How to Bleed and Replace Brake Fluid on a 2015 Can-Am Outlander 800R XT

Shop parts for a 2015 CAN_AM OL800RXT ATV.

This MotoSport guide walks you through a safe, methodical brake fluid change and bleed on a 2015 Can-Am Outlander 800R XT. Procedures here are written for a hands-on DIY tech with basic tools. If you're not comfortable working on brakes, have a qualified technician perform the service.

What you'll need

  • DOT 4 brake fluid (use fresh, unopened container)
  • Clear bleed hose and a small catch bottle
  • Hand pump or pressure bleeder (optional for single-person bleeding)
  • Wrench set sized for bleeder and banjo bolts
  • Clean rags, isopropyl alcohol, and a small brush
  • Jack, stands or ramps to safely support the ATV
  • New crush washers for banjo bolts (recommended)
  • Gloves and eye protection

Important model notes for the 2015 Outlander 800R XT

  • The Outlander 800R XT uses hydraulic brakes with handlebar master cylinder(s) for the front and a rear master cylinder for brake circuits. Treat each circuit separately and avoid cross-contamination.
  • Use DOT 4 fluid only. Do not mix with DOT 3 or DOT 5 (silicone) fluids.
  • Inspect brake lines, banjo bolts, and hose fittings for cracking, swelling, leaks or corrosion. Replace any suspect hardware before bleeding.
  • If your machine has any aftermarket components or accessory brake lines, follow their manufacturer instructions in addition to these steps.

Preparation

  1. Park on level ground, engage park/gear, and disconnect the battery negative terminal to avoid accidental starts while working on controls.
  2. Securely lift and support the ATV so wheels can turn freely. Use ramps or jack stands rated for the machine's weight.
  3. Clean the area around the brake fluid reservoirs and calipers to prevent dirt from entering the system.
  4. Remove wheel(s) if needed for clear caliper access. Keep a clean rag under work area to catch fluid.

Reservoir handling

  • Open the reservoir cap(s) slowly. Wipe the cap and around the filler neck clean with a lint-free cloth.
  • Use a turkey baster or siphon to remove most old fluid from the reservoir(s) to reduce air entry when topping up.
  • Fill the reservoir with fresh DOT 4 fluid to the full mark but do not overfill.

Bleeding order and strategy

Bleed each brake circuit one at a time. For each circuit, bleed the caliper farthest from the master cylinder first, then the closest. On many Outlander layouts that means:

  • Front circuit: bleed right then left (or farthest from master first based on hose routing)
  • Rear circuit: bleed the rear caliper(s) following farthest-to-closest relative to that master

Use the two-person method or a pressure/hand pump for single-person work.

Two-person bleed method (recommended)

  1. Attach clear hose to the caliper bleed nipple; place the other end in a catch bottle partially filled with clean DOT 4 to submerge hose tip and prevent air return.
  2. Have an assistant slowly depress and hold the brake lever/pedal to build pressure.
  3. Open the bleeder nut about a 1/4 to 1/2 turn to allow fluid and air to escape. Watch fluid go into the bottle; close the bleeder before the assistant releases the lever to avoid sucking air back in.
  4. Repeat pump/open/close cycles until you see clear fluid with no bubbles, then tighten the bleeder to spec snugness.
  5. Top off reservoir as needed during the process to prevent the master from sucking air.

One-person + hand pump or vacuum/pressure bleeder

  1. Attach your pump or pressure bleeder to the reservoir following the tool instructions.
  2. Attach clear hose to the caliper bleeder and start the pump. Open the bleeder and let fluid flow until clear and bubble-free. Close bleeder and move to next caliper.
  3. Monitor reservoir level and keep topped up during the procedure.

Finishing steps

  • After bleeding all circuits, ensure reservoir level is at the proper max mark, then reinstall and tighten the cap securely.
  • Wipe any spilled fluid off painted surfaces immediately with isopropyl alcohol & water; brake fluid can damage plastics and paint.
  • With the ATV still supported, pump the brake lever/pedal to confirm firm feel. If spongy, re-bleed the affected circuit.
  • Reinstall wheels, torque wheel fasteners to factory specifications, and lower the machine to the ground.
  • Perform a low-speed functional test in a safe area to confirm braking performance before normal use.

Maintenance tips & cautions

  • Replace banjo bolt crush washers whenever you loosen a hydraulic fitting to ensure a leak-free seal.
  • Never reuse brake fluid from the reservoir once it has been removed; dispose of old fluid properly according to local regulations.
  • If you find persistent foam, soft brakes, or leaks after bleeding, inspect master cylinder seals, caliper pistons, hoses and fittings — replace components as needed.
  • Record the brake fluid change date and mileage in your maintenance log; routine replacement every 1-2 years is recommended depending on usage and exposure to moisture.

If you need OEM or high-quality replacement parts for calipers, hoses, hardware or fluid, MotoSport stocks components specific to the 2015 Can-Am Outlander 800R XT to help ensure correct fit and reliable braking performance.

Related Shopping Categories

Shop Brake Fluid for a 2015 CAN_AM OL800RXT ATV.

Shop Brake Bleeders for a 2015 CAN_AM OL800RXT ATV.

Shop Brake Pads for a 2015 CAN_AM OL800RXT ATV.

Shop Brake Lines for a 2015 CAN_AM OL800RXT ATV.

Shop Brake Tools for a 2015 CAN_AM OL800RXT 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.