How to bleed and replace brake fluid on a 2018 Can-Am Outlander 850 X MR ATV

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

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

This MotoSport guide walks you through a full brake fluid change and bleed on the 2018 Can-Am Outlander 850 X MR. Follow these steps for safe stopping performance and long brake-system life. Read all steps before beginning, gather tools & supplies, and work on a cool, level machine.

Tools & supplies

• DOT 4 brake fluid (fresh, unopened bottle)
• Clear plastic tubing sized to the bleeder nipple
• Catch bottle or container
• Brake bleeder wrench or 8 mm wrench (confirm sizing on your bike)
• Turkey baster or fluid-suction syringe
• Shop rags, gloves, eye protection
• Torque wrench, basic hand tools, jack or stands if needed
• Brake cleaner

Model notes for the 2018 Can-Am Outlander 850 X MR

• The Outlander 850 X MR uses a hydraulic braking system with DOT 4 fluid from the factory; do not mix DOT 3 or DOT 5 silicone fluid with DOT 4.
• Front and rear calipers are accessed under the fenders and behind wheels; remove wheels or open fenders for better access on the X MR.
• The master cylinder reservoirs are plastic and translucent on stock machines. Inspect for cracking, leaks, or brittle caps before reassembly.
• The 850 X MR often sees heavy mud use; clean around reservoirs, lines, and bleed nipples to avoid contamination during service.
• If bike has aftermarket ABS or control modules, refer to system-specific purge sequence; this guide covers standard hydraulic calipers without electronic purge steps.

Safety & preparation

1. Park on a level surface, set parking brake, and disconnect the negative battery terminal to prevent accidental starts.
2. Put on gloves & eye protection. Brake fluid damages paint & plastics; protect bodywork with rags.
3. Clean around the reservoir cap and bleed nipples to prevent contamination.
4. Check service manual for reservoir location and any recommended fluid volume limits.

Step A Remove old fluid from the reservoir

1. Open reservoir cap(s) for front and rear. Remove diaphragm or foam insert carefully and set aside on a clean rag.
2. Use a turkey baster or syringe to remove as much old fluid as possible from the reservoir(s). Discard used fluid properly.
3. Top reservoir with a small amount of fresh DOT 4 fluid to reduce air entry during the bleed.

Step B Bleeding sequence overview

Typical sequence for the Outlander 850 X MR is: farthest caliper first, then the closer ones. For example, if bike has two front calipers and one rear, start with the right front (farthest), then left front, then rear. If unsure, follow the visible line routing from master cylinder to calipers and work from farthest to nearest.

Step C Bench bleeding (if replacing master cylinder fluid or if reservoir fully emptied)

• If you removed the reservoir or emptied it completely, perform a bench bleed on the master cylinder before reinstalling. Use tubing from the outlet ports back into the reservoir and slowly actuate the lever until bubbles stop.

Step D Bleeding each caliper (single-operator method)

1. Fit clear tubing over the caliper bleed nipple and route into a catch bottle containing a little fresh fluid to prevent air re-entry.
2. Have an assistant pump the brake lever or pedal several times and hold pressure. If alone, use a one-way vacuum pump on the nipple or a pressure bleeder.
3. With pressure held, open the bleeder nipple about a 1/4 turn to let fluid and air escape. Close nipple before the assistant releases pressure to avoid sucking air back in.
4. Repeat pump-open-close cycles until clear fluid with no bubbles flows into the catch bottle.
5. Top reservoir as needed during the process; never let it run dry.
6. Torque bleed nipple to spec (check Can-Am torque values) and wipe all fluid off surfaces with brake cleaner.

Step E Single-operator vacuum or pressure method

If you're working alone, use a hand vacuum pump on each bleeder or a pressure bleeder on the master cylinder reservoir. Follow tool manufacturer instructions and ensure replacement fluid is fresh DOT 4. Continue until no bubbles appear.

Step F Final checks and cleanup

1. After bleeding all calipers, ensure reservoirs are filled to the proper level and reinstall diaphragms and caps securely.
2. Pump the brake lever/pedal to confirm firm feel and proper travel. If spongy, repeat bleeding sequence.
3. Inspect lines, fittings, calipers, and master cylinders for leaks while applying steady pressure.
4. Clean any spilled fluid from painted or plastic surfaces immediately with water and brake cleaner; repeated exposure can damage finishes.
5. Properly dispose of old brake fluid in accordance with local regulations.

Troubleshooting

• Persistent soft lever: likely remaining airrepeat bleeding, prioritize farthest caliper first.
• Leaking nipple or line: replace damaged part before cycling brakes again.
• Contaminated fluid or rusty caliper internals: consider caliper overhaul or replacement.
• ABS-related pulsation or warnings: some ABS units require specific bleed procedures or diagnostic tools; contact a MotoSport service specialist if ABS issues persist.

Maintenance tips & interval

• Replace brake fluid every 1-2 years or sooner if exposed to heavy water/mudmoisture contamination reduces boiling point and braking effectiveness.
• Inspect lines and fittings at every service for nicks, swelling, or leaks; replace if any damage appears.
• Store brake fluid in a sealed, moisture-free environment; once opened, use promptly.

Performing a proper fluid change and bleed restores pedal feel and extends brake component life. For model-specific replacement parts, seals, or caliper kits for your 2018 Can-Am Outlander 850 X MR, MotoSport parts specialists can help match OEM and improved options.

Related Shopping Categories

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

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

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

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

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