CPSC recall 00-180, announced September 13, 2000, covers Kawasaki Prairie ATV, 1997-1999 models (about 47,000 units). Under certain conditions, the drive belts on these ATVs can break, and pieces of the belt can lock up the transmission, including the wheels, causing the vehicle to stop suddenly. The notice cites 12 incident reports and 12 injuries. Consumers with the recalled ATVs should stop using them immediately, and call their Kawasaki dealer to schedule a free belt inspection.
Compare the model on your label, then check any serial numbers, date codes, and exclusions in the notice. A model match alone does not confirm that your unit is included.
Check the product label for these CPSC-listed model numbers: 300-A1, 400-A1, 400-A2/L.
Which products are included?
The following 4-wheel drive Prairie ATV 1997-1999 models are included in this recall: KVF 300-A1, KVF 400-A1, KVF 400-A2/L, KVF 400- C1. "Kawasaki Prairie" is written on both sides of the ATVs, and "4X4" is printed on the rear of the seat.
Confirm these details on the official CPSC noticeWhy it was recalled
Under certain conditions, the drive belts on these ATVs can break, and pieces of the belt can lock up the transmission, including the wheels, causing the vehicle to stop suddenly. This can cause the operator to lose control of the vehicle, crash, or be ejected off the vehicle, resulting in injury or death.
Incidents and injuries
Kawasaki has received reports of 12 riders suffering injuries as a result of drive belts breaking and their vehicle suddenly stopping.
Official remedy
Consumers with the recalled ATVs should stop using them immediately, and call their Kawasaki dealer to schedule a free belt inspection. Original equipment belts will be replaced with a new generation belt free of charge. Also, an addendum to the owner's manual and a warning label about maintaining the drive belt will be provided.
Product and sales details
- Brand
- Kawasaki Motors
- Manufacturer
- Kawasaki Motors Corp. U.S.A., of Irvine, Calif.
- Product type
- Off-road recreational vehicles
- Recall number
- 00-180
- Units
- About 47,000
- Sold at / sales period
- Kawasaki dealers nationwide sold these ATVs, from September 1996 through August 2000, for between $5,300 and $6,200.
Kawasaki Prairie ATV, 1997-1999 models
CPSC product type: All Terrain Vehicles (ATVs)
Recall contact information
For more information, contact Kawasaki at (866) 802- 9381 between 8:30 a.m. and 4:45 p.m. PT Monday through Friday.
Verify phone numbers, hours, and websites on the current CPSC notice before contacting the firm.
Know someone who has one?
Recalls only work when owners hear about them. Send this notice to family or friends who might own the same product.
