What was recalled
In June of 2024, a significant safety issue was identified involving internal combustion engines manufactured by Kawasaki Motors USA. These specific engines were not sold as standalone products but were installed as the power source for a wide variety of lawn and garden equipment from several major brands. The recall, announced on June 6, 2024, covers engines produced between model years 2021 and 2023. If you own outdoor power equipment from any of the following manufacturers, there is a chance your machine contains one of the affected units.
The list of affected brands is extensive, impacting consumers who may not realize their equipment shares the same engine component. Bad Boy Mowers owners should check if their Rebel, Revolt, or Rogue series mowers are included. Specifically, models such as the BRB54FX850, BRB6135KA, BRB61FX850, BRB7235KA, BRV54FX850, BRV61FX850, BRG5435KA, BRG6135KA, BRG61RD35KA, and BRG72RD35KA are part of this recall. BigDog Mowers is also affected, with the Stout MP model included in the list.
Other well-known equipment manufacturers have units impacted by this recall. Bobcat brand mowers, specifically the ZT6000, ZT6100, and ZT7000 zero-turn models, are on the list. Cub Cadet owners of the ZTX-6 mower model should also be aware of this issue. Hustler Turf Equipment is affected with their FasTrak SDX model. Kubota’s Z726XKW mower is another specific model included in the recall.
John Deere has a particularly broad range of affected equipment, including the Z760R mower, the Gator TX 4x2 and Gator TS 4x2 utility vehicles, and service engines for lawn tractor models X350R, X350, X354, and X370 from model years 2016 through 2020. It is important to note that while the engine manufacturing dates are 2021-2023, some John Deere lawn tractors from earlier years may have been fitted with these specific engines during service or assembly.
The core of the recall focuses on eight specific Kawasaki engine models: the FJ400D, FS600V, FS651V, FX691V, FX730V, FX801V, FX850V, and FXT00V. These engines were used in the equipment listed above. Because these engines are internal components, they are not always immediately visible or identifiable by the brand name on the mower deck. The exact identification requires checking the engine fan housing for the model number and serial number specifications provided by Kawasaki. This recall underscores how a single component manufacturer’s issue can ripple out to affect dozens of consumer brands and thousands of individual pieces of equipment.
The hazard, explained
At the heart of this recall is a specific type of engine failure that transforms a reliable piece of machinery into a serious safety risk. The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and Kawasaki Motors USA have identified that engines from model years 2021 through 2023 are prone to overheating. While it might seem counterintuitive for a machine designed to operate at high temperatures to suddenly become a fire hazard, this issue stems from internal mechanical inconsistencies rather than normal wear and tear. When these specific engines overheat, they do not just malfunction; they create two distinct and immediate dangers: the potential for the equipment itself to catch fire, and the risk of severe burns to anyone nearby.
To understand why this happens, it helps to look at how internal combustion engines work. These machines generate power by burning fuel within confined chambers. Under normal conditions, cooling systems manage the heat produced by this process. However, in the recalled Kawasaki models—specifically the FJ400D, FS600V, FS651V, FX691V, FX730V, FX801V, FX850V, and FXT00V engines—there appears to be a defect that prevents adequate heat dissipation or causes abnormal thermal buildup. When an engine exceeds its safe operating temperature, critical components can warp, seals can fail, and fluids like oil or fuel may ignite. This is not a slow process; overheating can escalate rapidly during use, turning the lawn mower, utility vehicle, or garden equipment into a source of open flame.
The harm from this hazard operates on two levels. First, there is the fire risk. If the engine compartment reaches ignition temperatures, it can spark flames that may spread to nearby dry grass, debris, or even the plastic and rubber components of the mower itself. This poses a significant danger not only to the equipment but also to the surrounding property and landscape. Second, and perhaps more immediately dangerous for the operator, is the burn hazard. These engines are mounted in close proximity to the user. When they overheat, external surfaces such as the fan housing, exhaust components, and nearby body panels can become hot enough to cause serious thermal burns upon contact. Even without a full-blown fire, the radiant heat from an overheated engine can be intense enough to injure hands or legs that are resting on or near the machine during operation.
