BRP Recalls All-Terrain Vehicles (ATVs) Due to Crash Hazard (Recall Alert)

What was recalled

In February of 2022, a significant safety alert was issued regarding a specific line of all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) manufactured by BRP under its Can-Am brand. This recall is not limited to a single model but encompasses a broader range of utility and recreational vehicles designed for off-road use. Specifically, the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) identified that all MY 2022 Can-Am Outlander models are subject to this recall. This includes the standard Outlander 450, the Outlander 450 Max, the Outlander 570, and the Outlander 570 Max. These vehicles were marketed in various color schemes to appeal to different consumer preferences, but the mechanical issue affecting them is consistent across all these variants.

The scope of this recall is defined strictly by the model year and the specific engine displacement or frame configuration. If your vehicle is a MY 2022 Can-Am Outlander, it falls within the affected group regardless of whether you own the base 450 cc model or the larger 570 cc version. The "Max" designation typically refers to models with extended wheelbases for improved stability and passenger capacity, but these are equally included in the safety notice. It is important to note that this recall does not extend to other years of the Outlander line, nor does it affect other Can-Am brands like the Maverick or Renegade unless explicitly stated in separate notices. The focus here is exclusively on the 2022 production run of the Outlander series.

While the provided official records do not specify the exact total number of units sold globally or domestically, they confirm that BRP has identified all known purchasers of these specific models for direct contact. This suggests a comprehensive approach to notification, ensuring that no owner is left unaware of the potential defect. The vehicles were sold through authorized Can-Am dealerships across the United States, allowing consumers to purchase them in various regions. If you bought your ATV from an official dealer during or before the recall date of February 10, 2022, and it matches one of the models listed above, it is crucial to verify its status immediately.

To determine if your specific vehicle is part of this recall, you will need to look at two key identifiers. First, check the side panels of the vehicle where the model name is printed. Look for "Can-Am OUTLANDER" followed by either "450" or "570," with or without "MAX." Second, locate the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). This number is printed on the frame under the seat in the middle and also on the frame behind the right front wheel. By cross-referencing your VIN with BRP’s database or by contacting their support line, you can confirm whether your unit was manufactured as part of the recalled batch. This precise identification is necessary because the defect is tied to the engine control module software specific to these 2022 models.

The hazard, explained

At the heart of this recall is a subtle but dangerous disconnect between what you see on your dashboard and how fast your vehicle is actually moving. The recalled 2022 Can-Am Outlander ATVs suffer from a software error in their engine control module that causes the digital speedometer to display only half of the vehicle’s true ground speed. If you are traveling at 60 miles per hour, the screen might show 30 miles per hour. This is not a minor cosmetic glitch; it is a critical failure of situational awareness that fundamentally alters how an operator interacts with a powerful machine.

To understand why this specific error is so risky, we have to look at how speed influences vehicle dynamics, particularly on rough terrain. ATVs are designed for off-road use where ground conditions change rapidly. When an operator believes they are going slower than they actually are, their brain underestimates the forces acting on the tires and suspension. This leads to poor decision-making in several key areas. First, braking distance is vastly underestimated. If you think you are doing 20 mph but are actually doing 40 mph, your instinctive brake pressure will be insufficient for the actual speed, causing you to slide into obstacles or other vehicles that you thought you had time to avoid.

Second, turning becomes unpredictable. High-speed cornering requires precise counter-steering and weight distribution. When the rider believes they are in a "safe," low-speed zone, they may lean too far into a turn or carry too much momentum through a curve. On loose gravel, mud, or uneven dirt, this excess speed can cause the tires to lose traction unexpectedly. Because the driver does not perceive the high speed, they do not react to the early signs of skidding in time. The result is often a loss of control that leads to the ATV tipping over (a rollover) or veering off the trail into trees, ditches, or other hazards.

