How to Bleed and Replace Brake Fluid on a 2017 Can-Am Renegade 850 X XC
Shop parts for a 2017 Can-Am Renegade 850 X XC ATV.
This MotoSport.com guide walks you through flushing and bleeding the brake system on a 2017 Can-Am Renegade 850 X XC. Procedures are written for the Renegade's hydraulic system as found on this MMY ATV. Follow safety precautions, use proper tools and fresh DOT 4 brake fluid, and dispose of used fluid responsibly.
What you need
- DOT 4 brake fluid (fresh, unopened bottle)
- Clear 1/4" vinyl tubing to fit bleed nipples
- Brake bleeder bottle or clear catch bottle and a one-way valve kit (preferred)
- Wrenches for bleed nipples (typically 8 mm or 10 mm depending on nipple size)
- Disposable gloves, safety glasses, shop rags
- Floor jack or ATV stand to lift wheels, plus wheel chocks
- Torque wrench for wheel/caliper hardware if you remove components
Safety & model notes specific to the 2017 Can-Am Renegade 850 X XC
- Use DOT 4 fluid only. The Renegade 850 X XC is designed for DOT 4; do not mix DOT 5 (silicone) fluids.
- If your machine has optional ABS or electronic brake assist, consult the owner manual before service. ABS systems require manufacturer-recommended procedures; do not cycle fluids through ABS modules unless instructed by Can-Am.
- The Renegade 850 X XC typically uses two front calipers and a single rear caliper. The front and rear circuits are separate; bleed each circuit individually.
- Work on a level surface with the engine off and the key removed. Secure the ATV with chocks and stand it so wheels can turn freely if needed.
- Brake fluid damages paint and plastics — protect bodywork and clean spills immediately.
Overview of the process
Replace all brake fluid and bleed air from each circuit. The correct sequence is to bleed the caliper farthest from each master reservoir first, then the closest. On a Renegade this typically means: rear caliper first (if remote from the rear reservoir), then the right front, then the left front, but confirm which caliper is physically farthest from each reservoir on your machine before starting.
Step-by-step: full fluid change and bleed
- Park on a level surface, chock wheels, remove key. Remove any plastics that obstruct access to the brake master cylinder reservoirs.
- Clean the reservoir caps and surrounding area. Remove caps and diaphragms, then remove old rubber seals if present to access fluid. Keep reservoirs topped during the process to avoid introducing more air.
- Use a siphon or turkey baster to remove most of the old fluid from each master reservoir. Dispose of waste fluid in accordance with local rules.
- Refill each reservoir with fresh DOT 4 brake fluid to the fill line. Keep the cap loosely in place (not tightened) to reduce contamination while allowing overflow into the cap area.
- Attach clear tubing to the bleed nipple on the caliper you will start with. Submerge the other end of the tubing in a container partially filled with fresh fluid to prevent air from being sucked back in, or use a one-way bleeder bottle.
- Have an assistant pump the brake lever/pedal gently 3-5 times and hold pressure. While they hold, open the bleed nipple about a 1/4 turn to allow fluid and air to escape. Close the nipple before the assistant releases pressure. Repeat until you see only clear fluid with no air bubbles in the tubing.
- Maintain reservoir fluid level between cycles. Do not let it drop low enough to draw air into the master cylinder.
- Once the caliper is clear of air, tighten the bleed nipple securely and move to the next caliper following the farthest-to-closest rule for each circuit. Repeat the pump/open/close routine for each caliper until all circuits are bubble-free.
- After bleeding, fill reservoirs to the correct level, reinstall diaphragms and caps, and wipe any spilled fluid from the ATV. Test lever/pedal feel — it should be firm and consistent.
- Lower the ATV, torque any removed wheel/caliper hardware to factory values if applicable, and perform a slow road/test-ride in a safe area to confirm braking performance before normal operation.
Tips for a reliable bleed
- If brakes feel spongy after bleeding, repeat the sequence paying close attention to reservoir level and bleed nipple closure timing.
- Using a vacuum or pressure bleeder speeds the job and reduces the chance of introducing air; use with caution and follow equipment instructions.
- If you encounter persistent air or a collapsing pedal/levers, inspect hoses, banjo bolts, caliper seals and master cylinder for leaks or internal failure.
- Always cap and seal any remaining fluid tightly; DOT 4 absorbs moisture with age which lowers boiling point and reduces braking performance.
Post-service checks
- Confirm no leaks at bleed nipples, banjo bolts or master cylinder area after a short test ride.
- Recheck fluid level after initial test ride and again after 24 hours of use.
- Keep a maintenance log entry showing fluid change date and type used; recommend repeating brake fluid replacement at intervals recommended by your service schedule or if contaminated.
For genuine replacement parts, brake hoses, bleed fittings and DOT 4 fluid formulated for off-road use, visit the MotoSport parts page for the 2017 Can-Am Renegade 850 X XC to find model-specific components and accessories.
Related Shopping Categories
Shop Brake Fluid for a 2017 Can-Am Renegade 850 X XC ATV.
Shop Brake Bleeders for a 2017 Can-Am Renegade 850 X XC ATV.
Shop Brake Pads for a 2017 Can-Am Renegade 850 X XC ATV.
Shop Brake Lines for a 2017 Can-Am Renegade 850 X XC ATV.
Shop Brake Tools for a 2017 Can-Am Renegade 850 X XC 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.