How to Bleed and Replace Brake Fluid on a 2015 Polaris Sportsman 570

Shop parts for a 2015 Polaris Sportsman 570 ATV.

This MotoSport guide walks you through a reliable, safe brake-fluid replacement & bleeding procedure tailored to the 2015 Polaris Sportsman 570. Follow these steps carefully. If you're unsure at any point, stop and consult a qualified technician.

What you'll need

  • DOT 4 brake fluid (new, unopened bottle)
  • Clear tubing that fits bleeder nipples
  • Catch bottle or jar
  • Wrench for bleeder nipples (usually 8-11 mm) use correct size
  • Brake bleeder pump or vacuum bleeder (optional but speeds job)
  • Clean rags, gloves, safety glasses
  • Service manual or torque wrench for fastener specs
  • Jack or stand to safely support the ATV off the ground

Model notes for the 2015 Sportsman 570

  • Factory system uses DOT 4 brake fluid – do not mix DOT 3 or silicone fluids. Always use fresh DOT 4.
  • The master cylinder reservoir is accessible once the seat and any body panels covering the fuel tank area are removed. Keep the reservoir cap and diaphragm clean to avoid contamination.
  • Some 2015 models have independent circuits or combined master cylinders for front/rear; bleeding order must start with the caliper farthest from the master cylinder and end at the nearest caliper.
  • Polaris uses banjo fittings and crush washers at calipers – always replace crush washers if you detach brake lines, and tighten banjo bolts to manufacturer torque spec found in the service manual.
  • Avoid getting brake fluid on painted surfaces or plastics &mdash it strips paint and can damage plastics. Rinse any spills immediately with water and wipe dry.

Safety and preparation

  • Work on a level surface, engine off, ignition key removed.
  • Chock wheels and support the ATV securely on stands so wheels can turn freely for lever/pedal actuation.
  • Wear gloves & eye protection. Brake fluid is corrosive to skin & finish.
  • Protect surfaces under the reservoir & calipers with rags or drip pans.

Step-by-step: Replace fluid & bleed brakes

1. Inspect system: Check hoses, line fittings, and caliper condition. If hoses are cracked or fittings leak, replace before bleeding.

2. Remove reservoir cap: Clean around cap, then remove. Siphon out old fluid from reservoir with a hand pump or turkey baster until level is low but not empty. Do not let air enter the system excessively; keep the reservoir capped loosely if you stop during the process.

3. Refill reservoir with new DOT 4 fluid to the fill mark. Keep cap loosely installed to prevent contamination while allowing you to top up during bleeding.

4. Determine bleed sequence: Identify which caliper is farthest from the master cylinder. Typical sequence is farthest caliper first – then next farthest – finish with the nearest. Common sequence for many Sportsman layouts: rear caliper, then right/front, then left/front (verify on your unit).

5. Attach clear tubing to the bleeder nipple and submerge the other end in a catch jar partially filled with fresh fluid to prevent air intake.

6. Open bleeder: With the bleeder wrench, crack the nipple open about 1/4 turn. Have an assistant slowly apply and hold the brake lever or pedal while you open the nipple. For a lever-operated front or hand brake, hold lever in the applied position; for foot-operated rear, have assistant press and hold the pedal.

7. Close – pump cycle: While holding pressure, open the nipple to let fluid/air escape, then close the nipple before the assistant releases the lever/pedal. Repeat pump & open cycles until clear, bubble-free fluid runs from the tubing.

8. Keep reservoir topped: Frequently check reservoir level and top with fresh DOT 4 to prevent running dry and introducing air into the master cylinder.

9. Work each caliper in sequence: Repeat bleeding for each caliper in the farthest-to-nearest order until all lines flow clean fluid and no air bubbles appear.

10. Bench-bleed or vacuum-bleed option: If available, a vacuum bleeder hooked to the bleeder nipple speeds the job and allows one-person operation. A pressure bench-bleeder at the reservoir is another effective one-person method. Follow bleeder tool instructions carefully.

11. Final checks: Once finished, close all bleeder nipples securely. Wipe fittings dry. Top the reservoir to the proper level, reinstall the cap and diaphragm, and torque any removed fittings to Polaris specs in the service manual.

Post-bleed inspection & test

  • With wheels still off the ground, reapply brakes several times to confirm firm lever/pedal feel. If spongy, repeat bleeding until firm.
  • Reinstall wheels, torque wheel fasteners to spec, lower the ATV, and perform a low-speed controlled brake test in a safe area.
  • Check for leaks at calipers, banjo bolts, and master cylinder. Recheck fluid level after a short test ride.

Torque and fitting notes

  • Always tighten banjo bolts and caliper hardware to Polaris service manual torque specs. If you don't have the manual, use a calibrated torque wrench and confirm values before final tightening.
  • Bleeder nipples should be snugged to stop leaks – avoid overstressing or rounding the nipple. Typical small bleeder nipple torque is low — consult manual.

Disposal and maintenance tips

  • Dispose of old brake fluid as hazardous waste per local regulations.
  • Replace crush washers whenever you disconnect a banjo fitting.
  • Bleed the brakes any time brake lines or calipers are opened, after master cylinder service, or if brake feel becomes soft.
  • Keep a sealed spare bottle of DOT 4 in your shop for topping off during future maintenance.

Follow this MotoSport procedure to restore firm, reliable braking on your 2015 Polaris Sportsman 570. When in doubt, refer to the factory service manual or a certified Polaris technician for model-specific torque values and diagrams.

Related Shopping Categories

Shop Brake Fluid for a 2015 Polaris Sportsman 570 ATV.

Shop Brake Bleeders for a 2015 Polaris Sportsman 570 ATV.

Shop Brake Pads for a 2015 Polaris Sportsman 570 ATV.

Shop Brake Lines for a 2015 Polaris Sportsman 570 ATV.

Shop Brake Tools for a 2015 Polaris Sportsman 570 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.