November
20, 2001
Polaris
Industries Inc., of Medina, Minn., is voluntarily recalling about 12,000
all-terrain vehicles (ATVs). Screws in the ATV's manual transmission can
loosen, causing the rear wheels to lock. This can cause the driver to lose
control of the ATV and crash, possibly resulting in injury or death.
Polaris Industries has received reports of seven incidents. Three resulted in
accidents involving injuries when the transmissions failed on the ATVs. The
accidents resulted in injuries that involved multiple broken bones, internal
injuries, abrasions and bruises.
The recalled ATVs are the 2000, 2001 and 2002 model year "Xpedition
425" with 5-speed manual transmissions. The ATVs are either red or a tan
metallic, and have "Xpedition 425" and "Polaris" written on
both sides of the bodywork. On the left-hand side of the ATV on the clutch
cover, near the footrest, appear the words "5-Speed". Polaris dealers
sold these ATVs nationwide from February 1999 through October 2001 for about
$6,300.
Consumers should stop using these ATVs immediately and contact their local
Polaris dealer to schedule a free repair. Consumers also can call Polaris
Industries toll-free at (800) 765-2747 between 7 a.m. and 2 a.m. ET Monday
through Friday and between 8 a.m. and 12 midnight on weekends, or log on to the
company's website at http://www.polarisindustries.com/aboutUs/news/default.asp?articleid=4118951B-CC66-4717-AF74-0F309C2391FF.
Purchasers were sent direct mail notification of this recall. Polaris Media
Contact: Marlys Knutson (763) 542-0500.
Polaris ATVs with automatic transmissions (belt drive) and Xpedition 325 ATVs
are not included in this recall.