Kawasaki Recalls 155,000 ATVs
Kawasaki Motors Corp. U.S.A., Irvine, Calif., is recalling approximately 155,000 of its 2001-2005 Prairie and Brute Force ATVs. The units were sold at Kawasaki dealers nationwide from August 2000 through July 2005 for between $4,400 and $7,400.
Kawasaki says a significant impact to the front wheel of the ATVs while the steering is fully turned to either side can result in suspension damage, wear, and an eventual loss of steering control.
The manufacturer says it has received 42 reports of ball joint separation, which could result in loss of steering control. Three injuries have been reported.
The recall includes 2001 through 2005 Prairie and Brute Force Kawasaki ATVs. The following Kawasaki ATV models are included in this recall: Prairie 300, Prairie 300 4×4, Prairie 360, Prairie 360 4×4, Prairie 400, Prairie 400 4×4, Prairie 650 4×4, Prairie 700 4×4, and Brute Force 650 4×4.
Consumers are asked to contact an authorized Kawasaki ATV dealer to arrange for a free repair. Registered owners of the vehicles are being notified directly by Kawasaki about the recall.
In related news, because of the Kawasaki/Suzuki partnership, American Suzuki Motor Corp., Brea, Calif., recently recalled approximately 3,400 of its 2004-2005 TwinPeaks model ATV.
Suzuki also said a significant impact to the front wheel of the ATV while the steering is fully turned to either side can result in suspension damage, wear, and an eventual loss of steering control. Suzuki has received seven reports of ball joint separation. No injuries have been reported.
The recall includes all 2004-2005 Suzuki LT-V700F TwinPeaks ATVs sold at Suzuki dealerships nationwide from December 2003 to July 2005 for about $7,100.
Suzuki says registered owners have been notified about the recall by mail. Consumers with a recalled ATV are asked to contact their local Suzuki ATV dealer to schedule a free repair.
