How to Bleed & Replace Brake Fluid on a 2017 Can-Am Outlander 650 X MR

Shop parts for a 2017 CAN_AM OL650XMR ATV.

This MotoSport guide gives a step-by-step, practical procedure for flushing and bleeding the brake systems on the 2017 Can-Am Outlander 650 X MR. It covers tools, fluids, bleeding order, common problems, and model-specific notes every owner should know.

What you need

  • DOT 4 brake fluid (fresh, unopened)
  • Clear plastic tubing that fits bleed nipples
  • Catch bottle for old fluid
  • Wrench set sized to bleed nipples and caliper bolts (metric)
  • Phillips/flat screwdriver and pliers
  • Vacuum/pressure brake bleeder or hand pump (optional but recommended)
  • Clean rags and latex/nitrile gloves
  • Torque wrench for reassembly (recommended)
  • Bike stand or lift to keep ATV level and wheels off ground

Safety & prep

  • Work in a well-ventilated area. Brake fluid is corrosive to paint & plastics; protect painted surfaces.
  • Wear eye protection and gloves. Dispose of old fluid responsibly.
  • Park the ATV on level ground, set the parking brake, remove key, and disconnect the battery if you will be removing panels.
  • Keep master cylinder reservoirs topped up during the job to avoid introducing air into the system.

Model-specific notes for the 2017 Can-Am Outlander 650 X MR

  • The Outlander 650 X MR has separate front (handlebar lever) and rear (foot pedal) hydraulic systems. Bleed and service each system independently.
  • Front master cylinder reservoir is mounted on the right handlebar under a cap with a diaphragm. The rear reservoir is on the frame near the foot pedal and may be accessed by removing a side panel.
  • Calipers are dual-piston hydraulic units front and single/double piston rear depending on configuration. Brake lines are routed to avoid rock contact; inspect for chafing after off-road use.
  • No factory ABS on this trim, so bleeding is conventional without ABS-specific procedures.
  • Replace any rubber hoses or swollen lines discovered during inspection; older hoses can cause spongy feel even after bleeding.

Bleeding strategy overview

Because the Outlander uses separate circuits, treat the front lever and the rear pedal as two independent systems. Use this order:

  • Front system: bleed each front caliper individually, starting with the caliper farthest from the master cylinder (typically left then right on many ATVs; verify which caliper is farthest on your model layout).
  • Rear system: bleed the rear caliper(s) after accessing the rear reservoir.

Step-by-step: Flush & replace fluid (two-person method)

  1. Remove the reservoir caps and diaphragms. Clean the caps around the opening to prevent contamination. Siphon out old fluid with a syringe if necessary and top with fresh DOT 4 fluid.
  2. Raise the ATV so wheels can spin freely and remove wheel(s) if needed for access. Keep the machine level to avoid air pockets.
  3. Start with the front system. Attach clear tubing to the bleed nipple on the caliper and place the other end into a catch bottle partially filled with clean fluid to avoid drawing air back.
  4. Have an assistant slowly squeeze the brake lever several times and hold it compressed. Open the bleed nipple with the correct wrench to allow fluid to flow into the tubing. Close nipple before the assistant releases the lever. Repeat until fluid runs clear and bubble-free, topping the master cylinder as needed.
  5. Bleed the next front caliper following the same procedure. Keep reservoirs topped.
  6. When front is complete, clean nipple threads and torque to spec if previously removed. Replace reservoir diaphragm & cap.
  7. Move to the rear system. Access rear reservoir, top with DOT 4. Attach tubing to rear caliper bleed nipple and repeat the same pump-and-hold sequence with the rear pedal. Ensure fluid runs clear and no air bubbles appear.
  8. After bleeding each circuit, pump the lever/pedal to verify a firm feel. If spongy, repeat bleeding until firm.
  9. Wheel reinstallation: torque wheel fasteners to the correct specs and lower the ATV. Double-check for leaks at nipples & line connections.
  10. Test ride slowly in a controlled area to confirm braking function before regular use.

One-person methods

  • Use a vacuum bleeder on the bleed nipple to draw fluid while you operate the lever/pedal, or use a pressure bleeder on the reservoir to force fluid throughboth allow single-person operation and are faster.
  • If using a hand-pump bleeder, attach to the bleed nipple and pump to draw fluid while keeping reservoir topped.

Common problems & troubleshooting

  • Persistent spongy lever/pedal: check for collapsed hoses, loose fittings, or air trapped in calipers. Replace aged rubber hoses if they expand under pressure.
  • Brake lever slowly sinks to the bar: likely internal master cylinder seal leak. Inspect master cylinder and consider rebuild or replacement.
  • Contaminated fluid (dark, milky, or dirty): flush thoroughly and repeat bleeding until clear. If fluid is milky, water contamination may be present — replace fluid and keep reservoir sealed.
  • Leaks at fittings: tighten to spec, replace crush washers or banjo bolts if leaking.

Tips for longevity & performance

  • Use DOT 4 only. Do not mix with DOT 5 silicone fluid.
  • Change brake fluid every 1-2 years depending on use and storage conditions to avoid moisture buildup and corrosion.
  • Inspect pads, rotors, caliper seals, and hoses while you have the wheels off. Replace worn pads and warped rotors promptly.
  • Store spare brake fluid in a sealed container; brake fluid absorbs moisture from air quickly.
  • Document the date/mileage of fluid change in your maintenance records.

Final checks

  • Ensure no tools or rags remain near hot parts. Clean any spilled fluid off painted surfaces and metal with water since DOT fluid can damage paint over time.
  • Confirm all caps are tight, bleed nipples closed, and lines routed correctly. Torque any fasteners disturbed to factory values before riding.
  • Perform a cautious ride test, checking brake response and for any unusual noises or pull.

Following these steps will restore brake feel and safety on your 2017 Can-Am Outlander 650 X MR. If you encounter internal master cylinder failure, damaged calipers, or persistent issues after thorough bleeding, schedule professional service or order replacement components through MotoSport for genuine fitment and performance.

Related Shopping Categories

Shop Brake Fluid for a 2017 CAN_AM OL650XMR ATV.

Shop Brake Bleeders for a 2017 CAN_AM OL650XMR ATV.

Shop Brake Pads for a 2017 CAN_AM OL650XMR ATV.

Shop Brake Lines for a 2017 CAN_AM OL650XMR ATV.

Shop Brake Tools for a 2017 CAN_AM OL650XMR 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.