How to Bleed and Replace Brake Fluid on a 2017 Polaris Sportsman 570 EPS
Shop parts for a 2017 Polaris Sportsman 570 EPS ATV.
This MotoSport guide walks you through a professional, safe bleed and complete brake fluid replacement on a 2017 Polaris Sportsman 570 EPS. Follow these steps closely, use good-quality tools and fluid, and always consult your owner’s manual for final specifications. This procedure is written for the OEM-style hydraulic caliper system found on the Sportsman 570 EPS and assumes no anti-lock brake system. If your unit has factory ABS or other options, follow the service manual for those components.
What you need
- New recommended brake fluid (check owner’s manual for DOT rating; use fresh, unopened fluid)
- Clear plastic hose that fits snugly over each bleeder nipple
- Catch bottle or jar, partially filled with a bit of new fluid to avoid sucking air back in
- Clean rags, brake cleaner, and a small funnel or reservoir cap tool
- Wrenches for bleeder nipples (usually 8mm or 10mm) and reservoir cap
- Floor jack or ATV stand and jack stands if you need wheel access
- Gloves and eye protection
Safety and prep
- Work on a flat, stable surface with the engine OFF and key removed. For EPS models, turn the ignition OFF to avoid introducing steering load or electrical issues while bleeding.
- Keep brake fluid off paint and plastics – it eats finishes. Wipe any spills immediately with brake cleaner and rags.
- Wear safety glasses and gloves. Dispose of used fluid responsibly.
- Locate the master cylinder reservoir(s) — typically under the hood/center area for the front brakes and a rear reservoir or combined system on this model. Clean the cap area before opening to avoid contamination.
Overview of the process
Replace fluid by flushing the system, then bleed each caliper starting with the caliper farthest from the master cylinder and finishing with the closest. Keep the reservoir filled throughout to prevent air entry. Work one caliper at a time for a full flush.
Step-by-step: drain & replace (complete flush)
- Remove the reservoir cap and diaphragms. Use a clean rag to remove old fluid from the top. If the reservoir has very dark fluid, suction most of it out with a turkey baster or syringe.
- Top up the reservoir with new brake fluid until it is near the MAX mark. Do not overfill.
- Identify bleeder order: start with the caliper farthest from the reservoir, then the next-farthest, ending with the nearest caliper. For most Sportsman layouts that means: rear caliper(s) first, then front passenger side, then front driver side, but confirm by sighting the hydraulic lines from the reservoir to the calipers.
- Place a clear hose over the bleeder nipple and the other end into the catch bottle partially filled with fresh fluid. This prevents air being drawn back into the system.
- Have an assistant slowly depress the brake pedal (or lever for hand-brake) to about mid-stroke and hold. With pedal held, open the bleeder nipple one-quarter to one-half turn until fluid and air bubbles run into the bottle. Close the nipple, then have the assistant release the pedal. Repeat until no air bubbles appear and fluid runs clear. Always close the bleeder before the pedal is released.
- Top off the reservoir as needed between calipers so it never drops below the minimum line. Refill with fresh fluid only.
- Proceed to the next caliper in the order you determined and repeat the bleed until all calipers flow fresh fluid and are bubble-free.
- After the last caliper is bled, do a final check at the master cylinder. Pump the pedal several times — it should feel firm and consistent. If it feels spongy, repeat bleeding for the calipers where bubbles were present or re-check reservoir level.
- Clean each bleeder nipple and tighten to spec (hand tight plus a small additional fraction — check service manual for torque). Replace reservoir diaphragm and cap securely.
- Lower the ATV, test brakes at low speed in a safe area to confirm firm, responsive braking before regular use.
Notes specific to the 2017 Polaris Sportsman 570 EPS
- Electrical power steering (EPS) on this model can cause odd steering feel if the ignition is left ON during service. Always turn the key OFF before working on the hydraulic system.
- The Sportsman 570 uses a robust, two-circuit hydraulic system; if you find persistent pedal softness after correct bleeding, inspect for worn caliper pistons, leaking lines, or a failing master cylinder – these are common causes when bleeding does not cure sponginess.
- Some 2017 models have a combined reservoir for front and rear circuits. Maintain fluid level in the single reservoir while bleeding the entire system to prevent air from entering either circuit.
- If your ATV has aftermarket accessories that altered brake lines or calipers, follow the accessory manufacturer’s bleed procedure; aftermarket hardware can change the bleed order or require two-person techniques like pressure bleeding.
- Polaris recommends checking brake line fittings and hose condition regularly – look for cracks, swelling, or hard spots which indicate replacement. Replace rubber hoses with OEM or DOT-compliant braided lines if damaged.
- Use only the DOT rating specified in your manual. Using the wrong fluid can damage seals and reduce braking performance.
Optional: pressure or vacuum bleeding
Pressure or vacuum bleeders speed the job and reduce the need for an assistant. If you use a commercial pressure bleeder, follow the tool maker’s instructions and ensure the reservoir cap is matched to the pressure tool. For vacuum bleeders, attach to each bleeder sequentially and pump until clear fluid appears. These tools still require reservoir level checks and safe disposal of fluid.
Final checks
- Confirm bleeder nipples are tight and free of leaks. Clean any spilled fluid.
- Test brakes at low speed before trail use. Confirm parking brake engages if fitted.
- Record the service date and mileage; brake fluid absorbs moisture over time — plan to replace again per the interval in your owner’s manual or sooner if the fluid is dark.
When in doubt or if you encounter persistent problems like a soft pedal, uneven braking, or visible leaks, stop and consult a qualified technician. Properly bled and fresh fluid ensures safe, reliable braking on your Sportsman 570 EPS.
Related Shopping Categories
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Shop Brake Tools for a 2017 Polaris Sportsman 570 EPS 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.