What was recalled
The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has issued a recall notice concerning specific side-by-side utility vehicles manufactured by BRP under its Can-Am brand. This action, announced on July 22, 2021, targets a significant segment of the Defender HD10 lineup produced for model years 2020 and 2021. These are not standard passenger cars or simple ATVs; they are robust, heavy-duty utility vehicles designed for work and recreation in challenging terrains. The recall specifically affects vehicles that have been equipped with track kits, which replace traditional tires to allow the vehicle to traverse deep snow. It is important to note that while the base vehicles were sold in various colors, the critical factor for this recall is the presence of specific aftermarket track systems: the Apache 360 LT and the Apache Backcountry track systems. These tracks are sold separately by BRP, meaning that a Defender HD10 might only be part of the recall if it has been fitted with one of these particular configurations.
The scope of this recall is quite broad within the HD10 family. It encompasses twenty distinct vehicle models, ranging from standard single-cab units to larger MAX cab variants and specialized 6X6 configurations. If you own a Can-Am Defender HD10, your specific model name matters less than confirming whether it has the affected tracks installed. The list of included models is comprehensive, covering the base HD10, the DPS (Dual Purpose Suspension) HD10, the MOS HD10, the XMR (Maximum Off-Road) HD10, the XT HD10, and the XTP HD10. It also includes several cabbed versions such as the CAB HD10, CAB XT HD10, LTD CAB HD10, MAX CAB XT HD10, MAX DPS HD10, MAX LTD CAB HD10, MAX XMR HD10, MAX XT HD10, PRO DPS HD10, PRO LTD CAB HD10, and PRO XT HD10. Furthermore, the 6X6 variants of the Defender, including the standard 6X6 HD10, 6X6 DPS HD10, and 6X6 XT, are also included in this safety alert.
To determine if your vehicle is part of this recall, you must first verify that it is a model year 2020 or 2021 Defender with an 82 HP engine. Once confirmed, check for the presence of the Apache 360 LT or Apache Backcountry track kits. The definitive way to identify your specific unit is by locating the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) label. This label is printed on a sticker found under the glove box of the vehicle. The model name and VIN are clearly printed there, allowing you to cross-reference your vehicle against the official list of affected models provided in the recall alert. BRP is actively contacting all known purchasers directly to inform them of this issue, but consumers should not wait for that notification if they can confirm their vehicle matches these criteria.
The hazard, explained
To understand why this recall is necessary, it helps to look at how these side-by-side vehicles operate in winter conditions. The Defender HD10 models affected by this recall are often equipped with specialized track kits—specifically the Apache 360 LT and the Apache Backcountry systems—designed to replace wheels for better traction on snow and ice. While these tracks allow the vehicle to move through deep powder, they create a unique mechanical vulnerability related to heat management.
The core of the problem lies in the Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) air intake. In normal operation, this intake pulls in cool outside air to regulate the temperature of the transmission components, particularly the drive belt. The CVT is essential for shifting gears smoothly without a traditional clutch, and it generates significant heat during use. Under standard conditions, the airflow through the stock intake keeps the belt within safe operating temperatures.
However, when these vehicles are equipped with the recalled track kits and driven in snow, the physical dynamics change. As the tracks rotate through deep snowbanks, they act like a conveyor belt for slush and ice. According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), this moving mass can completely obstruct the stock CVT air intake. When the intake is blocked, the critical airflow stops. Without that cooling breath, the drive belt begins to overheat rapidly.
As the temperature inside the transmission housing spikes, the drive belt reaches a critical failure point. The heat causes the belt material to weaken and eventually break. This is not just a mechanical malfunction; it is a thermal event. A broken, overheated belt can shed hot debris and sparks into the engine compartment or nearby components that may be combustible. This is what creates the fire hazard mentioned in the recall alert. The risk is immediate once the obstruction occurs and the belt fails.
It is important to note that this is not a theoretical risk. BRP has received three confirmed reports of fires resulting from this specific mechanism. While no injuries have been reported so far, the potential for property damage and serious harm is significant because fire spreads quickly in enclosed mechanical spaces. The hazard is specific to the combination of the track kit and snow conditions; without snow obstructing the intake, the normal airflow usually prevents this overheating sequence.
