What was recalled
In the world of winter recreation, few experiences rival the thrill of carving through fresh powder on a high-performance snowmobile. However, for owners of specific Ski-Doo models, that excitement has been overshadowed by a significant safety concern. On May 11, 2023, Bombardier Recreational Products (BRP), the manufacturer behind the Ski-Doo brand, announced an expanded recall affecting a substantial number of their premium snowmobiles. This action was taken due to a potential fire hazard linked to the engine’s fuel system. If you are a winter enthusiast who has recently purchased or owns a Ski-Doo equipped with specific 850 E-TEC engines, it is crucial to understand exactly which vehicles are involved and why they have been pulled from use.
The recall specifically targets Ski-Doo snowmobiles manufactured for the 2021 and 2022 model years. These are not entry-level machines but rather high-end performance vehicles designed for serious backcountry riding, touring, and trail use. The issue is isolated to models equipped with either the standard 850 E-TEC engine or the more powerful 850 E-TEC Turbo engine. BRP has identified that these particular engines utilize a fuel injector hose retainer screw that can potentially loosen over time. While the snowmobiles were sold in a wide variety of colors to suit individual tastes, the unifying factor among all recalled units is their engine type and model year. Ski-Doo and the specific model name are clearly printed on the side panels of these vehicles, making them visually identifiable once you know what to look for.
The scope of this recall includes several distinct lines within the Ski-Doo lineup. For both 2021 and 2022, the affected models include the Backcountry, Expedition, Freeride, MXZ, Renegade, and Summit series. It is important to note that certain variants within these names are included while others may not be, depending on whether they carry the specific turbocharged or non-turbocharged 850 E-TEC engine configuration. Specifically, the recall lists the 2021 Backcountry 850 E-TEC, Expedition 850 E-TEC, Freeride 850 E-TEC, MXZ 850 E-TEC, Renegade 850 E-TEC, Summit 850 E-TEC, and Summit 850 E-TEC Turbo. For the 2022 model year, the list expands to include the Backcountry 850 E-TEC Turbo, Expedition 850 E-TEC Turbo, MXZ 850 E-TEC Turbo, and Renegade 850 E-TEC Turbo. These vehicles were sold through authorized Ski-Doo dealerships across the United States.
To determine if your specific machine is part of this batch, you will need to locate the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). This unique identifier is found on a decal located on the right-hand side of the tunnel, directly underneath the seat. Authorized Ski-Doo dealers have access to databases that can cross-reference this VIN against BRP’s internal records to confirm whether your specific snowmobile is included in this recall. If your VIN matches one of the listed configurations above, it falls under this safety alert. The expansion of this recall indicates that BRP has identified additional units or broader model lines than initially reported, underscoring the importance of verifying your vehicle's status directly with a dealer or through their official channels.
The hazard, explained
To understand why this recall is so serious, we first need to look at how the fuel system in these specific Ski-Doo snowmobiles is put together. These vehicles, which include the 2021 and 2022 models equipped with 850 E-TEC and 850 E-TEC Turbo engines, rely on high-pressure fuel delivery to run smoothly. A small but critical component in this system is a hose that carries fuel from the injector. To keep this hose securely attached to its connection point, manufacturers use a tiny screw called a retainer screw. Think of this screw as a clamp that holds everything tight and sealed.
The problem identified by Bombardier Recreational Products (BRP) is that this specific retainer screw can become loose over time. In the world of snowmobiling, vehicles are subjected to extreme conditions—vibrations from rough terrain, freezing temperatures that make metal contract, and intense physical forces during acceleration and braking. Normally, these screws are designed to withstand such stress, but in this case, the design or installation process allows the screw to gradually work itself loose. When a screw loosens, it no longer applies enough pressure to keep the hose firmly in place.
Once that connection is compromised, the seal breaks. High-pressure fuel, which is highly volatile and flammable, begins to escape from the line. This is not a slow drip; it can be a significant leak because the fuel system operates under considerable pressure to ensure the engine gets enough gas to run. When this fuel sprays or drips onto hot parts of the snowmobile’s engine or exhaust system, or even just accumulates in an enclosed space near a spark, the result is immediate ignition. This is why the hazard is classified as a fire risk—it is not just about losing performance; it is about creating a sudden, uncontrolled flame.
