How to Bleed and Replace Brake Fluid on a 2018 Can-Am Outlander 850

Shop parts for a 2018 Can-Am Outlander 850 ATV.

This MotoSport-exclusive guide walks you through safely flushing and bleeding the brake system on a 2018 Can-Am Outlander 850 (OL850) so your brakes stay crisp and reliable. Follow these steps carefully, use the right tools and fluid, and consult your service manual for torque values and model-specific details before beginning.

What you need

  • DOT 4 brake fluid (Do not mix with DOT 5 silicon fluid)
  • Clear vinyl hose and a catch bottle
  • Wrenches to fit caliper bleed nipples (open-end or flare wrench)
  • Screwdriver or pliers for reservoir cap fasteners
  • Brake cleaner and lint-free rags
  • Latex gloves and eye protection
  • Assistant (recommended) or a one-man vacuum/pressure bleeder
  • Floor jack or ATV stand to lift wheels if needed

Key model notes for the 2018 Can-Am Outlander 850

  • Most 2018 Outlander 850 models use DOT 4 hydraulic fluid. Confirm the reservoir cap marking before topping up.
  • Some trims may include ABS or electronic brake components. If your unit has ABS, avoid cycling the ABS pump without referencing the service manual — special bleed procedures or diagnostic steps may be required.
  • Reservoir location: the master cylinder reservoir for the front brakes is on the handlebar; rear master reservoir may be separate or integrated depending on configuration. Identify each reservoir before proceeding.
  • Brake line routing on the Outlander is exposed to mud and debris. Inspect lines, banjo bolts, and caliper boots for wear or contamination while you bleed.
  • Brake pad and rotor condition: if pads are near minimum thickness or rotors are scored, replace before bleeding to avoid wasting fresh fluid.
  • Use new crush washers on banjo bolts if you remove lines. Reuse only if in perfect condition and specified by the service manual.

Preparation

  • Park on a level surface, engage parking brake, and disconnect the battery negative if you will be working near electrical connectors or ABS components.
  • Clean the reservoir cap area before opening to prevent contamination. Remove the cap and diaphragm; cover the opening with a clean rag if you must pause.
  • Fill the reservoir to the MAX line with fresh DOT 4 fluid and keep it topped off during the procedure to prevent air ingress.
  • If you have ABS, verify whether the system requires a specific bleed order or the use of a diagnostic tool to cycle the pump. When in doubt, consult the factory service manual available through MotoSport technical resources.

General bleed sequence and method

The universal rule: start bleeding at the brake caliper farthest from the master cylinder and work toward the nearest. On most handlebar master-cylinder ATVs the order will be rear (farthest) then front (closest), but confirm by sighting which line is longest and farthest from the master cylinder before starting.

Step-by-step conventional two-person method

  1. Raise the ATV so the wheels with calipers are accessible. Remove wheels if it makes access easier.
  2. Attach a length of clear hose to the caliper bleed nipple and run the other end into a catch bottle partially filled with a small amount of clean brake fluid to prevent sucking air back into the hose.
  3. Have your assistant sit on the seat and slowly pump the brake lever/pedal several times, then hold firm pressure.
  4. With the lever/pedal depressed, open the bleed nipple 1/4 turn to let fluid and air escape. Close the nipple before your assistant releases the lever/pedal.
  5. Repeat pump, hold, open, close cycles until clear fluid without bubbles flows. Keep the reservoir topped up between cycles.
  6. Move to the next caliper in the bleed order (farthest to nearest) and repeat.
  7. When finished, ensure all bleed nipples are tightened to the correct torque; wipe any spilled fluid and replace the reservoir diaphragm and cap.
  8. Depress the lever/pedal several times to check firmness. Recheck reservoir level after a short test ride and top off if necessary.

One-person vacuum or pressure bleeder method

  • Attach the vacuum or pressure bleeder per the tool instructions and the reservoir cap fitting. Pressurize or vacuum the system and open each bleed nipple in the same farthest-to-nearest order until clear fluid flows.
  • Maintain reservoir level and avoid introducing air when disconnecting the tool.

Master cylinder bench-bleeding (if replacing fluid or master cylinder)

  • If you remove the master cylinder or suspect internal air, bench-bleed it before reinstalling. Secure the master cylinder in a vise, fill with DOT 4, and use short hoses from outlet ports back into the reservoir. Slowly actuate the lever until bubbles stop appearing.
  • Then reinstall and proceed with system bleeding as above.

Tips, troubleshooting & cautions

  • Never let the reservoir run dry during bleeding — this introduces air and means repeating the procedure.
  • Brake fluid is corrosive. Immediately wipe any spilled fluid from painted surfaces and plastics; use water to rinse and then dry.
  • If the lever or pedal remains spongy after thorough bleeding, check for leaks, collapsed hoses, master cylinder internal leaks, or ABS module air. Re-bleed and inspect lines and connections.
  • Replace any soft or cracked hose, worn caliper seals, or leaking fittings. Replacing old hoses on older units is inexpensive insurance against future failure.
  • Dispose of old brake fluid per local regulations — do not pour it down drains or onto soil.

Final checks

  • Confirm no leaks at calipers, banjo bolts and master cylinder. Torque fasteners to factory specs.
  • Verify brake performance at low speed before returning to normal operation. Allow the system to bed in and recheck fluid level after a brief test ride.
  • Keep records of fluid change date and mileage; brake fluid typically should be replaced every 1-2 years depending on use and moisture exposure.

This procedure is provided exclusively for MotoSport customers and is tailored to common features of the 2018 Can-Am Outlander 850. When in doubt or for ABS-specific procedures, consult a qualified technician or the official service manual for your exact MMY configuration.

Related Shopping Categories

Shop Brake Fluid for a 2018 Can-Am Outlander 850 ATV.

Shop Brake Bleeders for a 2018 Can-Am Outlander 850 ATV.

Shop Brake Pads for a 2018 Can-Am Outlander 850 ATV.

Shop Brake Lines for a 2018 Can-Am Outlander 850 ATV.

Shop Brake Tools for a 2018 Can-Am Outlander 850 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.