This type of failure highlights a common challenge with aftermarket modifications on utility vehicles. While track kits improve mobility, they can inadvertently interfere with factory-engineered safety systems like cooling intakes. The stock design assumes a certain level of air clearance that tracks do not provide in snowy environments. Therefore, the recall is not about the vehicle itself being defective in all conditions, but rather about a specific interaction between the accessory and the environment that creates an unacceptable risk.
If you are using these vehicles in winter, understanding this mechanism is crucial. It is not enough to simply watch for warning lights; by the time a sensor might detect overheating, the belt may already be compromised. The only way to prevent the obstruction from happening in the first place is to avoid the conditions that cause it until the free repair is completed.
Who is most at risk
The primary group facing immediate danger from this recall consists of owners and operators of specific 2020 and 2021 model year Can-Am Defender side-by-side vehicles. These are not standard passenger cars found in typical driveways; they are robust, utility-focused machines designed for work on farms, ranches, construction sites, and large properties. The risk is specifically tied to those who have equipped their vehicles with track kits—namely the Apache 360 LT or the Apache Backcountry systems—which are sold separately by BRP. If you drive a standard wheeled Defender without these tracks, this particular fire hazard does not apply to your vehicle. However, if you own one of the 20 listed HD10 models, including the DPS, MOS, XMR, XT, XTP, CAB, MAX, PRO, or 6X6 variants, and you use track kits, you are in the affected group.
The hazard itself creates a specific type of risk profile that affects anyone using these vehicles in cold, snowy conditions. The problem arises when snow accumulates and completely obstructs the stock CVT air intake. This obstruction causes the drive belt to overheat and eventually break, which can lead to a fire. Therefore, the people most at risk are those who operate their side-by-sides in winter environments where snow is present. This includes agricultural workers, land managers, utility crews, and outdoor enthusiasts who rely on these vehicles for transportation or work in regions with significant winter weather. The risk is not just about owning the car; it is about the act of driving it in snow while using the recalled track kits.
In terms of physical vulnerability, there are no specific demographic groups like children or the elderly that are uniquely targeted by this mechanical failure. However, the nature of side-by-side vehicles means that adults are typically the operators. The danger lies in the suddenness of the mechanical failure. A fire starting in the engine compartment can happen quickly once the belt breaks due to overheating. For the operator, who is often alone or with a small group in remote locations, this poses a serious safety threat. There have already been three reported incidents of fires involving these vehicles, though fortunately, no injuries have been reported so far. This underscores that while the mechanical failure is contained within the vehicle’s systems, the consequence—a fire—is a direct threat to human life and property.
The risk is also heightened for those who may not be aware of the defect until it is too late. BRP has stated they are contacting all known purchasers directly, but gaps in communication can exist. If you purchased a used vehicle from this batch or if your contact information has changed, you might not receive the notification in time. This makes it crucial for anyone who fits the description above to proactively check their Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) and model details, rather than waiting for mail or email. The combination of heavy machinery, flammable components, and remote usage environments means that awareness is your best defense against this specific hazard.
How to tell if you have the recalled item
Determining whether your side-by-side vehicle is part of this specific safety recall requires a careful check of your model year, engine specifications, and equipment configuration. The recall issued by BRP on July 22, 2021, does not apply to every Can-Am Defender on the road; it targets a very specific subset of vehicles manufactured during the 2020 and 2021 model years. If your vehicle was produced in a different year, it is not included in this particular alert. However, if you own a 2020 or 2021 Defender equipped with an 82 HP engine, you must verify whether it has been fitted with one of the recalled track kits.
The critical factor in identification is not just the base vehicle model, but the specific aftermarket components attached to it. This recall affects vehicles that are equipped with either the Apache 360 LT track system or the Apache Backcountry track systems. It is important to note that these track kits were sold separately by BRP, meaning your vehicle might look standard if the tracks are currently removed or stored. The hazard exists because of the interaction between the stock CVT air intake and these specific snow tracks, so the presence of the kit is essential to the risk profile.
