How to bleed & replace brake fluid on a 2016 Polaris Sportsman Touring 570

Shop parts for a 2016 Polaris Sportsman Touring 570 ATV.

This MotoSport guide walks you through a complete brake-fluid replacement and bleed for the 2016 Polaris Sportsman Touring 570. Follow these steps carefully to restore firm braking performance and protect the hydraulic system from moisture and contamination. Read each step fully before you start and follow all safety precautions.

What you need

  • DOT-specified brake fluid (see owner's manual; DOT 4 is commonly used) fresh, unopened container
  • Clear vinyl tubing sized to the caliper bleed nipples
  • Catch bottle for old fluid
  • Brake-fluid syringe, vacuum bleeder, or pressure bleeder (recommended for best results)
  • Wrenches for bleed nipples (typically 8mm or 10mm)
  • Clean rags, brake-clean spray, nitrile gloves, safety glasses
  • Jack/stands or ramps if you need wheel clearance (always stabilize machine)
  • Small container and a clean piece of cardboard to rest master-cylinder caps

Model notes for the 2016 Sportsman Touring 570

  • The Sportsman Touring 570 uses a conventional hydraulic brake system with separate front and rear master cylinders and reservoirs; reservoirs are accessible from the handlebar area and rear master cylinder near the frame. Confirm which reservoir feeds which circuit before starting.
  • Polaris brakes are sensitive to contamination from petroleum-based cleaners. Use brake-specific cleaner and avoid getting any DOT fluid on painted or plastic surfaces — it damages finishes. Wipe spills immediately.
  • Brake fluid is hygroscopic and degrades with moisture. Replace fluid on a regular schedule or if fluid is darker than clear to light amber. If the ABS or sensor-equipped system is present, follow bleeding order recommended by Polaris; if unsure, perform isolated circuit bleeding front then rear, and complete final system check under load.
  • Some 2016 Touring models may have anti-lock or linked braking options. If your machine has electronic systems, consult the owner's manual for any electrical/diagnostic bleed steps and for any required system resets after bleeding. If you do not have the manual, bring the machine to a MotoSport tech for verification.

Preparation

  • Park on level ground, engage parking brake, remove key, disconnect battery negative terminal if you will be opening or working near electrical sensors.
  • Clean around reservoir caps thoroughly to prevent dirt falling into the system. Remove caps and diaphragm/strainer and set on a clean surface.
  • Check routing of brake lines and calipers for leaks, cracks or damage. Replace any suspect hoses or hardware before bleeding.

Bleeding strategy recommended order

For steady, consistent air removal, bleed the farthest caliper from the master cylinder first, then move progressively closer. Typical order:

  • Front-right caliper
  • Front-left caliper
  • Rear caliper (or rear circuit/master as applicable)

Step-by-step bleed using a vacuum or pressure bleeder

  1. Fill the reservoir with fresh DOT-specified fluid to the full mark. Keep the cap and diaphragm loosely in place to reduce contamination.
  2. Attach clear vinyl tubing to the first caliper's bleed nipple and route the other end into your catch bottle partially filled with a small amount of fresh fluid to prevent air re-entry.
  3. If using a vacuum bleeder at the caliper: attach vacuum to the tubing or the bleed nipple per tool instructions. If using a pressure bleeder: attach to the master-cylinder reservoir cap adapter per bleeder instructions, pressurize to tool specs.
  4. With an assistant slowly apply and hold the brake lever/pedal to build pressure and then open the caliper bleed nipple just until clear fluid flows into the tubing. If using a vacuum or pressure bleeder, operate the tool and watch for continuous clear fluid free of bubbles.
  5. Close the bleed nipple while fluid flow is momentarily steady, then release the lever/pedal. Repeat until no air bubbles appear and fluid is clear. Keep the reservoir topped off during the entire process to avoid drawing air into the system.
  6. Once the first caliper is clear, tighten the bleed nipple to proper snugness, wipe clean, and move to the next caliper in the bleed order. Refill the master reservoir as needed between wheels.
  7. When all calipers are bled and fluid is clear at each bleed port, fill the reservoir to the full mark, reinstall diaphragm and cap, and torque any fasteners to factory spec if available. Clean any spilled fluid immediately.

Bleeding using the one-person push method

  1. Have a helper slowly pump the brake lever/pedal several times and hold firm. Open the bleed nipple, allow fluid to escape into tubing, then close the nipple before the lever/pedal is released. Repeat until bubbles stop appearing, keeping reservoir topped off. Move through bleed order as above.
  2. This method works but requires careful coordination to avoid sucking air back into the caliper.

Post-bleed checks

  • Confirm lever/pedal feel is firm with no sponginess. If softness remains, re-bleed.
  • Inspect for leaks at bleed nipples, caliper fittings, hose connections and master-cylinder seals. Torque fittings to Polaris specs if known, or snug to manufacturer practice — do not over-tighten.
  • Dispose of old fluid per local regulations. Do not reuse or pour on ground.
  • Reconnect battery and perform a short test ride at low speed in a safe area to verify braking performance. Retighten any fittings if leaks are found after the test ride.

Common issues & troubleshooting

  • Persistent bubbles after several bleeds: check for soft or damaged hoses, loose fittings, or a leaking master cylinder sealthese will allow air back into the system and require replacement of the faulty component.
  • Dark, contaminated fluid or corrosion inside calipers: consider a caliper rebuild or replacement and a full system flush.
  • ABS or sensors warning lamps: after bleeding, if the ABS light remains, a diagnostic check may be required. Avoid electrical shortcuts; consult a MotoSport technician if unsure.

Parts & replacement recommendations

  • Replace rubber bleed-nipple caps and any worn copper crush washers when servicing calipers.
  • If hose condition is unknown or any swelling/cracks are present, replace hoses with OEM-quality lines. Using new hoses can prevent repeated bleeds and improve pedal feel longevity.
  • MotoSport recommends using high-quality DOT-specified fluid and new hardware when possible to ensure reliability.

Performing a complete brake-fluid change and bleed on your 2016 Polaris Sportsman Touring 570 restores stopping power and prevents long-term damage from moisture. If you encounter persistent problems or your machine has ABS/electronic features requiring special procedures, contact a trained MotoSport technician for service assistance.

Related Shopping Categories

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Shop Brake Tools for a 2016 Polaris Sportsman Touring 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.