The Recall Desk
Our severity:SevereCPSC·96116·Announced 1996-05-02

Polaris Recalls 19,327 Snowmobiles Due to Handlebar Weld Defect

Polaris is recalling 19,327 snowmobiles because handlebars may not be fully welded to steering posts, posing a risk of loss of control.

What this means for you

Our assessment, not the agency’s: severity 4/5 (Severe).

The hazard poses a serious risk of illness, injury, or structural failure. Stop using the product immediately and contact the manufacturer for a refund or repair.

Our severity reasoning: The recall involves a structural vehicle defect (incomplete welding) that has resulted in reported accidents and a minor injury, meeting the criteria for a Severe rating.

Plain-English summary

Polaris Industries Partners L.P. is voluntarily recalling 19,327 1996 model year snowmobiles in cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). The recall involves specific models including the XLT Touring, Classic, 500 SKS, 500 EFI, 500 EFI RMK, Trail, Classic Touring, 500 (Carb), 500 RMK, 500 EFI SKS, Trail Tourin, and 440.

The defect involves handlebars that were not completely welded to the steering posts. If the handlebars break, a driver could lose control of the snowmobile, potentially causing an accident or crash. Polaris is aware of three accidents resulting from this issue, with one driver sustaining a minor injury.

Affected snowmobiles were sold nationwide by Polaris dealers from March 1995 through April 1996 for suggested retail prices between $5,000 and $7,000. Consumers should stop using these snowmobiles immediately and return them to an authorized Polaris dealer for inspection. If necessary, the handlebars will be replaced at no charge. Consumers can call (800) POLARIS to locate the nearest dealer.

The recalled product

Product
Polaris 440 snowmobiles
Manufacturer
Polaris
Category
Vehicle — Snowmobile
Hazard

Distribution

Distributed nationwide across the United States.

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