How to Bleed & Replace Brake Fluid on a 2018 Can-Am Outlander MAX 650 DPS

Shop parts for a 2018 Can-Am Outlander MAX 650 DPS ATV.

This MotoSport service guide walks you step-by-step through replacing and bleeding the brake fluid on a 2018 Can-Am Outlander MAX 650 DPS (MMY OLM650DPS). Procedures are written for the DPS steering-equipped Outlander MAX and note model-specific items owners should know. Follow safety precautions, use the correct fluid, and work methodically to avoid introducing air into the system.

What you will need

  • DOT 4 brake fluid (fresh, unopened bottle)
  • Brake bleeder kit or clear hose & catch bottle (vacuum bleeder recommended)
  • Wrenches to fit bleeder screws and banjo bolts (metric)
  • Clean lint-free rags and disposable gloves
  • Brake cleaner
  • Replacement copper crush washers for banjo bolts (recommended)
  • Small funnel or syringe for reservoir
  • Jack/stands or ramps to lift wheels for access (ensure stable support)
  • Torque wrench for fasteners (for reinstalling wheels/banjo bolts)

Model-specific notes for the 2018 Outlander MAX 650 DPS

  • The Outlander MAX 650 DPS uses DOT 4 brake fluid. Do not mix DOT 3 or DOT 5 fluids.
  • The brake master cylinder reservoir is located near the right handlebar and is shared for the front brakes; rear caliper lines run to the rear. Familiarize yourself with the reservoir cap vent and rubber diaphragm before opening it.
  • DPS (Dynamic Power Steering) models have electrical accessories and sensors nearby — keep brake fluid off electronic components; brake fluid can damage painted surfaces and plastic.
  • The MAX (two-up) model has longer brake lines and an extra passenger weight capacity; bleed order should follow the farthest caliper from the master cylinder first to minimize trapped air.
  • Replace banjo copper crush washers when removing brake line fittings to prevent leaks.

Safety first

  • Work on a cool machine. Brake fluid can damage paint & plastics — wipe spills immediately and clean with brake cleaner.
  • Wear gloves & eye protection. Dispose of old fluid according to local hazardous-waste rules.
  • Stabilize the ATV on level ground with parking brake engaged & engine off (disconnect battery if you will work near electrical components).

Preparation

  1. Park the Outlander MAX on a level surface and secure it with the parking brake and chocks.
  2. Remove seats/panels if needed to access banjo bolts or bleeder screws. For easier access to rear calipers, lift the rear end and support with stands so wheels can turn freely or be removed.
  3. Clean the master cylinder cap area to prevent contamination. Remove the cap and diaphragm, and inspect the reservoir for dirt or moisture.
  4. Top the reservoir with a small amount of fresh DOT 4 to the indicated level to avoid running dry mid-procedure.

Bleed order

Use the following recommended sequence: start at the caliper farthest from the master cylinder and work toward the closest. For the Outlander MAX 650 DPS the typical order is:

  • Rear right (far rear)
  • Rear left
  • Front right
  • Front left (closest to master cylinder)

Bleeding methods

Choose one method — vacuum (recommended), pressure, or two-person pump & hold.

Vacuum bleeder method (recommended for solo work)

  1. Start with the reservoir topped up but not overfilled.
  2. Attach a clear hose to the bleeder screw and place the other end in a catch bottle partially filled with clean brake fluid to avoid air ingestion.
  3. Use a hand vacuum pump on the bleeder nipple. Crack the bleeder screw gently (about a 1/4 turn) and draw fluid until clear, bubble-free fluid flows, then close the screw before releasing the vacuum.
  4. Keep the reservoir level between minimum & maximum during the entire process. Refill frequently to prevent sucking air into the master cylinder.
  5. Repeat the cycle until fluid from that caliper is clear and contains no air bubbles, then tighten the bleeder screw snugly. Wipe area clean.
  6. Proceed to the next caliper in the bleed order.

Two-person pump & hold

  1. One person sits on the ATV and slowly pumps the brake lever several times and holds it firmly.
  2. The second person opens the bleeder screw to let fluid & air escape, then closes it before the lever is released. Repeat until clear fluid flows.
  3. Monitor reservoir level continuously.

Gravity bleed (slow; less recommended)

Open bleeders and allow fluid to flow out by gravity from furthest to nearest, topping the reservoir as needed. This is slow and may not remove all air.

Replacing all brake fluid (complete flush)

  1. Start with the reservoir full of fresh DOT 4.
  2. Bleed the farthest caliper until new fluid runs through — watch color & bubbles. Close bleed screw.
  3. Move to the next in the bleed order. Refill reservoir as needed to keep it from going below the minimum.
  4. Continue until all four calipers produce clear new fluid with no bubbles.
  5. Once finished, top the reservoir to the proper level, reinstall diaphragm & cap, and clean any spilled fluid.

Bleeder screw & banjo bolt tips

  • Inspect bleeder screws for corrosion. Replace if seized or rounded.
  • Whenever you disconnect brake lines, replace copper crush washers and torque banjo bolts to factory specs if available. If you don’t have the spec, snug and then an additional quarter-turn — avoid over-torquing.
  • After tightening, pump the lever slowly and recheck for leaks at banjo fittings and bleeders.

Final checks

  1. Verify pedal/lever feel is firm. If spongy, repeat bleeding until firm.
  2. Lower the ATV, torque wheel nuts to spec, and test brakes at low speed in a safe area before riding normally.
  3. Re-inspect for leaks after a short test ride and re-check fluid level.

Maintenance intervals & notes

  • MotoSport recommends replacing brake fluid every 1-2 years or sooner if the fluid looks dark or contaminated. DOT 4 absorbs moisture over time which lowers boiling point and performance.
  • Store DOT 4 sealed and in a cool, dry place. Once opened, use within the timeframe recommended by the manufacturer.
  • If you encounter persistent brake fade, soft lever or visible moisture in the reservoir despite bleeding, have the entire braking system inspected for internal master cylinder or ABS/valve block issues by a qualified technician.

Following this MotoSport procedure will help ensure safe, reliable brake performance on your 2018 Can-Am Outlander MAX 650 DPS. If you need parts or consumables to complete the job, visit the MotoSport parts page above.

Related Shopping Categories

Shop Brake Fluid for a 2018 Can-Am Outlander MAX 650 DPS ATV.

Shop Brake Bleeders for a 2018 Can-Am Outlander MAX 650 DPS ATV.

Shop Brake Pads for a 2018 Can-Am Outlander MAX 650 DPS ATV.

Shop Brake Lines for a 2018 Can-Am Outlander MAX 650 DPS ATV.

Shop Brake Tools for a 2018 Can-Am Outlander MAX 650 DPS 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.