How to Bleed & Replace Brake Fluid on a 2014 Can-Am Outlander 650

Shop parts for a 2014 Can-Am Outlander 650 ATV.

This MotoSport-exclusive guide walks you through flushing and bleeding the brake system on a 2014 Can-Am Outlander 650 MMY – step-by-step, safe, and tailored to this ATV's layout. Follow these procedures exactly to maintain braking performance and avoid damage to seals, lines, and painted surfaces.

What you need

  • DOT 4 brake fluid (Can-Am specifies DOT 4 fluid)
  • Clear plastic tubing that fits bleeder nipples
  • Catch bottle for used fluid
  • Hand vacuum brake bleeder or pump-style bleeder (recommended)
  • Brake bleeder wrench or open-end wrench to fit caliper bleeders
  • Clean rags, shop towels, gloves, eye protection
  • Brake cleaner, small brush
  • Torque wrench (for caliper hardware if removed)
  • Zip-ties or tape to secure tubing

Model notes for the 2014 Can-Am Outlander 650

  • The Outlander 650 uses a hydraulic disc system front & rear with DOT 4 fluid. Do not mix DOT 4 with DOT 5 silicone fluid.
  • Reservoirs: front master cylinder reservoir is on the handlebar; rear (if equipped with a separate reservoir) is near the rear brake master cylinder. Some trims use a combined reservoir layout – verify which applies to your MMY before starting.
  • Bleeder screw locations: front calipers (left & right) and rear caliper have accessible bleeder nipples. On some models the passenger-side front caliper is easier to access from the fender well; plan wheel removal if necessary for clearance.
  • If your ATV has electronic features (traction control or ABS on special packages), avoid activating those systems during bleeding. The 2014 Outlander 650 typically does not have ABS, but confirm for your unit.
  • Brake hose routing is factory-optimized; inspect for chafing, cracks, or aftermarket routing before reassembly. Replace any hoses that show wear.

Safety first

  • Work on a level surface with the engine off and parking brake engaged.
  • Wear gloves & eye protection. Brake fluid is corrosive to paint & plastics; protect the bodywork.
  • Keep used fluid away from drains & dispose of it per local regulations.

Step-by-step fluid replacement & bleeding

1. Prep and inspect

  • Clean around each reservoir cap and bleeder nipple to prevent contamination.
  • Remove reservoir caps slowly to relieve pressure; do not let dirt get inside.
  • Inspect hoses, lines, calipers, and pads. Replace seals or pads if they look compromised.

2. Drain old fluid from reservoirs

  • Use a turkey baster or hand pump to remove as much old fluid from the master cylinder reservoir(s) as possible. Do not open the system fully by disconnecting lines unless you intend to replace hoses.
  • Refill the reservoir with fresh DOT 4 until it reaches the full mark.

3. Bleeding sequence

Use the recommended order to push air away from the master cylinder: farthest wheel first, then progressively closer. Typical sequence for Outlander 650:

  1. Right front caliper (farthest from master cylinder)
  2. Left front caliper
  3. Rear caliper

Confirm your unit's master cylinder location; adjust sequence if your bike has a different plumbing layout.

4. Bleeding method vacuum or pressure (recommended)

  • Attach clear tubing to the bleeder nipple; place the other end into a catch bottle partially filled with some brake fluid to prevent air re-entry.
  • With the reservoir topped up, attach the vacuum bleeder to the bleeder nipple, open the nipple, and operate the vacuum to draw fluid until clear, bubble-free fluid appears. Close bleeder before removing vacuum tool.
  • If using a manual pedal or lever pump – have a helper: pump the lever several times and hold pressure, open the bleeder to let fluid out, close bleeder, then release lever. Repeat until clean fluid flows and no air bubbles appear, keeping reservoir topped up at all times.

5. Repeat for each caliper

  • After you finish a caliper, top off the reservoir and move to the next caliper in sequence. Never let the reservoir go below the minimum while bleeding or you will re-introduce air and must start over.
  • Keep bleeder nipples clean and torque them lightly to the correct spec after closing. Typical bleeder torque is low – snug plus a small fraction; consult service manual values if available.

6. Final checks

  • With all calipers bled, ensure the reservoir is filled to the correct level and replace caps securely.
  • Operate the brake lever & pedal several times to confirm firm feel. If it's spongy, repeat bleeding until firm.
  • Inspect for leaks around bleeders, lines, and calipers after cycling the brakes.
  • Wipe any spilled fluid from painted surfaces with clean water and brake cleaner immediately.

Post-service testing

  • Before riding, perform low-speed brake tests in a safe, open area to confirm stopping power and feel.
  • Recheck brake fluid level after the first short ride and again after heavy use. Top off as needed with DOT 4 only.

Maintenance tips & troubleshooting

  • Brake fluid absorbs moisture over time; replace fluid every 1-2 years depending on use & storage conditions.
  • If you repeatedly find dull or dark fluid, or a soft brake lever, schedule a complete flush and inspection for leaks or a faulty master cylinder.
  • If air persists, consider bench-bleeding the master cylinder or using a pressure bleeder to force fluid from the system more effectively.
  • Always use fresh DOT 4 from a sealed container; keep bottles capped when not in use to prevent moisture uptake.

Parts & supplies for your Outlander 650

MotoSport stocks DOT 4 fluid, bleeder tools, bleeder wrenches, replacement hoses, caliper rebuild kits & OEM-spec parts specific to the 2014 Can-Am Outlander 650. For model-specific fitment and fast shipping, visit the MotoSport parts page linked above.

Related Shopping Categories

Shop Brake Fluid for a 2014 Can-Am Outlander 650 ATV.

Shop Brake Bleeders for a 2014 Can-Am Outlander 650 ATV.

Shop Brake Pads for a 2014 Can-Am Outlander 650 ATV.

Shop Brake Lines for a 2014 Can-Am Outlander 650 ATV.

Shop Brake Tools for a 2014 Can-Am Outlander 650 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.