How to bleed & replace brake fluid on a 2018 Yamaha Grizzly 700 4X4 EPS

Shop parts for a 2018 Yamaha Grizzly 700 4X4 EPS ATV.

This MotoSport guide covers step-by-step brake-fluid replacement and bleeding for the 2018 Yamaha Grizzly 700 4X4 EPS. Follow these instructions carefully to maintain braking performance and safety. If you are not confident working on brakes, have a qualified technician perform the service.

What you need

  • DOT 4 brake fluid (Yamaha approves DOT 4; do not mix with DOT 5 silicone)
  • Clear tubing to fit bleed nipple
  • Catch bottle for old fluid
  • Pump-style vacuum bleeder or hand bleed kit (or a helper for manual pumping)
  • 10 mm wrench (bleeder nipple size may vary — confirm before starting)
  • Clean rags, isopropyl alcohol or brake-clean spray
  • Gloves, eye protection
  • Torque wrench (for caliper bolts if removal is required)

Model notes – 2018 Yamaha Grizzly 700 4X4 EPS

  • The Grizzly 700 uses DOT 4 hydraulic fluid. Use fresh, sealed DOT 4 only.
  • There are separate front and rear brake circuits controlled by the handlebar master cylinder (front) and foot-operated master cylinder (rear) or a linked system depending on model options. Bleed each circuit independently.
  • The EPS (power steering) system is separate from brakes; avoid cross-contamination.
  • Brake reservoirs are small; keep them topped off during bleeding to prevent air ingestion.
  • No factory ABS on this model, so bleeding is standard; if your ATV has aftermarket ABS or sensing modules, refer to specialist guidance.

Preparation

  1. Park on level ground, secure the ATV in gear or use the parking brake, and block wheels.
  2. Clean reservoir caps and surrounding area to prevent contamination.
  3. Remove reservoir cap(s) and diaphragm; inspect fluid color. Dark/burnt fluid indicates replacement is required.
  4. Raise the wheel(s) you will bleed if necessary so calipers are accessible. Do not rely solely on hydraulic pressure to hold the machine.
  5. Place rags or masking to protect painted surfaces — brake fluid will remove paint.

Bleed order

Bleed the circuit starting from the caliper farthest from its master cylinder and progress to the nearest caliper. Typical sequence:

  • For the front circuit: farthest front caliper first → then the closer front caliper.
  • For the rear circuit: farthest rear caliper first → then the closer rear caliper. If the rear is a single caliper, just bleed that caliper.
  • If you're unsure which caliper is farthest, follow the brake line routing visually to determine distance from the master cylinder.

Bleeding procedure – recommended (vacuum or pressure method)

  1. Top the master cylinder reservoir with fresh DOT 4 fluid. Keep the cap loosely in place to prevent contamination while allowing air to escape.
  2. Attach clear tubing to the caliper bleed nipple and the other end into a catch bottle partially filled with used brake fluid to prevent air from being drawn back in.
  3. Using a vacuum pump at the bleed nipple or a pressure bleeder feeding the master-reservoir, open the bleed nipple about a quarter turn with the 10 mm wrench.
  4. Activate the vacuum pump or pressure bleeder. Watch fluid flow into the tubing. When clear, bubble-free fluid appears, close the bleed nipple while maintaining slight vacuum/pressure.
  5. Top off the reservoir as needed throughout to avoid drawing air into the master cylinder.
  6. Repeat the process at each caliper in the correct sequence until all circuits deliver clean, bubble-free fluid.
  7. After final bleed, tighten bleed nipples to spec snugness (do not over-torque). Wipe any spilled fluid and reinstall reservoir diaphragm and cap.
  8. Operate the brake lever/pedal multiple times to confirm firm, consistent pressure. If the lever/pedal feels spongy, repeat bleeding.
  9. Lower ATV, test at low speed in a safe area to verify braking performance before normal use.

Alternative — manual two-person method

  1. One person pumps the brake lever/pedal slowly 5–10 times and then holds firm pressure.
  2. The helper opens the bleed nipple to let fluid and air escape, then closes it before the rider releases pressure.
  3. Repeat until fluid runs clear and no air bubbles appear. Keep reservoir topped up throughout.

Tips, cautions & maintenance reminders

  • Never reuse brake fluid once removed. Dispose of old fluid responsibly.
  • Brake fluid absorbs moisture over time — replace every 1–2 years or sooner if the fluid is dark or the brakes feel soft.
  • Avoid getting brake fluid on paints, plastics, or rubber trim. Clean spills immediately with water and brake cleaner.
  • Inspect hoses, caliper seals, and master-cylinder boots for cracking or leaks while servicing. Replace worn components to maintain system integrity.
  • If the master-cylinder reservoir has loose or deteriorated diaphragms or caps, replace them to prevent moisture entry and contamination.
  • After bleeding, bed new pads properly if pads or rotors were replaced — follow pad manufacturer instructions for bedding.
  • If you encounter persistent sponginess after several bleeds, consider master-cylinder rebuild, caliper overhaul, or professional inspection for hidden air or internal leaks.

Final checks

  • Confirm all fittings and bleed nipples are tight and dry.
  • Verify brake lever/pedal feel is firm at rest and under load.
  • Perform a slow-speed test ride in a safe area to confirm full braking function before riding off-trail.

This procedure is provided by MotoSport as a practical, owner-service guide for the 2018 Yamaha Grizzly 700 4X4 EPS. When in doubt, consult a certified technician or MotoSport service partners for professional assistance.

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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.