Yamaha All-Terrain Vehicles (ATVs)

CPSC Recall #13-741 — July 2, 2013

Recall Summary

Recall Number13-741
Recall DateJuly 2, 2013
Remedy TypeRepair
Units AffectedAbout 100
Manufactured InUnited States

Where It Was Sold

Yamaha ATV dealers nationwide from August 2012 to May 2013 for between $6
500 and $7
000. 

Product

Yamaha All-Terrain Vehicles (ATVs)

Description

The recalled vehicles are four-wheeled 2012 Yamaha Big Bear 400 ATVs.  The model numbers YFM40FBBGR, YFM40FBBL and YFM40FGBGR can be found on the left and right side panels of the unit.  The ATVs are blue, green or camouflage and have black gear racks on the front and back. The words Yamaha Big Bear can be found on both sides of the ATV and the fuel tank. The VIN number is stamped on the frame just behind the front left wheel. The letter "C" in the 10th position of the VIN indicates the ATV was made in 2012.   

Hazard

The front shock absorber can break apart and cause the driver to lose control of the vehicle, posing a crash hazard.

Incidents & Injuries

Yamaha is aware of 14 incidents of the front shocks braking apart. No injuries have been reported. 

Remedy Instructions

Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled ATVs and contact their local Yamaha dealer to schedule a free repair.  Yamaha is contacting its registered owners directly.     

What Should You Do?

Stop using this product immediately. Contact the manufacturer for a Repair at no charge. If you experienced an injury, report it at SaferProducts.gov.

Frequently Asked Questions

Follow the consumer action instructions in the recall notice above. Most recalls require you to stop using the product and contact the manufacturer directly — either by calling the toll-free number listed in the official CPSC notice or by visiting the manufacturer's website. You generally do not need a receipt or original packaging to claim a remedy. The manufacturer is legally required to provide the remedy (Repair) at no cost to you.

No — you should stop using the product entirely, not just unplug it. Electric shock and fire hazards in recalled electrical products often involve internal wiring defects, faulty components, or insulation failures that can cause harm even after the product has been off for a period of time. Do not attempt to repair the product yourself. Keep it unplugged and stored safely until you receive the manufacturer's remedy. If the product has already shown signs of overheating, sparking, or discoloration, handle it carefully and consider contacting your local fire department for guidance on safe disposal.

In most cases, no. CPSC-coordinated recall remedies are designed to be accessible without proof of purchase. Manufacturers typically ask consumers to self-certify ownership and may ask for photos of the product or its serial number. Some manufacturers request that you mail in a portion of the product (such as a cut cord or removed component) as proof of disposal. Check the specific remedy instructions for this recall for exact requirements. If you registered your product at the time of purchase, the process is usually even simpler.

If the original manufacturer has gone out of business, the recall remedy may no longer be available through them. In this case, contact CPSC directly at 1-800-638-2772 or cpsc.gov for guidance. If the brand was acquired by another company, the acquiring company may have assumed recall obligations. In some cases where a remedy is unavailable, CPSC advises consumers to safely dispose of the product. If you were injured by the product of a defunct company, consult a product liability attorney — parent companies, distributors, and retailers may still bear liability in some circumstances.