This hazard is exacerbated by the nature of all-terrain vehicles. Unlike cars with four wheels and stability control systems designed to correct skids automatically, ATVs require active, constant input from the rider to maintain balance. A false sense of security provided by an inaccurate speedometer removes that critical feedback loop. While BRP has received two reports of this speedometer inaccuracy, the potential for injury is significant because crashes at these unreported speeds can result in serious impact injuries. The lack of reported injuries so far is fortunate, but it does not reduce the physical danger present whenever the vehicle is operated under these conditions.

In short, the mechanism of harm here is cognitive delay. Your eyes tell you one thing, your body feels another (due to wind noise and vibration at higher speeds), and your brain tries to reconcile the mismatch. When that reconciliation fails because the primary data source—the speedometer—is wrong, split-second decisions become fatal errors. This is why stopping use immediately is not just a recommendation; it is the only way to prevent the gap between perception and reality from causing an accident.

Who is most at risk

The primary group at immediate risk consists of individuals who own or operate the specific 2022 Can-Am Outlander models listed in this recall, including the 450, 450 Max, 570, and 570 Max all-terrain vehicles (ATVs). While any operator of these vehicles faces the same mechanical defect, the severity of the potential outcome depends heavily on the context in which the vehicle is used. The core danger here is not just a minor inconvenience; it is a fundamental disconnect between what the driver sees and what the machine is actually doing. When the speedometer displays half the true speed, an operator may believe they are traveling at a safe, manageable pace when they are actually moving twice as fast. This illusion of control is particularly dangerous for those who rely on visual cues to judge their environment, such as navigating tight trails, avoiding obstacles, or maneuvering around other people and animals.

While the recall notice does not specify injuries related to this defect, the nature of ATVs places all riders in a high-risk category by design. These vehicles are often operated on uneven, unpaved terrain where traction can be unpredictable. For novice riders or those less experienced with heavy machinery, the gap between perceived speed and actual speed can be disorienting. A rider who thinks they are going 15 mph may actually be going 30 mph. At that higher velocity, a sudden loss of traction on a gravel patch or a wet root becomes significantly more difficult to correct. The margin for error shrinks dramatically, increasing the likelihood of a rollover or collision. This is especially true for younger riders who may have less developed reaction times and situational awareness compared to seasoned operators.

Furthermore, the risk extends beyond just the driver to passengers and bystanders. ATVs are frequently used for recreation in groups, meaning that one person’s mechanical failure can endanger others nearby. If a rider loses control because they misjudged their speed while approaching a turn or a drop-off, the vehicle may veer off course into areas where other family members or friends might be standing or walking. The elderly or those with mobility issues are particularly vulnerable in these scenarios, as they may not be able to move out of the way quickly enough if an ATV behaves unpredictably due to speedometer error. Therefore, the "risk" is not limited to the individual holding the handlebars; it encompasses anyone sharing the recreational space with a potentially malfunctioning vehicle.

It is also important to note that this hazard affects all users of the recalled models equally, regardless of their riding experience level. Even a professional rider cannot completely compensate for faulty instrumentation in high-stress situations. Under the pressure of navigating difficult terrain, cognitive load increases, and reliance on accurate dashboard feedback becomes critical. When that feedback is wrong, muscle memory and training can only do so much. Consequently, the most effective way to mitigate risk for anyone who owns these specific 2022 Can-Am Outlanders is to cease use immediately until the engine control module is updated by an authorized dealer.

How to tell if you have the recalled item

If you own a Can-Am All-Terrain Vehicle (ATV), taking a moment to verify your specific model is the most important step you can take right now. The recall issued by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and manufacturer BRP is not universal across all Can-Am products; it targets a very specific set of vehicles manufactured for the 2022 model year. Because these ATVs come in various colors and configurations, visual identification alone is not enough. You must confirm the exact model name and year to ensure your vehicle is included in this safety alert.

