How to Bleed & Replace Brake Fluid on a 2019 Can-Am Renegade 850

Shop parts for a 2019 Can-Am Renegade 850 ATV.

This MotoSport guide covers safe, practical steps to replace brake fluid and properly bleed the brake system on a 2019 Can-Am Renegade 850. The Renegade 850 uses hydraulic brakes with separate front and rear circuits — each circuit has its own reservoir. MotoSport recommends DOT 4 brake fluid for this model; always confirm the reservoir cap label before starting.

Tools & Supplies

  • DOT 4 brake fluid (fresh, unopened)
  • Clear plastic tubing (fits bleed nipple)
  • Catch bottle for old fluid
  • Line wrench for bleeder nipples (usually 8mm or 10mm)
  • Screwdriver or 10mm socket to remove reservoir caps and any protective covers
  • Clean lint-free rags and brake cleaner
  • Shop manual or notepad to track sequence
  • Assistant (recommended) or a suitable vacuum or pressure bleeder
  • Gloves and eye protection

Safety & Prep

  • Work on a flat, stable surface with the engine off and key removed.
  • Keep brake fluid off paint — it damages plastics and finishes. Wipe spills immediately.
  • Wear gloves & eye protection. Brake fluid is corrosive.
  • If your Renegade has aftermarket brake components or ABS/traction modules, note that additional steps may be required; consult MotoSport tech if unsure.

Overview of the System on the 2019 Renegade 850

The Renegade 850 typically has two independent hydraulic circuits: the front brake (handlebar master cylinder) and the rear brake (rear master cylinder near the foot pedal). Bleed and replace fluid in both circuits separately. Each caliper has a bleeder nipple; identify which caliper is farthest from its reservoir for the correct bleeding sequence (furthest to nearest).

Step 1 – Access & Clean

  • Remove any body panels or covers blocking reservoirs and bleeder nipples.
  • Clean around each reservoir cap and bleeder nipple with brake cleaner to prevent contamination.
  • Open the reservoir cap(s); cover the opening with a clean rag to avoid debris entry while working.

Step 2 – Drain Old Fluid (Optional Bulk Drain)

If the fluid is old or discolored, you can siphon or absorb as much old fluid from each reservoir as possible before bleeding. Do not let the reservoir run dry; keep it topped with fresh fluid during the process to avoid air entering the master cylinder.

Step 3 – Determine Bleeding Sequence

Always bleed starting with the caliper furthest from its master cylinder and move progressively closer. Typical sequence:

  • Front circuit: farthest front caliper first, then the other front caliper.
  • Rear circuit: farthest rear caliper first, then the nearer rear component.

On a Renegade 850 the front master cylinder is on the handlebar & supplies both front calipers; the rear master cylinder supplies the rear circuit. If in doubt, identify the physical routing of hoses and pick the caliper furthest from its corresponding reservoir.

Step 4 – Manual Bleeding Procedure (Recommended with Assistant)

  1. Have an assistant slowly depress the brake lever/pedal and hold it down.
  2. Open the bleeder nipple slightly with the line wrench until fluid and air bubbles run into the clear tubing & catch bottle. Close the nipple before the assistant releases the lever/pedal.
  3. Repeat until clear, bubble-free fluid flows and no air enters the reservoir. Keep the reservoir topped with fresh DOT 4 fluid throughout.
  4. Move to the next caliper following the furthest-to-nearest sequence and repeat.
  5. After finishing all calipers in a circuit, cycle the brake lever/pedal several times to confirm firmness. If sponginess persists, repeat bleeding for that circuit.

Step 5 – Vacuum or Pressure Bleeder Alternative

If using a vacuum pump or pressure bleeder, attach per device instructions and keep the reservoir topped. Use the same farthest-to-nearest sequence and run until clean fluid flows and no air appears.

Step 6 – Final Checks & Reassembly

  • Tighten bleeder nipples to proper snugness; avoid over-torquing.
  • Refill reservoirs to the indicated level and secure caps with new seals if old seals are worn.
  • Clean any spilled fluid and reinstall body panels.
  • With the vehicle off, confirm brake lever and pedal feel. Start the engine (if applicable) and recheck operation at low speed in a safe area before regular riding.

Model-Specific Notes for the 2019 Renegade 850

  • The 2019 Renegade 850 typically uses DOT 4 fluid. Using the correct specification is important for pedal feel and component longevity.
  • There are two separate reservoirs — front (handlebar) and rear (near the pedal). Treat each circuit independently and keep each reservoir from running dry to prevent air in master cylinders.
  • If your machine is equipped with factory or aftermarket ABS/traction systems, avoid cycling the system improperly. ABS-equipped units may require specific bleed routines; if you suspect ABS, contact MotoSport tech support for model-specific steps.
  • Brake hose routing and caliper locations are compact on the Renegade; protect hoses and components when removing panels. Inspect hoses, lines, and calipers for wear or leakage while bleeding.
  • Always replace rubber reservoir diaphragms or caps that show deterioration to maintain a sealed system.

Troubleshooting

  • Spongy pedal after bleeding: likely trapped air or an incomplete bleed — repeat bleeding, starting at the furthest caliper.
  • Brake lever/pedal sinks slowly: check for internal master cylinder leaks or a faulty caliper piston; inspect seals and lines.
  • Persistent air: use a vacuum bleeder or bench-bleed the master cylinder if removable.

Maintenance Interval & Disposal

MotoSport recommends replacing brake fluid every 1-2 years depending on use and exposure to water/contaminants. Dispose of old brake fluid responsibly per local regulations.

If you need parts, seals, bleeder tools, or DOT 4 fluid specific to your 2019 Can-Am Renegade 850, find what you need in the MotoSport parts catalog linked above or contact MotoSport tech support for help selecting the correct components.

Related Shopping Categories

Shop Brake Fluid for a 2019 Can-Am Renegade 850 ATV.

Shop Brake Bleeders for a 2019 Can-Am Renegade 850 ATV.

Shop Brake Pads for a 2019 Can-Am Renegade 850 ATV.

Shop Brake Lines for a 2019 Can-Am Renegade 850 ATV.

Shop Brake Tools for a 2019 Can-Am Renegade 850 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.