The real-world impact of this mechanical failure is already being felt by owners. According to official reports from BRP and the CPSC, there have been 14 confirmed instances where fuel leaks occurred due to this issue. Unfortunately, these leaks have directly led to four separate fires. Imagine being out on the trail, enjoying the winter landscape, when suddenly your vehicle becomes a source of danger rather than a means of transport. The heat from an engine fire can spread rapidly, potentially damaging the snowmobile and, more importantly, putting the rider in immediate physical danger. This is not a theoretical risk; it is a documented pattern of failure that turns a mechanical oversight into a life-safety emergency.
Understanding this mechanism highlights why you cannot simply "drive through" this issue. Unlike a loose bolt on a fender that might rattle, a fuel leak in a high-pressure system is active and dangerous every second it exists. The combination of available fuel, an ignition source (the engine or exhaust), and the lack of containment (due to the loose screw) creates the perfect conditions for a fire. This is why immediate action is required. By replacing the retainer screw with a new, properly secured one, dealers can eliminate the path that allows fuel to escape, effectively removing the fire hazard before it ever has a chance to manifest.
Who is most at risk
The individuals most immediately at risk from this recall are the owners and operators of specific Ski-Doo snowmobiles manufactured by Bombardier Recreational Products (BRP). Specifically, this hazard affects riders who own 2021 and 2022 model year snowmobiles equipped with either the 850 E-TEC or the 850 E-TEC Turbo engines. If you ride any of the following models—Backcountry, Expedition, Freeride, MXZ, Renegade, or Summit—you fall directly into the group that needs to take action. These vehicles are often purchased by winter sports enthusiasts who rely on their machines for recreation in remote, snowy environments.
The primary danger stems from a mechanical failure where the fuel injector hose retainer screw can loosen over time. When this happens, fuel begins to leak onto hot engine components. For the rider, the risk is not just about property damage; it is about personal safety. Fuel leaks in snowmobiles are particularly dangerous because they can ignite rapidly, leading to fires that may trap the operator inside or near the vehicle. In the context of winter sports, riders often venture into isolated areas far from immediate help. A fire on a snowmobile is not only a threat of burns but also a significant risk of smoke inhalation and being stranded in freezing conditions while trying to extinguish flames or escape the wreckage.
While the mechanical defect does not discriminate by age, certain groups may face heightened vulnerability due to the nature of the hazard. Younger riders or those less experienced with high-performance two-stroke engines might be slower to recognize the early signs of a fuel leak, such as a strong gasoline odor or visible puddles, especially if they are wearing heavy winter gear that limits their sensory awareness. Older riders, who may have slower reaction times, could find it more difficult to execute an emergency shutdown and evacuation quickly enough once a fire has started. Furthermore, families who use these snowmobiles for group rides face compounded risks; a fire can endanger not just the operator but also passengers or nearby friends and family members who are close by.
It is also important to note that the risk extends beyond just the driver. Passengers on dual-seater models are equally exposed to the same fire hazard. Additionally, bystanders in the vicinity of a parked snowmobile with an active fuel leak could be at risk if they attempt to inspect or move the vehicle without realizing the danger. Therefore, the "at-risk" population includes anyone who is near these specific 2021 and 2022 Ski-Doo models, whether they are operating them, riding as a passenger, or simply standing close by in the snow.
How to tell if you have the recalled item
Determining whether your snowmobile is part of this specific recall requires a careful check of both the model year and the engine type, as well as locating your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). Because BRP has expanded the scope of this recall, it is easy to assume that only certain high-end models are affected, but the list includes several popular lines across two consecutive years. To start, look at the side panels of your vehicle. Both the brand name "Ski-Doo" and the specific model name are printed clearly there. This initial visual check helps narrow down whether you own one of the affected machines.
