How to Bleed & Replace Brake Fluid on a 2020 Yamaha Grizzly 700 4X4 EPS

Shop parts for a 2020 YAMAHA GRIZZLY7E ATV.

Overview & safety

Brake fluid absorbs moisture over time, reducing boiling point and braking performance. Replace and bleed the fluid every 2 years or sooner if contaminated, discolored, or spongy brakes occur. Work on a cool, level surface. Wear eye protection & nitrile gloves. Brake fluid damages paint – protect painted surfaces and rinse immediately if spilled.

What you need

  • DOT 4 brake fluid (Yamaha recommends DOT 4; do not use DOT 5 silicone)
  • Brake-bleeder kit (hand pump or pressure bleeder) or clear tubing & catch bottle
  • Open-end wrench for bleed nipples (commonly 8 mm – confirm fit)
  • Screwdriver or 5 mm Allen for reservoir cap screws if fitted
  • Turkey baster or syringe to remove old fluid from reservoirs
  • Clean rags, cardboard, drip tray, and a friend (for manual pump-and-hold method)
  • Service manual or quick reference for component locations and torque values

Model notes specific to the 2020 Yamaha Grizzly 700 4X4 EPS

  • Hydraulic system: single master cylinder feeds front & rear calipers; no ABS. Reservoir(s) are located on the handlebar assembly for the front system and near the rear brake master cylinder where equipped.
  • EPS (Electric Power Steering) shares electrical system load; avoid draining battery while performing repeated electric-start cycles that may be used during bleeding procedures.
  • The Grizzly uses sealed calipers with standard bleeder valves on each caliper. Valve access can be tight; remove plastic panels if needed for access.
  • Parking brake (if equipped) is mechanical – bleeding brakes will not affect the parking brake cable adjustment.
  • Keep the master cylinder reservoir cap sealed except while adding fluid to avoid contamination of the system.

Preparation

  • Park on a level surface, engage parking brake, and block wheels.
  • Remove wheels or position ATV so you can access each caliper bleed nipple easily.
  • Clean around the reservoir cap and bleed nipples to avoid contamination.
  • Open the master cylinder reservoir cap slowly. Remove any diaphragm or rubber cover and place it somewhere clean.
  • Siphon out old fluid from the reservoir until level is low but not empty.

Recommended bleeding order

Always bleed from the caliper furthest from the master cylinder first and finish with the nearest. On many Grizzly layouts that means:

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

If in doubt, identify which caliper lines are longest from the master cylinder and start with the longest.

Step-by-step: replace fluid & bleed (manual pump-and-hold method)

  1. Fill reservoir with fresh DOT 4 fluid to the recommended level.
  2. Attach clear tubing to the bleed nipple of the first caliper and submerge the other end in a small catch bottle partially filled with fresh fluid to avoid drawing air back in.
  3. Have an assistant pump the brake lever/pedal several times and hold firm pressure.
  4. Open the bleed nipple about 1/4 turn to allow fluid & air to escape into the tubing. Watch for bubbles. Close the nipple before the assistant releases the lever/pedal to prevent air return.
  5. Repeat pump-hold-open-close until clear, bubble-free fluid flows and no air is seen in the tube.
  6. Top up the master reservoir as needed between calipers to prevent it from running dry.
  7. Move to the next caliper in the bleeding sequence and repeat steps 2–6.
  8. When all calipers are done, perform a final check: press the lever/pedal. It should feel firm with no sponginess. Inspect for leaks at bleed nipples & lines.
  9. Clean all fittings, reinstall reservoir diaphragm & cap, and secure any panels or wheels removed.

Step-by-step: pressure bleeder method

  1. Attach the pressure bleeder to the master cylinder reservoir per manufacturer instructions and pressurize to the recommended low pressure (usually 10–15 psi).
  2. Open the farthest bleed nipple and let fluid flow until clear with no bubbles. Close nipple.
  3. Repeat for each caliper following the bleeding order, keeping reservoir topped with fresh DOT 4 fluid.
  4. Depressurize the bleeder, reinstall reservoir cap, and test brake firmness.

Tips & troubleshooting

  • Never let the reservoir run dry or you will introduce air into the system and have to re-bleed completely.
  • If a soft lever persists after bleeding, check for a leak (lines, caliper seals, master cylinder) or a contaminated master cylinder internal seal.
  • If bubbles keep appearing, inspect flexible brake hoses for internal deterioration – replace if suspected.
  • Dispose of used brake fluid properly at a hazardous-waste facility.
  • After bleeding, bed brakes gently by riding at low speed and applying moderate stops to confirm performance.

Final checks

  • Inspect for leaks and torque any caliper or brake line fittings to the service manual specs.
  • Verify brake lever/pedal feel is firm and consistent.
  • Confirm reservoir level is at the correct mark after cycling brakes.
  • Test ride cautiously to validate braking under load before normal use.

When to seek professional help

If you encounter persistent air, internal master cylinder failure, caliper seal leaks, contaminated lines, or uncertain torque specs, have a certified technician inspect and repair the system.

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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.