How to Bleed and Replace Brake Fluid on a 2018 Can-Am Outlander MAX 570

Shop parts for a 2018 Can-Am Outlander MAX 570 ATV.

This MotoSport-exclusive guide covers step-by-step brake fluid replacement and bleeding for the 2018 Can-Am Outlander MAX 570 (MMY: CAN_AM;OLM570;2018). Follow these procedures carefully to maintain safe braking performance. Work on a cool, level machine and wear eye protection and gloves.

What you need

  • DOT 4 brake fluid (BRP recommends DOT 4 for most Can-Am models)
  • Clear plastic tubing that fits the caliper bleeder nipples
  • Catch bottle for old fluid
  • Brake bleeder wrench or appropriate open-end wrench
  • Turkey baster or fluid syringe
  • Rags, brake cleaner, and disposal container for contaminated fluid
  • Optional: vacuum or pressure bleeder
  • Torque wrench for fastener checks

Model notes for the 2018 Outlander MAX 570

  • The Outlander MAX 570 typically uses a dual front brake setup and a single rear caliper. Verify caliper locations visually before starting.
  • There is no factory ABS on the standard 2018 MAX 570, so bleeding is limited to the calipers and master cylinder circuit.
  • Parking brake linkage is on the rear brake assembly; ensure parking brake is released while bleeding rear brakes.
  • Brake fluid reservoir(s) are located on the handlebar/plenum area – the MAX 570 may have a front and rear reservoir sharing a common master cylinder. Keep the reservoir cap clean to avoid contamination.
  • Use only fresh, sealed DOT 4 fluid — mixing with DOT 3 or DOT 5 (silicone) is not recommended.

Preparation

  1. Park on level ground, set the emergency brake, and remove the key.
  2. Clean the reservoir cap area to prevent dirt entering the system when opened.
  3. Remove the reservoir cap and diaphragm. Use a turkey baster to suck out as much old fluid as possible from the reservoir without introducing air.
  4. Top the reservoir with fresh DOT 4 fluid to the fill line. Keep the cap off but protected so you can monitor fluid level while bleeding.
  5. Locate bleeder nipples on each caliper. Fit clear tubing over each nipple and run tubing into a catch bottle partially filled with old fluid to prevent air being drawn back in.

Bleeding order

Use the following sequence to minimize air retention: farthest caliper from the master cylinder first, then closer calipers. Typical order for Outlander MAX 570:

  1. Right front
  2. Left front
  3. Rear

Manual (two-person) bleed method

  1. One person sits on the machine and pumps the brake lever/pedal slowly several times, then holds firm pressure.
  2. The second person opens the bleeder nipple about 1/4 turn until fluid flows into the tubing, then closes the nipple while pressure is still applied.
  3. The rider releases the lever/pedal slowly and repeats the pump-hold-open-close cycle until the fluid coming out is clear and free of bubbles.
  4. Keep the reservoir filled between cycles to avoid introducing air into the master cylinder.
  5. Work through the bleed order; after finishing all calipers, re-check the first caliper as residual air can migrate back.

Vacuum or pressure bleeder method (recommended for single tech)

  1. Attach the vacuum pump to the bleeder nipple (or attach pressure bleeder to reservoir per tool instructions).
  2. Operate the tool while monitoring the reservoir level and bleeder output until no bubbles appear and fluid is clear.
  3. Close the bleeder nipple while maintaining vacuum, then remove the hose.

Master cylinder flushing

  1. After calipers are bled, remove remaining old fluid from the reservoir and refill with fresh DOT 4.
  2. Repeat bleeding on each caliper to ensure the master cylinder and lines are fully purged of old fluid.

Final checks

  • Top reservoir to the proper level, reinstall diaphragm and cap, and clean any spilled fluid immediately. Brake fluid damages paint and plastics.
  • Test lever and pedal feel at low speed in a safe area. Brake engagement should be firm with no sponginess.
  • Inspect bleeder nipples and caliper fittings for leaks; torque caliper bolts to factory spec if removed.
  • Properly dispose of old brake fluid in accordance with local regulations.

Maintenance tips specific to the Outlander MAX 570

  • Bleed brakes every 1-2 years or sooner if you notice soft pedal, contamination, or water exposure — ATV use in wet/muddy conditions accelerates fluid degradation.
  • Inspect brake lines and hoses for chafing where they pass near the frame and suspension pivot points; replace any cracked or swollen hoses.
  • If rear parking brake linkage binds or is stiff after fluid service, lubricate pivot points and adjust per the service manual to ensure full release.
  • Keep a sealed spare master cylinder cap and spare bleeder screw washers in your tool kit for field repairs; the MAX 570 is often used in remote areas.

Troubleshooting

  • Persistent spongy brakes after thorough bleeding: check for internal master cylinder seal failure or air trapped in a hard-to-reach section of the line.
  • Brake drag after bleeding: ensure bleeder nipples are fully closed and caliper pistons are not over-extended; retract pistons if necessary and check parking brake adjustment.
  • Visible contamination or rusty components: inspect and replace affected caliper hardware and lines; contaminated systems may require full component replacement.

Perform a short low-speed ride with repeated brake applications to bed the system and confirm consistent performance. If you suspect master cylinder or caliper failure, stop riding and repair before returning to heavy use.

Related Shopping Categories

Shop Brake Fluid for a 2018 Can-Am Outlander MAX 570 ATV.

Shop Brake Bleeders for a 2018 Can-Am Outlander MAX 570 ATV.

Shop Brake Pads for a 2018 Can-Am Outlander MAX 570 ATV.

Shop Brake Lines for a 2018 Can-Am Outlander MAX 570 ATV.

Shop Brake Tools for a 2018 Can-Am Outlander MAX 570 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.