The recall specifically targets Ski-Doo snowmobiles from model years 2021 and 2022. However, not every 2021 or 2022 Ski-Doo is included. The critical factor is the engine configuration. You must have a vehicle equipped with an 850 E-TEC or an 850 E-TEC Turbo engine. If your snowmobile has a different engine size or type, it is not part of this particular safety alert. The following specific models and configurations are included in the recall:
- 2021 Models: Backcountry 850 E-TEC, Expedition 850 E-TEC, Freeride 850 E-TEC, MXZ 850 E-TEC, Renegade 850 E-TEC, Summit 850 E-TEC.
- 2021 Turbo Models: Freeride 850 E-TEC Turbo, MXZ 850 E-TEC Turbo, Renegade 850 E-TEC Turbo, Summit 850 E-TEC Turbo.
- 2022 Models: Backcountry 850 E-TEC, Expedition 850 E-TEC, MXZ 850 E-TEC, Renegade 850 E-TEC.
- 2022 Turbo Models: Backcountry 850 E-TEC Turbo, Expedition 850 E-TEC Turbo, MXZ 850 E-TEC Turbo, Renegade 850 E-TEC Turbo.
The vehicles were sold in a variety of colors, so the exterior paint does not determine whether your unit is recalled. Instead, you need to verify your unique VIN to be absolutely certain. This number is located on a decal situated on the right-hand side of the tunnel, directly underneath the seat. You may need to lift the seat or move slightly to see this label clearly. Once you have the VIN, do not rely solely on your memory of the model year. BRP and authorized Ski-Doo dealers can check their internal databases using this number to confirm if your specific serial number falls within the affected batch.
If you are unsure about your engine type or cannot locate the VIN decal, the safest course of action is to contact a local Ski-Doo dealer immediately. They have the tools and access to verify your vehicle’s status without you needing to decode technical specifications yourself. Remember, this recall applies to vehicles sold regardless of their color or specific trim level, so visual inspection alone is not enough. Use the VIN as your primary key to unlock the truth about your snowmobile’s safety status.
What to do — step by step
If you own a Ski-Doo snowmobile from the affected model years, your immediate priority is safety. The recall involves a specific mechanical failure where the fuel injector hose retainer screw can loosen, leading to fuel leaks and potential fires. Because this hazard exists even when the vehicle is not in use (due to residual pressure or vapors), you must follow these steps carefully and without delay.
- Stop using the snowmobile immediately. Do not attempt to start, drive, or operate your Ski-Doo. The risk of fire is real, with BRP having already received fourteen reports of fuel leaks resulting in four fires. Continuing to use the vehicle, even for a short distance, significantly increases the danger to you and those around you. Treat the machine as if it were actively leaking fuel until a professional confirms otherwise.
- Contact an authorized Ski-Doo dealer. Your next step is to reach out to a local dealership that services Ski-Doo vehicles. You will need to provide them with your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) so they can verify whether your specific unit is part of this recall. The VIN is located on a decal on the right-hand side of the tunnel, underneath the seat. Dealers have access to the official database and can confirm if your model year (2021 or 2022) and engine type (850 E-TEC or 850 E-TEC Turbo) are included in this expansion.
- Schedule a free repair appointment. Once your vehicle is confirmed as part of the recall, work with the dealer to schedule a service appointment. BRP is coordinating directly with dealers to inspect the snowmobiles and install a new E-TEC fuel injector hose retainer screw if necessary. This repair is provided at no cost to you. Do not attempt to fix this yourself; the correct torque and installation technique are critical to preventing future loosening.
- Reach out to BRP directly for support. If you have questions about the process, need help locating a dealer, or want to confirm your eligibility, you can contact Bombardier Recreational Products (BRP) directly. Call their toll-free number at 888-272-9222. Their customer service team is available from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. ET, Monday through Sunday. Alternatively, you can visit ski-doo.com and click on "Safety Recall" at the bottom of the page for detailed online resources.
Please remember that BRP is also contacting all known purchasers directly to coordinate these repairs. However, proactive steps by you ensure your safety is not delayed. If you are unsure about your model, checking the side panels for the "Ski-Doo" brand and model name, along with your VIN, is the most reliable method of identification.
