How to Bleed and Replace Brake Fluid on a 2019 Can-Am Renegade 850 X XC

Shop parts for a 2019 CAN_AM REN850XXC ATV.

Overview

This MotoSport guide walks you through a complete brake fluid change and bleed on the 2019 Can-Am Renegade 850 X XC. Procedures are written for the factory hydraulic system; if your machine has optional ABS, see the ABS notes below before beginning. Use DOT 4 brake fluid unless your service manual specifies otherwise.

Tools & Supplies

  • DOT 4 brake fluid (new, unopened)
  • Clear plastic tubing that fits bleed nipples
  • Catch bottle (marked for used fluid)
  • Open-end wrench for bleed nipples (typically 8mm or 10mm)
  • Screwdriver or 5mm Allen for reservoir cap clamp
  • Turkey baster or fluid syringe to remove old fluid from reservoir
  • Brake pedal lever friend or an assistant
  • Clean lint-free rags and isopropyl alcohol
  • Torque wrench for caliper/banjo hardware if you remove lines
  • New crush washers for banjo bolts (recommended when removing hose)

Preparation & Safety

  • Park ATV on level ground, ignition OFF, key removed.
  • Wear gloves and eye protection. Brake fluid damages paint and plastics.
  • Clean the reservoir cap area before opening to prevent contamination.
  • Keep reservoir top covered and do not let it run low during bleeding.

Model Notes for the 2019 Renegade 850 X XC

  • The master cylinder reservoir is located on the right handlebar area and serves the front brakes; there is a separate reservoir or integrated piston operation for the rear depending on the brake configuration. Confirm visually before starting.
  • Some 2019 Renegade 850 X XC units were equipped with a rear hydraulic system actuated by a foot pedal/lever and separate hose routing; bleeding order should follow distance from the master cylinder.
  • If your machine has the electronic brake distribution or ABS option, the ABS pump must not be run dry and may require a scan-tool cycle for complete air purge — see ABS notes below.
  • MotoSport technicians recommend replacing banjo bolt crush washers whenever you loosen the caliper hose fittings.

Bleed Sequence

Use the standard "farthest-to-closest" method relative to the master cylinder. On the typical Renegade 850 X XC setup the practical sequence is:

  1. Rear right (farthest)
  2. Rear left
  3. Front right
  4. Front left (closest)

Confirm hose routing on your machine and adjust sequence for actual distances. If there is a single front master with a split circuit, bleed both front calipers as the last steps.

Step-by-Step Procedure

  1. Remove reservoir cap and diaphragm. Use a turkey baster to extract the majority of old fluid from the reservoir. Immediately top up with new DOT 4 to the specified level.
  2. Attach clear tubing to the bleed nipple of the first caliper (rear right). Place other end in catch bottle partially filled with clean fluid to prevent air draw-back.
  3. Have an assistant slowly depress the brake pedal (or lever) to the floor and hold it. Open the bleed nipple about a 1/4 turn to let fluid and air escape. Close the nipple before the assistant releases the pedal. Repeat pump/open/close until you see clear, bubble-free fluid in the tubing.
  4. Keep reservoir topped between cycles. Do not let the reservoir go below the MIN line at any time.
  5. Move to the next caliper in the sequence and repeat steps 2–4 until all wheels show clear fluid with no air.
  6. When front calipers are done, verify pedal/lever firmness by pressing several times. A firm pedal indicates successful bleed; a spongy pedal requires repeating the sequence.
  7. Wipe all fittings clean, torque any loosened banjo bolts to factory spec if removed, replace the reservoir diaphragm & cap, and clean spilled fluid off painted/plastic surfaces with isopropyl alcohol.

Single-Person Method (If No Assistant)

  • Use a hand-held vacuum bleeder or a one-way syringe kit attached to the bleed nipple. Follow the kit instructions while keeping the reservoir topped up.
  • Alternatively, use short pumps at the pedal while quickly opening/closing the nipple — vacuum or pressure methods are cleaner and safer for single-person jobs.

ABS-Equipped Units — Special Notes

  • If your 2019 Renegade has ABS, do not run the ABS pump dry. Keep reservoir full and follow any manufacturer ABS bleed routine. If the ABS unit traps air, you may need an ABS cycling procedure via ignition key cycling or a diagnostic tool to actuate the pump while bleeding.
  • If uncertain whether your machine has ABS capability, inspect for an ABS module near the hydraulic routing or consult the vehicle ID label. When in doubt, have MotoSport-certified service perform the bleed.

Inspection Items & Tips

  • Inspect hoses for cracks, swelling, or fluid leakage; replace any suspect lines.
  • Check caliper pistons for smooth operation and even pad wear; stuck pistons can trap air and cause uneven bleeding.
  • Replace pads if contaminated with fluid. Fluid-soaked pads must be replaced.
  • Dispose of old brake fluid responsibly — DOT fluid is hygroscopic and must not be poured down drains.

Final Checks

  • With engine OFF, press the brake lever/pedal; it should feel firm and not sink or creep.
  • Start the engine and re-check pedal firmness under normal operating temperatures; if softness returns, repeat the bleed.
  • Test ride at low speed in a safe area to confirm braking performance before normal use.

When to Seek Professional Help

Contact a MotoSport service technician if you encounter a persistently spongy lever/pedal, visible hose or master cylinder damage, or if ABS bleeding is required and you lack the correct diagnostic tools. Properly bled brakes are critical to safe operation.

Related Shopping Categories

Shop Brake Fluid for a 2019 CAN_AM REN850XXC ATV.

Shop Brake Bleeders for a 2019 CAN_AM REN850XXC ATV.

Shop Brake Pads for a 2019 CAN_AM REN850XXC ATV.

Shop Brake Lines for a 2019 CAN_AM REN850XXC ATV.

Shop Brake Tools for a 2019 CAN_AM REN850XXC 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.