How to bleed and replace brake fluid on a 2018 Yamaha Kodiak 700 4X4 EPS IRS
Shop parts for a 2018 Yamaha Kodiak 700 4X4 EPS IRS ATV.
This MotoSport guide walks you through safely flushing old brake fluid and properly bleeding the brake system on a 2018 Yamaha Kodiak 700 4X4 EPS IRS. Follow every step, use DOT 4 brake fluid, work in a clean environment, and never allow dirt or water into the reservoir. If you’re unsure at any point, stop and consult a qualified technician.
Notes specific to the 2018 Kodiak 700 EPS IRS
- The Kodiak 700 uses DOT 4 hydraulic brake fluid. Use fresh, sealed DOT 4 only.
- EPS (Electronic Power Steering) does not change brake hydraulics but avoid contaminating EPS connectors while working near the handlebars.
- IRS (independent rear suspension) and the ATV’s frame layout make access to rear caliper bleeders slightly different than single-shaft ATVs – expect limited space and angle the ATV on a stand if needed.
- No factory ABS on this model; bleeding is standard hydraulic caliper-style bleeding.
- Brake fluid is hygroscopic — replace every two years or sooner if spongy brakes or contamination is suspected.
Tools & supplies
- Fresh DOT 4 brake fluid (sealed container)
- Brake bleeding kit (clear hose & collection bottle) or a vacuum bleeder
- 9 mm or 10 mm wrench for bleeder nipples (verify size by inspection)
- Small flat screwdriver to open reservoir clamp (if applicable)
- Clean rags, gloves, eye protection
- Jack or ATV stand to lift front/rear wheels for caliper access
- Brake cleaner for parts cleanup
Preparation
- Work on a level surface. Chock wheels and set the parking brake or place the transmission in park.
- Lift the ATV with a lift or jack so wheels hang freely if you need easier access to calipers.
- Clean the master cylinder reservoir area. Remove the reservoir cap and diaphragm carefully to avoid introducing dirt.
- Top off the reservoir with fresh DOT 4 fluid to the specified level; do not overfill. Keep the cap loosely in place while working to reduce contamination risk.
- Locate bleeder screws on each caliper (front L/R, rear L/R if applicable) and clear any dirt from around them.
Bleeding sequence
Use the standard sequence: start with the caliper furthest from the master cylinder and finish with the closest. On the Kodiak 700 that typically is: rear passenger (right), rear driver (left), front passenger (right), front driver (left). Confirm routing on your machine visually.
Manual two-person bleed method
- Attach a clear hose to the bleeder nipple and submerge the other end in a small jar partially filled with fresh brake fluid so you can see air bubbles escape.
- Have an assistant pump the brake lever/pedal several times and then hold pressure. (For foot brake, hold pedal down; for hand lever, have assistant squeeze and hold.)
- Open the bleeder screw approximately a 1/4 turn. Fluid and air will be pushed into the jar. Close the screw before the assistant releases pressure.
- Repeat pumping, holding, opening, closing until no air bubbles appear in the outflow and you get solid, firm lever/pedal feel.
- Keep reservoir level topped with fresh fluid throughout so air cannot be drawn into the system.
- Proceed to the next caliper in the sequence.
Single-person vacuum or pressure bleeding
- Connect a vacuum bleeder to the bleeder nipple or use a pressure bleeder on the reservoir per tool instructions.
- Operate the tool until clear fluid with no air bubbles emerges.
- Monitor reservoir level and refill as necessary; never let it run dry.
Flushing the system (complete fluid replacement)
- Start by removing as much old fluid from the reservoir as possible with a syringe or turkey baster and discard it.
- Top with fresh DOT 4 fluid and perform the full bleed sequence at each caliper until the fluid leaving each bleeder is clear and the reservoir contains only fresh fluid.
- Repeat until color and clarity are consistent across all calipers.
Finishing steps
- Torque bleeder screws snugly; avoid over-tightening. Wipe any spilled fluid immediately with a damp rag and brake cleaner, as DOT 4 can damage paint and plastics.
- Reinstall the reservoir diaphragm and cap, ensuring a clean seal.
- Lower the ATV, test brake lever/pedal for firm feel with wheels off the ground, then test ride slowly in a safe area to verify braking performance.
- Dispose of old brake fluid responsibly according to local regulations.
Troubleshooting & important cautions
- If the lever or pedal remains spongy after thorough bleeding, suspect a stuck caliper piston, collapsed brake hose, or internal master cylinder issue — inspect components and replace as needed.
- Do not mix DOT 4 with DOT 5 silicone fluid. Mixing destroys brake performance.
- Brake fluid will damage painted surfaces & plastics. Protect surfaces and clean spills immediately.
- If you encounter hard-to-reach bleeders because of IRS layout, remove the wheel or loosen mounting bolts for better caliper access rather than forcing tools into awkward angles.
MotoSport maintenance tips for Kodiak 700 owners
- Keep a small sealed bottle of DOT 4 in your toolkit for emergency top-offs — only use in clean, controlled conditions.
- Inspect brake lines for cracking or chafe at every oil change; replace any lines over 8 years old or showing damage.
- When servicing near EPS connectors, avoid spraying cleaners directly on electrical components and keep connectors dry.
- Record fluid change dates in your maintenance log; a two-year interval is a good rule for seasonally ridden machines.
Related Shopping Categories
Shop Brake Fluid for a 2018 Yamaha Kodiak 700 4X4 EPS IRS ATV.
Shop Brake Bleeders for a 2018 Yamaha Kodiak 700 4X4 EPS IRS ATV.
Shop Brake Pads for a 2018 Yamaha Kodiak 700 4X4 EPS IRS ATV.
Shop Brake Lines for a 2018 Yamaha Kodiak 700 4X4 EPS IRS ATV.
Shop Brake Tools for a 2018 Yamaha Kodiak 700 4X4 EPS IRS 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.
