Kawasaki ATVs Recalled Because of Potential Steering Problem
Associated Press

08/03/05 - More than 150,000 Kawasaki Motors Corp. all-terrain vehicles are being recalled over safety concerns, the government said Tuesday.

The Consumer Product Safety Commission said the 2001 through 2005 models of the Kawasaki Prairie and Brute Force ATVs can develop steering-control problems that could cause injury or death. The CPSC said Irvine, Calif.-based Kawasaki has received three reports of injuries resulting from the defect.

If either front wheel of the ATV experiences a major jolt while the steering is fully turned to either side, such as after a drop or jump, it could cause suspension damage and loss of steering control. Kawasaki has received 42 reports of ball joint separation, which could lead to the steering problem.

The specific models affected by the recall are: the 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. The ATVs were sold at Kawasaki dealers nationwide from August 2000 through July 2005.

The CPSC recommends that consumers stop using the vehicles immediately and contact an authorized Kawasaki dealer for a free repair.