Ski-Doo Snowmobile Recall Issued After Three Explode

A recall of Ski-Doo snowmobiles has been issued after multiple reports indicate that they may explode from electric charges building up in the gas tanks.  

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) announced the Ski-Doo snowmobile recall on Friday after BRP US Inc. received reports of three of the vehicles exploding while idling. In one incident, someone suffered minor burns to their face and hands.

According to the CPSC, an electrostatic charge can build up inside the vehicle’s fuel tank while it is idling. A spark can then set off the fuel and fumes, causing the vehicle to explode, which could lead to serious injuries or death.

The snowmobile recall affects about 1,000 Ski-Doo Expedition and Skandic model snow mobiles from 2005 through 2010. The model names are located on the side panel. The recalled models include the 2005 Expedition TUV 600 H.O. SDI, the 2007 Skandic SWT V-800, the 2008 Skandic SUV 600 HO SDI, the 2008, 2009 and 2010 Skandic SWT V-800.

Some of the snowmobiles involved in this recall have been affected by multiple previous recalls. In May 2008, about 400 were recalled due to a similar explosion risk that resulted in at least four of the vehicles blowing themselves apart. In June of the same year, another 430 were recalled due to the risk of fire caused by a leaking fuel hose. In April of this year, another 1,500 were recalled after reports that the drive pulley bolts were defective and could break, causing a laceration hazard from debris flying off of the snowmobiles.

The snowmobiles were manufactured in Finland and imported by BRP U.S. of Sturtevant, Wisconsin. They were sold nationwide at Ski-Doo dealers from March 2004 through March 2010 for between $9,000 and $10,000.

The CPSC recommends that consumers stop using these vehicles immediately and contact their Ski-Doo dealer to make an appointment for free repairs. The company has already contacted registered owners by mail to inform them of the recall. Consumers with questions can visit the firm’s website at www.ski-doo.com.