How to Bleed and Replace Brake Fluid on a 2017 Polaris Sportsman X2 570 EPS
Shop parts for a 2017 Polaris Sportsman X2 570 EPS ATV.
This MotoSport guide gives step-by-step, model-specific instructions to safely replace and bleed the hydraulic brake fluid on your 2017 Polaris Sportsman X2 570 EPS. Follow these procedures carefully, observe safety notes for the X2 platform, and use new, clean DOT-rated fluid to preserve braking performance and component life.
What you need
- DOT-spec brake fluid (use the type called for in your owner's manual – DOT 3 or DOT 4). Buy from a sealed container.
- Clear tubing that fits the bleeder nipples
- Catch bottle or jar and clean rags
- Wrenches for bleeder nipples and caliper bolts (metric set)
- Turkey baster or syringe, or a vacuum or pressure bleeder
- Brake cleaner and disposable gloves
- Jack and stands or ramps to safely raise the machine (if needed)
- Service manual or torque chart for factory torque values
Safety & model notes for the 2017 Sportsman X2 570 EPS
- The X2 570 EPS uses hydraulic disc brakes on front and rear; there is no factory ABS on this model. Avoid contamination of pads and rotors with fluid.
- EPS will remain functional during a brake service but do not apply power steering loads or attempt steering while the vehicle is elevated without supports. Chock wheels, set park brake, and work on a level surface.
- Brake fluid is hygroscopic and corrosive. Protect painted surfaces; wipe spills immediately and rinse with water if fluid contacts paint or plastic.
- Always replace brake fluid with the DOT specification listed in your manual. Mixing incompatible fluids can damage seals and reduce braking performance.
- Torque caliper and banjo fittings to Polaris factory specs when reassembling. If you do not have the service manual available, consult MotoSport parts & service resources for correct values before final torqueing.
Preparation
- Park on level ground, chock wheels, set the parking brake, and remove key.
- Clean around the master cylinder reservoir cap to prevent contamination before opening.
- Raise the machine only if necessary and support securely. Remove any bodywork that obstructs the reservoir or bleeder screws.
- Inspect lines, banjo bolts, and calipers for leaks, cracked hoses, or damaged fittings. Replace worn components before bleeding.
Brake fluid replacement strategy
On the X2 570, replace all fluid in the system rather than topping off. Use a sequential bleeding order starting at the wheel farthest from the master cylinder and finish at the closest. Typical order: rear caliper(s) first, then right front, then left front (confirm which wheel is furthest from your master cylinder location before starting).
Bleeding methods (choose one)
Manual (two-person pump) method
- Remove reservoir cap and diaphragm; top with fresh fluid to just below the rim to minimize air entry.
- Attach clear tubing to the bleeder nipple at the wheel you will start with and place the other end into a catch bottle partially filled with fresh fluid to prevent air from being drawn back in.
- One person pumps the brake lever/pedal several times and holds pressure. The other opens the bleeder 1/2 to 3/4 turn until fluid runs clear and free of bubbles, then closes the bleeder. Repeat until only clean, bubble-free fluid appears and reservoir level remains steady.
- Keep the reservoir topped during the entire process to prevent air entry.
- Proceed to the next wheel in the furthest-to-nearest sequence, repeating the pump/open/close routine.
- After final wheel, check pedal feel. If spongy, repeat sequence until firm.
Vacuum or pressure bleeder (preferred for single-operator precision)
- Follow the manufacturer instructions for your bleeder tool. Connect to bleeder nipple, open nipple, and draw fluid until clear and bubble-free fluid appears.
- Keep reservoir topped and closed between wheel changes to avoid drawing air from the master cylinder.
Gravity bleed (slow, low-effort option)
Open bleeder nipples one at a time and allow fluid to flow by gravity into a catch bottle. This method is slower and increases risk of contamination; monitor reservoir level closely and do not let it run dry.
Detailed step-by-step bleed (recommended best practice)
- Start at the wheel furthest from the master cylinder. Attach tubing and catch bottle.
- Top reservoir. Have an assistant (if using manual method) pump 8-10 times and hold pressure.
- Open bleeder until fluid clears and closes; repeat until no air and fluid is clear.
- Close bleeder, tighten to snug, wipe any spilled fluid, then move to the next wheel.
- When all wheels are complete, fill reservoir to the correct level, reinstall cap and diaphragm, and torque any removed fasteners to specification.
- Operate the brake pedal several times with machine on ground and check for firm pedal. Inspect for leaks and verify brake performance in a low-speed test ride.
Reassembly & inspection
- Clean all spilled fluid. Replace any plastic reservoir diaphragms if they show damage.
- Torque caliper bolts and banjo bolts to Polaris factory torque values.
- Check brake pedal feel and parking brake operation. Confirm no leaks at bleeders, hoses, or fittings.
- Dispose of used brake fluid according to local hazardous-waste rules.
Troubleshooting
- Spongy pedal after bleeding: recheck sequence, ensure reservoir never ran dry, repeat bleeding. Inspect for internal master cylinder leaks or collapsed hoses.
- Persistent bubbles: check for cracked lines, loose fittings, or a faulty master cylinder.
- Brake drag after bleeding: ensure calipers slide freely and pistons return; check that hose fittings and banjo bolts are properly torqued.
MotoSport maintenance tips for your X2 570 EPS
- Bleed and replace brake fluid every 1-2 years or sooner if fluid appears dark or contaminated.
- Keep a supply of the correct DOT fluid in your parts cabinet and always use fresh sealed containers for service.
- Inspect brake hoses regularly for cracking at bends and fittings; heat and UV exposure accelerate hose aging on ATVs.
- When replacing any brake hardware, use new crush washers on banjo fittings and replace bleeder screw caps.
Performing a full brake fluid replacement and proper bleed restores braking performance and protects seals and components on your Sportsman X2 570 EPS. If you encounter internal master cylinder failure, persistent leaks, or uncertain torque values, consult a qualified technician or MotoSport service experts for repair and correct factory specifications.
Related Shopping Categories
Shop Brake Fluid for a 2017 Polaris Sportsman X2 570 EPS ATV.
Shop Brake Bleeders for a 2017 Polaris Sportsman X2 570 EPS ATV.
Shop Brake Pads for a 2017 Polaris Sportsman X2 570 EPS ATV.
Shop Brake Lines for a 2017 Polaris Sportsman X2 570 EPS ATV.
Shop Brake Tools for a 2017 Polaris Sportsman X2 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.