How to Bleed and Replace Brake Fluid on a 2014 Can-Am Renegade 800R

Shop parts for a 2014 CAN_AM REN800R ATV.

This guide from MotoSport walks you through a safe, thorough brake fluid change and bleed procedure for the 2014 Can-Am Renegade 800R. Follow steps carefully, use proper tools and protective gear, and dispose of old fluid responsibly. This procedure assumes conventional hydraulic front & rear disc brakes and DOT 4 fluid as factory recommendedconfirm DOT rating on your reservoir cap.

What you need

  • DOT 4 brake fluid (new, unopened)
  • Clear plastic tubing that fits snugly on bleed nipples
  • Brake bleeder wrench or appropriate box wrench
  • Hand vacuum bleeder or pressure bleeder (optional, speeds the job)
  • Catch bottle partially filled with clean brake fluid to avoid air ingress
  • Clean rags, gloves & safety glasses
  • Jack or ramps and wheel chocks
  • Torque wrench for caliper mounting bolts (reference OEM torque values)

Model-specific notes for the 2014 Renegade 800R

  • The Renegade 800R uses separate front master cylinder reservoirs for some model years and a combined front/rear reservoir on others — confirm your machine's reservoir layout before starting.
  • Semi-automatic engine with electronic systems: keep ignition OFF unless using engine vacuum assist methods recommended by Can-Am. Do not crank the starter while the wheels or calipers are disconnected.
  • Some Renegade 800R variants may be fitted with ABS or combined braking components; if your unit has ABS, do not open hydraulic ABS modules or reservoir lines beyond the standard bleed points unless you have service documentation for ABS bleed routines.
  • Reservoir location: the master cylinder reservoir(s) are located on the handlebar area; check condition of reservoir cap diaphragm & seals and replace if deteriorated.

Preparation

  1. Park on a level surface, engage parking brake, and chock wheels. Remove any cargo or racks that block reservoir access.
  2. Clean the reservoir cap and surrounding area thoroughly to prevent contamination when opened.
  3. Loosen but do not remove wheel lug nuts, then lift the machine and remove wheels to access calipers if recommended for better bleeding access.
  4. Remove the reservoir cap and diaphragm; keep the reservoir topped with new fluid during the bleed to prevent sucking air into the system.

Drain & replace fluid (recommended full fluid replacement)

  1. Use a syringe or turkey baster to remove most old fluid from the reservoir. Dispose of old fluid properly.
  2. Top reservoir with new DOT 4 fluid to the MAX line. Never reuse drained fluid.
  3. Work one circuit at a time. Typical sequence: farthest caliper from master cylinder first, then next farthest. For the Renegade 800R this usually means: rear caliper, then right front, then left front (confirm by tracing lines on your machine).
  4. Fit clear tubing over the bleeder nipple of the caliper; route to a catch bottle partially filled with fresh fluid to prevent sucking in air.
  5. Crack the bleeder nipple one turn. Pump the brake lever or pedal several times and hold pressure (or have an assistant hold). Open the nipple to let fluid & air escape, then close before releasing lever/pedal. Repeat until clear fluid without bubbles appears, topping the reservoir frequently.
  6. If using a vacuum bleeder or pressure bleeder, follow manufacturer instructions and bleed each caliper until clean fluid appears and no air bubbles are present.
  7. After bleeding each caliper, tighten the bleeder nipple to spec (snug — avoid over-torqueing). Wipe any spilled fluid immediately; brake fluid damages paint and plastics.
  8. Once all calipers are bled, perform several firm brake lever/pedal pumps to build pressure. Check for sponginess; repeat bleeding if necessary.

Finishing steps

  • Top the reservoir to the MAX line and reinstall diaphragm & cap securely.
  • Reinstall wheels and torque lug nuts to manufacturer spec. Lower the machine.
  • Test brakes at low speed in a safe area before normal riding. Confirm firm lever/pedal feel and no leaks.
  • Check brake fluid level again after a short initial ride — air can migrate out of the lines.

Troubleshooting & maintenance tips

  • Persistent spongy feel: check for ABS air pockets, faulty master cylinder seals, or collapsed rubber hoses. Replace components as needed.
  • Never mix DOT 3, DOT 4 & DOT 5 (silicone) fluids. Use DOT 4 as factory recommended unless you confirm otherwise in your owner manual.
  • Replace rubber lines if cracked or blistered; aging hoses can allow air ingress under pressure.
  • Keep a maintenance log of fluid change date & mileage/hours. Brake fluid absorbs moisture over time – replace every 1-2 years or per severe-use schedule.

If you encounter ABS-specific behavior, unusual reservoir geometry, or repeated problems after bleeding, contact an authorized Can-Am service center or bring your Renegade to a qualified technician to diagnose hydraulic or ABS module issues.

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.