How to Bleed & Replace Brake Fluid on a 2017 Can-Am Outlander MAX 450

Shop parts for a 2017 Can-Am Outlander MAX 450 ATV.

This MotoSport guide covers a complete, workshop-grade brake fluid change and bleed procedure for the 2017 Can-Am Outlander MAX 450 (MMY OLM450). Follow these steps carefully, use the correct fluid, and observe safety precautions. This article is written by MotoSport technicians for MotoSport customers and is tailored to this MMY model.

Summary & Warnings

  • Recommended fluid: DOT 4 brake fluid. Use fresh, unopened DOT 4 only.
  • Brake fluid is highly hygroscopic and corrosive to paint; avoid spills on painted surfaces and plastics.
  • Work in a well-ventilated, clean area. Wear nitrile gloves and eye protection.
  • Dispose of used fluid per local hazardous-waste rules.
  • If you have antilock or electronic brake systems, or if you are unsure of torque specs or component location, stop and consult a dealer or service manual before proceeding.

Tools & Materials

  • Fresh DOT 4 brake fluid (enough for full system flush)
  • Clear plastic tubing that fits bleed nipples
  • Catch bottle (marked for used brake fluid)
  • Wrenches to fit bleed nipples (open-end or flare nut)
  • Vacuum or pressure bleed kit (optional but speeds and improves results)
  • Clean rags, small syringe or turkey baster, funnel with filter
  • Jack/stands or ramps for safe wheel access (if you remove wheels)
  • Brake-clean spray to clean components after work

Locate Master Cylinder & Calipers on the Outlander MAX 450

On the OLM450, the primary master cylinder reservoir for the front brake is located at the right handlebar near the front lever; the rear master is actuated by the foot pedal and has a separate reservoir or port on the frame near the rear brake actuator. Calipers are mounted at each wheel. Identify the bleed nipples on each caliper and clean them before starting.

Preparation

  1. Park on level ground, engage parking brake (if equipped), put the transmission in Park, and remove the key.
  2. Support the ATV safely so wheels are off the ground if you plan to pump brakes while rotating wheels or to access calipers easier.
  3. Clean around reservoirs and calipers. Remove caps carefully, wipe the reservoir top to prevent contamination, and keep cap seals clean and dry.
  4. Use a syringe or turkey baster to remove most of the old fluid from each reservoir to lower contamination risk before adding fresh fluid.

Bleeding Strategy & Sequence

Always bleed the brake circuit following the sequence that starts with the wheel farthest from the master cylinder and ends with the closest. For most Outlander setups that means:

  • 1st: Rear wheel (if rear master is separate, treat rear circuit first or follow manufacturer circuit layout)
  • 2nd: Front right
  • 3rd: Front left

If you are uncertain which caliper is farthest from the master cylinder, visually trace the brake line routing and start with the caliper with the longest or most distant line.

Bleed Methods (Choose one)

Manual two-person pump-and-hold method

  1. Top up the reservoir with fresh DOT 4 and keep the cap loosely in place to prevent debris.
  2. Have an assistant pump the brake lever/pedal slowly 3-5 times and hold pressure on the final stroke.
  3. Open the bleed nipple slightly to let fluid/air escape into clear tubing and catch bottle. Close nipple before your assistant releases the lever/pedal.
  4. Repeat until the fluid out of the nipple is clear and free of air bubbles, topping the reservoir as needed to avoid running dry.
  5. Work from farthest caliper to nearest, then repeat one more full pass through the system for consistency.

Vacuum or pressure bleeder (recommended for one-person, cleaner job)

  1. Attach the vacuum/pressure unit to the caliper bleed nipple or reservoir per the tool instructions.
  2. Apply steady vacuum/pressure while topping the reservoir with fresh DOT 4.
  3. Work from farthest caliper to nearest. Continue until clear fluid with no bubbles runs and pedal/lever feels firm.

Step-by-step Replacement Procedure

  1. Remove or loosen reservoirs' caps and diaphragm; wipe contaminants away.
  2. Siphon or remove old fluid from each reservoir as much as possible.
  3. Refill reservoirs with fresh DOT 4 to the proper level (don't overfill).
  4. Bleed farthest caliper first using the chosen method until clear, bubble-free fluid appears.
  5. Move to the next-caliper in sequence and repeat.
  6. After all calipers are bled, pump the brake lever/pedal to confirm a firm, consistent feel. If soft or spongy, repeat bleeding until firm.
  7. Tighten bleed nipples to proper snugness (do not over-torque). Clean fluid off components with brake cleaner immediately.
  8. Reinstall reservoir caps and seals. Wipe any spilled fluid off paint and plastic surfaces at once with clean water and mild detergent if needed.
  9. Lower the ATV, test brakes at low speed in a safe area, and re-check for leaks and correct pedal/lever feel.

Final Checks & Troubleshooting

  • If the lever/pedal remains spongy after multiple bleed cycles, suspect a sealed air pocket in a hose or ABS modulator (if equipped). Additional specialized bleeding or dealer-level diagnostics may be required.
  • Inspect brake lines for swelling, cracks, or damage; replace hoses showing aging or damage.
  • Check pads and rotors for wear while calipers are accessible. Replace pads or rotors if beyond service limits.
  • Confirm reservoir cap seals are seated to prevent moisture ingress.

Model Notes for 2017 Can-Am Outlander MAX 450 Owners

  • MMY code OLM450 denotes the 2017 Can-Am Outlander MAX 450 family. Brake plumbing on these ATVs uses separate front and rear circuits; treat both when flushing system fluid to renew the full hydraulic system.
  • The right-hand lever controls front brakes; the foot pedal controls the rear. Confirm reservoir locations visually before starting and keep reservoirs topped during the job.
  • Stock brake components are designed for light-to-moderate off-road use; if you run heavy loads, tow, or ride aggressively, inspect pads and rotors more frequently and consider braided stainless lines for firmer pedal feel.
  • Regular fluid changes every 1-2 years are recommended to prevent moisture buildup and corrosion in the master cylinder and calipers.

Aftercare

  • Record the date and mileage/hours of the fluid change in your maintenance log.
  • Recheck brake fluid level and the system for leaks after the first ride and again after the first few miles/hours of new fluid.

Performing a full brake fluid change and careful bleed restores brake performance and prolongs the life of hydraulic components. If uncertain about any step, contact a trained technician or MotoSport service for assistance.

Related Shopping Categories

Shop Brake Fluid for a 2017 Can-Am Outlander MAX 450 ATV.

Shop Brake Bleeders for a 2017 Can-Am Outlander MAX 450 ATV.

Shop Brake Pads for a 2017 Can-Am Outlander MAX 450 ATV.

Shop Brake Lines for a 2017 Can-Am Outlander MAX 450 ATV.

Shop Brake Tools for a 2017 Can-Am Outlander MAX 450 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.