How to Bleed and Replace Brake Fluid on a 2022 Can-Am Outlander 850
Shop parts for a 2022 Can-Am Outlander 850 ATV.
This MotoSport-exclusive guide walks you through safely flushing and bleeding the brake system on a 2022 Can-Am Outlander 850. Procedures below are tailored for the Outlander 850 platform and include model-specific notes you should know before you start.
What you’ll need
- DOT 4 brake fluid (fresh, unopened)
- Clear tubing that fits the bleed nipples
- Catch bottle, gloves & safety glasses
- Wrenches that fit bleed nipples (open-end or flare wrench)
- Turkey baster or syringe to remove old fluid from the reservoir
- Brake bleeder kit (vacuum or pressure) or a second person for manual bleeding
- Shop rags and a clean funnel
- Service manual or dealership access for ABS cycling procedure if equipped
Safety and prep
- Park on level ground, engage park brake, and remove ignition key.
- Clean around the master cylinder reservoir cap to prevent contamination.
- Protect painted surfaces from fluid spills – DOT brake fluid can damage plastics and paint.
- Wear nitrile gloves and eye protection.
- Confirm whether your Outlander 850 has ABS or a brake control module. If it does, you will need an ABS bleed cycle (see “ABS note” below).
Model-specific notes for the 2022 Can-Am Outlander 850
- The Outlander 850 uses a handlebar-mounted master cylinder for the front brake and a foot-operated master cylinder for the rear on many trims; locate both reservoirs before starting.
- Some trims include Dynamic Power Steering – when working near electrical connectors, disconnect the battery to prevent accidental start but remember to clear any electronic faults afterward.
- If your machine has ABS, do not use a simple pressure bleeder alone to cycle the ABS actuators without following Can-Am’s specified routine; improper bleeding can leave trapped air in ABS valves.
- Can-Am recommends DOT 4 fluid for this model. Do not mix DOT 4 with DOT 5 (silicone) or reuse old fluid.
Step-by-step fluid replacement & bleed (manual two-person or vacuum method)
- Remove the reservoir cap(s) and diaphragm. Siphon out old fluid until reservoir is mostly empty. Wipe clean.
- Top reservoir with fresh DOT 4 fluid to the recommended level. Keep the cap loosely on to avoid contamination but allow venting.
- Identify bleed order. General rule: start with the caliper farthest from the master cylinder and finish with the nearest. For the Outlander 850 that typically means:
- Rear caliper (if single rear caliper) first
- Rear-most/front-most depending on master locations – if uncertain, follow the manual: farthest to closest
- Attach clear tubing to the bleed nipple and submerge the other end in a small catch bottle containing a little clean DOT 4 fluid to prevent air re-entry.
- If using a second person: have them pump the brake lever/pedal several times and hold pressure. Open the bleed nipple about one turn to let fluid and air escape, then close before the lever/pedal is released. Repeat until you see only clear fluid with no bubbles. Keep reservoir topped during the process.
- If using a vacuum bleeder: attach to the bleed nipple, open the nipple, and draw fluid until clear lines of fluid appear and no air bubbles are visible. Close nipple before removing vacuum.
- Work through each wheel/caliper in the specified order until all circuits show clear, bubble-free fluid and the brake lever/pedal feels firm.
- After final caliper is bled, press the brake lever/pedal several times to seat pads. Check reservoir level and cap it securely.
- Wipe any spilled fluid immediately and inspect for leaks at bleed nipples and banjo bolts. Tighten fittings to factory specification if needed — if you don’t have torque specs, tighten snugly and check for leaks, then consult the service manual for proper torque values.
- Road test at low speed in a safe area to confirm firm brake response and no soft spongy feel.
ABS-equipped models – important
- If your Outlander 850 has ABS, after bleeding the visible calipers you may need to run an ABS bleed/cycle so the ABS actuators purge trapped air. This often requires a diagnostic tool or following a specific ignition/actuator cycling sequence in the service manual. If you do not have the equipment or instructions, have a MotoSport-certified tech or dealership complete the ABS bleed.
- After ABS cycling, recheck fluid levels and re-bleed any calipers if required.
Maintenance tips & intervals
- Replace brake fluid every 12-24 months depending on use and exposure to moisture; MotoSport recommends changing fluid sooner for heavy-duty or wet use.
- Inspect brake lines, hoses, pads, and rotors while you have the system open. Replace any parts showing cracking, swelling, or excessive wear.
- Keep a service log with fluid change dates and mileage/hours.
Troubleshooting
- Persistent spongy brakes after bleeding: likely trapped air in ABS module (requires ABS cycle) or a leak. Re-inspect fittings and hose condition.
- No fluid movement from a bleed nipple: check for clogged nipple, collapsed hose, or seized caliper piston.
- Brake drag after bleeding: check that caliper pistons are retracting and that caliper guide pins move freely.
When in doubt, MotoSport recommends referring to your factory service manual or contacting our tech department to ensure ABS systems and hydraulic circuits are serviced to Can-Am standards.
Related Shopping Categories
Shop Brake Fluid for a 2022 Can-Am Outlander 850 ATV.
Shop Brake Bleeders for a 2022 Can-Am Outlander 850 ATV.
Shop Brake Pads for a 2022 Can-Am Outlander 850 ATV.
Shop Brake Lines for a 2022 Can-Am Outlander 850 ATV.
Shop Brake Tools for a 2022 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.