130,000 Polaris Off-Road Vehicles Recalled After 160 Reports Of Fires & One Death

After receiving 160 reports of fires that resulted in 19 burn injuries and the death of a 15-year-old passenger, Polaris announced Tuesday that it would recall 130,000 recreational off-highway vehicles. 

Polaris says it will recall model year 2013 to 2016 RZR 900 and RZR 1000 recreational off-highway vehicles (ROVs) that can catch fire.

According to a notice posted by the Consumer Product Safety Commission, the fire risk can occur while the ROV is being driven, increasing the risk of burn hazards to drivers and passengers.

Polaris, which says it will suspend the sale of affected models, is aware of more than 160 fires related to the ROVs. Of those incidents, 19 resulted in first-, second-, and third-degree burns.

In one report, a 15-year-old passenger was killed when the ROV they were riding in rolled over and caught fire.

The CPSC and Polaris warned consumers on Tuesday to stop using the vehicles immediately and to contact their Polaris dealer for a free repair.

Affected ROVs can be identified by a VIN number located on the driver’s side rear frame rail, above the PVT cover.

To determine if your vehicle is involved in the recall visit http://www.polaris.com and click on “Off-Road Safety Recalls” under the “Rider Community” heading on the main page of the Polaris website.

Polaris says that repairs for the ROVs will begin April 22.

Want more consumer news? Visit our parent organization, Consumer Reports, for the latest on scams, recalls, and other consumer issues.