How to Bleed and Replace Brake Fluid on a 2018 Can-Am Outlander 650

Shop parts for a 2018 Can-Am Outlander 650 ATV.

This MotoSport guide walks you through safely flushing and bleeding the brake system on a 2018 Can-Am Outlander 650, replacing old fluid with fresh DOT 4 brake fluid, and highlighting model-specific notes owners should know. Follow these steps carefully to maintain braking performance and safety.

Tools & supplies

  • DOT 4 brake fluid (fresh, unopened bottle)
  • Clear plastic tubing that fits bleed nipples
  • Brake bleeder bottle or clean container
  • Wrench set (bleeder nipple size typically 8mm or 10mm – verify by inspection)
  • Screwdriver, pliers
  • Turkey baster or syringe (for reservoir draining)
  • Clean rags and isopropyl alcohol for cleanup
  • Gloves and eye protection
  • Torque wrench (for wheel or caliper hardware if removed)

Safety & prep

  • Work on a level surface with the engine off and key removed.
  • Stabilize the Outlander with the parking brake engaged and place on a stand if needed to remove wheels.
  • Brake fluid is corrosive to paint & plastics – protect painted surfaces and clean spills immediately with water.
  • Use only DOT 4 fluid unless the vehicle manual specifies otherwise.

Model-specific notes for the 2018 Can-Am Outlander 650

  • Master cylinder locations: front master cylinder is on the right handlebar; the rear/master cylinder reservoir commonly sits near the foot brake assembly. Confirm visually before starting.
  • The Outlander 650 typically uses hydraulic disc brakes with single calipers front and rear; caliper and bleed nipple access can require wheel or plastic removal on some trims.
  • Models equipped with Dynamic Power Steering (DPS) don't change the brake bleeding procedure, but be cautious when lifting or tilting the vehicle to avoid stressing steering components.
  • The brake system is not ABS-equipped on most 2018 Outlander 650 trims; if your unit has ABS or supplemental systems, consult your service manual for any additional steps.

Overall strategy

Replace brake fluid by flushing from the furthest caliper back to the master cylinder, keeping the reservoir topped to prevent air entry. Bleed each circuit until clear new fluid and no air bubbles appear.

Step-by-step: drain & replace fluid

  1. Locate reservoirs: remove cap(s) and diaphragm(s). Clean the area first to prevent contamination.
  2. If the old fluid is dark, remove as much as possible from the reservoir using a turkey baster or syringe. Dispose of old fluid properly.
  3. Top the reservoir with a small amount of fresh DOT 4 fluid so it covers the minimum level. Keep the cap loose but in place when not actively topping.
  4. Start with the caliper furthest from its reservoir. For many Outlander layouts that is a rear caliper or the opposite-side front caliper – inspect routing to determine the furthest point.
  5. Fit clear tubing to the bleeder nipple and place the other end in a catch bottle partly filled with fresh fluid to avoid siphoning air back.
  6. Have an assistant gently depress and hold the brake lever/pedal (for handlebar front brake, have someone press lever; for foot-operated rear, press pedal). With lever/pedal depressed, open the bleeder nipple a quarter to half turn to allow fluid and bubbles to flow. Close the nipple before the assistant releases the lever/pedal. Repeat until fluid runs clear and bubble-free.
  7. Keep the reservoir filled between cycles to prevent sucking air into the system. Replenish often with fresh fluid from the unopened bottle.
  8. Proceed to the next furthest caliper and repeat the bleeding sequence until all calipers are cleared. Finish at the caliper closest to the reservoir.
  9. For integrated front/rear dual circuits (if present), bleed each independent circuit separately, keeping its reservoir filled.

Full system flush (recommended)

After bleeding each caliper, perform a final reservoir drain and refill: remove old fluid from the master cylinder reservoir, refill with fresh DOT 4, and repeat a short bleed cycle at each caliper to ensure no old fluid remains. This ensures maximum corrosion protection and consistent boiling point characteristics.

Post-bleed checks

  • Confirm firm lever and pedal feel with no sponginess. If spongy, repeat bleeding until solid feel is achieved.
  • Inspect all bleeder nipples, hose connections, and reservoir seals for leaks. Torque any caliper or line fittings to factory specs if removed.
  • Clean any spilled fluid and touch up paint if needed to prevent long-term damage.
  • Test brakes at low speed in a safe area before returning to normal riding conditions.

Maintenance tips specific to your Outlander 650

  • Replace brake fluid every 1-2 years depending on riding conditions and moisture exposure; MotoSport recommends yearly checks for frequent wet or muddy use.
  • Inspect brake pads and rotors when bleeding fluid; Outlanders used in heavy touring or trail work may accelerate pad wear.
  • If you remove wheels or calipers, check for proper torque and alignment; uneven pad wear can indicate caliper sticking or guide problems common on high-mileage units.
  • Store DOT 4 fluid in a sealed container and avoid opening the bottle until use to prevent moisture contamination.

Troubleshooting

  • Persistent sponginess: likely remaining air or a leaking fitting. Re-bleed and tighten connections.
  • Brake drag after bleeding: check caliper pistons and slide pins for cleanliness and proper lubrication.
  • Brake fluid contamination (dark, smelly): full flush and inspect seals/hoses for degradation.

Final notes

Bleeding and replacing brake fluid on a 2018 Can-Am Outlander 650 is a straightforward maintenance task when performed methodically. Keep reservoirs topped, follow the furthest-to-closest bleeding order, use DOT 4 fluid, and always verify firm brake feel before riding. For parts and replacement components specifically for the 2018 Outlander 650, visit the MotoSport parts page linked above.

Related Shopping Categories

Shop Brake Fluid for a 2018 Can-Am Outlander 650 ATV.

Shop Brake Bleeders for a 2018 Can-Am Outlander 650 ATV.

Shop Brake Pads for a 2018 Can-Am Outlander 650 ATV.

Shop Brake Lines for a 2018 Can-Am Outlander 650 ATV.

Shop Brake Tools for a 2018 Can-Am Outlander 650 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.