The recall specifically covers four distinct model variants from the 2022 production run. Your ATV will be affected if it is identified as one of the following: the Can-Am OUTLANDER 450, the Can-Am OUTLANDER 570, the Can-Am OUTLANDER MAX 450, or the Can-Am OUTLANDER MAX 570. The "MAX" designation typically refers to a longer wheelbase version of the standard Outlander, designed for carrying more passengers or gear, but both standard and MAX versions in these engine sizes are included. If your vehicle is any other model year, such as 2021 or 2023, or if it has a different engine displacement like 650 or 850, it is not part of this specific recall.

To confirm your status, you need to look at two specific locations on the vehicle where the identification numbers are permanently affixed. First, check the side panels of the ATV. The model name, such as "OUTLANDER 450," should be printed clearly here, giving you an immediate clue about your vehicle's identity. However, for absolute certainty, you must locate the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). This unique serial number is stamped into the metal frame in two places: it can be found under the seat in the middle of the frame, and also on the frame behind the right front wheel. By matching the VIN against BRP’s official recall database or by calling their consumer contact line, you can definitively determine if your specific unit needs repair.

Once you have identified that your 2022 Can-Am Outlander is part of this group, do not rely on guesswork. The issue involves the electronic engine control module and speedometer calibration, which cannot be fixed by visual inspection. Contact BRP immediately using the toll-free number 888-272-9222 or visit their official safety recall webpage to verify your VIN and schedule a free repair with an authorized dealer.

What to do — step by step

Your refund, repair, or replacement options

If you own one of the affected Can-Am Outlander ATVs, it is important to know that you do not need to worry about paying for this fix. The manufacturer, BRP, has committed to providing a free repair for all recalled units. This is a significant relief, as electronic and engine control issues can often be expensive to diagnose and resolve if paid out of pocket. In this specific recall, the remedy does not involve sending your vehicle back to a central factory or receiving a replacement chassis. Instead, the solution is designed to be handled locally through authorized service centers. This approach ensures that you can get your vehicle road-ready as quickly as possible without the logistical headache of shipping heavy machinery across long distances.

The core of the remedy involves updating the engine control module (ECM). The ECM is essentially the brain of your ATV’s engine management system. In this case, a software glitch was causing the speedometer to display only half of the vehicle's true speed. By updating the software in the ECM, Can-Am dealers will correct this data discrepancy, ensuring that your dashboard accurately reflects your actual velocity. This update is performed entirely by certified professionals who have access to the specific technical tools and proprietary software required for Can-Am vehicles. You should not attempt to perform this update yourself, as improper handling of electronic control units can lead to further mechanical issues or void other warranties.

To initiate this free repair, you have two primary paths available to you. First, BRP is proactively reaching out to all known purchasers directly. If you are among those contacted, follow the instructions provided in their communication to coordinate a time for your free repair with a local dealer. This direct outreach is designed to streamline the process and ensure that no owner falls through the cracks. However, if you have not received a call or email from BRP, or if you simply prefer to take matters into your own hands, you can contact a Can-Am dealer yourself. Look for an authorized dealer in your area—they are equipped to verify your vehicle’s eligibility and schedule the necessary software update.

You can also reach out directly to BRP for assistance or to confirm the status of the recall. Call their toll-free number at 888-272-9222. Their customer service team is available from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. ET, seven days a week, which makes it easy to get help regardless of your schedule. Additionally, you can visit the official Can-Am owner zone online at https://can-am.brp.com/off-road/us/en/owner-zone/safety-recalls/speedometer-inaccuracy---risk-of-crash.html or navigate to https://can-am.brp.com/off-road/us/en/ and click on "Safety Recalls" in the footer. These resources provide further details and confirm that the repair is being handled at no cost to you. Remember, the goal here is safety and accuracy, and the company is covering all associated expenses to make that happen.

What can happen if you ignore it

When a recall involves a mechanical or electronic component that directly affects how you perceive the vehicle’s operation, ignoring the notification is not merely an administrative oversight—it is a significant safety gamble. In this specific case, the hazard is rooted in a deceptive instrument cluster. The speedometer on the affected 2022 Can-Am Outlander models displays exactly half of the vehicle’s true speed. This is not a minor calibration error that might only affect your sense of time; it fundamentally distorts your spatial awareness and physical control inputs while riding.

