08/02/2005 - Kawasaki Motors has recalled about 155,000 all-terrain vehicles due to possible steering control problems.

Consumers should stop using the recalled vehicles -- Kawasaki's Prairie and Brute Force ATVs, model years 2001-2005 -- immediately, the consumer safety group said in a statement, and contact an authorized Kawasaki ATV dealer to arrange for a free repair.

Owners will be notified directly by Kawasaki about the recall, the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) said.

A significant impact to the front tire while the steering wheel is fully turned either way can result in suspension damage and an eventual loss of steering control that the Commission said could result in injury or death.

Forty-two reports of ball joint separation and three injuries have been reported to the CPSC.

Kawasaki previously recalled the Prairie 700 4x4 in March 2005 because the age recommendation warning label was missing, according to the statement.

The following Kawasaki ATV models are included in the recall: Prairie 300, Prairie 300 4x4, Prairie 360, Prairie 360 4x4, Prairie 400, Prairie 400 4x4, Prairie 650 4x4, Prairie 700 4x4, and Brute Force 650 4x4.

They were sold at Kawasaki dealers nationwide from August 2000 through July 2005 for $4,400 to $7,400.

The model numbers can be found on the identification label located on the frame of the ATV. "Prairie" or "Brute Force" is printed on each side of the vehicle's gas tank.