How to Bleed and Replace Brake Fluid on a 2017 Can-Am Outlander 850 XT

Shop parts for a 2017 CAN_AM OL850XT ATV.

The following MotoSport-exclusive guide walks you through flushing and bleeding the hydraulic brakes on a 2017 Can-Am Outlander 850 XT. This procedure replaces old fluid with fresh DOT4 brake fluid, removes air from the system, and restores firm pedal/lever feel. Read the model notes below before starting.

Model notes – 2017 Can-Am Outlander 850 XT

  • The Outlander 850 XT uses DOT4 brake fluid in its hydraulic system. Do not mix DOT3 or silicone fluids.
  • There are separate hydraulic circuits for front and rear brakes. Each has its own master cylinder/reservoir(s), so bleed each circuit individually.
  • The vehicle has dual front calipers and a rear caliper; bleed the calipers farthest from the master cylinder first to the nearest.
  • The brake reservoirs sit on/near the master cylinders; keep reservoir caps covered with clean shop towels to prevent contamination and moisture pickup.
  • If your Outlander is fitted with ABS (option on some units), follow the ABS bleeding sequence in addition to the standard procedure and cycle the ABS per factory recommendations when needed.

Tools & supplies

  • DOT4 brake fluid (only fresh, unopened bottles)
  • Brake line wrench set (commonly 8mm or 10mm for bleeder nipples)
  • Clear plastic tubing to fit bleeder nipples
  • Brake-fluid collection bottle or jar
  • Hand vacuum bleeder or a one-way bleeder kit (optional but recommended)
  • Small funnel, clean shop rags, nitrile gloves, eye protection
  • Torque wrench (for re-torquing caliper bolts and reservoir fasteners if removed)

Preparation

  1. Work on a level surface, engine off, key removed. Engage parking brake and secure the ATV on stands so wheels can turn freely if needed.
  2. Clean the area around each reservoir and bleeder screw to prevent dirt entry. Remove reservoir caps and diaphragms carefully. Cover the openings with clean rags to limit contamination while you prepare.
  3. Inspect hose condition, banjo bolts, and torque markings. Replace any cracked hoses or corroded fittings before bleeding.
  4. Open a fresh bottle of DOT4 and keep it capped between pours to prevent moisture absorption.

Bleeding sequence — recommended

Identify which master cylinder serves which brake circuit. Use the farthest-to-nearest rule: bleed the caliper farthest from the master cylinder first, then the next farthest, finishing with the caliper closest to the master cylinder.

Manual two-person bleed method

  1. Top up the reservoir to the MAX mark with DOT4. Keep the cap loosely in place to reduce contamination while allowing air escape.
  2. Attach clear tubing to the bleeder nipple of the farthest caliper and insert the other end into a container partially filled with clean brake fluid to prevent air from being sucked back in.
  3. Person A: Squeeze the brake lever/pedal slowly and hold it. Person B: Open the bleeder screw about 1/4 to 1/2 turn to allow fluid and air to escape. Close the screw before Person A releases the lever/pedal. Repeat until no air bubbles appear in the tubing and fluid runs clear.
  4. Keep reservoir level between MIN and MAX during the process – never let it run dry.
  5. Proceed to the next caliper following the sequence until all calipers in that circuit are clear. Then repeat the entire set for the other circuit(s).
  6. After final bleed, tighten bleeder screws to manufacturer-recommended snugness. Clean any spilled fluid and reinstall reservoir caps with clean diaphragms.

One-person vacuum or pressure bleed method (preferred)

  1. Attach a vacuum pump to the bleeder nipple or connect a sealed pressure-bleeder to the reservoir per the bleeder tool instructions.
  2. For vacuum: Pump until fluid flows clear with no bubbles. For pressure: Pressurize reservoir to the tool rating and open bleeder screws in sequence until clear fluid emerges.
  3. Maintain reservoir level and finish each caliper before moving on. Vacuum or pressure methods speed the job and reduce the likelihood of introducing more air.

Flushing old fluid completely

  • To fully replace contaminated fluid, repeatedly draw fresh fluid from the reservoir through each caliper until the expelled fluid is clean and amber in color. Changing the reservoir fluid multiple times may be necessary.
  • If old fluid shows signs of moisture (dark, rusty, or foamy), perform additional flush cycles. Brake fluid is hygroscopic — replace every 1–2 years or per service interval.

Final checks

  • Verify firm lever and pedal travel with no sponginess. If spongy, re-bleed the affected circuit and check for leaks or damaged components.
  • Inspect all connections, torque caliper bolts and banjo bolts to spec if removed. Clean off any residual fluid from paint or plastic; brake fluid can damage finishes.
  • Test ride at low speed in a safe area, checking braking performance and pedal feel. Re-check reservoir level after a short test and top as needed.
  • Properly dispose of used brake fluid per local hazardous-waste regulations.

Safety & tips

  • Always use DOT4. Mixing fluids can reduce boiling point and damage seals.
  • Avoid skin and paint contact with brake fluid. Wash spills immediately with water.
  • If the Outlander has ABS, follow any specific ABS bleed procedures or cycle requirements the system needs after bleeding to purge internal valves.
  • If repeated bleeding fails to remove sponginess, inspect master cylinder seals, caliper pistons, and brake lines for internal leaks or contamination; replace components as needed.
  • Keep records of brake-fluid change date and mileage. For trail use or heavy towing, shorten service intervals.

Follow these MotoSport-exclusive steps to restore reliable braking on your 2017 Can-Am Outlander 850 XT. If you need replacement hoses, bleeder kits, DOT4 fluid, or tools, use the MotoSport parts page linked above to find model-specific components.

Related Shopping Categories

Shop Brake Fluid for a 2017 CAN_AM OL850XT ATV.

Shop Brake Bleeders for a 2017 CAN_AM OL850XT ATV.

Shop Brake Pads for a 2017 CAN_AM OL850XT ATV.

Shop Brake Lines for a 2017 CAN_AM OL850XT ATV.

Shop Brake Tools for a 2017 CAN_AM OL850XT 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.