How to Bleed & Replace Brake Fluid on a 2014 Can-Am Outlander 800R XT-P

Shop parts for a 2014 Can-Am Outlander 800R XT-P ATV.

This MotoSport-exclusive guide walks you through safely draining, flushing, and bleeding the brake system on a 2014 Can-Am Outlander 800R XT-P. Procedures cover both front (hand lever) and rear (foot pedal) circuits, recommended fluids, tools, and model-specific tips owners need to know to keep braking performance crisp and safe.

Safety & prep

  • Work on a level surface with the engine off, key removed, and parking brake engaged or wheels chocked.
  • Wear safety glasses & gloves. Brake fluid is hygroscopic and will damage paint & plastics — wipe spills immediately and cover painted surfaces.
  • Use only DOT 4 brake fluid unless your owner’s manual explicitly specifies otherwise. Keep fluid containers sealed & discard any fluid that has been open for a long time.
  • Have rags, a clear plastic hose that fits the bleeder nipple, and a catch container ready. Use a non-metallic syringe or turkey-baster to remove old fluid from the reservoir to minimize contamination.

Tools & supplies

  • DOT 4 brake fluid (new unopened bottle)
  • 8mm or 10mm open wrench for bleeder nipples (verify size on your calipers)
  • clear 3/16" & 1/4" vinyl tubing to fit bleeder nipples
  • catch bottle, bleeder syringe or vacuum pump (optional)
  • turkey-baster or fluid syringe to remove reservoir fluid
  • jack or ATV lift and stands, if you need to remove wheels for access
  • small wire brush, brake cleaner, and shop rags

Brake system layout & model notes

  • The 2014 Can-Am Outlander 800R XT-P uses separate master circuits for the hand (front) and foot (rear) brakes. Bleed each circuit independently.
  • Identify which calipers are fed by each master cylinder before you start. The farthest caliper from a given master cylinder is bled first, then progressively closer calipers.
  • Some 2014 Outlander models have steel braided lines from the factory; check fittings for corrosion and replace or service lines if bulging or leaking.
  • Brake light switches & lever sensors are present on this model — avoid damaging wires when working around master cylinders and reservoirs.

Step 1 – Inspect & remove old fluid

  • Clean the area around the brake fluid reservoirs (hand lever and foot pedal) to prevent dirt entering the system.
  • Open reservoir caps. Use a turkey-baster or syringe to remove most of the old fluid. Dispose of fluid according to local regulations.
  • Refill each reservoir with fresh DOT 4 fluid to the fill line. Keep the cap off but protected to prevent contamination.

Step 2 – Determine bleed order

  • Locate each caliper and determine distance from its associated master cylinder. Common order example (confirm visually): for front master bleed the outer front caliper then inner; for rear master bleed the far rear caliper then near. If you have a single caliper on an axle, bleed that caliper.
  • If unsure, trace the brake lines from the master cylinder to each caliper to establish sequence.

Step 3 – Bleed using one-person or two-person method

Two-person method (preferred):

  1. Attach clear tubing to the bleeder nipple and place the other end into a catch bottle partially filled with clean brake fluid to avoid sucking air back in.
  2. One person slowly depresses the brake lever or pedal a few times and then holds pressure. The second person opens the bleeder nipple about a quarter to half turn to allow fluid/air out, then closes the nipple before the lever/pedal is released. Repeat until the fluid runs clear with no air bubbles.
  3. Top the reservoir frequently so it never runs dry during the process.
  4. Work through calipers in the predetermined order from farthest to nearest.

One-person (vacuum) method:

  1. Use a vacuum pump on the bleeder nipple while an assistant slowly depresses the brake lever/pedal, or pull the lever/pedal yourself while operating the vacuum. Keep the reservoir topped up.
  2. Continue until fluid is clear and free of bubbles, repeating for each caliper in order.

Step 4 – Finish up

  • After bleeding each circuit, tighten bleeder nipples snugly and wipe away fluid. Torque to manufacturer spec where available; if unknown, snug firmly without over-torquing.
  • Top reservoirs to proper level, reinstall caps with new diaphragms or clean old ones if intact. Ensure caps seal properly.
  • Bleed and check brake light and switch operation if removed or disturbed.
  • Start the engine and apply brakes several times at idle to build pressure, then test pedal/lever firmness. If spongy, repeat bleeding.
  • Carefully perform a low-speed brake performance test in a safe area before riding normally.

Additional MotoSport tips specific to the 2014 Outlander 800R XT-P

  • ABS/non-ABS: Some model variants may have ABS components or pressure modulators. If your Outlander has ABS, follow specific ABS bleed procedures in the service manual or use a scan tool to cycle the unit when required. If unsure, consult a MotoSport technician before attempting ABS-related bleeding.
  • Reservoir location & sensors: The hand-lever reservoir is on the handlebar — watch for wiring to the brake-light switch. The foot reservoir can be harder to access; consider removing plastic panels for clearer access and to avoid spills on painted surfaces.
  • Caliper hardware: Inspect pads, pins, and caliper slides while you have the wheels off. Replace pads if worn, and lubricate slide pins with high-temp brake grease where applicable.
  • Fluid change interval: Replace brake fluid every 1 to 2 years or sooner if it appears dark or contaminated. Moisture in fluid reduces boiling point and braking performance in heavy-use situations.
  • Line & fitting care: Check banjo bolts, crush washers, and line fittings for signs of leakage. Replace crush washers when reinstalling banjo bolts.

Troubleshooting

  • Persistent spongy brake feel after bleeding: check for a leak, compressible hoses, or a master cylinder internal leak. Replace hoses or master cylinder if soft or leaking.
  • Air keeps returning: reservoir may be drawing air due to a cracked hose or loose fitting. Reinspect all connections and repeat the bleed.
  • Brake pedal/lever sinks slowly under pressure: likely internal master cylinder leak or caliper piston leak — inspect and rebuild or replace as needed.

Disposal & environmental note

Used brake fluid must be disposed of as hazardous waste. Do not pour it down drains or onto the ground. Take it to an appropriate recycling or hazardous-waste facility.

Performing a thorough brake fluid flush and bleed on your 2014 Can-Am Outlander 800R XT-P restores braking performance and safety. If you’re not confident performing these steps, MotoSport recommends professional service to avoid compromising vehicle safety.

Related Shopping Categories

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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.