How to Bleed and Replace Brake Fluid on a 2017 Can-Am Outlander 650 DPS

Shop parts for a 2017 Can-Am Outlander 650 DPS ATV.

Overview: This MotoSport-exclusive guide shows step-by-step how to replace and properly bleed the hydraulic brake fluid on a 2017 Can-Am Outlander 650 DPS. Follow these instructions to restore braking feel and maintain system longevity. Recommended service interval for brake fluid is every 2 years or sooner if contamination or spongy brakes are noticed.

Tools & Materials

  • DOT 4 brake fluid (fresh, unopened)
  • Clear plastic tubing that fits snug on bleeder nipples
  • Brake bleeder bottle or clean catch container
  • Box wrench set (bleeder nipple sizes typically 8 mm or 10 mm)
  • Turkey baster or syringe (for master cylinder reservoir)
  • Clean shop rags and gloves
  • Brake cleaner
  • Small funnel and paper towels
  • Torque wrench (for caliper and banjo bolts as required)
  • Jack or ATV stand and wheel chocks

Safety Precautions

  • Work on a flat, stable surface with the engine off and key removed.
  • Wear eye protection and gloves. Brake fluid is corrosive to paint; protect painted surfaces and clean spills immediately.
  • Do not mix DOT 3/4 with DOT 5 silicone fluid. Use DOT 4 specified by Can-Am.
  • Dispose of old fluid per local regulations.

Model-Specific Notes for 2017 Can-Am Outlander 650 DPS

  • The Outlander 650 DPS uses a hydraulic power steering system; do not mix steering fluid with brake fluid. Take care when working near front steering components.
  • Master cylinder reservoir is located under the handlebar cover. Access requires removing the plastic shroud; keep track of fasteners and gaskets.
  • DPS (Dynamic Power Steering) components sit close to the front master cylinder on some layouts — avoid contaminating electrical connectors with fluid.
  • ABS is not standard on this model; bleeding procedure below assumes a non-ABS system. If your unit has an aftermarket ABS module, consult MotoSport tech support before proceeding.
  • Caliper mounting bolts and banjo bolt torque specs: follow Can-Am torque values if available; use thread sealant or crush washers as originally fitted.

Preparation

  1. Park the Outlander on a level surface. Chock rear wheels and place ATV on a stand so relevant wheel/caliper is accessible.
  2. Remove plastic covers needed to access the master cylinder reservoir and calipers. Keep parts organized.
  3. Clean the reservoir cap area with brake cleaner to prevent contamination when opening.
  4. Remove the master cylinder cap and diaphragm. Use paper towels to remove existing fluid down to the minimum line with a turkey baster or syringe.
  5. Refill the reservoir with fresh DOT 4 fluid to the fill line. Do not overfill.

Recommended Bleeding Methods

Perform a front-to-rear, highest-to-lowest sequence. For the Outlander 650 DPS, bleed in this order: right front, left front, rear (or follow the vehicle's service manual if different). Use one of these reliable methods:

Method A – Manual Two-Person Bleed (preferred)

  1. Person A pumps the brake pedal slowly several times and holds steady pressure.
  2. Person B opens the bleeder nipple with a wrench about 1/4 turn while clear tubing runs into a catch bottle partially filled with clean DOT 4 to prevent air re-entry.
  3. Watch fluid flow; close nipple before Person A releases pedal. Repeat until fluid runs clear and free of air bubbles.
  4. Top up the master cylinder reservoir frequently to prevent air entry. Never let it run dry.
  5. Torque bleeder nipple to spec and repeat for next caliper in sequence.

Method B – One-Person Vacuum or Pressure Bleeder

  1. Attach vacuum pump to the bleeder tubing or attach a pressure bleeder to the master cylinder reservoir per device instructions.
  2. Open the bleeder nipple and operate the pump until clear fluid without bubbles appears.
  3. Keep reservoir topped to avoid drawing air in; close nipple and move to next caliper.

Detailed Step-By-Step

  1. Start at the highest caliper (usually front right). Put tubing on the bleeder nipple and place other end in catch bottle.
  2. Loosen bleeder nipple about 1/4 turn. If using the manual method, have your helper press and hold the brake. For vacuum/pressure method, apply device suction/pressure.
  3. Open nipple to allow fluid and bubbles to escape. Close nipple before releasing pressure on the lever/pedal to prevent air ingress.
  4. Repeat until only clear fluid appears and no bubbles are present. Tighten nipple to specified torque.
  5. Move to the next caliper and repeat steps. Keep reservoir level between min & max at all times.
  6. After bleeding all calipers, fill reservoir to the correct level, reinstall cap and diaphragm, and reinstall any removed panels.
  7. Check pedal lever feel — it should be firm with minimal travel. If spongy, repeat bleeding sequence focusing on any calipers that still show bubbles.
  8. Inspect all lines, fittings and banjo bolts for leaks. If new lines were fitted, torque banjo bolts to OEM spec and use new crush washers where applicable.

Post-Service Checks

  • Road-test at low speed in a safe open area to confirm braking performance before normal use.
  • Recheck brake fluid level after a short ride and inspect for leaks.
  • Monitor pedal feel over the next few rides; if softness returns, suspect air or a leak in the system.

Troubleshooting

  • Persistent soft pedal: rebleed entire system and inspect master cylinder internal seals.
  • Fluid contamination or rusty calipers: consider caliper rebuild or replacement; clean and flush lines thoroughly.
  • Leaking bleeder or banjo bolts: replace with correct sized hardware and new crush washers; torque to spec.

MotoSport Technician Tips

  • Always use high-quality DOT 4 and keep it moisture-free. Once opened, store in a sealed container and use promptly.
  • When replacing calipers or lines, mark old fittings and routing to ensure correct replacement and avoid interference with steering/DPS components.
  • If the vehicle has aftermarket accessories near the brake lines, confirm they don't rub or stress the hoses during full suspension travel.

Follow this MotoSport proprietary procedure to keep your 2017 Can-Am Outlander 650 DPS braking system safe and reliable. For parts and specialist tools compatible with this model, use the link above to Shop parts for a 2017 Can-Am Outlander 650 DPS ATV.

Related Shopping Categories

Shop Brake Fluid for a 2017 Can-Am Outlander 650 DPS ATV.

Shop Brake Bleeders for a 2017 Can-Am Outlander 650 DPS ATV.

Shop Brake Pads for a 2017 Can-Am Outlander 650 DPS ATV.

Shop Brake Lines for a 2017 Can-Am Outlander 650 DPS ATV.

Shop Brake Tools for a 2017 Can-Am Outlander 650 DPS 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.