How to Bleed and Replace Brake Fluid on a 2018 Can-Am Outlander MAX 850 XT
Shop parts for a 2018 Can-Am Outlander MAX 850 XT ATV.
This MotoSport-exclusive guide walks you step-by-step through replacing and bleeding the hydraulic brake system on the 2018 Can-Am Outlander MAX 850 XT (OLM850RXT). Follow these instructions exactly, use quality supplies, and follow all safety precautions. If you’re not comfortable performing brake service, have a certified technician do the work.
What you need
- DOT 4 brake fluid (fresh, unopened)
- Clear vinyl hose to fit bleed nipples
- Catch bottle or jar and rags
- Brake bleeder kit, vacuum pump, or a second person to pump brakes
- Wrenches to fit bleed nipples (usually 8mm or 10mm)
- Turkey baster or siphon (to remove old fluid from reservoir)
- Torque wrench for caliper/rear master-cylinder fasteners (consult service manual for values)
- Safety gear: gloves, eye protection
Model-specific notes for the 2018 Outlander MAX 850 XT
- The Outlander MAX 850 XT uses a hydraulic braking system with a front master cylinder, twin front calipers, and a rear caliper. Reservoir(s) are located under the front rack/near the handlebars for the front circuit and near the rear for the rear circuit depending on trim; confirm location before starting.
- Factory spec fluid: DOT 4. Do not mix with DOT 5 (silicone) or use mineral oil.
- Brake lines & calipers on this model are robust but can be sensitive to overheating and contamination. Replace any hose that shows cracking, swelling, or leaks.
- ABS is not present on most Outlander 850 models, but confirm your machine’s options. If equipped with any electronic braking assist, follow manufacturer procedures or use a dealer.
Safety & preparation
- Work on a flat surface, engine off, key removed, parking brake engaged where applicable.
- Clean around reservoir caps and bleed nipples before opening to avoid contamination.
- Protect painted surfaces – brake fluid damages paint. Use rags or tape as needed.
Step-by-step: Replace old fluid and bleed brakes
- Park the ATV level. Remove seats/panels necessary to access the front and rear brake fluid reservoirs.
- Inspect the reservoirs for contaminants. Using a turkey baster or siphon, remove most of the old fluid from each reservoir into a waste container for proper disposal.
- Refill reservoirs with fresh DOT 4 fluid to the fill line. Do one circuit at a time (front then rear) to avoid mixing systems or introducing air to both at once.
- Start with the caliper farthest from the master cylinder (typically the right front, then left front, then rear – confirm routing on your machine). Attach clear vinyl hose to the bleed nipple and place the other end into a catch bottle partially filled with clean fluid to prevent air being drawn back in.
- Have a helper slowly depress the brake lever/pedal several times and hold it down. Loosen the bleed nipple (~1/4 to 1/2 turn) so fluid and air flow into the bottle. Tighten the nipple, then instruct the helper to release the lever/pedal. Repeat until you see clean fluid with no air bubbles coming out. Keep the reservoir topped up during the process to prevent sucking air into the system.
- If working alone, use a vacuum bleeder or one-way pedal bleeder kit: attach the kit to the bleed nipple, open the nipple, and operate the vacuum pump while monitoring the reservoir. Close nipple before releasing vacuum, then top up reservoir and repeat until clear fluid appears.
- When the caliper is clear of bubbles, tighten the bleed nipple to the specified snugness (hand-tight plus a quarter turn is commonly used; consult service manual torque if available). Move to the next caliper in the correct sequence and repeat the process.
- After bleeding all calipers, pump the brake lever/pedal several times with the engine off to check for firmness. The lever/pedal should be firm with no sponginess. If spongy, re-bleed the affected circuit.
- Top reservoirs to the correct level, replace caps securely, clean any spilled fluid, and reinstall panels/seat.
- Test ride slowly in a safe area to confirm braking performance. Re-check bleed nipples and reservoir levels after the first short ride.
Tips, troubleshooting & maintenance
- Always keep the reservoir capped between operations to avoid moisture contamination. Brake fluid is hygroscopic – it absorbs water which lowers boiling point and can corrode components.
- If the system still feels soft after thorough bleeding, suspect a leak or a damaged master cylinder; inspect hoses, fittings, calipers, and the master cylinder for leaks or internal failure.
- Replace rubber hoses every few years if you ride hard or notice swelling. Consider braided stainless lines for improved pedal feel and longevity, but fit quality aftermarket parts designed for the OLM850RXT.
- Dispose of used brake fluid per local hazardous-waste regulations. Do not pour down drains or on the ground.
- Record the date and mileage of fluid replacement. MotoSport recommends replacing brake fluid every 1-2 years depending on ride conditions.
Final checks
Confirm no leaks, secure bleed nipples and reservoir caps, and ensure brake performance is consistent. If anything feels abnormal, stop and have a professional inspect the system.
For OEM and high-quality replacement parts or bleeder tools tailored for the 2018 Can-Am Outlander MAX 850 XT, browse MotoSport's parts selection to get the correct components for reliable, safe braking.
Related Shopping Categories
Shop Brake Fluid for a 2018 Can-Am Outlander MAX 850 XT ATV.
Shop Brake Bleeders for a 2018 Can-Am Outlander MAX 850 XT ATV.
Shop Brake Pads for a 2018 Can-Am Outlander MAX 850 XT ATV.
Shop Brake Lines for a 2018 Can-Am Outlander MAX 850 XT ATV.
Shop Brake Tools for a 2018 Can-Am Outlander MAX 850 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.