How to Bleed and Replace Brake Fluid on a 2020 Can-Am Renegade 1000 X XC

Shop parts for a 2020 CAN-AM REN1000XXC ATV.

This step-by-step guide from MotoSport shows how to safely bleed and replace the brake fluid on a 2020 Can-Am Renegade 1000 X XC. Follow OEM torque specs and safety practices. Work on a cool machine on level ground, wear eye protection and gloves, and dispose of brake fluid responsibly — it is corrosive and hygroscopic.

What you’ll need

  • DOT 4 brake fluid (fresh, unopened)
  • Clear plastic hose and a catch bottle
  • Brake bleeder wrench or appropriate open-end wrench
  • Vacuum bleeder (optional) or hand-pump bleeder
  • Clean rags, shop towels, and rubbing alcohol
  • Torque wrench for caliper and master cylinder fasteners
  • Jack stands or ATV lift and wheel chocks
  • Small funnel and disposable syringe (optional)

Model-specific notes for the 2020 Can-Am Renegade 1000 X XC

  • The Renegade 1000 X XC uses DOT 4 fluid factory-recommended; don’t mix DOT 3 with DOT 4 long-term.
  • ABS presence: some 2020 Renegade variants have ABS components; this model uses a hydraulic control unit with sensors that can trap air. If your ATV has ABS, use a pressure or vacuum bleeder and follow the ABS cycling procedure (pump or cycle ignition per manufacturer) to purge air from the modulator.
  • Master cylinder reservoirs on this model are plastic and mounted forward under the handlebar shroud – clean the surrounding area before opening to prevent contamination.
  • Brake lines run close to the engine and frame; inspect lines for abrasion, kinks, and soft spots while working. Replace any lines or hoses older than five years or showing degradation.
  • Caliper mounting hardware and banjo bolts on the Renegade are torque-specific and often use copper crush washers. Replace crush washers when disturbed and torque banjo bolts to OEM specs.

Preparation

  • Park ATV on level surface, engage parking brake, and remove key.
  • Secure machine on jack stands or lift so wheels hang free if you will open calipers or rotate wheels during bleeding.
  • Clean reservoir caps, surrounding area and fasteners with rubbing alcohol to prevent dirt entering system.
  • Check fluid level — drain only enough to allow bleeding; keep reservoir capped loosely and topped with fresh DOT 4 to avoid running dry.

Basic front/rear master-cylinder bench-level bleed (single caliper or simple system)

  1. Remove reservoir cap and diaphragm. Place a clean funnel or use a syringe to top up reservoir with DOT 4 fluid.
  2. Start with the caliper furthest from the master cylinder (rear right or rear left depending on plumbing) — on the Renegade route: typically front right, front left, rear right, rear left or follow your owner’s manual routing. If uncertain, bleed the caliper farthest from the master piston first.
  3. Attach clear hose to bleeder nipple; submerge other end in a catch bottle partially filled with clean brake fluid to prevent air reentry.
  4. Have an assistant slowly pump the brake lever/pedal 3–5 times and hold pressure. Open bleeder screw about 1/4 turn to let fluid and air escape, then close screw before assistant releases lever. Repeat until clear fluid with no bubbles flows and lever feels firm.
  5. Keep reservoir topped between cycles to avoid introducing air. Work quickly to limit moisture uptake.
  6. Move to next caliper following same pattern, finishing with the caliper closest to the master cylinder.

Vacuum or pressure bleeding (recommended for ABS or thorough job)

  1. Connect vacuum bleeder to bleeder screw and create steady vacuum, or connect pressure bleeder to the reservoir and pressurize per the tool instructions.
  2. If using a pressure bleeder, pump to recommended PSI (usually 1–2 psi) — do not exceed safe low pressure to avoid damage.
  3. Open bleeder screw and allow fluid to flow until clear with no air. Close screw and move to next caliper.
  4. For ABS units, with pressure still applied cycle the ignition and/or actuate the ABS pump per factory bleed procedure to run trapped air out of the hydraulic control unit. Repeat pressure bleeding after ABS cycling until no bubbles appear.

Post-bleed steps and torque

  • Ensure bleeder screws and banjo bolts are tightened to correct torque; replace crush washers on banjo fittings if disturbed.
  • Top off reservoir to the full mark and reinstall and torque the reservoir cap to prevent contamination.
  • Pump brake lever/pedal to confirm firm, consistent feel. If soft, repeat bleeding.
  • Inspect hoses, lines, fittings and calipers for leaks while pressure is held. Check wheel bearings and rotor alignment if brakes drag after service.
  • Test ride slowly in a safe area to verify braking performance before normal use.

Troubleshooting

  • Persistent spongey lever: likely remaining air in lines or master cylinder. Use reverse-flow or bench-bleed master cylinder if needed.
  • ABS-related softness: ensure ABS cycle/bleed routine was completed; an ABS scanner or dealer service may be required for stubborn air in the modulator.
  • Leaking banjo bolt: replace crush washers and torque to spec; inspect the line’s inner sleeve for corrosion.

Maintenance tips specific to your Renegade 1000 X XC

  • Replace brake fluid every 2 years or more often if ridden in wet/muddy conditions; DOT 4 absorbs moisture leading to corrosion and reduced boiling point.
  • Keep spare crush washers and bleeder caps in your tool kit; Renegade caliper bolts and banjo hardware can seize if contaminated.
  • Check the master cylinder boot and reservoir for cracking — UV and heat exposure from aggressive riding can degrade plastics.
  • After excessive water crossings or deep mud, recheck brakes and lines promptly for contamination and moisture intrusion.

Performing regular bleeding and fluid replacement keeps stopping power consistent and protects ABS components and calipers from corrosion. If you encounter persistent problems, contact a MotoSport service specialist or a dealer experienced with Can-Am hydraulic ABS systems.

Related Shopping Categories

Shop Brake Fluid for a 2020 CAN-AM REN1000XXC ATV.

Shop Brake Bleeders for a 2020 CAN-AM REN1000XXC ATV.

Shop Brake Pads for a 2020 CAN-AM REN1000XXC ATV.

Shop Brake Lines for a 2020 CAN-AM REN1000XXC ATV.

Shop Brake Tools for a 2020 CAN-AM REN1000XXC 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.