The Recall Desk
HighCPSC·01106·Announced 2001-03-14

Ariens, Scotts, and Husqvarna Walk-Behind Lawn Mowers Recalled for Blade Hazard

CPSC and Ariens Co. are recalling about 40,000 walk-behind lawn mowers because the blade attachment can crack, potentially propelling debris that injures users.

What this means for you

Real risk of harm even if no illness or injury has been reported yet. Stop using the product and follow the agency's guidance.

Our severity reasoning: The recall involves a risk-of-harm product where injury has not yet been reported as severe (only a bruise), fitting the 'High' criteria for risk-of-harm products without significant injury reports.

Plain-English summary

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and Ariens Co. are recalling approximately 40,000 walk-behind, 21-inch gas-powered rotary lawn mowers sold under the Ariens, Scotts, and Husqvarna brand names. The recall involves specific model and serial numbers listed on a label on the top of the deck area behind the engine. These mowers were sold nationwide from December 1999 through October 2000 for between $360 and $800 at Ariens and Husqvarna dealers, as well as department and home center stores, including Home Depot (which only sold the Scotts brand).

The recall is due to a defect where the piece attaching the blade to the mower can crack and break off. This failure can cause the broken piece or the blade itself to be propelled from underneath the mower, posing a risk of injury to the operator or bystanders. Ariens Co. has received four reports of the broken piece or detached blade being propelled from the mower. In one instance, a consumer was struck in the leg and received a bruise.

Consumers should stop using these recalled mowers immediately. To obtain a free repair, consumers should return the mower to an authorized dealer. For more information or to locate the nearest dealer, consumers can call Ariens toll-free at (877) 740-7060 between 7:30 a.m. and 4:40 p.m. CDT Monday through Friday, or visit the Ariens or Husqvarna websites.

The recalled product

Product
Walk-behind lawn mowers sold under the Ariens, Scotts, and Husqvarna brand names
Category
Consumer Product — Lawn Mowers
Hazard
Affected units
40,000

Distribution

Distributed nationwide across the United States.

Related recalls

Same hazard · blade detachment

See all →