It is important to note that this is not a theoretical risk. Kawasaki has already received eight confirmed reports of fires involving these specific engines in the field. While no injuries have been reported to date, the potential for harm is clear and present. The combination of flammable materials in a lawn and garden environment with an overheating mechanical component creates a perfect storm for disaster. This is why the remedy involves immediate cessation of use rather than simple maintenance. The defect is intrinsic to the engine's manufacturing or design specifications for those serial number ranges, meaning it will not resolve itself through regular cleaning or oil changes. Recognizing that this is a latent defect waiting for the right conditions to trigger a failure is crucial for understanding the urgency of this recall.
Who is most at risk
The primary group facing potential danger from this recall consists of individuals who own or operate specific lawn and garden equipment equipped with recalled Kawasaki engines. This includes owners of mowers and utility vehicles under brands such as Bad Boy Mowers, BigDog, Bobcat, Cub Cadet, Hustler, John Deere, and Kubota. These machines are typically used in residential settings for yard maintenance or in commercial landscaping operations. The risk is not limited to the operator alone; it extends to anyone in close proximity to the machine while it is running or immediately after it has been shut down.
While the mechanical hazard of overheating and potential fire affects all users, certain demographics are particularly vulnerable due to physical characteristics and typical usage patterns. Children are at significant risk because they often accompany adults during outdoor chores or play in yards where these machines are stored and used. Their smaller stature means they may be closer to the engine compartment, which is a common source of heat buildup. Furthermore, children may not recognize the subtle signs of an overheating engine, such as unusual smells or sounds, until it is too late. They might also attempt to touch components that appear warm but are not yet visibly smoking, leading to immediate burn injuries.
Elderly individuals and those with mobility challenges face a different set of risks. Lawn care equipment can be heavy and difficult to maneuver, often requiring the user to lean over or bend near the engine area for maintenance or inspection. If an engine fails due to overheating during such close contact, the resulting burns could be severe. Additionally, older adults may have slower reflexes or thinner skin, which makes them more susceptible to both immediate injury and longer-term complications from thermal burns.
Pets are also at risk, as they often nap near machinery or explore under decks where mowers are stored. If a recalled engine ignites while the machine is unattended but still hot, pets in the vicinity could suffer serious burns or smoke inhalation. Although no injuries have been reported to date, the nature of fire hazards means that exposure time and proximity are critical factors. The eight reported fires indicate that the risk is real and active. Therefore, anyone who owns equipment with the specified Kawasaki engine models—particularly those manufactured between 2021 and 2023—should consider themselves part of the at-risk group until the free repair is completed. This includes not just the primary owner, but family members, neighbors, or customers who might use or be near the equipment.
How to tell if you have the recalled item
Identifying whether your lawn and garden equipment is part of this specific recall requires a careful look at two distinct pieces of information: the brand of the machine you own and the engine model number located on the engine itself. Because Kawasaki engines are used in equipment sold under many different popular brands, simply knowing your mower’s brand name is not enough to confirm safety. You must verify that the engine installed in your unit matches one of the specific models listed in this recall. The affected engines are from model years 2021 through 2023 and include the FJ400D, FS600V, FS651V, FX691V, FX730V, FX801V, FX850V, and FXT00V. If your equipment has an engine from a different year or model series, it is not included in this safety notice.
The first step is to determine which brand of lawn and garden equipment you own, as the contact process differs depending on the manufacturer. The recalled engines are installed in equipment sold under the Bad Boy Mowers, BigDog, Bobcat, Cub Cadet, Hustler, John Deere, and Kubota brand names. If you own a Bad Boy Mower, specific models affected include the Rebel (BRB54FX850, BRB6135KA, BRB61FX850, BRB7235KA), Revolt (BRV54FX850, BRV61FX850), and Rogue (BRG5435KA, BRG6135KA, BRG61RD35KA, BRG72RD35KA) series. BigDog owners should check if their mower is the Stout MP model. Bobcat models ZT6000, ZT6100, and ZT7000 are included, as are Cub Cadet’s ZTX-6, Hustler’s FasTrak SDX, and Kubota’s Z726XKW. For John Deere owners, the recall covers the Z760R mower, Gator TX 4x2 and TS 4x2 utility vehicles, and service engines for certain 2016-2020 X350R, X350, X354, and X370 lawn tractor models.
