Yamaha Recalls 70,000 ATVs Due to Steering Tie-Rod Wear Risk

Plain-English summary

Yamaha Motor Corporation U.S.A. is recalling approximately 70,000 all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) sold nationwide from 2004 to October 2005. The affected models include certain 2005 and 2006 Yamaha Bruin 250, Bruin 350 4WD and 2WD, Big Bear 400, Kodiak 400, and Kodiak 450 ATVs, as well as certain 2006 Wolverine 450 ATVs. The manufacturer's suggested retail price for these vehicles ranged from about $3,500 to $7,000.

The recall addresses a defect in the protective rubber boots covering the steering system's tie-rod ends. These boots could be pinched during installation or adjustment, cutting a hole in the rubber. If this occurs, grease may escape and contaminants such as sand or mud may enter the assembly, causing accelerated wear. This wear could result in abnormal steering free play. If the ATV is operated without repair, the ball and socket portion of the tie-rod end could wear to the point of separation, resulting in a loss of steering control and a potential vehicle crash with injury or death. Yamaha has reported no incidents or injuries associated with this defect.

Registered owners were notified by mail on October 14, 2005. Consumers should stop using their ATV immediately and contact an authorized Yamaha dealer to schedule a free repair. Owners can also call Yamaha at (800) 227-5963 between 8 a.m. and 6 p.m. ET every day or visit www.yamaha-motor.com for more information.

The recalled product

Product

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

Manufacturer

Yamaha Motor Corporation U.S.A., of Cypress, Calif.

Category

Vehicle — ATV

Hazard

• loss-of-steering-control
• crash

Affected units

70,000

Distribution

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