Stihl Trimmers and Blowers Recall: Fuel Leak and Fire Risk

About 2.3 million STIHL trimmers, blowers, hedgetrimmers and other yard power tools are being recalled following reports of fuel leaks that may be caused by problems with the fuel cap. 

The STIHL yard tools recall was issued on May 25 by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) after STIHL Inc., the manufacturer, received at least 81 reports from consumers who had problems installing or removing the fuel cap and reported fuel spillages. There have been no injuries reported in association with the defective fuel caps.

The CPSC has determined that the toolless fuel caps can be distorted by ethanol and other fuel additives. This can cause a fuel spill, which can be a fire and burn hazard.

The recall affects STIHL backpack blowers, hedge trimmers, pole pruners, edgers, brushcutters, clearing saws and KombiEngines. There are 35 different STIHL models affected by the recall.

The affected STIHL yard power tools were sold at authorized STIHL dealers nationwide from July 2002 through May 2011 and were sold for between $190 and $650.

The CPSC recommends that consumers immediately stop using the affected yard tools and return them to an authorized STIHL dealer for a free repair. Consumers with questions can call STIHL at 1-800-233-4729 or visit the company’s website at www.stihlusa.com for more information, photos of the affected yard power tools and photos of the toolless fuel cap.