Your refund, repair, or replacement options
If you own one of the affected Ski-Doo snowmobiles, the good news is that you do not need to worry about covering the cost of fixing this serious safety issue. Bombardier Recreational Products (BRP) has committed to providing a free remedy for all units included in this recall. This means that neither you nor your dealer will be charged for the inspection or the necessary repair work. The company is taking full responsibility for coordinating these repairs, ensuring that the process is as seamless and stress-free as possible for owners who have invested in their winter recreation equipment.
The primary remedy for this recall involves a specific mechanical fix rather than a return of funds or a replacement vehicle. BRP has stated that they are contacting all known purchasers directly to help coordinate the free repair with authorized dealers. Your first step should be to reach out to a Ski-Doo dealer to determine if your specific snowmobile is included in this recall. Once you have confirmed that your model year and engine type match the affected list (2021 and 2022 models with 850 E-TEC or 850 E-TEC Turbo engines), you can schedule an appointment for the repair. The dealer will inspect the fuel injector hose retainer screw and, if necessary, install a new one to prevent it from loosening and causing a fuel leak.
To initiate this process, you have two convenient options for contact. You can call the BRP toll-free number at 888-272-9222. Their customer service team is available from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. ET, Monday through Sunday, which provides ample flexibility if you need to speak with someone outside of typical business hours. Alternatively, you can visit the official Ski-Doo website at https://www.ski-doo.com/us/en/owner-zone/maintenance/safety-recalls or navigate to www.ski-doo.com and click on "Safety Recall" at the bottom of the page for more detailed information. These resources are designed to guide you through the verification process and connect you with the nearest service center.
It is important to understand that this remedy focuses on correcting the defect while allowing you to keep using your snowmobile safely. Because the issue involves a potential fire hazard, BRP emphasizes that you must immediately stop using the recalled snowmobiles until the repair is completed. The free inspection and part installation are intended to resolve the fuel leak risk entirely. By following these steps and utilizing the provided contact channels, you ensure that your vehicle is brought up to safety standards without any out-of-pocket expense or inconvenience to you.
What can happen if you ignore it
It is completely understandable why you might hesitate to stop using your snowmobile. Winter weather is fleeting, and the urge to get out on the trails while the snow is fresh is powerful. You may feel that a loose screw is a minor mechanical annoyance rather than a critical safety issue. However, ignoring this specific recall is not a harmless delay; it is an invitation to a dangerous situation that can escalate very quickly. The core of the problem lies in the fuel injector hose retainer screw. When this component loosens, it fails to hold the fuel line securely in place. This allows high-pressure fuel to escape from the engine compartment where it belongs and drip onto hot surfaces or electrical components below.
The consequences of continuing to operate a recalled Ski-Doo are not theoretical. According to the recall data from BRP and the CPSC, this specific failure mode has already resulted in four confirmed fires out of 14 reported fuel leaks. Fuel is highly volatile. Once it leaks onto the hot exhaust system or other heated parts of the engine, ignition can occur almost instantaneously. A fire in an engine compartment does not stay contained for long. Flames can spread to the surrounding body panels, electrical wiring, and fuel lines, turning a mechanical repair into a catastrophic loss of the vehicle and, more importantly, a life-threatening emergency.
Beyond the immediate risk of fire, ignoring the recall exposes you to severe physical danger while riding. A fuel leak in the middle of a trail means you are operating a machine that is actively dripping flammable liquid onto its own hot parts. If the fire takes hold while you are moving at speed, you may not have time to react. The heat can intensify rapidly, potentially causing burns or forcing an emergency evacuation from the vehicle in harsh winter conditions. Being stranded in the cold after a mechanical failure is unpleasant; being stranded because of a preventable fire is terrifying.
There is also the financial and practical reality of waiting too long. While BRP is offering a free repair, that offer is designed to fix the problem before it causes damage. If you continue to ride and a fire does occur, the cost of replacing your snowmobile could run into tens of thousands of dollars. Insurance may not cover damage resulting from known, unaddressed safety recalls. By acting now, you protect your investment and, more importantly, your safety. The free repair is simple and quick; the alternative is a tragedy that no amount of winter riding enjoyment can make worth the risk.