To confirm your status, you need to locate the official identification label on your vehicle. This label is printed with both the model name and the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). You will find this label tucked away under the glove box. Once you have located it, compare the model name printed there against the list of affected models below. The recall covers a wide range of Defender variants, including but not limited to the HD10, DPS HD10, MOS HD10, XMR HD10, XT HD10, XTP HD10, CAB HD10, CAB XT HD10, LTD CAB HD10, MAX CAB XT HD10, MAX DPS HD10, MAX LTD CAB HD10, MAX XMR HD10, MAX XT HD10, PRO DPS HD10, PRO LTD CAB HD10, PRO XT HD10, 6X6 HD10, 6X6 DPS HD10, and 6X6 XT. If your model name matches one of these designations and you have the specified track kits installed, your vehicle is part of this recall.
- Model Years: 2020 or 2021
- Engine: 82 HP engine
- Required Equipment: Apache 360 LT or Apache Backcountry track systems
- VIN Location: Under the glove box
If you are unsure whether your specific trim level is included, or if you cannot find the label under the glove box, do not guess. The list of affected models is extensive, and minor variations in naming conventions can be confusing. In cases where visual identification is difficult or incomplete, the safest course of action is to contact BRP directly using the toll-free number provided in the recall notice. They can look up your VIN to give you a definitive answer regarding your vehicle’s status.
What to do — step by step
If you own one of the recalled BRP Defender HD10 side-by-side vehicles equipped with a track kit, your immediate priority is to eliminate the risk of fire before it can start. The recall details indicate that the stock CVT air intake can become completely obstructed with snow, leading to drive belt overheating and potential ignition. Therefore, the first and most critical step is to immediately stop using any track kits on these vehicles when operating in snow conditions. This is not a suggestion to wait for the official repair; it is an urgent safety measure to prevent the hazard from occurring while you arrange for service. Please do not take your vehicle out into snowy terrain until this issue has been addressed by a professional. Once you have secured the vehicle and ensured it is not being used in hazardous conditions, you need to initiate the remedy process. BRP is offering a free repair to resolve this defect, but you must contact them or an authorized dealer to schedule this service. You can reach BRP’s customer support team toll-free at 888-272-9222. Their representatives are available from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. ET, Monday through Sunday, making it easy to get assistance regardless of your schedule. When you call, have your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) ready, as this will help them locate your specific record and confirm that your unit is part of this recall. Alternatively, you can manage the process online if you prefer digital communication. Visit https://www.brp.com/content/canam-offroad/en_CA/form/contact-us.html to use their online contact form. Another effective route is to go to https://can-am.brp.com/off-road/us/en/, click on "Owner Zone," and then select "Safety Recalls." This dedicated portal is designed specifically for handling these types of safety notifications and repairs efficiently. Whether you choose to call or go online, ensure you clearly state that your vehicle is subject to the July 22, 2021, recall regarding fire hazards with track kits. It is also important to note that BRP is actively contacting all known purchasers directly about this recall. Keep an eye on your mail and email for correspondence from the company. If you receive a notification from them, follow the instructions provided in that communication closely, as they may contain specific details about your nearest service center or additional steps required for your particular unit. Do not ignore these messages, as they are part of the official remedy process. Finally, once you have contacted BRP or visited a Can-Am dealer, schedule your appointment for the free repair as soon as possible. The repair is provided at no cost to you because the defect was in the original manufacturing of the CVT air intake system. By completing this step, you ensure that your vehicle is safe to use again, even in winter conditions, without the risk of the drive belt overheating and breaking due to snow obstruction.Your refund, repair, or replacement options
If you own one of the recalled Can-Am Defender HD10 side-by-side vehicles, you do not need to worry about paying for the fix. BRP has arranged a comprehensive remedy that is entirely free for you. The company is taking full responsibility for the safety defect and will provide the necessary repairs without any cost to the owner. This means you will not be charged for parts, labor, or any other expenses related to correcting the fire hazard. The primary path to resolution is through an authorized Can-Am dealer, who will perform a free repair on your vehicle. This approach is designed to get your vehicle back to a safe operating condition as quickly and conveniently as possible, ensuring that you can continue using your side-by-side without financial burden.
