How to Bleed & Replace Brake Fluid on a 2019 Can-Am Renegade 1000R

Shop parts for a 2019 Can-Am Renegade 1000R ATV.

Safety First

  • Work on a level surface with the engine off and key removed.
  • Wear eye protection and gloves; brake fluid is hygroscopic and will damage paint and plastics.
  • Have rags and a catch bottle ready to prevent contamination of the ATV finish.
  • Use only DOT 4 brake fluid unless the owner's manual specifies otherwise.

Tools & Supplies

  • New DOT 4 brake fluid (sealed container)
  • Clear plastic hose and clean catch bottle
  • Wrench to fit bleed nipples (usually 8 mm or 10 mm)
  • Socket set and basic hand tools to access reservoirs and calipers
  • Vacuum bleeder or pressure bleeder (optional, but speeds process)
  • Rags, gloves, brake cleaner, a stand or blocks to lift wheels

Model-Specific Notes for the 2019 Can-Am Renegade 1000R

  • The Renegade 1000R typically has separate front and rear master cylinders: the front master cylinder is on the handlebar; the rear master cylinder is located near the foot brake lever. Confirm reservoir locations visually before starting.
  • Bleed nipples are on each caliper: one on each front caliper and one on the rear caliper. Right side calipers are easiest to access by lifting the machine and turning wheels as needed.
  • If your unit is equipped with an electronic brake assist or integrated parking brake, follow the owner's manual steps to disable systems before bleeding. If unsure, put the machine in service mode or disconnect battery per manual before working on hydraulic components.
  • Due to the Renegade's ride geometry and shock packaging, you may need to remove front fender panels or loosen wheel nuts slightly for better caliper access.

Preparation

  1. Clean the area around each reservoir and bleed nipple to prevent contamination.
  2. Remove the reservoir cap(s) and diaphragm; pressurize neither reservoir manually beyond normal operating level. Keep cap open to allow fluid to flow in without sucking air back in.
  3. Top the reservoir with fresh DOT 4 fluid so it remains above the min line for the entire procedure.
  4. If using a single-person vacuum or pressure bleeder, attach it to the appropriate reservoir following the tool manufacturer instructions.

Bleeding Sequence

Follow this sequence to minimize air trapped in the system: farthest caliper from the master cylinder first, ending at the closest. For the Renegade 1000R that normally means:

  1. Right front caliper
  2. Left front caliper
  3. Rear caliper

Two-Person Pump-&-Hold Method (reliable & simple)

  1. Attach a clear hose to the bleed nipple and run the other end into a catch bottle partially filled with brake fluid to prevent backflow of air.
  2. Have Assistant A sit on the machine and slowly pump the brake lever/pedal several times, then hold steady pressure.
  3. With the lever/pedal held, Assistant B opens the bleed nipple for about one second to let fluid and bubbles escape, then quickly closes it. Repeat until bubbles stop appearing and fluid runs clear.
  4. After each cycle, top the master reservoir to keep it above the minimum level. Never let the reservoir run dry.
  5. Repeat for each caliper in the bleed sequence. Final step: at the closest caliper, pump the lever/pedal and hold to confirm firm, non-spongy feel.

Vacuum or Pressure Bleeder Method (recommended for one-person jobs)

  1. Attach the vacuum pickup to the bleed nipple or connect a pressure bleeder to the master reservoir per tool instructions.
  2. Open the bleed nipple and operate the tool until clear fluid without bubbles emerges. Keep reservoir topped off during the process.
  3. Close nipple while tool is running or per tool guidance to avoid sucking air back in.
  4. Proceed through calipers in the same sequence as above.

Finishing Up

  • Once all calipers are bled, tighten bleed nipples to snug avoid over-torquing. Wipe any spilled brake fluid and reinstall diaphragms and reservoir caps.
  • Test brake lever/pedal feel: it should be firm with no sponginess. If soft, repeat bleeding procedure.
  • Lower the vehicle and perform a low-speed test in a safe area to confirm braking performance before normal riding.
  • Dispose of old brake fluid responsibly do not pour it on the ground.

Troubleshooting & Tips

  • If air persists, open and flex caliper lines slightly or have an assistant pump at varied lever travel to dislodge trapped air pockets.
  • Inspect brake lines, hoses, and fittings for leaks, swelling, or damage while bleeding. Replace any suspect components before riding.
  • Replace brake fluid every 1-2 years or sooner if the machine sees heavy use or water contamination is suspected; DOT 4 absorbs moisture faster than DOT 5.1 variants.
  • Keep the master reservoir capped except when actively topping it to limit moisture uptake.

MotoSport Maintenance Reminder

Follow factory service intervals for brake inspections and keep records of fluid changes to protect stopping performance. If you prefer, MotoSport can supply the DOT 4 brake fluid, bleed kits, replacement hoses, and caliper components to keep your Renegade 1000R stopping reliably.

Related Shopping Categories

Shop Brake Fluid for a 2019 Can-Am Renegade 1000R ATV.

Shop Brake Bleeders for a 2019 Can-Am Renegade 1000R ATV.

Shop Brake Pads for a 2019 Can-Am Renegade 1000R ATV.

Shop Brake Lines for a 2019 Can-Am Renegade 1000R ATV.

Shop Brake Tools for a 2019 Can-Am Renegade 1000R 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.