The Recall Desk
HighCPSC·03037·Announced 2002-11-13

Stihl Recalls About 3,000 Chain Saws Due to Fuel Leak Risk

Stihl is recalling about 3,000 MS 170 and MS 180 C chain saws because fuel can leak from the tank, posing a fire or injury hazard.

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 (fire/injury hazard from fuel leakage) where no injuries or fires have been reported, which aligns with the 'High' severity criteria for risk-of-harm products without reported injury.

Plain-English summary

Stihl Inc. is recalling approximately 3,000 chain saws, specifically models MS 170 and MS 180 C, due to a defect in the fuel tank. The fuel can leak out of the tank, which creates a potential fire or injury hazard for consumers. Stihl has received six reports of fuel leakage, but no fires or injuries have been reported.

The affected chain saws have serial numbers ranging from 255120848 through 255122797 and 255739074 through 255741150. The "Stihl" name and model numbers are located on the starter housing, while the serial number is printed on the housing near the bumper spikes. These units were sold by Stihl dealers nationwide between July 2002 and October 2002 for prices between $180 and $200.

Consumers should stop using the recalled chain saws immediately. They should return the products to the dealer where they were purchased to receive a free repair. For more information, consumers can contact Stihl at (800) 610-6677 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. ET, Monday through Friday.

The recalled product

Product
Chain Saws
Affected units
3,000

Distribution

Distributed nationwide across the United States.