Polaris RZR Off-Highway Vehicle Recall Issued After Teen’s Death, Burn Injuries

Roughly 133,000 Polaris recreational off-highway vehicles are being recalled after the manufacturer received more than 160 reports of the vehicles catching fire while in use, resulting in the death of a young passenger and almost 20 burn injuries. 

The Polaris RZR recreational off-highway vehicles recall was announced by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSCP) after being alerted of over 160 consumer complaints indicating the vehicles caught fire while in use. Included in the reports were at least one death and 19 burn injuries varying in severity.

The vehicles are being recalled due to the potential for them to catch on fire while occupied and in use. To date, Polaris and the CPSC are aware of one fatality report resulting from a recalled model tipping over and catching on fire, killing a 15 year old passenger. At least 19 burn injuries have been reported where consumers suffered first, second and third degree burns, some resulting in hospitalization.

The recall includes 133,000 Polaris model year 2013 through 2016 RZR 900 and RZR 1000 recreational off-highway vehicles. Recalled models include 2013 and 2014 RZR XP 900, 2014, 2015 and 2016 RZR XP 1000, 2015 and 2016 RZR 900, 2015 and 2016 RZR S 900, and 2016 RZR S 1000.

The vehicles were manufactured by Polaris Industries, Inc. in the United States and Mexico and distributed for sale by to Polaris dealers nationwide from July 2012 through April 2016 for between $16,000 and $26,000.

Customers may identify whether their model is included in the recall by locating the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) on the driver’s side rear frame rail, above the PVT cover. Customers should visit www.Polaris.com and navigate to the “Off-Road Safety Recalls” link under the “Rider Community” heading on Polaris’s home page to enter their VIN to determine if it is included in the recall.

Polaris is expected to begin notifying registered owners and plans to begin making repairs by April 22, 2016. Customers can schedule a repair at their local licensed dealer, who will inspect and repair the vehicle free of charge. Customers with further questions may contact Polaris at 800-POLARIS or 800-765-2747.