How to bleed & replace brake fluid on a 2020 Can-Am Outlander 850 DPS
Shop parts for a 2020 Can-Am Outlander 850 DPS ATV.
This MotoSport-exclusive service guide shows you how to properly flush and bleed the hydraulic brakes on a 2020 Can-Am Outlander 850 DPS. The procedure replaces old fluid with fresh DOT 4 fluid, removes air from the lines, and highlights model-specific points owners should know to keep brakes safe and responsive.
What you need
- DOT 4 brake fluid (clean, unopened container)
- Clear 1/8" or 3/16" vinyl tubing
- Catch bottle or jar
- Wrenches for bleed nipples (usually 8 mm or 10 mm)
- Torque wrench (for reassembly checks)
- Clean rags, brake cleaner, safety glasses, nitrile gloves
- Jack or ramps and stands (if removing wheels)
- Assistant to operate the brake lever/pedal, or a one-man vacuum/pressure bleeder
- Replacement crush washers and banjo bolts if disturbing lines
Model-specific notes for the 2020 Can-Am Outlander 850 DPS
- The Outlander 850 DPS uses DOT 4 brake fluid. Do not mix with DOT 3 or DOT 5 (silicone) unless specified otherwise; DOT 5 is not compatible.
- The brake fluid reservoir is on the handlebar master cylinder for the front lever & a separate reservoir for the rear pedal (on many variants). Confirm reservoir locations on your unit before starting.
- DPS (Dynamic Power Steering) does not share brake hydraulic circuits, but avoid contaminating DPS components with brake fluid.
- Brake calipers and bleed nipple locations vary slightly between trim levels; locate each nipple prior to starting so you do not stretch lines or damage connectors.
- If your Outlander has a factory ABS or electronic control module (rare on this model year), follow OEM ABS bleed procedure or use a scan tool if required; for standard hydraulic systems use the conventional sequence below.
- Inspect brake lines & hoses for cracks, fittings for corrosion, and caliper boots for damage while you work. Replace worn hardware with OEM-grade parts.
Recommended bleed sequence
Use the standard farthest-to-closest sequence relative to the master cylinder: right rear, left rear, right front, left front. Confirm each caliper position on your machine before ordering parts or starting.
Step-by-step procedure
- Park on a level surface, set the parking brake, disconnect the spark plug, and stabilize the ATV with stands or ramps.
- Clean the reservoir caps and surrounding area thoroughly to avoid contamination. Remove the caps and diaphragms carefully; cover openings to prevent dirt entry.
- Top the reservoir(s) with DOT 4 brake fluid. Do not overfill – leave room for flow during bleeding.
- If wheels are obstructing access, remove them for clear access to bleed nipples and calipers.
- Attach clear tubing to the bleed nipple and route into a catch bottle partially filled with a little fresh fluid to prevent air reintroduction.
- Begin at the farthest caliper (right rear). Have an assistant slowly depress the brake pedal or lever several times and hold it down. Loosen the bleed nipple about 1/4 turn until flow begins and air bubbles exit into the tubing. Tighten the nipple before the assistant releases the pedal. Repeat until fluid runs clear with no air bubbles, keeping reservoir level topped up throughout.
- Work through the sequence: right rear, left rear, right front, left front. For the front lever bleed the same way, making sure the front reservoir stays full during the entire process.
- If using a one-person vacuum or pressure bleeder, follow the tool manufacturer instructions but still maintain reservoir levels and follow the same sequence.
- After each caliper is clear, tighten bleed nipples to specified snugness. If you have torque specs from the service manual, use them; otherwise tighten to firm hand-tool torque without rounding fittings.
- Wipe any spilled fluid immediately with brake cleaner & a rag. Brake fluid can damage paint and plastics.
- Reinstall diaphragms & reservoir caps. Lower the ATV, reinstall wheels if removed, torque wheel fasteners to spec, and reconnect spark plug.
- Carefully test brakes at low speed in a safe area. Confirm firm pedal/lever feel and zero leaks. Re-check fluid level and top as needed.
Tips, cautions & maintenance intervals
- Brake fluid is hygroscopic – it absorbs moisture. Replace brake fluid every 1–2 years or sooner if you detect poor brake feel or contamination.
- Always use fresh, unopened DOT 4 brake fluid. Do not reuse drained fluid.
- Keep fluid away from painted surfaces and plastics; rinse immediately with water if spilled.
- If you see persistent sponginess after thorough bleeding, inspect master cylinder, caliper seals, flex hoses, and the ABS/valve block (if equipped) for internal leaks or failure.
- Replace crush washers and banjo bolts when loosening hydraulic fittings. Reuse fluid only for top-ups, not for a full flush.
- Document the date and mileage of the service in your maintenance log for resale value & scheduled intervals.
Disposal
Collect used brake fluid and dispose of it at an approved hazardous-waste facility. Do not pour it on the ground or into drains.
MotoSport-proven procedure: follow these steps to restore firm, reliable braking on your 2020 Can-Am Outlander 850 DPS while protecting components and using OEM-quality replacement parts when needed.
Related Shopping Categories
Shop Brake Fluid for a 2020 Can-Am Outlander 850 DPS ATV.
Shop Brake Bleeders for a 2020 Can-Am Outlander 850 DPS ATV.
Shop Brake Pads for a 2020 Can-Am Outlander 850 DPS ATV.
Shop Brake Lines for a 2020 Can-Am Outlander 850 DPS ATV.
Shop Brake Tools for a 2020 Can-Am Outlander 850 DPS 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.