How to bleed & replace brake fluid on a 2018 Polaris Sportsman 570 SP
Shop parts for a 2018 Polaris Sportsman 570 SP ATV.
This guide is written for MotoSport customers and covers a full brake fluid change and bleeding procedure tailored to the 2018 Polaris Sportsman 570 SP. Follow each step carefully — brake work affects safety. If you are not comfortable with any step, have a qualified technician complete the job.
What you'll need
- Manufacturer-specified brake fluid (Polaris typically recommends DOT 4 or consult your owner’s manual)
- Clear tubing that fits over bleeder nipples
- Catch bottle or transparent container
- Wrench for bleeder nipples (typically 8mm or 10mm)
- Brake cleaner, shop rags, gloves, safety glasses
- Turkey baster or fluid syringe (optional)
- Torque wrench for caliper hardware if you remove components
- Assistant (for manual pedal/lever pumping) or a vacuum/pressure bleeder
Model-specific notes for the 2018 Sportsman 570 SP
- The master cylinder/reservoir is on the handlebars (front) for the front brake lever and near the foot pedal/master for the rear depending on model setup. There may be a single combined reservoir on some trim levels; verify your unit before starting.
- The Sportsman 570 SP generally uses conventional hydraulic calipers with bleed nipples accessible without removing the calipers on most machines. Always clean the nipple area before opening.
- This model does not tolerate contamination from dirt, water, or mineral oils. Never let the reservoir run dry; keep a clean, unopened fluid bottle on hand and use new fluid only.
- If your unit is equipped with electronic accessories or ABS-style modules, avoid spilling fluid on electrical connectors. Cover electronics and disconnect the battery if desired for extra safety.
- Brake pad wear is common on off-road machines — inspect pads and rotors while you have the system open. Replace pads or resurface rotors as needed before finishing the bleed.
Preparation
- Park ATV on level ground, engage park/gear, and secure with wheel chocks.
- Clean the reservoir cap area thoroughly to prevent dirt entering the system. Remove cap and diaphragm gently; do not let contaminants drop in.
- If fluid is very dark, draw out as much as possible with a syringe or turkey baster before adding new fluid.
- Raise the wheels slightly if needed so calipers are easy to access but keep the reservoir at a higher level than calipers to help bleeding.
Bleeding sequence
Always bleed the caliper farthest from the master cylinder first, then the next-farthest, finishing with the closest. On the Sportsman 570 SP that typically means:
- 1) Rear caliper (if master for rear is forward/handlebar-mounted the rear is farthest)
- 2) Right front caliper
- 3) Left front caliper (closest)
If your machine has a separate front and rear master, bleed the rear circuit entirely, then the front circuit.
Manual bleed procedure (with assistant)
- Top off the reservoir with fresh brake fluid. Keep the cap loosely on to minimize contamination but allow venting.
- Attach clear tubing to the bleeder nipple and place the other end into a catch bottle partially filled with a little fresh fluid to prevent air re-entry.
- Have your assistant slowly pull and hold the brake lever/pedal to the firm position.
- Open the bleeder nipple about a quarter-turn to allow fluid and air to escape. Close the nipple before the assistant releases the lever/pedal. Repeat until you see clear, bubble-free fluid in the tubing.
- Keep reservoir level topped during the entire process to avoid introducing air. Refill as needed.
- Repeat the process at each caliper in the sequence described until all circuits show clean fluid and no air.
- After final bleed, tighten bleeder nipples to proper snugness (do not overtighten). Wipe all fittings and reseal reservoir with new or cleaned diaphragm and cap.
- Pump the brake lever/pedal to confirm firm feel. Road/test slowly in a safe area to verify braking performance before normal use.
Vacuum or pressure bleeder method
Using a vacuum pump at each bleeder or a pressure bleeder on the reservoir speeds the job and reduces the need for an assistant. Follow the bleeder tool manufacturer instructions and the same bleed sequence. Ensure reservoir never runs dry.
Flushing the entire system
To fully replace old fluid, perform multiple bleeding cycles until the fluid returning from each caliper is new and clear. Replace reservoir fluid periodically during the process to avoid dilution with remaining old fluid.
Common pitfalls & safety tips
- Never mix brake fluid types. Use the fluid recommended by Polaris for this unit.
- Brake fluid is highly corrosive to paint and plastics — clean spills immediately with brake cleaner and water.
- If the lever/pedal remains spongy after thorough bleeding, inspect for soft hoses, leaking seals, or a faulty master cylinder. Replace damaged components rather than repeating bleeding indefinitely.
- Dispose of old brake fluid per local hazardous-waste rules. Do not pour down drains.
- If you remove calipers, torque all fasteners to Polaris specifications and ensure rotor alignment before road testing.
Final checks
- Verify reservoir level at the specified mark and secure cap.
- Confirm there are no leaks at calipers, lines, master, or bleeder nipples.
- Test brakes at low speed in a safe area until confident in stopping power.
- Re-check fluid level after first short ride and after a few brake applications.
Performing this service regularly prolongs brake component life and maintains safe stopping performance in the varied conditions a Sportsman 570 SP sees. If you need OEM-quality replacement parts or maintenance supplies for your 2018 Polaris Sportsman 570 SP, visit the MotoSport parts page linked above.
Related Shopping Categories
Shop Brake Fluid for a 2018 Polaris Sportsman 570 SP ATV.
Shop Brake Bleeders for a 2018 Polaris Sportsman 570 SP ATV.
Shop Brake Pads for a 2018 Polaris Sportsman 570 SP ATV.
Shop Brake Lines for a 2018 Polaris Sportsman 570 SP ATV.
Shop Brake Tools for a 2018 Polaris Sportsman 570 SP 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.