If you have identified your machine’s brand and model as one of those listed above, you must then inspect the engine to confirm it is part of the recall. The critical information you need—the engine model number and serial number—is located on the engine fan housing. Look closely at the housing for a metal plate or stamped markings that indicate the specific model (such as FS600V DS20) and the serial number range. Because there are many variations within each engine model, such as different specification numbers like ES04, DS20, or HS05, you cannot rely on the model name alone. You must match your serial number against the full list provided by Kawasaki. For the most accurate and complete verification, visit www.kawasakienginesusa.com/product-recall.html to view the detailed serial number ranges. If you own a Bad Boy Mower, you can also confirm eligibility directly at https://badboycountry.com/kawasaki-recall.
What to do — step by step
If you own lawn and garden equipment equipped with the recalled Kawasaki engines, your immediate priority is safety. The first and most critical step is to stop using the machine right away. Do not attempt to start it or run it again until it has been inspected and repaired. Because the hazard involves overheating that can lead to fires or burns, continuing to operate the equipment puts you and your property at unnecessary risk. Treat this pause in usage as non-negotiable; it is the most effective way to prevent an incident while you arrange for a fix. Once you have secured the equipment, identify which manufacturer’s brand is on your machine, as this determines who you need to contact for the remedy. Kawasaki and the respective mower manufacturers are contacting all known purchasers directly, so keep an eye out for mail or calls from them. However, if you have not heard from them, you must take the initiative to schedule a free repair. This service is provided at no cost to you, covering the necessary work to mitigate the fire and burn hazards associated with these specific engine models. To proceed, locate the appropriate contact information for your brand. If you own a Bad Boy Mower, visit https://badboycountry.com/kawasaki-recall to confirm if your specific mower is affected before taking further action. For John Deere owners, you can call 800-537-8233 between 8 a.m. and 6 p.m. ET Monday through Friday, or 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. ET on Saturdays, or visit www.deere.com and navigate to "Product Recall Information" under the "Services & Support" menu. For owners of BigDog, Cub Cadet, or Hustler equipment, call the dedicated toll-free recall hotline at 888-848-6038 from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. ET, Monday through Friday. You can also find details online at https://www.cubcadet.com/en_US/product-recalls.html, www.hustlerturf.com/product-recall, or www.bigdogmowerco.com/product-recall. Kubota owners should contact customer service at 888-458-2682 from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. ET, Monday through Friday, or visit https://www.kubotausa.com/service-support/safety/safety-notices. If you have equipment from another brand listed in the recall, such as Bobcat, contact Kawasaki Motors Corp. USA directly at 866-836-4463 from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. ET, Monday through Friday. Alternatively, you can visit www.kawasakienginesusa.com/product-recall or click on "Product Recalls" at the top of their homepage for more information. When you contact these services, they will help you schedule the free repair with an authorized dealer. Do not delay in making this call; ensuring your equipment is repaired promptly eliminates the risk of fire and keeps your outdoor spaces safe for use once again.Your refund, repair, or replacement options
If you own a piece of lawn and garden equipment equipped with one of the affected Kawasaki engines, you do not need to purchase new parts or pay for service. The remedy for this recall is straightforward and completely free: authorized dealers and the manufacturers will perform a repair at no cost to you. This is important because the issue involves internal engine components that require specialized knowledge and tools to address safely. Attempting to fix this yourself could void warranties, cause further damage, or leave the fire hazard unresolved. Therefore, the official guidance is clear—do not try to diagnose or repair the overheating issue on your own.
