KYMCO Utility Task Vehicle Recall Follows Reports of Fires

Following several incidents of vehicles bursting into flames, nearly 1,900 KYMCO utility vehicles have been recalled. 

At least three reports of vehicle fires and damage have been received by KYMCO USA, leading the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) to announce a KYMCO utility task vehicle (UTV) recall on January 26.

Although there have been no reported injuries in association with the fires, this could pose a serious risk for consumers. The CPSC indicates that the fires were caused by an exposed portion of the exhaust system, which can allow debris such as leaves, brush and other flammable materials to enter the opening. Once inside, the materials can ignite, posing a fire hazard.

The recall affects 1,876 KYMCO utility task vehicles, including the UXV 500, UXV 500 LE and UXE 500 SE models from model years 2009, 2010, 2011 and 2012 with Vehicle Identification Numbers (VIN) ranging from RFBUS37A 09B100101 through 9CB490364. The recall also includes the UXV 500i, UXV 500i LE and UXV 500i SE models from model year 2012 with VINs ranging from RFBUS33A 4CB100101 through 8CB230205. The VIN can be found on the frame behind the right front wheel.

The vehicles are gasoline powered, off-road side-by-side UTVs with a cargo bed. They were sold in red, blue, black, gray, orange, solver and green with the model number and KYMCO on the front of the hood and on the sides of the rear fenders.

The UTVs were sold by KYMCO dealers nationwide from June 2008 through October 2011 for between $7,600 and $10,100. They were manufactured in Taiwan.

The CPSC recommends that consumers stop using the vehicles and take them to a KYMCO dealer for installation of a free repair kit. Consumers with questions can contact KYMCO USA at (888) 235-3417. They can also visit the company’s website at www.kymcousa.com or send an email to info@kymcousa.com.