How to bleed and replace brake fluid on a 2018 Can-Am Outlander 650 X MR ATV

How to bleed and replace brake fluid on a 2018 Can-Am Outlander 650 X MR

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

This MotoSport-exclusive service guide walks you step-by-step through draining, flushing, and bleeding the hydraulic brake circuits on a 2018 Can-Am Outlander 650 X MR. Follow safety precautions, use the specified fluid, and work methodically to maintain firm brakes and avoid contamination.

What you need

• Brake fluid: DOT 4 (use fresh, unopened fluid; confirm DOT spec in your owner's manual if unsure)
• Clear plastic hose that fits the caliper bleeder nipples
• Catch bottle or jar for old fluid
• Turkey baster or fluid syringe (for removing reservoir fluid)
• Wrenches to fit bleeder nipples (typically 8mm or 10mm)
• Vacuum or pressure brake bleeder (optional but speeds process)
• Clean shop rags, nitrile gloves, safety glasses
• Torque wrench for reassembly checks

Preliminary safety & model notes

• Park on a level surface, engage parking brake (if equipped), and chock wheels.
• Work with the engine off and ignition key removed to avoid accidental system activation.
• Brake fluid damages painted surfaces & plastics. Wipe spills immediately and keep rags ready.
• The 2018 Outlander 650 X MR uses separate master cylinders for front and rear brakes. Bleed each circuit independently to avoid cross-contamination.
• If hoses, calipers, or the master cylinder show swelling, leakage, or degraded rubber, replace those components rather than just flushing fluid.

Step 1 Prepare the machine

1. Remove the seat and any panels necessary to access both brake fluid reservoirs. Keep the reservoir caps and diaphragms clean and free of dirt.
2. Inspect fluid color. Dark or contaminated fluid indicates a full replacement is needed.
3. Clean the reservoir cap area before opening to prevent dirt ingress.

Step 2 Drain the reservoirs

1. Use a turkey baster or syringe to remove as much old fluid from the reservoir as possible.
2. Top the reservoir with a small amount of fresh DOT 4 fluid to help flush contaminants during bleeding. Do not mix DOT types.

Step 3 Bleed method overview

There are two reliable methods: pump-and-hold (helper) or vacuum/pressure bleeder. Both work; vacuum/pressure bleeders reduce air ingestion risk and are faster.

Step 4 Bleeding sequence (recommended)

Because the Outlander uses separate circuits, treat front and rear separately. For each circuit, follow the far-to-near caliper principle where applicable.

• Rear circuit: bleed the rear caliper(s) that are furthest from the rear reservoir first. On single-caliper rear systems bleed that caliper.
• Front circuit: with the handlebars centered, bleed the front caliper furthest from its reservoir first, then the nearest caliper.

Step 5 Bleeding procedure (pump-and-hold helper)

1. Attach clear hose to bleeder nipple and submerge the other end in a small jar partially filled with fresh fluid to prevent air from re-entering.
2. Have an assistant slowly pump the brake lever/pedal 6-8 times and hold pressure on the lever/pedal.
3. While pressure is held, open the bleeder nipple 1/4 to 1/2 turn to allow fluid and air to exit until flow slows, then close the nipple before the assistant releases pressure. Repeat until only clean fluid and no bubbles appear.
4. Keep the reservoir topped with fresh fluid during the entire process to prevent drawing air into the system.
5. Repeat for each caliper in the sequence until all circuits push clear, bubble-free fluid.

Step 6 Bleeding procedure (vacuum bleeder)

1. Connect the vacuum bleeder to the reservoir and follow tool instructions to draw fluid through each caliper bleeder in sequence until clear fluid flows and no air bubbles are present.
2. Top the reservoir as needed and close bleeders before releasing vacuum.

Step 7 Final checks

• Ensure bleeder nipples are snug and torqued to manufacturer recommendations if known; avoid over-torquing.
• Refill reservoir to the max mark with fresh DOT 4, reinstall diaphragm and cap.
• Operate the brake lever and pedal several times to confirm firm pressure and no sponginess. If soft, repeat bleeding until firm.
• Inspect for leaks around calipers, lines, and master cylinders.
• Dispose of old brake fluid properly at a hazardous-waste collection point.

Troubleshooting & model-specific tips

• Persistent spongy brakes after thorough bleeding can indicate internal master cylinder seals or caliper seal failure. Replace faulty components rather than repeating fluid changes.
• The Outlander X MR is often used in muddy conditions; inspect and clean caliper dust boots and bleeder screws before opening to avoid contamination.
• If handlebars were moved during front bleeding, re-center before final checks to ensure symmetrical braking response.
• If you detect a soft pedal only under load, check for collapsed brake hoses; replacement hoses are inexpensive insurance.

Maintenance interval recommendation

For severe use (mud, water crossings, heavy towing) flush and replace brake fluid at least every 12 months. For normal use, replace every 24 months. Adjust to more frequent intervals if you ride aggressively or in wet environments.

After-service ride check

Perform a low-speed test ride in a safe area to verify braking performance and feel before returning to normal riding.

For MotoSport-approved parts, upgrades, or replacement components for your 2018 Can-Am Outlander 650 X MR visit our parts pages linked above to find pads, hoses, calipers, and DOT 4 fluid compatible with your machine.

Related Shopping Categories

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

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

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

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

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