The first step in securing your free remedy is to determine which manufacturer originally sold you the equipment, as Kawasaki has coordinated with each brand to handle their specific customer base. Depending on whether your mower or utility vehicle was branded as Bad Boy Mowers, BigDog, Bobcat, Cub Cadet, Hustler, John Deere, or Kubota, you will need to contact that specific company or an authorized dealer for that brand. They have been notified of the recall and are prepared to schedule a repair appointment. In many cases, the manufacturers are also contacting all known purchasers directly, so keep an eye on your mail or email for notifications from the brand you purchased from.
To initiate the process, you should reach out to the appropriate contact based on your equipment’s brand. If you own a Bad Boy Mower, visit https://badboycountry.com/kawasaki-recall to confirm your model is affected and get next steps. For John Deere owners, call 800-537-8233 (Monday–Friday 8 a.m.–6 p.m. ET; Saturday 9 a.m.–3 p.m. ET) or visit www.deere.com and navigate to "Product Recall Information" under Services & Support. Kubota owners can call 888-458-2682 (Monday–Friday 7 a.m.–6 p.m. ET) or check https://www.kubotausa.com/service-support/safety/safety-notices. For BigDog, Cub Cadet, and Hustler owners, the shared toll-free recall hotline is 888-848-6038 (Monday–Friday 8 a.m.–6 p.m. ET), with additional resources at their respective product recall webpages.
If you are unsure who to call or if your equipment does not fall into the specific brand categories above, you can contact Kawasaki Motors Corp. USA directly at 866-836-4463 (Monday–Friday 8 a.m.–6 p.m. ET) or visit www.kawasakienginesusa.com/product-recall.html. When you contact them, have your engine model number and serial number ready, as these are located on the engine fan housing and are required to verify eligibility. Once verified, they will arrange for the free repair. There is no mention of refunds or replacements in the current recall facts; the primary remedy is a free repair to eliminate the fire and burn hazards. This ensures your equipment remains functional while making it safe to use again.
What can happen if you ignore it
It is completely understandable why you might hesitate to stop using your lawn equipment. Maybe the grass is already too long, or you are behind on yard work, or perhaps you simply do not want the inconvenience of scheduling a repair right now. However, ignoring this recall is not just about missing out on a free fix; it is about accepting a significant and unnecessary risk to your property and personal safety. The core issue with these Kawasaki engines is that they have a known tendency to overheat. This is not a minor glitch that might affect performance slightly; it is a fundamental failure in thermal management that can escalate rapidly under normal operating conditions.
When an engine overheats, the heat does not just stay contained within the machine’s metal casing. It radiates outward, potentially igniting nearby combustible materials such as dry grass clippings, leaves, fuel lines, or the plastic housings of the mower itself. The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and Kawasaki Motors USA have already received eight reports of fires associated with these specific engines. While no injuries have been reported to date, the absence of injury in past incidents is a matter of luck, not safety. Fire spreads quickly, especially outdoors where wind can fan flames toward your home, garage, or neighboring properties. What starts as a small engine fire can become a structural hazard in minutes.
Beyond the risk of fire, there is the direct physical danger of burns. The components involved are operating at extremely high temperatures. If you are mowing or maintaining your equipment when a fault occurs, you could be standing right next to a hot surface or exposed to sudden bursts of heat and smoke. A burn injury from heavy machinery is not only painful but can also lead to long-term medical complications and disability. By continuing to use the recalled engine, you are gambling with your physical well-being for the sake of convenience.
There is also the financial angle that often gets overlooked. If a fire does occur because you ignored the recall notice, your homeowner’s or renter’s insurance policy may deny coverage if it determines that you were aware of a known defect and failed to act. This could leave you personally liable for thousands of dollars in property damage, medical bills, and legal fees. The remedy offered here is free—a simple repair to address the overheating issue. Choosing to bypass this free safety measure means you are effectively choosing to carry the full financial and physical burden of a potential disaster on your own shoulders. It is a risk that simply does not need to be taken when the solution is so accessible.