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

Shop parts for a 2017 Can-Am Outlander 850 XT-P ATV.

This MotoSport-exclusive guide walks you step-by-step through flushing and bleeding the brake system on a 2017 Can-Am Outlander 850 XT-P. Follow safety precautions, use the correct fluid, and follow a consistent bleed sequence to avoid air in the lines and ensure firm, predictable brakes.

What you need

  • DOT 4 brake fluid (fresh unopened container)
  • Clear plastic tubing that fits over caliper bleed nipples
  • Small clear catch bottles or jars
  • Wrench set for bleed nipples (inspect nipple size before starting)
  • Clean rags, shop towels
  • Brake cleaner
  • Plastic syringe or hand vacuum pump (optional for vacuum bleeding)
  • Small funnel or fluid transfer pump (for reservoir fill)
  • Protective gloves & eye protection
  • Jack, ramps or center-stand (to lift wheels off ground safely)
  • Torque wrench (for caliper mounting bolts if removed)

Model notes specific to the 2017 Outlander 850 XT-P

  • The Outlander 850 XT-P uses a hydraulic brake system common to Can-Am sport/off-road ATVs. It is sensitive to contamination from mineral oils and water — never use DOT 3/5.1 interchangeably without checking manufacturer requirements; DOT 4 is specified for high-temperature resistance on many Can-Am models.
  • Brake reservoir location and circuit routing can vary by year/options; locate the master cylinder reservoirs before beginning — there may be separate front and rear reservoirs or a combined unit with split circuits. Always work on one circuit at a time.
  • ABS and electronic options change procedures; if your unit has ABS or electronic brake aids, consult a dealer for any ABS-specific bleed procedure or diagnostic steps before working on the system.
  • The XT-P has aggressive accessory mounts and skid plate hardware — protect painted surfaces and plastic bodywork from spilled fluid, and remove or mask panels if needed.

Safety first

  • Work on level ground; secure the ATV against rolling.
  • Brake fluid eats paint & plastics — clean spills immediately with brake cleaner and rags.
  • Dispose of old fluid responsibly at a recycling center.
  • Wear gloves and eye protection; do not reuse open fluid that has been exposed to air for long periods.

Preparation

  1. Park ATV on level surface, put in park, and disconnect the battery negative terminal if you will be removing any electrical components or if the vehicle has ABS to prevent faults.
  2. Raise the ATV so wheels are off the ground if you plan to actuate calipers and lever/pedal through full travel without wheel contact.
  3. Clean reservoir caps and surrounding area to prevent contamination when opening.
  4. Remove reservoir caps & diaphragms; cover reservoir openings with clean plastic or rags to slow contamination while you work between steps.
  5. Inspect caliper bleed nipples and hose connections for corrosion or damage; replace if rounded or leaking.

Bleed strategy & sequence

Always bleed the brake circuit farthest from its master cylinder first, then work toward the master cylinder. If you cannot identify the exact routing, bleed each caliper one at a time using the following safe approach:

  1. Front circuit: bleed the right front then left front, or farthest-first depending on plumbing. Rear circuit: bleed the wheel farthest from the rear master cylinder first.
  2. Work one circuit completely to finish before starting the next.

Step-by-step bleed & fluid replacement

  1. Top off the reservoir with fresh DOT 4 fluid. Keep the reservoir cap loosely in place between steps to minimize contamination.
  2. Attach clear tubing to the caliper bleed nipple and place the other end into a catch bottle partially filled with fresh fluid or a small amount of used fluid to keep air out. Keep tubing submerged to prevent air from being drawn back into the caliper.
  3. Method A — Manual (partner) bleed:
    1. Have an assistant slowly depress the brake lever or pedal to near full travel and hold it.
    2. Open the bleed nipple about a 1/4 turn; fluid and bubbles will flow into the tube. Close the nipple before your assistant releases the lever/pedal.
    3. Repeat until no air bubbles appear and the fluid is clean. Refill the reservoir as needed to avoid running dry.
  4. Method B — Vacuum or pressure bleed (single tech):
    1. Use a hand vacuum pump on the bleed nipple to draw fluid out while someone cycles the lever/pedal slowly, or use a pressure bleeder on the reservoir at the recommended low psi setting.
    2. Monitor the reservoir level and avoid over-pressurizing the system; stop when fluid is clear and bubble-free.
  5. After finishing a caliper, tighten bleed nipple to spec snugness (avoid over-torquing). Wipe away fluid and reinstall any removed wheels or guards.
  6. Once each caliper for the circuit is bled, check pedal/lever feel — it should be firm. If spongy, repeat bleeding sequence.
  7. Repeat for remaining circuit(s) until all fluid is replaced and no air remains.

Final checks

  • Top reservoir(s) to the proper level, reinstall diaphragms and caps, ensuring a clean seal.
  • Operate lever/pedal several times to confirm consistent firm feel and to check for leaks at fittings, hoses, calipers and master cylinder.
  • Lower the ATV, take a low-speed test ride in a safe area to confirm braking performance before normal use.
  • Inspect brake light switch and parking brake operation if applicable.

Maintenance interval & tips

  • Replace brake fluid every 12-24 months depending on use & moisture exposure. Heavy mud, water crossings, or frequent trail use suggests the shorter interval.
  • Always use fresh unopened DOT 4 fluid and never mix DOT fluids with non-compatible products.
  • If you find persistent sponginess after thorough bleeding, check hoses for swell, calipers for stuck pistons, or master cylinder condition — replace components as needed.
  • Keep an eye on the brake reservoirs for foam or discoloration — signs that moisture has accumulated and a full flush is required.

Troubleshooting common issues

  • Persistent air: ensure reservoir never runs dry during bleeding and use a farthest-first sequence. Consider bench-bleeding master cylinder if air remains trapped.
  • Leaking bleed nipple: replace nipple and clean threads; metal shavings or rounded edges will prevent a seal.
  • Brake drag after bleeding: check caliper guide pins and pistons for corrosion and proper return; clean and lube sliding surfaces with appropriate high-temp grease where recommended.

Disposal

Used brake fluid is hazardous waste. Collect fluid in sealed containers and take to a hazardous waste facility or approved recycling center. Do not pour brake fluid onto the ground or down drains.

This MotoSport guide is written for owners of the 2017 Can-Am Outlander 850 XT-P who prefer to service their own machine. When in doubt, or if your Outlander has ABS/electronics, consult a qualified technician or your dealer for diagnostics and advanced procedures.

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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.