How to bleed and replace brake fluid on a 2017 Honda TRX500 Rubicon 4X4 POWER STEERING (FM6) ATV

How to Bleed and Replace Brake Fluid on a 2017 Honda TRX500 Rubicon 4X4 POWER STEERING (FM6)

Shop parts for a 2017 Honda TRX500 Rubicon 4X4 POWER STEERING (FM6) ATV.

This MotoSport-exclusive guide walks you step by step through safely replacing and bleeding the brake fluid on your 2017 Honda TRX500 Rubicon 4X4 POWER STEERING (FM6). Follow these instructions precisely to maintain braking performance and avoid contamination. This procedure covers a complete fluid change and bleeding front and rear systems on the Rubicon; it assumes the master cylinders and calipers are standard factory components and that the machine does not have a dealer-installed aftermarket ABS that requires special servicing.

What you need

• Honda-approved DOT 3 brake fluid (do not use DOT 5 silicone)
• Clear vinyl hose to fit bleed nipples
• Brake bleeder bottle or clean container
• Wrench set (8mm-12mm common for bleed nipples & reservoirs)
• Turkey baster or fluid syringe
• Clean rags & nitrile gloves
• Jack or ramps to safely support the ATV on level ground
• Assistant (for manual pump & hold method) or vacuum/pressure bleeder
• Torque wrench (for any caliper bolt re-torque)

Safety first

• Work on level ground with the engine off and parking brake applied.
• Avoid getting brake fluid on painted surfaces — it damages paint. Rinse immediately with water if spilled.
• Brake fluid is hygroscopic; once opened, use quickly and keep caps clean.
• Dispose of old fluid per local hazardous-waste rules.

Model notes every TRX500R_PS owner should know

• The TRX500 Rubicon POWER STEERING separates brake hydraulics into front and rear circuits with individual master reservoirs: the front reservoir is around the handlebar area and the rear master cylinder reservoir is near the rear brake pedal. Always service both systems.
• Do not confuse power steering fluid with brake fluid. Power steering uses a different reservoir and fluid type; keep them isolated.
• If your machine is equipped with any factory electronic brake-modulation or ABS option, additional steps may be required to purge air from internal valves. If you suspect ABS/electronic components, consult a Honda dealer or follow the specific Honda procedure for cycling the unit before finishing bleeding.
• Honda typically specifies DOT 3 fluid for this model. Use DOT 3 or DOT 4 only if specifically compatible; never use DOT 5 silicone.

Preparation

1. Park the ATV on level ground and secure it with the parking brake. Remove the seat or panels as needed to access reservoirs.
2. Clean the reservoirs' caps and surrounding areas to prevent contamination when opened.
3. Use a turkey baster or syringe to remove as much old fluid from each reservoir as possible. Inspect fluid color — dark or contaminated fluid means a full change is necessary.
4. Refill each reservoir with fresh DOT 3 fluid to the specified level or near the fill mark. Keep caps loosely installed to reduce air entry while you work.

Bleeding methods

Choose one of the following methods based on available tools.

Method A Two-person pump & hold (reliable without special tools)

1. Have an assistant sit on the machine and hold the brake lever/pedal pump position during the procedure for the circuit you are bleeding.
2. Attach clear hose to the caliper bleed nipple and route into a container; clamp or secure hose to prevent spillage.
3. Open the bleed nipple about a quarter turn. Instruct assistant to slowly pump the brake lever/pedal several times and then hold firmly.
4. With lever/pedal held, open the bleed nipple until fluid and bubbles flow into the hose, then close the nipple before the assistant releases the lever/pedal.
5. Repeat pump, hold, open/close until only clear fluid with no bubbles comes out.
6. Top up the reservoir frequently during the process to prevent air being drawn into master cylinder.
7. Start with the caliper farthest from its master cylinder and work to the closest. For most Rubicons that means: front-right, front-left, then rear (confirm by visually locating masters on your machine).
8. Torque bleed nipple to spec if you removed or loosened bolts; wipe clean and replace caps.

Method B Vacuum or pressure bleeder (faster, single-person)

1. Connect vacuum pump to the caliper bleed nipple with clear tubing, or attach a pressure bleeder to the master reservoir per tool instructions.
2. Open the caliper bleed nipple and operate the pump until clear fluid flows without bubbles.
3. Maintain reservoir level and move sequentially from farthest to nearest caliper.
4. Close nipples, then remove equipment and clean fittings.

Method C Gravity bleed (slow; for minor topping off)

Open bleed nipple and let gravity drain fluid into tubing until runs clear. Top up reservoir often. This is slow and not recommended for full fluid changes.

Complete fluid change sequence

1. Drain and refill reservoirs with fresh DOT 3 fluid.
2. Bleed each caliper using chosen method until no air bubbles appear and pedal/lever feel is firm.
3. After all calipers are bled, test lever/pedal travel with engine off. Expect firm, non-spongy feel.
4. Lower machine, reinstall any removed parts, and perform a low-speed brake test in a safe area to confirm braking performance.

Tips & troubleshooting

• If lever or pedal still feels spongy after bleeding, repeat bleeding cycle and ensure reservoir stays topped up; trapped air in master cylinder sometimes requires bench-bleeding the master if symptoms persist.
• If you removed a caliper or master, ensure caliper bolts are torqued to factory values and that pistons are correctly repositioned.
• Watch for fluid leaks at hose joints, bleed nipples, and banjo fittings; replace crush washers or fittings if leaking.
• Do not pump the brakes with the reservoir cap off for prolonged periods — that draws air into the system.

Aftercare

• Recheck fluid levels after a short ride and again after the first few uses; top up as needed.
• Inspect for leaks and proper brake function before each ride following the service.
• Record the service date and mileage/hours for routine maintenance tracking; brake fluid should be changed periodically as part of scheduled maintenance because it absorbs moisture over time.

Follow these MotoSport procedures to keep your TRX500 Rubicon's brakes responsive and safe. If you encounter unusual issues such as persistent softness, leaks you cannot locate, or suspected ABS/electronic brake faults, consult a qualified technician or Honda dealer.

Related Shopping Categories

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Shop Brake Bleeders for a 2017 Honda TRX500 Rubicon 4X4 POWER STEERING (FM6) ATV.

Shop Brake Pads for a 2017 Honda TRX500 Rubicon 4X4 POWER STEERING (FM6) ATV.

Shop Brake Lines for a 2017 Honda TRX500 Rubicon 4X4 POWER STEERING (FM6) ATV.

Shop Brake Tools for a 2017 Honda TRX500 Rubicon 4X4 POWER STEERING (FM6) 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.