How to Bleed & Replace Brake Fluid on a 2016 Can-Am Renegade 850

Shop parts for a 2016 Can-Am Renegade 850 ATV.

This MotoSport guide walks you step-by-step through safely replacing and bleeding the brake system on a 2016 Can-Am Renegade 850. Procedures are written for the common MMY Renegade 850 configurations; confirm your specific build (two-wheel drive vs. four-wheel drive, accessory ABS options) before beginning.

Safety & prep

  • Work on a flat, stable surface with the ignition OFF and key removed.
  • Wear eye protection and nitrile gloves. Brake fluid is corrosive to paint & plastics.
  • Have clean rags, a catch bottle, and a cap to reseal the master cylinder handy.
  • Use DOT 4 brake fluid only unless your owner’s manual specifies otherwise. Never mix DOT types.
  • Do not let fresh fluid contact painted surfaces; immediately wipe any spills and rinse with water.
  • Dispose of used fluid responsibly at a local recycling center or hazardous waste facility.

What you’ll need

  • DOT 4 brake fluid (new, unopened bottle)
  • Brake-bleeder kit: clear tubing, catch bottle, or vacuum bleeder
  • Bleeder wrench or correctly sized open wrench for caliper bleeder nipples
  • Syringe or turkey baster (optional) for reservoir siphoning
  • Clean rags and rubber gloves
  • Zip-ties or clamps to keep tubing secure
  • Service manual or reference for any torque specs

Model-specific notes for the 2016 Can-Am Renegade 850

  • The brake master cylinder and reservoir are located at the handlebars. That reservoir feeds both front and rear circuits through split lines; be careful not to let the reservoir run empty while bleeding.
  • Some 2016 Renegade 850 variants have a combined front master cylinder with separate caliper lines; others used accessory ABS hardware. If your unit has ABS, consult the manual for ABS-specific bleed procedures or consult a dealer if you don’t have the diagnostic stepsABS valves may require specific cycling.
  • The rear caliper is accessed under the rear rack area; front calipers are accessed from the wheel wells. Clean the area around bleed nipples before opening them to avoid contamination.
  • Brake lines on these ATVs run close to frame components and the exhaust; inspect hoses for chafing, cracking, or heat damage while you work.

Step-by-step fluid replacement & bleed

  1. Park the ATV securely on a stand so wheels can rotate freely if wheel bleeding is needed. Chock and stabilize the vehicle.
  2. Clean the master cylinder reservoir cover. Remove the cover and diaphragm; use a clean cloth to remove old fluid from the top of the reservoir. Don’t allow dirt into the reservoir.
  3. If the reservoir fluid is dark or contaminated, siphon most of the old fluid out with a syringe or turkey baster, leaving a small amount to prevent air ingress.
  4. Top the reservoir with fresh DOT 4 fluid. Keep the cap within reach to reseal quickly if needed.
  5. Identify bleed nipple order. Standard sequence for the Renegade 850 is to start with the caliper furthest from the master cylinder and finish with the closest. Typical order: rear caliper first, then right/front caliper, then left/front caliper. If unsure, run lines visually from master to calipers and pick the furthest first.
  6. Attach clear tubing to the first bleed nipple; place the other end into a catch bottle with a small amount of fresh fluid to prevent air being drawn back up.
  7. Have an assistant slowly depress the brake lever/pedal several times and hold pressure, or use a vacuum bleeder to draw fluid. Open the bleed nipple one-quarter to one-half turn to allow fluid to flow; close nipple before releasing lever/pedal. Repeat until the fluid runs clear with no bubbles. Keep the reservoir topped during the entire process.
  8. Move to the next caliper and repeat the same pump-open-close sequence. Always keep the reservoir above the minimum level to avoid introducing air into the master cylinder.
  9. When all calipers are bled and fluid is clear, perform a final check: tighten bleed nipples to snug (consult service manual for torque), wipe clean, and replace reservoir diaphragm & cap securely.
  10. Operate the brake lever/pedal several times to confirm firm feel. If the lever is spongy, repeat bleeding until firm and bubble-free. Check for leaks at banjo bolts and bleed nipples after test application.
  11. Lower the ATV, perform a low-speed brake test in a safe area, confirming even braking and no pulling or sponginess.

Tips, common issues & maintenance reminders

  • If you encounter persistent air or soft lever feel after conventional bleeding, use a pressure or vacuum bleeder to force fluid through the calipers and lines; gravity bleeding can be slow on ATVs with long tubing runs.
  • Inspect pads and rotors while the calipers are exposed. Replace pads that are near minimum thickness and resurface or replace warped rotors.
  • If you replace a caliper or banjo bolt, replace crush washers and torque to factory spec. If you don’t have torque specs on hand, note the bolt should be snug and leak-free; refer to MotoSport tech resources or the service manual for exact values before final assembly.
  • Avoid reusing fluid removed from the system; it absorbs moisture and degrades performance. Fresh DOT 4 ensures correct boiling point and safety.
  • Brake fluid will darken over time. Plan to replace the brake fluid every 1-2 years depending on use and moisture exposure, sooner for heavy trail or competitive use.
  • If your Renegade 850 has an accessory or factory ABS module and you experience warning lights after bleeding, consult the service manual for ABS bleed sequences or contact a dealer; some modules require special bleed/cycle routines.

Final checks

  • Confirm no leaks, tight fittings, and a firm pedal/lever.
  • Clean any spilled fluid and reinstall any components removed for access.
  • Record the service date and fluid type in your maintenance log for future reference.

MotoSport recommends following this procedure each time you service the brake system, and contacting a qualified technician if you find ABS complications, severe corrosion, or persistent brake anomalies. Safe riding starts with reliable brakes.

Related Shopping Categories

Shop Brake Fluid for a 2016 Can-Am Renegade 850 ATV.

Shop Brake Bleeders for a 2016 Can-Am Renegade 850 ATV.

Shop Brake Pads for a 2016 Can-Am Renegade 850 ATV.

Shop Brake Lines for a 2016 Can-Am Renegade 850 ATV.

Shop Brake Tools for a 2016 Can-Am Renegade 850 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.