How to Bleed & Replace Brake Fluid on a 2017 Can-Am Renegade 850

Shop parts for a 2017 Can-Am Renegade 850 ATV.

This MotoSport guide walks a Can-Am Renegade 850 (2017 MMY) owner through safely flushing and bleeding the brake system, replacing fluid, and noting model-specific considerations. Follow these steps precisely. If you are not comfortable with brake work, have a qualified technician perform the service.

What you need

  • DOT 4 brake fluid (factory spec for most 2017 Renegade 850 brake systems; confirm on reservoir cap)
  • Clear plastic tubing that fits the bleeder nipples
  • Brake fluid catch container
  • Brake bleeder wrench or appropriately sized box wrench
  • Turkey baster or fluid syringe (for reservoir evacuation)
  • Clean rags and safety glasses
  • Nitrile gloves
  • Torque wrench for caliper & banjo bolts (see torque specs below)
  • Assistant for manual bleeding OR vacuum/pressure bleeder
  • Jack or lift and stands to access wheels, if needed

Model notes – 2017 Can-Am Renegade 850

  • The 2017 Renegade 850 commonly uses DOT 4 brake fluid; verify reservoir cap label before use.
  • Some MMY Renegades have ABS or an optional stability/traction package. If your unit has ABS, bleeding may require following ABS-specific bleeding sequences or cycling the ABS pump. If unsure, consult an authorized Can-Am dealer or use a pressure bleeder capable of ABS purging.
  • Brake lines on these ATVs are routed and secured to the frame; inspect lines for chafing, bulges, or hardening while servicing fluid.
  • Banjo bolts use crush washers; always replace crush washers when loosening banjo fittings to avoid leaks.
  • Front caliper mounting & rotor access can require wheel removal on models with tight clearance; secure the machine to prevent rollover while working.

Precautions

  • Brake fluid is corrosive to paint & plastics. Immediately wipe any spills and rinse with water.
  • Do not mix DOT 3, DOT 4, and DOT 5 fluids. DOT 5 is silicone-based and not compatible with DOT 4.
  • Work on a cool machine; avoid opening a hot reservoir.
  • Keep reservoir cap area clean to prevent contamination.

Preparation

  1. Park the Renegade on level ground and engage parking brake. Remove key and disconnect the negative battery terminal to avoid accidental starts.
  2. Clean around the brake fluid reservoir cap. Remove cap and diaphragm; use a syringe or turkey baster to remove as much old fluid from the reservoir as possible. Dispose of old fluid responsibly.
  3. Top the reservoir with fresh DOT 4 fluid to the MAX mark; keep the cap loosely on to reduce contamination but not sealed while bleeding.
  4. Identify bleeder screw locations: front calipers (left & right) and rear caliper. If equipped with dual front calipers, bleed each caliper individually. Refer to the machine layout to determine the order below.

Bleeding order (recommended)

General recommended sequence for most Renegade 850 setups:

  1. Right front caliper
  2. Left front caliper
  3. Rear caliper

If your unit has ABS or a different caliper arrangement, adapt sequence per the service manual or purge using a pressure/vacuum bleeder and ABS cycle if required.

Manual two-person bleed method

  1. Attach clear tubing to the bleeder nipple; place the other end in a catch bottle partially filled with brake fluid to prevent air re-entry.
  2. Have your assistant sit on the machine and firmly hold the brake lever/pedal and apply steady pressure.
  3. With pressure applied, open the bleeder screw about a quarter turn. Fluid and air will flow into the tubing. Close the screw before the assistant releases the lever/pedal.
  4. Repeat the press-open-close sequence until fluid flowing is clear and free of bubbles. Replenish reservoir fluid frequently to avoid introducing air into the master cylinder.
  5. Proceed to the next caliper following the bleeding order. Always confirm reservoir level remains at MAX during the procedure.

Single-person vacuum or pressure bleeder method

  1. Connect a vacuum pump to the bleeder nipple or use a pressure bleeder on the master cylinder reservoir per device instructions.
  2. Operate the pump to draw fluid through until clear, then close the bleeder and move to the next caliper. If using a pressure bleeder, pressurize the reservoir to the device's recommended level and open bleeders in sequence until clear fluid flows.
  3. If the unit has ABS, you may need to cycle the ABS pump between bleeding steps or follow the ABS purge sequence to clear trapped air in the ABS modulator chamber.

Final steps

  1. After all calipers are bled and fluid runs clear, tighten bleeder screws to specification (hand-tight plus a small fraction – typical bleeder screw torque is low; snug to manufacturer feel). Replace bleeder caps.
  2. Top reservoir to MAX, reinstall diaphragm & cap securely.
  3. Reconnect battery negative terminal if disconnected.
  4. Test brake lever/pedal for firm feel before riding. With the machine securely supported, apply brakes repeatedly to confirm consistent pressure and no leaks.
  5. Lower the machine and conduct a slow controlled test ride at low speed to confirm braking performance.

Torque & replacement items

  • Banjo bolt torque: generally around 25-30 ft-lbs (34-41 Nm) on many Can-Am ATV banjo fittings – replace crush washers every time. Verify exact spec in dealer manual and torque accordingly.
  • Caliper mounting bolts: consult service manual for exact torque values; typically higher than banjo bolts.
  • Bleeder screw: snug; avoid over-torquing to prevent damage.
  • Recommended parts to replace during service: crush washers for banjo fittings, bleeder screw caps, and fresh DOT 4 fluid.

Troubleshooting

  • Spongy brake pedal after bleeding: likely air left in the system; repeat bleeding and ensure reservoir never runs low.
  • Persistent air with ABS: requires ABS cycling/purging procedure. If unsure, have a dealer perform ABS-specific purge.
  • Fluid leaks: inspect banjo fittings, bleeder screws, hoses, and calipers. Tighten or replace as necessary.

Maintenance interval

MotoSport recommends replacing brake fluid on the Renegade 850 every 1-2 years or sooner if fluid appears dark or contaminated. Riding in wet or muddy environments may warrant more frequent service.

Perform this maintenance in a clean, well-lit area and store old fluid in a sealed container for proper disposal at a hazardous-waste facility.

Related Shopping Categories

Shop Brake Fluid for a 2017 Can-Am Renegade 850 ATV.

Shop Brake Bleeders for a 2017 Can-Am Renegade 850 ATV.

Shop Brake Pads for a 2017 Can-Am Renegade 850 ATV.

Shop Brake Lines for a 2017 Can-Am Renegade 850 ATV.

Shop Brake Tools for a 2017 Can-Am Renegade 850 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.