How to bleed and replace brake fluid on a 2020 CFMOTO CFORCE 400 ATV

How to Bleed & Replace Brake Fluid on a 2020 CFMOTO CFORCE 400

Shop parts for a 2020 CFMOTO CFORCE 400 ATV.

This MotoSport guide gives a step-by-step, model-specific procedure to safely replace and bleed the brake fluid on a 2020 CFMOTO CFORCE 400. Follow these instructions carefully to maintain braking performance and avoid air contamination of the system. Read the full procedure before starting and wear safety glasses and disposable gloves.

What you need

• Manufacturer-recommended brake fluid (DOT 4 is commonly used on CFORCE 400; confirm in your owner’s manual)
• Clear plastic tubing that fits over bleed nipples
• Catch container (small bottle) and clean rags
• Metric wrench set (bleed nipple nuts are typically 8mm-10mm)
• Turkey baster, fluid syringe, or pump to remove old fluid from reservoir
• Brake bleeder tool or 2-person helper
• Jack or stands to safely lift and support the ATV if needed
• Torque wrench (for reassembly where applicable)

Model notes for the 2020 CFMOTO CFORCE 400

• The CFORCE 400 uses a compact master cylinder and exposed calipers typical of utility ATVs — bleed nipples are accessible but can be tight; use a low-profile wrench to avoid rounding flats.
• There is no factory ABS on most CFORCE 400 trims; bleeding is straightforward mechanical bleeding rather than electronic system service.
• Reservoir volume is limited — keep the cap on when not topping fluid to avoid contamination and moisture absorption by the fluid.
• Do not mix fluid types. If the system previously had DOT 4, replace with DOT 4; if DOT 3 was specified by your manual, use DOT 3 as directed. Mixing DOT grades or introducing silicone-based fluids will damage seals.

Preparation

1. Park the ATV on level ground, engage park/parking brake, and place wheel chocks.
2. If needed, lift the wheels slightly so calipers hang naturally and you can access bleed nipples. Secure with stands.
3. Clean the brake fluid reservoir cap area and remove the cap slowly. Wipe the area to prevent dirt entering the system.
4. Using a syringe or turkey baster, remove as much old fluid from the reservoir as possible to reduce contamination when refilling.
5. Top reservoir with fresh fluid to the MAX mark, then loosely replace the cap (do not seal fully to allow venting during bleeding).

Bleeding sequence

Use the principle: start with the caliper furthest from the master cylinder and finish with the closest. If you cannot identify distances, a safe default order for many ATVs is: rear passenger side, rear driver side, front passenger side, front driver side. Adjust as required for your CFORCE 400 layout.

1. Attach clear tubing to the bleed nipple of the first caliper and submerge the other end into a small bottle partially filled with fresh fluid to prevent air re-entry.
2. Have an assistant slowly depress the brake pedal 2-3 times and hold it down. With the pedal held, open the bleed nipple about a quarter turn to allow fluid and air bubbles to escape into the tube. Close the nipple before your assistant releases the pedal.
3. Repeat this pump-and-hold cycle until fluid expelled shows no visible bubbles. Keep adding fresh fluid to the reservoir so it never drops below the MIN line.
4. Move to the next caliper in the sequence and repeat steps 1-3. Always ensure the reservoir remains topped up throughout the entire process.
5. After the final caliper, perform several firm brake pedal checks. The pedal should feel firm and consistent. If soft or spongy, repeat bleeding on the calipers showing air or repeat the full sequence.

Alternative single-person methods

• Vacuum or pressure bleeder: attach to the caliper or reservoir and follow tool instructions to pull fluid through the system. This is efficient and keeps the reservoir sealed more consistently.
• One-way vacuum syringe: hold the syringe on the bleed nipple and draw fluid while actuating the pedal as needed, keeping reservoir topped.

Finishing steps

• When bleeding is complete and pedal feel is solid, securely tighten bleed nipples to manufacturer fitment snugness; avoid over-torquing. Wipe any spilled fluid immediately — brake fluid harms paint and plastics.
• Top reservoir to the MAX line, install the cap and secure it. Clean the reservoir area and remove all tools/contaminants from around the brake system.
• Properly dispose of old brake fluid per local hazardous-waste rules. Do not reuse or pour down drains.
• Lower the ATV, remove stands, and test ride slowly in a safe area to confirm braking performance before normal operation.

Troubleshooting & tips

• Persistent spongy pedal after thorough bleeding can indicate master cylinder internal leakage or contaminated components — inspect master cylinder, caliper seals, and brake lines for soft spots or swelling.
• If you see foam or heavy discoloration quickly re-appearing in the reservoir, the system may have serious moisture contamination; consider a complete system flush and, if needed, component replacement.
• Use fresh, sealed brake fluid only. Keep the fluid container tightly closed between uses and discard any fluid exposed to air for extended periods.
• Record the service date and fluid type in your maintenance log. Brake fluid absorbs moisture over time; plan to replace it every 1-2 years depending on use and exposure.

Safety reminders

• Never let the reservoir run dry while bleeding; introducing air will extend the procedure and can require restarting the sequence.
• Brake fluid is corrosive to paint and plastics; immediately clean spills with water and replace any contaminated panels or fasteners if necessary.
• If you are not confident in diagnosing a soft pedal or fluid leaks, contact a qualified technician to avoid risking brake failure.

Follow this MotoSport procedure to keep your 2020 CFMOTO CFORCE 400 braking system reliable and safe. If you need replacement parts or service components for your CFORCE 400, visit our parts page above.

Related Shopping Categories

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Shop Brake Tools for a 2020 CFMOTO CFORCE 400 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.