How to Bleed & Replace Brake Fluid on a 2014 Can-Am Outlander MAX 400
Shop parts for a 2014 Can-Am Outlander MAX 400 ATV.
This MotoSport-exclusive guide walks you through a safe, thorough brake fluid replacement and bleeding procedure tailored to the 2014 Can-Am Outlander MAX 400 (MMY: CAN_AM;OLM400;2014). Follow these steps and model-specific notes to maintain braking performance and avoid contamination or air entrapment.
What you'll need
- DOT 4 brake fluid (recommended for Can-Am systems)
- Clear hose that fits bleed nipples
- Catch bottle for old fluid
- Handheld vacuum bleed pump or two-person helper
- Proper wrenches for bleed nipples and banjo bolts
- Clean rags, gloves, safety glasses
- Brake-clean spray and small funnel or syringe
- Torque wrench for reassembly (if removing calipers)
- Plastic wrap and rubber band (optional to prevent dust entry)
Important model-specific notes for the Outlander MAX 400
- The brake master cylinder and reservoir sit forward on the handlebar area; keep the cap and reservoir clean before opening to avoid contamination.
- This model uses a conventional hydraulic braking system without complex electronic ABS controls (confirm by visual inspection of brake lines and sensors).
- Front brakes use two calipers with bleed nipples on each caliper; the rear brake uses a single caliper. Bleed each circuit separately to avoid cross-contamination.
- Avoid spilling DOT 4 on painted or plastic surfaces – it can damage finishes. Wipe immediately with a damp cloth and brake-clean solvent if necessary.
- Inspect brake lines, banjo fittings and master cylinder for leaks, swelling or cracked rubber before starting. Replace any suspect components before bleeding.
Preparation
- Park on level ground, park brake off, engine off, key removed. Secure the vehicle on a stand so wheels can rotate freely if possible.
- Clean the reservoir cap area. Remove cap and diaphragm. Siphon or absorb as much old fluid from the reservoir as possible without letting debris fall in.
- Refill the reservoir with fresh DOT 4 fluid to the maximum level mark. Keep the reservoir topped during the entire bleed process to prevent air intake.
- Locate bleed nipples: two on the front calipers (left and right), one on the rear caliper. Fit clear hoses to each nipple and route to a catch bottle partially filled with fluid to keep air from being drawn back in.
Bleeding methods (choose one)
Two-person pump-and-hold method
- Person A pumps the brake lever/pedal several times and holds steady pressure.
- Person B opens the nearest bleed nipple about 1/4 turn until fluid runs clear and bubbles stop, then closes the nipple while pressure is still held.
- Repeat for the opposite front caliper, then the rear caliper. Always start at the caliper farthest from the master cylinder and work toward the closest.
- Top up the reservoir frequently to keep it from running low.
Vacuum or pressure-bleeder method (recommended for one-person work)
- Attach vacuum pump to bleed nipple, open nipple, and run pump while an assistant cycles the lever briefly or while you monitor fluid flow. Close nipple when clear, then move to next caliper.
- If using a pressure bleeder on the reservoir, pressurize per tool instructions and open each bleed nipple until clear fluid appears, then close.
Gravity bleed (slow but simple)
- With the reservoir full and the vehicle angled to encourage flow, open each bleed nipple and allow fluid to drip until clear. This method is slow and may not remove all air from the system effectively.
Order of bleeding
- Start with the caliper farthest from the master cylinder (usually right front), then the next farthest (left front), then the rear. If uncertain, visually track line routing from the master cylinder.
Signs you're done
- Clear, bubble-free fluid emerges from each bleed nipple.
- Brake lever/pedal feels firm with normal travel when pumped.
- Reservoir level remains steady and within marked range after a few firm lever applications.
Final steps
- Close all bleed nipples and torque fitting hardware to manufacturer specs if available. Wipe all fittings clean of spilled fluid.
- Reinstall the reservoir diaphragm and cap. Clean the exterior components and remove any spilled fluid.
- Operate the lever/pedal several times to confirm firmness. With the engine off, hold pressure for 30-60 seconds to ensure no slow leaks or creep occur.
- Test-ride at low speed in a safe area to verify braking performance before normal use.
- Properly dispose of used brake fluid and contaminated rags according to local regulations.
Troubleshooting & maintenance tips
- If the lever remains spongy after thorough bleeding, inspect master cylinder seals and caliper pistons for internal leakage or contamination.
- Replace rubber hoses if they show bulging or distortion when pressure is applied; old hoses can retain air and cause poor feel.
- Bleed every 1-2 years or sooner if brake performance degrades. Moisture in DOT 4 reduces boiling point and degrades performance.
- Keep a small reserve of DOT 4 in a sealed container marked for brake use only – do not mix with other fluids.
Following this MotoSport-exclusive procedure will help ensure safe, consistent braking on your 2014 Can-Am Outlander MAX 400. If you encounter persistent problems, consult a qualified technician or bring your ATV to a service center for diagnostic testing.
Related Shopping Categories
Shop Brake Fluid for a 2014 Can-Am Outlander MAX 400 ATV.
Shop Brake Bleeders for a 2014 Can-Am Outlander MAX 400 ATV.
Shop Brake Pads for a 2014 Can-Am Outlander MAX 400 ATV.
Shop Brake Lines for a 2014 Can-Am Outlander MAX 400 ATV.
Shop Brake Tools for a 2014 Can-Am Outlander MAX 400 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.