How to Bleed and Replace Brake Fluid on a 2015 Polaris Sportsman 570 X2
Shop parts for a 2015 Polaris Sportsman 570 X2 ATV.
This step-by-step MotoSport guide covers tools, preparation, procedures for flushing and bleeding the brake system on the 2015 Polaris Sportsman 570 X2, plus model-specific notes and preventative tips. Follow all safety precautions and work on a stable surface. If you're uncomfortable working on brakes, have a qualified mechanic complete the job.
Tools & supplies
- DOT 4 brake fluid (Polaris recommends DOT 4; check owner's manual)
- Clear vinyl tubing sized to bleed nipple
- Catch bottle or jar
- Brake bleeder wrench or appropriate open-end wrench
- Turkey baster or fluid syringe (for removing old fluid)
- Clean rags and brake cleaner
- Torque wrench (for caliper and banjo bolts)
- Jack or stands to safely support the ATV off the ground
- Gloves and eye protection
Safety & prep
- Park on level ground, engage park/parking brake, and remove key.
- Wear gloves and eye protection. Brake fluid is corrosive to paint.
- Elevate the ATV so wheels can rotate freely when needed; secure on stands.
- Clean the master cylinder reservoir cap area to prevent contamination.
- Inspect brake lines, hoses, calipers, and master cylinder for leaks or damage before starting.
Model-specific notes for the 2015 Polaris Sportsman 570 X2
- The Sportsman 570 X2 uses a hydraulic disc brake system with front and rear combined master circuits. Maintain even system pressure during bleeding to avoid air pockets.
- The factory system uses DOT 4 fluid; do not mix with DOT 5 (silicone) fluid.
- Some 570 X2s have a combined reservoir servicing both front and rear circuits via internal valving. Keep the reservoir level mid-range during procedure to prevent introducing air into the system.
- ABS is not fitted on this model; bleeding is straightforward but follow sequence to ensure even pressure to both calipers.
- Use care when removing wheel hubs or calipers if you need extra access – hub bolts and caliper mount fasteners require torque to specification on reassembly.
Procedure overview
Bleeding can be done with a traditional one-person pump-and-hold method or with a one-way vacuum/pressure bleeder. The instructions below use a two-person manual bleed for reliability.
1. Access and inspect
- Remove wheel(s) as needed to access calipers and bleed nipples.
- Clean bleed nipples and surrounding area with brake cleaner to prevent contamination.
2. Prepare reservoir
- Open the master cylinder reservoir. Siphon out old fluid with a turkey baster until level is low but not empty.
- Top reservoir with fresh DOT 4 fluid to the proper level. Do not overfill.
3. Bleeding order
Sequence recommended for Sportsman 570 X2: rear caliper first, then front passenger side, then front driver side. If you have dual rear calipers or axle-specific layouts, bleed the caliper farthest from the master cylinder first, progressing to the closest.
4. Two-person bleed method
- Attach clear tubing to the caliper bleed nipple; place other end in catch bottle partially filled with a little fresh fluid to prevent air re-entry.
- One person sits on the ATV and slowly pumps the brake lever/pedal 3–5 times and holds steady pressure.
- The second person opens the bleed nipple about a quarter to half turn; fluid and air will flow into the tubing. Close the nipple before releasing the lever/pedal.
- Repeat until fluid running through the tubing is clear and free of air bubbles.
- Check the master cylinder reservoir frequently and top with fresh fluid to maintain level above the minimum. Never let it run dry.
- When finished with a caliper, tighten the bleed nipple to spec (hand-tight plus a small turn — follow service torque guidance), remove tubing, and clean any spilled fluid.
5. Flushing the system
- To fully replace old fluid, repeat bleeding across all calipers while continually adding fresh fluid to the reservoir until the expelled fluid is clear and new.
- If using a vacuum bleeder, attach to each bleed nipple in sequence and open the nipple while drawing fluid through; monitor reservoir level and refill as needed.
6. Final checks
- With all calipers bled, verify pedal/lever feel is firm and consistent. Soft or spongy feel indicates remaining air or caliper/master issues.
- Torque caliper mounting bolts and any removed hardware to Polaris specifications.
- Clean any spilled brake fluid immediately and touch up paint if fluid contacted bodywork.
- Properly dispose of old brake fluid per local regulations.
- Test ride slowly in a safe area to confirm braking performance before normal use.
Troubleshooting & tips
- Persistent sponginess may indicate internal master cylinder air or worn components. Replace the master cylinder or caliper seals if bleeding does not restore firmness.
- If one caliper refuses to bleed air, remove the caliper and bench-bleed it or inspect for collapsed hose or internal blockage.
- Keep a clean, lint-free rag and brake cleaner handy to wipe fast during work – contamination degrades performance.
- Record the fluid change date and mileage; DOT 4 brake fluid attracts moisture and should be changed every 1–2 years depending on use and storage conditions.
When to seek professional service
Have a professional inspect if you find leaks, severely corroded lines, calipers that won't operate smoothly, or if brake feel does not return to firm after multiple bleeds. Brake system failures are safety-critical.
Following this MotoSport-specific procedure will keep your 2015 Polaris Sportsman 570 X2 braking system reliable and safe. Keep fresh DOT 4 fluid on hand and inspect lines annually, especially if you ride in wet or corrosive environments.
Related Shopping Categories
Shop Brake Fluid for a 2015 Polaris Sportsman 570 X2 ATV.
Shop Brake Bleeders for a 2015 Polaris Sportsman 570 X2 ATV.
Shop Brake Pads for a 2015 Polaris Sportsman 570 X2 ATV.
Shop Brake Lines for a 2015 Polaris Sportsman 570 X2 ATV.
Shop Brake Tools for a 2015 Polaris Sportsman 570 X2 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.