To initiate this process, you should contact a local Can-Am dealer directly. They are equipped to handle the specific repair required for the stock CVT air intake issue. While BRP is also contacting all known purchasers directly with their own communications, reaching out to a dealer is a proactive step you can take to schedule your service appointment. It is important to note that while the repair addresses the mechanical fix, there is an immediate interim safety measure you must follow: you should stop using any track kits on these recalled vehicles in snow conditions right away. This temporary restriction is critical because the hazard involves snow obstructing the air intake, which can lead to belt overheating and fire. The free repair will resolve the underlying design flaw, but until that work is completed, avoiding snowy terrain with the track kit is your best line of defense.
If you have questions about the repair process, need assistance finding a dealer, or want to verify the status of your vehicle’s inclusion in this recall, BRP has established dedicated support channels. You can call their toll-free number at 888-272-9222. This customer service line is available around the clock, from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Eastern Time, every day of the week, Monday through Sunday. This accessibility ensures that you can get help whenever it fits your schedule, whether that is early in the morning or late at night. Additionally, BRP offers online support options for those who prefer digital communication.
You can reach BRP through their online contact form located at https://www.brp.com/content/canam-offroad/en_CA/form/contact-us.html. Alternatively, if you are a registered owner, you may find specific recall information and resources by visiting https://can-am.brp.com/off-road/us/en/ and navigating to the "Owner Zone," then selecting "Safety Recalls." These digital tools complement the phone support and provide another layer of convenience for managing your recall remedy. Remember, the goal here is safety and peace of mind, and BRP has structured these options to make that journey as smooth as possible for you.
What can happen if you ignore it
When a manufacturer issues a recall due to a fire hazard, the instruction to stop using the product is not merely a suggestion or a bureaucratic formality; it is a critical safety boundary. In the case of these specific BRP side-by-side vehicles, ignoring the recall means continuing to operate equipment with a known mechanical flaw that can escalate rapidly from a minor inconvenience to a dangerous emergency. The core issue lies in the stock CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) air intake system. Under normal conditions, this component functions adequately. However, when you utilize the recalled track kits—specifically the Apache 360 LT and Apache Backcountry systems—in snowy conditions, snow can easily infiltrate and completely obstruct that air intake.
To understand why this is so dangerous, it helps to look at how the vehicle operates. The drive belt inside the CVT is responsible for transferring power from the engine to the wheels. It generates significant heat during operation and relies on proper airflow to stay cool. When snow blocks the intake, that cooling airflow is cut off. Without adequate ventilation, the drive belt begins to overheat far beyond its designed tolerance levels. As the temperature rises, the structural integrity of the belt fails, causing it to break or shred. This sudden mechanical failure does not just leave you stranded; it creates a cascade of secondary hazards.
The immediate consequence of this overheating and breaking is a high risk of fire. The friction and extreme heat generated by the failing belt can ignite nearby combustible materials within the vehicle’s engine compartment. According to BRP, there have already been three reported incidents involving fires related to this specific defect. While it is reassuring that no injuries have been reported in these cases so far, the potential for severe injury or property damage remains a very real possibility. A fire on a moving off-road vehicle can spread quickly, potentially trapping occupants or causing the vehicle to become uncontrollable, leading to secondary accidents.
Beyond the immediate risk of fire, ignoring the recall also means you are forfeiting your right to a free repair. BRP has committed to providing a complimentary fix for this issue. By continuing to drive the vehicle, you are not only putting yourself in danger but also potentially voiding any future warranty coverage related to the transmission or engine components that might be damaged by the fire hazard. If the heat destroys the belt or damages surrounding lines and hoses, the cost of those repairs could be substantial if paid out of pocket later. More importantly, every mile you drive in these conditions increases the statistical likelihood of experiencing a catastrophic failure. The safest course of action is to cease using the track kits in snow immediately and contact an authorized dealer to schedule your free repair, ensuring your vehicle remains safe and reliable for future use.