CPSC

Yamaha Bruin 250, Bruin 350 4WD and 2WD, Big Bear 400, Recalled for Laceration Hazard

Recalled Bruin 250 ATV
Recalled Bruin 250 ATV
Recalled Bruin 350 ATV
Recalled Bruin 350 ATV
Recalled Big Bear 400 ATV
Recalled Big Bear 400 ATV
Recalled Kodiak 400 ATV
Recalled Kodiak 400 ATV
Recalled Kodiak 450 ATV
Recalled Kodiak 450 ATV
Recalled Wolverine 450 ATV
Recalled Wolverine 450 ATV

Hazard

The protective boots covering the steering system's tie-rod ends (universal joints) on the recalled ATVs could be pinched during installation or adjustment, cutting a hole in the rubber. If this occurs, grease could escape, and contaminants, such as sand or mud, could get into the assembly through the hole, causing accelerated wear. This could result in abnormal steering free play. If the ATV continues to be operated without repair, the ball and socket portion of the tie-rod end could wear to the point that they separate, resulting in loss of steering control, which could cause a vehicle crash with injury or death.

What You Should Do

Remedy

Free repair. Registered owners of the affected units were notified directly by mail sent on October 14, 2005. Consumers should stop using their ATV immediately and contact an authorized Yamaha dealer to schedule an appointment for repair.

Consumer Contact

Call Yamaha at (800) 227-5963 between 8 a.m. and 6 p.m. ET everyday, or log on to the company's Web site at www.yamaha-motor.com

Products

Yamaha Bruin 250, Bruin 350 4WD and 2WD, Big Bear 400, Kodiak 400, Kodiak 450, and Wolverine 450 ATVs

Injuries & Incidents

Sold At

Yamaha dealers sold these ATVs nationwide from 2004 to October 2005. The manufacturer's suggested retail price for the affected ATVs ranged from about $3,500 to $7,000.