How to Bleed & Replace Brake Fluid on a 2016 Yamaha Grizzly 700 4X4

Shop parts for a 2016 Yamaha Grizzly 700 4X4 ATV.

This MotoSport guide walks you step-by-step through draining, replacing, and bleeding the hydraulic brake fluid on a 2016 Yamaha Grizzly 700 4X4. Procedures are written for the stock hydraulic system using DOT 4 brake fluid. Read safety notes and model specifics first, then follow the service steps carefully.

Model notes & safety

  • The 2016 Grizzly 700 uses hydraulic disc brakes front and rear. Use DOT 4-rated brake fluid only — do not mix with DOT 5 (silicone) fluids.
  • Front brakes are actuated from the handlebar master cylinder(s); rear brake has its own master cylinder near the foot control. Bleeding order follows the master cylinder to calipers layout — always start with the caliper farthest from the corresponding master cylinder.
  • Brake fluid will damage paint and plastics. Cover painted surfaces and wipe spills immediately with water and a rag.
  • Work on a level surface, secure the ATV with the parking brake off when pumping brake lever/pedal during bleeding, and use wheel chocks.
  • Dispose of old brake fluid per local hazardous-waste rules.

Tools & supplies

  • DOT 4 brake fluid (fresh, unopened container)
  • 10 mm or 8 mm open-end wrench (bleeder nut size may vary — confirm on your unit)
  • clear plastic tubing sized to fit bleeder nipple
  • catch bottle or container
  • turkey baster or syringe (optional) to remove fluid from reservoirs
  • rubber gloves, shop rags, small funnel
  • vacuum or pressure bleeder (optional but speeds and simplifies process)
  • service manual or torque wrench for bleeder cap tightness if desired

Preparation

  1. Park the Grizzly on a level surface, block wheels, and turn ignition off. Remove seat and any panels necessary to access the front/rear brake fluid reservoirs and calipers.
  2. Clean the reservoir caps and area to prevent contamination. Remove cap(s) and diaphragm, keep reservoir open but covered with a clean rag to avoid dirt.
  3. If reservoir fluid is dark or contaminated, use a turkey baster to remove most old fluid before starting.
  4. Identify bleeder nipples on each caliper and attach clear tubing to the nipple, routing into a catch bottle partially filled with fresh fluid to prevent air re-entry.

Bleeding sequence

Follow the furthest-first rule for each master cylinder circuit. For the Grizzly 700 this typically means:

  • Front circuit (handlebar master): bleed the front caliper that is farthest from the master cylinder first (often the right or left depending on model routing). Then bleed the nearer front caliper.
  • Rear circuit (foot master): bleed the rear caliper (single caliper) following the same procedure.

Manual bleeding procedure

  1. Top up the reservoir with fresh DOT 4 fluid to the full mark. Keep the cap area clean.
  2. Attach clear tubing to the bleeder nipple and submerge the other end into the catch bottle with a small amount of fresh fluid.
  3. Have an assistant slowly pull the brake lever (or press the pedal) and hold it down. Loosen the bleeder nut about a 1/4 turn to allow fluid and air to flow into the tubing. When fluid flow stops, tighten the bleeder nut while the lever/pedal remains depressed. Tell the assistant to release slowly only after the nut is tightened.
  4. Repeat the pump/open/tighten cycle until clear, bubble-free fluid comes through and you feel firm lever/pedal travel. Keep an eye on the reservoir level and top up frequently to avoid drawing air into the master cylinder.
  5. Finish the caliper and move to the next caliper by repeating steps above. For each caliper, continue until the outlet is free of air and lever/pedal is firm.
  6. After all calipers are bled, pump the lever/pedal several times, confirm firm feel, and recheck reservoir level. Secure caps and clean up any spilled fluid.

Using a vacuum or pressure bleeder

  1. Connect the pressure bleeder to the reservoir cap or attach the vacuum pump to each caliper bleeder via tubing per tool instructions.
  2. If pressure-bleeding the reservoir, pressurize the reservoir to the tool recommended pressure, open bleeders starting with the farthest caliper, and allow fluid to flow until clear. If vacuum-bleeding at each caliper, apply vacuum and cycle the lever/pedal as needed.
  3. Keep reservoir topped and follow the same farthest-first order. These tools reduce the need for an assistant and speed the operation.

Post-bleed checks

  • Confirm lever & pedal feel is firm and that brakes engage properly at low-speed test ride in a safe area.
  • Inspect calipers, lines, and master cylinders for leaks. Re-torque bleeder nuts to specification if you have torque data, otherwise snug firmly but do not over-tighten.
  • Wipe all components clean, reinstall any removed panels and the seat, and properly dispose of old fluid.

Tips specific to the 2016 Grizzly 700

  • The Grizzly 700 can have two separate front circuits depending on variant — verify which master cylinder actuates which caliper to determine the correct far/near order before bleeding.
  • If your machine has ABS or a linked braking option (dealer-installed or later variants), follow the service manual procedure for cycling the ABS unit during bleed — ABS units can trap air and require specific routines.
  • Handle the handlebar master cylinder carefully; lever pivot and switches are close to the reservoir cap and are easily contaminated by fluid.
  • If brakes remain spongy after thorough bleeding, inspect flexible hoses for internal deterioration — replace aged hoses as they can act like one-way valves and prevent proper bleeding.

When to call a pro

If repeated bleeding fails to restore firm brakes, if you suspect a defective master cylinder, ABS malfunction, or if lines/calipers leak, have a certified technician inspect and repair the system. Brake safety is critical.

Follow these steps and your Grizzly 700 will have fresh fluid and properly bled brakes for reliable stopping performance.

Related Shopping Categories

Shop Brake Fluid for a 2016 Yamaha Grizzly 700 4X4 ATV.

Shop Brake Bleeders for a 2016 Yamaha Grizzly 700 4X4 ATV.

Shop Brake Pads for a 2016 Yamaha Grizzly 700 4X4 ATV.

Shop Brake Lines for a 2016 Yamaha Grizzly 700 4X4 ATV.

Shop Brake Tools for a 2016 Yamaha Grizzly 700 4X4 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.