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

Shop parts for a 2015 Can-Am Renegade 800R ATV.

This proprietary MotoSport guide shows step-by-step how to safely replace and bleed the brake fluid on a 2015 Can-Am Renegade 800R. Follow these manufacturer-aware practices, use the correct fluid, and observe safety and disposal requirements.

What you need

  • DOT 4 brake fluid (new, unopened)
  • Clear tubing and catch bottle
  • Bleeder wrench or appropriate socket
  • Turkey baster or fluid syringe
  • Brake cleaner & rags
  • Jack or stand to lift wheels (if required)
  • Gloves and eye protection
  • Torque wrench (for caliper bolts)
  • Optional: vacuum or pressure brake bleeder
  • Container for used fluid for proper disposal

Model notes — 2015 Can-Am Renegade 800R

  • The Renegade 800R uses DOT 4 fluid; DO NOT mix with DOT 3 or silicone fluid.
  • Front and rear brake circuits are conventional hydraulic systems; some units may have ABS or traction control hardware. If your unit has ABS, consult the service manual for ABS cycling procedure before final bleeding.
  • Brake master reservoirs are translucent with level marks; when replacing fluid, keep the reservoir capped to minimize contamination and moisture pickup.
  • Use OEM or equivalent replacement parts for banjo bolts, crush washers, and caliper hardware. Replace crush washers when reassembling.
  • Brake fluid is hygroscopic. Replace every 1-2 years or when contamination or soft spongy pedal is detected.

Preparation

  • Work in a clean, well-ventilated area. Park the ATV on level ground and secure it. Remove the seat and any plastics needed to access reservoirs and calipers.
  • Inspect brake lines, hoses, and calipers for leaks or damage. Replace any damaged parts before bleeding.
  • Clean around reservoir caps to prevent dirt falling into the system.
  • Open new DOT 4 fluid only when ready to use to reduce moisture absorption.

Two common methods

Choose one method based on tools and helpers available. The critical points are to keep the master cylinder reservoir topped, avoid introducing air, and follow the correct caliper sequence.

Method A – Two-person (manual pump)

  1. Remove the reservoir cap and diaphragm. Siphon out most old fluid with a turkey baster but leave some to avoid air entry.
  2. Top reservoir with fresh DOT 4.
  3. Identify bleed sequence: always start with the caliper/farthest brake line from the master cylinder and progress to the closest. For the Renegade 800R the practical sequence is usually: rear opposite side from master, rear same side, front opposite side, front same side. If uncertain, verify which caliper is farthest from the master and begin there.
  4. Attach clear tubing to the bleeder screw and submerge the other end in a catch bottle partially filled with fresh fluid to prevent air entry.
  5. Person A: sit at controls and slowly pump the brake lever/pedal several times and hold pressure. Person B: open the bleeder screw about 1/4 turn to let fluid and air escape, then close screw before lever/pedal is released. Repeat until clear fluid with no bubbles appears.
  6. After each caliper cycle, top the reservoir immediately to prevent air ingestion.
  7. Proceed to the next caliper in sequence. Torque bleeder and caliper hardware to factory values when finished (use service manual values).

Method B – Vacuum or pressure bleeder (single tech)

  1. Attach vacuum pump to bleeder or use a pressure bleeder on the master reservoir per equipment instructions.
  2. With vacuum: open bleeder and draw fluid until clean, topping reservoir frequently. With pressure bleeder: pressurize reservoir and open bleeders in sequence until clear fluid emerges.
  3. Maintain continual fresh fluid in reservoir and follow the same caliper sequence described above.

Full fluid replacement (flush)

  • Perform the same steps but remove and replace all old fluid from the reservoir at the start. Refill with fresh fluid and bleed until all circuits show clear, bubble-free fluid and firm lever/pedal feel.
  • If ABS is present, run ABS pump cycling routine if required by the factory procedure (cycle ABS while bleeding to purge pump and lines), then re-bleed calipers after ABS cycles.

Bleeder screw & hardware tips

  • Inspect bleeder screws for corrosion; replace if rounded or leaking.
  • Always use new crush washers on banjo bolts; torque to spec.
  • Keep a clean rag over joints to catch drips and prevent paint damage. Clean spilled fluid immediately with brake cleaner as it can damage plastics and paint.

Final checks

  • Verify reservoir level is at the max mark, reinstall diaphragm and cap.
  • Operate brakes to confirm firm lever and consistent pedal feel. If spongy, repeat bleeding.
  • Check for leaks at calipers, lines, banjo bolts, and master cylinder.
  • Road-test at low speed in a safe area and recheck hardware torque and fluid level after initial ride.
  • Dispose of used brake fluid as hazardous waste per local regulations.

Troubleshooting

  • Persistent soft pedal: suspect trapped air, collapsing hose, or master cylinder issue. Inspect hoses for swell and replace if needed.
  • No fluid flow from bleeder: check for clogged passage, stuck caliper piston, or collapsed hose.
  • ABS-equipped unit with intermittent feel: follow ABS bleed/cycle procedure before concluding system fault.

Recommended service interval & parts

  • Change brake fluid every 12-24 months or sooner if performance drops.
  • Use DOT 4 fluid only and replace crush washers, bleeder screws, and any worn caliper hardware during service.

Following these steps will restore correct brake performance on your 2015 Can-Am Renegade 800R. If you encounter ABS faults, persistent leaks, or master cylinder damage, seek professional service.

Related Shopping Categories

Shop Brake Fluid for a 2015 Can-Am Renegade 800R ATV.

Shop Brake Bleeders for a 2015 Can-Am Renegade 800R ATV.

Shop Brake Pads for a 2015 Can-Am Renegade 800R ATV.

Shop Brake Lines for a 2015 Can-Am Renegade 800R ATV.

Shop Brake Tools for a 2015 Can-Am Renegade 800R 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.