How to Bleed & Replace Brake Fluid on a 2021 Can-Am Outlander 850

Shop parts for a 2021 Can-Am Outlander 850 ATV.

This MotoSport guide walks you through safely replacing and bleeding the brake fluid on a 2021 Can-Am Outlander 850 (MMY: CAN_AM;OL850;2021). Follow every step carefully. If your machine is equipped with ABS or electronic aids, observe the notes below before you begin.

What you'll need

  • DOT 4 brake fluid (fresh, unopened)
  • Brake bleeder kit or clear hose & catch bottle
  • Hand pump pressure bleeder or vacuum syringe (recommended)
  • 10 mm wrench (bleeder nipple), appropriate sockets for reservoir caps
  • Clean lint-free rags, gloves, safety glasses
  • Torque wrench (for caliper/bleeder hardware if required)
  • Plastic or rubber caps to seal reservoirs temporarily
  • Brake cleaner, small funnel, catch pan for old fluid

Model-specific notes for the 2021 Can-Am Outlander 850

  • Factory fluid recommendation is DOT 4. Do not mix DOT 5 (silicone) with DOT 4.
  • Some 2021 Outlander 850s have two separate master circuits (handlebar/front & foot/rear). Identify how many reservoirs your unit has before starting.
  • If your ATV has ABS, the ABS module is sensitive to air & improper bleeding. Follow ABS cautions below or have a dealer service ABS-equipped systems.
  • Caliper bleeder screw size is typically small – use the correct wrench to avoid rounding. Inspect bleeder screw rubber caps & replace if cracked.
  • Keep brake fluid off painted surfaces – it strips paint. Protect body panels and clean spills immediately with water and brake cleaner.

Safety first

  • Work on a cool machine. Brake fluid absorbs moisture – store and use from a sealed container.
  • Wear gloves & eye protection. Brake fluid is corrosive to skin & paint.
  • Do not let the reservoir run dry at any time during bleeding – you will introduce air.
  • Dispose of old fluid responsibly at a hazardous-waste facility.

Preparation

  1. Park the Outlander on level ground and secure it with the parking brake and wheel chocks. Remove the key.
  2. Locate the brake fluid reservoir(s). Clean the reservoir cap & surrounding area before opening to avoid contamination.
  3. Remove reservoir cap(s) slowly. Cover openings with a clean rag if you plan short pauses.
  4. Inspect pads, rotors, hoses & calipers for leaks or damage. Replace hardware or seals before bleeding if you find leaks.

Drain & replace: two recommended methods

Method A: Pressure bleeder (fastest, cleanest)  – Recommended

  1. Attach the pressure bleeder to the reservoir per the bleeder manufacturer’s instructions. Pressurize to the recommended PSI for brake bleeding (typically 10-15 psi).
  2. Start with the caliper farthest from the associated master cylinder. If you have separate front & rear masters, treat each master as its own system and start farthest from each.
  3. Place a clear hose over the bleeder screw and submerge the other end in a catch bottle partially filled with fresh fluid to prevent air re-entry.
  4. Open the bleeder screw about a quarter turn. Watch for old fluid and air bubbles. Close the screw before the fluid level in the reservoir drops low enough to draw air.
  5. Repeat until you see only clear, bubble-free DOT 4 fluid exiting the bleeder.
  6. Move to the next caliper in sequence (farthest to nearest). Keep reservoir topped as you go.
  7. When finished, tighten bleeder screws to the specified snug torque, clean any spilled fluid, reseal reservoir cap, and seat any protective caps.

Method B: Manual pump & hold (assistant required)

  1. Attach clear hose & catch bottle to the bleeder nipple.
  2. Have an assistant pump the brake lever or pedal several times and hold it firmly to the stop.
  3. Open the bleeder screw to let fluid & air escape. When flow slows, close the screw, then have the assistant release the lever/pedal.
  4. Repeat pump/hold/open/close cycles until clear fluid with no bubbles comes out.
  5. Work farthest caliper first, then move closer, keeping reservoir topped at all times.

Bleeding sequence guidance

  • Identify master cylinder location(s). For each master, begin with the caliper farthest from that master and finish with the closest caliper.
  • If unsure of relative distances, a safe sequence is: opposite/front-right, opposite/front-left, rear – but verify for your machine layout before starting.

Final checks & break-in

  • Ensure reservoir fluid level is at the MAX mark and cap is secure.
  • Pump the brake lever & pedal to confirm firm, consistent pressure. If spongy, repeat bleeding.
  • Inspect for leaks around calipers, lines & master cylinders at operating pressure.
  • Take a cautious low-speed test ride to confirm braking performance. Perform several controlled stops to bed the system back in.

ABS & electronic systems caution

  • If your Outlander 850 has ABS, avoid powering the ABS module on/off repeatedly with low fluid levels. Some ABS units require a diagnostic tool to properly cycle the pump & valves when air has entered the system. If you encounter persistent sponginess or ABS warnings after bleeding, have a MotoSport-recommended technician or dealer evaluate the system.

Troubleshooting

  • Persistent air or spongy feel: confirm reservoir never ran dry, repeat bleed using pressure bleeder, check for collapsed hoses or internal master cylinder issues.
  • Fluid contamination or dark fluid: perform a full flush until new fluid is clear; replace any lines or components that appear corroded.
  • Leaking bleeder or rounded screw: replace bleeder screw & crush washer, then re-bleed.

Maintenance tips from MotoSport

  • Replace brake fluid every 1-2 years to limit moisture absorption and corrosion.
  • Keep a spare set of bleeder screw caps and a small bottle of DOT 4 in your trail kit for emergency top-offs.
  • Inspect brake lines and fittings during every oil/service interval for chafe or leaks.

Follow these steps to safely replace and bleed the brake fluid on your 2021 Can-Am Outlander 850. If you prefer professional service for ABS-equipped units or complex issues, contact a MotoSport-recommended service center.

Related Shopping Categories

Shop Brake Fluid for a 2021 Can-Am Outlander 850 ATV.

Shop Brake Bleeders for a 2021 Can-Am Outlander 850 ATV.

Shop Brake Pads for a 2021 Can-Am Outlander 850 ATV.

Shop Brake Lines for a 2021 Can-Am Outlander 850 ATV.

Shop Brake Tools for a 2021 Can-Am Outlander 850 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.