The Recall Desk
HighCPSC·02511·Announced 2001-12-18

Kawasaki Recalls 2002 KV650 Prairie ATVs Due to Rear Axle Defect

Kawasaki is recalling about 790 2002 KV650 Prairie ATVs because the rear axle may break, causing loss of control and injury.

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 structural defect (rear axle break) that could cause loss of vehicle control and injury, but no injuries have been reported, fitting the 'High' severity criteria for risk-of-harm products where injury has not yet been reported.

Plain-English summary

Kawasaki Motors Corp., U.S.A. is recalling about 790 2002 model Kawasaki KV650 "Prairie" ATVs. The recall involves a defect where the rear axle on some units could have been incorrectly heat-treated. This condition could allow the rear axle to break, resulting in a loss of vehicle control and potential injury.

These ATVs were sold nationwide by Kawasaki dealers between May 1, 2001, and May 25, 2001, for $6,999. The vehicles are identified by the words "Kawasaki" and "Prairie" on both sides of the bodywork. No injuries have been reported in connection with this defect.

Consumers should stop using these ATVs immediately and contact a local Kawasaki dealer to determine if their vehicle is part of the recall. Purchasers were sent direct mail notification. Consumers can also call Kawasaki toll-free at (866) 802-9381 between 8:30 a.m. and 4:45 p.m. PT, Monday through Friday.

The recalled product

Product
2002 model Kawasaki KV650 "Prairie" ATVs
Manufacturer
Kawasaki Motors Corp., U.S.A. (KMC) of Irvine, Calif.
Category
Vehicle — ATV
Hazard
Affected units
790

Distribution

Distributed nationwide across the United States.

Related recalls

Same manufacturer · Kawasaki Motors Corp., U.S.A. (KMC) of Irvine, Calif.

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Same hazard · structural failure

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