How to Bleed and Replace Brake Fluid on a 2014 Can-Am Outlander MAX 650 DPS
Shop parts for a 2014 Can-Am Outlander MAX 650 DPS ATV.
This MotoSport exclusive guide walks you step-by-step through replacing and bleeding the brake fluid on a 2014 Can-Am Outlander MAX 650 DPS. Follow these instructions carefully to restore firm lever/pedal feel and protect the ABS/parking-brake components on this model.
What you’ll need
- DOT 4 brake fluid (fresh, unopened)
- Clear plastic tubing that fits the bleeder nipples
- Catch bottle and rags
- Brake bleeder wrench or appropriate-sized box wrench
- Vacuum or pressure bleeder (optional but speeds the job)
- Assistant (if doing manual pedal/lever bleeding)
- Shop light, gloves, eye protection
Safety & prep
- Work on a level surface with the ATV securely in park and engine off. Remove the key.
- Protect painted surfaces from brake fluid; it damages plastic and paint.
- Clean around the master cylinder cap before opening to avoid contamination.
Model-specific notes for the 2014 Can-Am Outlander MAX 650 DPS
- The Outlander MAX 650 DPS uses DOT 4 brake fluid in its hydraulic brake system; do not substitute DOT 3 or silicone fluid.
- DPS denotes Dynamic Power Steering. The power-steering system uses a separate hydraulic circuit and reservoir — do not mix with brake fluid and do not attempt to service steering with brake lines open.
- The master cylinder and ABS components are located under the front plastic panels; remove seat/front panel as required for access. Take care when removing trim to avoid breaking fasteners.
- If your ATV is equipped with vehicle stability/ABS-type hardware, keep the master cylinder at least half-full during the process to avoid introducing air into ABS valves; consult service manual for ABS-specific procedures if ABS warning remains after bleeding.
Bleeding order & rationale
Always bleed the brake line farthest from the master cylinder first, then work toward the closest. On the Outlander MAX 650 DPS the typical order is:
- Rear caliper (farthest)
- Front passenger (right) caliper
- Front driver (left) caliper (closest)
This order helps purge air from the longest lines first and reduces the chance of reintroducing air into bled circuits.
Step-by-step procedure
- Remove master cylinder cap, reservoir diaphragm and screen. Top up with fresh DOT 4 to just below the neck to prevent spills while you work.
- Clean each bleeder screw and remove any protective caps. Fit clear tubing over the bleeder nipple and route into a catch bottle partially filled with fresh fluid to avoid drawing air back in.
- Begin at the rear caliper. Crack the bleeder screw about a quarter turn. Have an assistant slowly depress the brake pedal fully and hold. Open the bleeder to let fluid and air escape until flow is steady and bubble-free, then close the bleeder before the assistant releases the pedal. Repeat until no air appears and fluid is clear.
- Keep checking and topping the master cylinder reservoir frequently to prevent it from running dry. If the reservoir runs dry, you must restart bleeding from the farthest point again.
- Move to the front passenger caliper and repeat the same sequence. Then finish at the front driver caliper.
- If using a vacuum or pressure bleeder, follow the tool manufacturer’s instructions, still adhering to the farthest-to-closest sequence and monitoring reservoir level.
- After all calipers are bled, pump the brake pedal several times with the engine off to confirm a firm pedal. Start the engine and re-check pedal firmness under load. If the pedal is spongy, re-bleed the system and inspect for leaks.
Post-bleed checks
- Inspect all bleeder screw threads, hose fittings and banjo bolts for leaks. Torque fasteners to factory specs if you loosened them.
- Check pad thickness and rotor condition while wheels are off; replace pads or rotors if worn beyond spec.
- Wipe off any spilled fluid and reinstall reservoir cap and trim panels. Dispose of used brake fluid properly — it is hazardous waste.
Troubleshooting
- Persistent spongy pedal: re-bleed sequence, check for a collapsed flexible hose or leaking caliper seal.
- Brake fluid level dropping with no visible leak: inspect internal ABS valves or master cylinder reservoir for leaks into the booster or surrounding areas; this may require dealer-level diagnosis.
- ABS warning light after bleeding: cycle ignition and test ride at low speed; if light remains, consult a technician familiar with Can-Am ABS systems.
Maintenance intervals & final tips
- Replace brake fluid every 2 years or sooner if contaminated, heavy trail use, or frequent water exposure.
- Use only DOT 4, unopened container. Never mix with power steering fluid or DOT 5 silicone fluid.
- Keep a record of brake service date and fluid type in your maintenance log for resale value and safety tracking.
Performing a proper fluid replacement and bleed will maintain brake performance and protect the brake system components on your 2014 Can-Am Outlander MAX 650 DPS. If you encounter ABS-related faults or internal master-cylinder leaks, seek professional service.
Related Shopping Categories
Shop Brake Fluid for a 2014 Can-Am Outlander MAX 650 DPS ATV.
Shop Brake Bleeders for a 2014 Can-Am Outlander MAX 650 DPS ATV.
Shop Brake Pads for a 2014 Can-Am Outlander MAX 650 DPS ATV.
Shop Brake Lines for a 2014 Can-Am Outlander MAX 650 DPS ATV.
Shop Brake Tools for a 2014 Can-Am Outlander MAX 650 DPS 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.