brake Lines for a 2013 YAMAHA GRIZZLY7E ATV.
Shop Brake Tools for a 2013 YAMAHA GRIZZLY7E 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.