The primary danger lies in the disconnect between what you see and what is actually happening. If your dashboard indicates you are traveling at 20 miles per hour, your brain naturally calibrates your steering, braking, and throttle responses to that speed. You might lean into a turn or apply brake pressure appropriate for that velocity. However, if the vehicle is actually moving at 40 miles per hour, those same inputs become dangerously insufficient. At higher speeds, the physics of cornering change dramatically. A turn that feels manageable at 20 mph can become unstable and unpredictable at 40 mph, especially on the uneven terrain where ATVs are typically driven. The risk is not just about going too fast; it is about operating the vehicle in a state you believe is controlled while it is actually approaching its physical limits.

This misalignment creates a high probability of losing control. Riders may find themselves unable to slow down effectively because they do not realize their speed until it is too late, or they may overcorrect their steering based on false information, leading to a rollover or a collision with obstacles that were visible but underestimated. The CPSC and BRP have noted two incidents where the speedometer failed to display the correct speed. While no injuries have been reported in these specific instances, it is crucial to understand that near-misses are often indicators of severe potential harm. In off-road environments, where ground conditions can shift rapidly from hard-packed dirt to loose gravel or mud, a split-second delay in reaction time due to inaccurate data can result in a crash with serious consequences.

Continuing to use the ATV after the recall date of February 10, 2022, means you are voluntarily assuming this unmitigated risk. The remedy—a free update to the engine control module—is straightforward and immediate. By delaying action, you are not saving time or money; you are extending the window during which your safety depends on luck rather than accurate information. The goal of any recall is to prevent harm before it occurs. Ignoring the alert keeps the hazard active in your daily activities, turning a simple software glitch into a potential catalyst for a life-altering accident.

Staying safe: broader tips

While specific product recalls address immediate defects in manufactured goods, true safety relies on building a proactive habit of vigilance and proper maintenance for all your equipment. With recreational vehicles like ATVs, the margin for error is often dictated by how well you understand both the machine and the environment it operates in. One of the most effective ways to stay ahead of potential hazards is to treat your owner’s manual not as a reference book you glance at once, but as an active part of your pre-ride checklist. These manuals contain critical information about weight limits, tire pressures, and maintenance schedules that are essential for keeping the vehicle stable and responsive. When equipment is maintained according to the manufacturer’s specifications, mechanical failures become far less likely, reducing the risk of sudden loss of control.

Another crucial layer of protection is regular, independent inspection of your gear. Even if you have recently purchased a vehicle or had it serviced, taking time to check for loose bolts, worn brake pads, or cracked handlebars before every major outing can prevent minor issues from becoming catastrophic failures. For electronic components, such as speedometers or engine control modules, ensuring that displays are clear and accurate is vital. If you notice any discrepancies between what your instrument panel says and how the vehicle feels on the ground, do not ignore it. Trust your physical senses; if the ride feels unstable or the speed seems off relative to your visual surroundings, pull over safely and investigate before continuing. This intuitive check complements technical diagnostics and can catch problems that automated systems might miss.

Beyond mechanical checks, environmental awareness plays a massive role in crash prevention. Terrain conditions change rapidly due to weather, mud, or debris, and what was safe yesterday might be hazardous today. Always scout the path ahead when possible, look for hidden obstacles like rocks or roots, and adjust your speed accordingly. It is also wise to wear appropriate safety gear, including helmets that meet current safety standards, gloves, and protective eyewear, regardless of how experienced you feel. These items do not prevent accidents, but they significantly reduce the severity of injuries if one occurs.

Finally, stay informed about broader safety trends by regularly checking official recall databases from agencies like the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). Subscribing to safety alerts or signing up for notifications from manufacturers ensures you are aware of defects in products you own or use. Knowledge is your best defense against preventable accidents, turning passive ownership into active, responsible stewardship of your safety and that of others around you.