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

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

This MotoSport.com guide covers a complete, step-by-step brake fluid change and bleed procedure for the 2018 Can-Am Outlander MAX 570 XT (MMY OLM570XT). Follow these steps carefully for safe, consistent braking performance. Use proper PPE and work on a clean, level surface.

What you'll need

  • DOT 4 brake fluid (new, sealed container)
  • Bleeder kit: vacuum pump or pressure bleeder, or wrench for two-person bleed
  • Proper-size wrench for caliper bleed nipples (usually 8 mm or 10 mm)
  • Clear hose to fit bleed nipple & catch bottle marked for hazardous fluid
  • Turkey baster or fluid syringe (to remove old fluid from master reservoir)
  • Clean rags, brake cleaner, gloves, eye protection
  • Jack stands or ATV lift and wheel chocks
  • Service manual or torque wrench for hardware torque specs

Notes specific to the 2018 Can-Am Outlander MAX 570 XT

  • The Outlander MAX 570 XT uses DOT 4 brake fluid; do not mix with DOT 5 silicone fluid.
  • This model commonly has independent front/rear calipers with a single master cylinder reservoir. Brake lines run to both front and rear calipers.
  • If your machine is equipped with factory limited-slip or differential options, those systems do not affect brake bleeding procedure, but avoid contaminating them with fluid.
  • There is no ABS on this model; bleeding is straightforward but do not let the master cylinder run dry during the process.
  • Keep brake fluid off painted surfaces & plastics; it will damage finishes. Clean spills immediately with brake cleaner and water.

Preparation

  1. Park the ATV on a level surface, engage park/parking brake, and chock wheels.
  2. Raise the ATV so wheels can spin freely and remove wheels if needed for easy caliper access.
  3. Clean the master cylinder reservoir cap and surrounding area to prevent contamination.
  4. Siphon out most of the old fluid from the reservoir using a turkey baster, leaving a small amount for initial priming. Dispose of fluid responsibly.
  5. Top reservoir to the MAX line with fresh DOT 4 fluid.

Bleed sequence

Always follow the principle: bleed the caliper furthest from the master cylinder first, then progress to the nearest. On the Outlander MAX 570 XT that typically means:

  • 1st: Rear caliper furthest from the master cylinder (usually passenger side rear)
  • 2nd: Opposite rear caliper (driver side rear)
  • 3rd: Front caliper furthest from master cylinder (passenger side front)
  • 4th: Final: closest front caliper (driver side front)

If you are unsure which is furthest, visually trace the brake lines from the reservoir and master cylinder to each caliper and treat the longest run as furthest.

Bleeding methods

Choose one method below:

Single-person pressure-bleeder method (preferred)

  1. Attach pressure bleeder to the master cylinder reservoir per bleeder instructions; pressurize to the recommended setting.
  2. Place clear hose on the caliper bleed nipple and submerge the other end in a catch bottle partially filled with fluid to prevent air re-entry.
  3. Open the first caliper bleed nipple one turn and allow fluid to flow until clear, bubble-free fluid appears. Close nipple.
  4. Top reservoir as needed to avoid drawing air back in.
  5. Repeat for each caliper following the bleed sequence. Keep the reservoir between MIN and MAX lines.
  6. When finished, tighten bleed nipples to the correct torque or snug them securely, then check pedal firmness.

Two-person pump-and-hold method

  1. Person A pumps the brake pedal several times and holds it down.
  2. Person B opens the bleed nipple to let fluid/air out until flow slows, then closes the nipple.
  3. Person A releases the pedal slowly and repeats the pump-and-hold until no air appears in the fluid from that caliper.
  4. Top the reservoir frequently. Follow the same sequence for all calipers.

Vacuum pump method

  1. Attach vacuum pump hose to bleed nipple and pull vacuum while you open the nipple to allow fluid to flow into the catch bottle.
  2. Close nipple, release vacuum, top reservoir, and repeat for each caliper following sequence.

Finishing steps

  1. Make sure all bleed nipples are securely closed and tightened to manufacturer spec (refer to service manual for torque). If you do not have a spec, tighten snugly without over-torquing.
  2. Top the reservoir to the MAX line, clean the cap and sealing surface, and reseal the reservoir cap.
  3. With the ATV still supported, press the brake pedal several times to confirm firm, consistent pedal feel. If the pedal is soft or spongy, repeat bleeding until firm.
  4. Lower the ATV, reinstall wheels if removed, and perform a low-speed test ride in a safe area to verify braking performance.
  5. Check for leaks around calipers, lines, and fittings after test ride and re-torque any fittings per the service manual if necessary.

Service intervals & useful tips

  • Replace brake fluid every 2 years or sooner if contaminated or if you ride in wet/muddy conditions frequently.
  • Always use DOT 4 and keep a new, sealed bottle on hand. Brake fluid absorbs moisture over time, lowering boiling point and reducing braking performance.
  • If you find excessive corrosion or swollen hoses, replace hoses and caliper seals before bleeding.
  • Record fluid change date and mileage/hours for maintenance tracking.

Troubleshooting

  • Persistent soft pedal: likely air remaining in system or internal master cylinder issue. Re-bleed; if problem persists, inspect master cylinder and calipers for leaks or internal failure.
  • Brake drag after bleeding: check caliper slider pins, pads, and pistons for free movement; clean and lubricate per manual.
  • Visible leaks: stop riding. Replace damaged fittings, hoses, or calipers before use.

Performing a proper fluid change and bleed restores braking performance and safety on your Outlander MAX 570 XT. If you prefer professional service, bring these notes to your technician so they know the model-specific recommendations and that DOT 4 was used.

Related Shopping Categories

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

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

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

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

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