How to Bleed and Replace Brake Fluid on a 2018 Can-Am Renegade 850
Shop parts for a 2018 Can-Am Renegade 850 ATV.
This MotoSport guide walks you step-by-step through draining, replacing, and bleeding the brake fluid on a 2018 Can-Am Renegade 850 (MMY CAN_AM;REN850;2018). Procedures are written for owners who want a reliable, OEM-quality service at home or in a shop. Follow all safety precautions, work on a level surface, and wear eye/skin protection.
What you need
- DOT 4 brake fluid (fresh, unopened container)
- Hand pump or pneumatic brake bleeder, clear tubing, and a catch bottle
- Clean, lint-free rags and a turkey baster or fluid suction tool
- Socket set and Allen keys to open caliper bleeder screws
- Torque wrench for caliper/bleeder hardware
- Jack or stands to safely lift and support the ATV
- Protective gloves and eye protection
- Brake cleaner and a small brush
Safety & model notes specific to the 2018 Renegade 850
- Brake fluid is hygroscopic and damages paint and plasticavoid spills and clean immediately with brake cleaner.
- The Renegade 850 uses DOT 4 fluid; do not mix with DOT 3 or DOT 5 silicone fluid.
- Park the machine with ignition off and parking brake disengaged when accessing bleed valves. Block wheels and use jack stands; never rely on a hydraulic jack alone.
- The Renegade brake system is conventional but routed for ATV packaging. Bleed using farthest-to-nearest sequence from the master cylinder to minimize trapped air.
- If your Renegade is equipped with ABS or an electronic brake modulator, consult the service manual for ABS-specific bleed routines or perform ABS cycling procedures before final bleeding.
Overview of the bleed sequence
Use the farthest-to-nearest approach relative to the master cylinder reservoir. For most Renegade 850 layouts this typically is:
- Rear caliper (farthest)
- Right front caliper
- Left front caliper (nearest)
Step-by-step: drain & replace brake fluid
- Lift and secure the Renegade so wheels are free to rotate and you can access each caliper comfortably.
- Remove the reservoir cap and diaphragm carefully. Use a turkey baster to remove most old fluid from the reservoir to reduce contamination when opening caliper lines.
- Top the reservoir with a small amount of fresh DOT 4 fluid to prevent air entry while you work. Keep the cap loose but covered with a clean rag to let displaced fluid escape without allowing dirt in.
- Starting at the rear caliper, fit clear tubing over the bleeder nipple and submerge the free end in a catch bottle partly filled with fresh fluid to prevent air re-entry.
- Open the bleeder screw about one turn. If using a manual pump or helper, have a partner slowly depress the brake pedal several times and hold it down. Tighten the bleeder, then release the pedal. Repeat until clear fluid with no visible bubbles flows, topping the reservoir frequently.
- If using a one-person vacuum/pressure bleeder, follow the tool instructions and bleed until no bubbles appear, then close the bleeder while pressure is applied to keep air out.
- Move to the right front caliper and repeat the same process, then finish at the left front caliper. Maintain reservoir level above the fluid line during the whole operation.
- After the last caliper is bled, pump the brake pedal several times with the ATV on stands and confirm a firm pedal. Check reservoir level and top to the maximum mark; reinstall the cap and diaphragm securely.
- Inspect all bleeder screws and lines for leaks. Clean any spilled fluid from painted or plastic surfaces immediately and re-torque bleed screws to spec if required by manual.
- Lower the ATV, test brakes at low speed in a safe area until full bite and travel are confirmed. Recheck reservoir level and inspect for leaks after the test ride.
Tips for a robust bleed
- Always keep the reservoir topped during bleeding to prevent introducing more air into the system.
- If brake feel remains spongy after bleeding, consider bench-bleeding the master cylinder (if removable) or repeating the bleed procedure; trapped air often hides near master cylinder or proportioning junctions.
- Replace rubber parts (lines, seals) showing cracking or softening. Old lines can collapse under vacuum or pressure and trap air.
- Use fresh, unopened DOT 4 and mark the date of service in your maintenance log. Brake fluid should be replaced at recommended intervals or if contaminated.
Disposal and final checks
- Collect old fluid and any contaminated rags; dispose of them per local hazardous-waste regulations.
- Verify pedal firmness, wheel braking balance, and no warning lights (for ABS-equipped machines). If an ABS light remains, follow the model-specific ABS bleed/cycle procedure or consult a dealer.
- Record the service date and mileage in your maintenance log for future reference.
For model-specific torque values, ABS procedures, or if you encounter persistent air or electrical warnings, refer to your service manual or contact a qualified technician. Performing a careful bleed and using fresh DOT 4 fluid will restore braking performance and keep your 2018 Can-Am Renegade 850 stopping safely.
Related Shopping Categories
Shop Brake Fluid for a 2018 Can-Am Renegade 850 ATV.
Shop Brake Bleeders for a 2018 Can-Am Renegade 850 ATV.
Shop Brake Pads for a 2018 Can-Am Renegade 850 ATV.
Shop Brake Lines for a 2018 Can-Am Renegade 850 ATV.
Shop Brake Tools for a 2018 Can-Am Renegade 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.