How to Bleed and Replace Brake Fluid on a 2021 Can-Am Outlander MAX 570 XT
Shop parts for a 2021 Can-Am Outlander MAX 570 XT ATV.
This MotoSport guide is written specifically for owners of the 2021 Can-Am Outlander MAX 570 XT (MMY OLM570XT;2021). Follow these steps to flush old fluid, remove moisture and air, and restore firm, reliable braking. This procedure assumes the Outlander has the factory hydraulic brake system and uses DOT 4 brake fluid. If your machine's reservoir is labeled differently, use the manufacturer-specified fluid only.
Safety & preparation
- Work on a level surface with the engine off, key removed, and ignition disabled.
- Wear eye protection and nitrile gloves — brake fluid is corrosive to painted surfaces and skin.
- Keep fresh DOT 4 brake fluid sealed until use. Do not mix DOT 3/4 with DOT 5 silicone fluids.
- Have rags and a small container to catch old fluid. Dispose of used fluid per local regulations.
- If the brake system has an ABS module, avoid prolonged cycles of the pump with the reservoir empty; maintain fluid level during bleeding.
Tools & materials
- Fresh DOT 4 brake fluid (OEM spec)
- Brake bleeder kit or clear tubing that fits bleeder nipples
- Wrench for bleeder nipples and banjo bolts (typically 8mm or 10mm depending on fastener)
- Turkey baster or syringe to remove old fluid from reservoir
- Clean shop towels and a drip container
- Torque wrench (recommended)
- Assistant to operate brake lever/pedal
Model notes specific to the Outlander MAX 570 XT
- Reservoir location: the front master cylinder reservoir is mounted at the handlebar area. There is a rear brake reservoir near the rear brake pedal. Both reservoirs must be topped and bled as needed.
- The Outlander MAX 570 XT commonly uses a linked brake system — front and rear circuits are interrelated. Bleeding order should prioritize the circuit farthest from the front master cylinder to reduce trapped air.
- Factory fasteners are small; use the correct wrench to prevent rounding banjo bolts and bleeder nipples. Inspect lines for chafing where they pass the frame and racks on MAX models with accessories.
- After bleeding, test brakes at low speed in a safe area before full operation. If the pedal/lever feels spongy, repeat bleeding procedure.
Bleeding sequence
Standard, reliable order for the Outlander MAX 570 XT: 1) rear brake caliper, 2) right/front passenger-side caliper, 3) left/front driver-side caliper, then 4) front master cylinder reservoir last if it has its own isolated circuit. This follows the principle of farthest-to-closest relative to the master cylinder. If your machine has an integrated linked system with one master, bleed from the farthest caliper first.
Step-by-step procedure
- Park on level ground, stabilize the ATV with the parking brake engaged and wheels chocked.
- Remove reservoir caps and diaphragms. Clean around caps before opening to prevent contamination.
- Using a syringe or turkey baster, remove as much old fluid from the reservoirs as possible. Refill reservoirs with fresh DOT 4 fluid to the recommended level. Keep the cap loose but in place to prevent debris falling in.
- Attach clear tubing to the rear caliper bleeder nipple. Submerge the other end in a small clear container partially filled with fresh brake fluid to avoid drawing air back in.
- Have an assistant slowly depress the rear brake pedal/lever to build pressure, hold it, and you open the bleeder nipple briefly to let fluid and air escape. Close the nipple before the assistant releases the lever. Repeat until only clean fluid flows and no air bubbles are visible. Keep reservoir topped between cycles.
- Repeat the same bleeding procedure for the right/front caliper next, then the left/front caliper. Always maintain reservoir fluid level to avoid introducing air into the master cylinder.
- If the master cylinder has a remote reservoir or separate bleed port, cycle and bleed it last to purge any trapped air near the master cylinder. Some systems require a short series of firm lever squeezes while the bleeder on the lowest caliper is open — follow the same hold-open/close rhythm with your assistant to prevent air drawback.
- After bleeding all points, tighten each bleeder nipple to factory snug torque. If you removed banjo bolts for any reason, torque them to service specifications (typical ATV banjo bolts are in the 20–35 ft-lb range; check a service manual or MotoSport parts advisor for exact values).
- Wipe any spilled fluid immediately from paint and plastics. Reinstall diaphragms and caps on reservoirs, ensuring a proper seal.
- Operate the brake lever and pedal several times to confirm a firm feel. Recheck reservoir level and top if required.
- Test ride in a safe area at low speed, checking for consistent braking and no brake fluid leaks. Re-torque caliper and banjo hardware after an initial short ride if recommended.
Troubleshooting
- Persistent spongy brake feel: repeat bleeding procedure and inspect lines, hoses & fittings for leaks or internal collapse. Replace any damaged hoses.
- Air returning after bleeding: ensure reservoir caps are seated correctly and the assistant never releases the lever before the bleeder is closed.
- Brake drag after bleeding: check caliper slide pins for smooth movement and confirm banjo bolts and pads are correctly installed.
Maintenance tips & MotoSport recommendations
- Replace brake fluid every 1–2 years depending on use — more often if you ride in wet or humid conditions.
- Keep a small sealed bottle of DOT 4 in your trailer kit for topping up; never use water or other fluids.
- Inspect pads, rotors and lines when bleeding. If pad thickness is low, replace pads and re-bed them properly after bleeding.
- If you prefer a pressure bleeder or one-man vacuum pump, use high-quality tools and follow safe filling procedures to avoid over-pressurizing the reservoir.
- MotoSport advises keeping records of fluid changes and any brake work for resale value and maintenance tracking.
If you need replacement hoses, bleeder kits, DOT 4 fluid, or caliper hardware specifically for the 2021 Can-Am Outlander MAX 570 XT, find MotoSport parts tailored to this MMY at the link above and contact our tech team for fitment assistance.
Related Shopping Categories
Shop Brake Fluid for a 2021 Can-Am Outlander MAX 570 XT ATV.
Shop Brake Bleeders for a 2021 Can-Am Outlander MAX 570 XT ATV.
Shop Brake Pads for a 2021 Can-Am Outlander MAX 570 XT ATV.
Shop Brake Lines for a 2021 Can-Am Outlander MAX 570 XT ATV.
Shop Brake Tools for a 2021 Can-Am Outlander MAX 570 XT 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.