What was recalled
If you own a Can-Am all-terrain vehicle (ATV) from the recent past, it is important to know exactly which models are part of this specific safety alert. The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), in coordination with BRP, has issued a recall that covers every single one of nine distinct model year 2021 Can-Am Outlander and Renegade vehicles. This is not a partial recall affecting only a handful of units; rather, it encompasses the entire production run for these specific configurations during that calendar year. The primary brand involved is BRP, specifically their Can-Am line of off-road vehicles, which are widely recognized for their utility and recreational use in rugged terrain.
The scope of this recall is precise regarding the model names printed on the side panels of the affected machines. You need to check your vehicle against the following list to see if it falls under this alert. The recalled models include the MY 2021 Can-Am Outlander 450, the MY 2021 Can-Am Outlander 570, and the MY 2021 Can-Am Outlander DPS 450. Additionally, the list covers the MY 2021 Can-Am Outlander DPS 570, the MY 2021 Can-Am Outlander XMR 850, and the higher-performance MY 2021 Can-Am Outlander XMR 1000R. The lineup also includes the MY 2021 Can-Am Outlander XT 570 and the MY 2021 Can Am Outlander XXC 1000R. Finally, the recall extends to the MY 2021 Can-Am Renegade XMR 1000R. If your vehicle matches any of these nine exact model designations from the 2021 model year, it is included in this safety action.
To help you visually identify whether your vehicle might be among those recalled, BRP notes that these vehicles were sold in a variety of colors. While the color does not determine if a unit is defective, knowing the available finishes can assist in identification. The affected ATVs were sold in red, tundra green, granite gray-octane blue, camo patterns, and yellow. If your vehicle matches both the model year 2021 designation from the list above and one of these color schemes, you should proceed with verifying your specific unit using the identification numbers provided on the frame.
Regarding the timeline and location of sale, the recall was officially announced on December 22, 2020. This timing is significant because it means that even though the official alert came to light in late 2020, the vehicles themselves are designated as model year 2021. These units were sold through authorized BRP Can-Am ATV dealerships across the United States. Because the sale period for model year vehicles often begins before the calendar year ends, consumers who purchased these ATVs in late 2020 or early 2021 are the primary group impacted by this recall. It is crucial to understand that this is a comprehensive recall of all units fitting these specifications, regardless of where they were sold within the U.S. market.
The hazard, explained
When you are riding an all-terrain vehicle (ATV), your stability depends entirely on the integrity of the connection between the wheels and the chassis. In this specific recall involving certain 2021 Can-Am Outlander and Renegade models, that critical link has failed. The core issue is mechanical: the rear wheel can separate from the vehicle while it is in motion. This is not a minor wobble or a loose lug nut that might be felt immediately; it is a structural failure where the wheel detaches completely or becomes dangerously loose enough to fall off under load.
To understand why this is so dangerous, consider how an ATV handles. These vehicles are designed with a high center of gravity and rely on traction from all four wheels to maintain balance, especially when turning, climbing, or navigating uneven terrain. The rear wheels provide significant drive force and stability. When the rear wheel suddenly separates, the vehicle loses its primary point of contact with the ground on that side. This creates an immediate and violent imbalance. The remaining three wheels are no longer aligned to support the frame properly, causing the vehicle to list heavily to one side or dig into the ground unpredictably.
The physical mechanism of harm here is a rapid loss of control. As the wheel comes off, the rider experiences an abrupt shift in weight and direction. There is almost no time to react. The ATV may skid, flip, or roll over before the rider can disengage the throttle or steer away from obstacles. Because ATVs are often ridden in rough, natural environments with rocks, trees, and steep inclines, a sudden loss of control at speed significantly increases the risk of being thrown from the vehicle or crushing against hard surfaces. This is why the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) classifies this as a severe crash hazard.
While BRP has received two reports of the rear wheel coming loose and falling off, no injuries have been reported to date. This is fortunate, but it does not mean the risk is low. The potential for serious injury—from fractures, head trauma, or being pinned under the vehicle—remains high because the failure happens without warning during operation. The hazard is not just about the mechanical breakage; it is about the immediate consequence of that breakage in a dynamic, high-speed environment where stability is everything.
Who is most at risk
The individuals most directly affected by this recall are those who own or regularly operate the nine specific model year 2021 Can-Am Outlander and Renegade all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) manufactured by BRP. These are not standard passenger cars; they are powerful, off-road machines designed for rugged terrain, often used for work on farms, ranches, or large properties, as well as for recreational trail riding. If you possess one of the listed models—including the Can-Am Outlander 450, 570, DPS 450, DPS 570, XMR 850, XMR 1000R, XT 570, XXC 1000R, or the Renegade XMR 1000R—you are part of the affected group. The vehicles were sold in a variety of colors such as red, tundra green, granite gray-octane blue, camo, and yellow, so color alone is not a reliable way to identify if your specific vehicle is included. You must verify the model name printed on the side panels and check the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) located under the seat or behind the right front wheel.
While the mechanical failure involves the rear wheel separating from the vehicle, the people most at risk are those currently riding these ATVs, particularly given the nature of how these vehicles are operated. An ATV is a three-wheeled or four-wheeled motorized vehicle that requires the rider to straddle the seat and use body weight to steer and balance. This riding position makes the operator highly unstable compared to sitting inside a car. When a rear wheel detaches at speed, the sudden loss of traction and structural integrity can cause the vehicle to veer violently or flip over. Because the rider is not enclosed in a protective frame with seatbelts, they are thrown clear of the machine, facing significant risk of impact with the ground, rocks, trees, or the vehicle itself.
Specific demographic vulnerabilities arise from the typical user base and riding conditions. Younger riders, including teenagers who may be using these vehicles for their first time or under less experienced supervision, are at heightened risk because they may lack the reflexes or strength to manage a sudden mechanical failure. Conversely, older adults who use ATVs for agricultural work or property maintenance may have slower reaction times or reduced physical resilience, making falls more likely to result in serious fractures or head injuries. Furthermore, these vehicles are often used on uneven, unpaved surfaces where hazards like hidden roots, steep drops, or soft mud already exist. If the wheel separates while navigating such terrain, the likelihood of a secondary crash increases dramatically. Although BRP has reported no injuries to date from the two known incidents, the potential for severe harm remains high for any rider, regardless of age or experience level, because the failure renders the vehicle uncontrollable in an environment where control is already challenging.
Additionally, passengers on these vehicles are also at risk. While many models are designed for single riders, some allow for a passenger. A sudden wheel detachment can cause the vehicle to collapse or spin unpredictably, endangering anyone else on board who has no control over the machine’s movement. Therefore, anyone associated with the ownership, operation, or transportation of these specific 2021 Can-Am models should treat this recall with urgency, prioritizing immediate cessation of use until the free repair is completed.
How to tell if you have the recalled item
Before taking any action or contacting a dealer, it is essential to confirm whether your specific all-terrain vehicle (ATV) is part of this recall. Because BRP issued this alert on December 22, 2020, the affected units are distinct in their manufacturing year and model designation. The recall covers nine specific model years from 2021. If your vehicle is a different model year, it is not included in this particular safety notice regarding rear wheel separation.
To verify your vehicle's status, you need to locate two key pieces of information: the Model Name and the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). First, check the side panels of the ATV. The model name is printed directly on these panels, making it easy to identify at a glance. You are looking for one of the following nine specific configurations:
- Can-Am Outlander 450
- Can-Am Outlander 570
- Can-Am Outlander DPS 450
- Can-Am Outlander DPS 570
- Can-Am Outlander XMR 850
- Can-Am Outlander XMR 1000R
- Can-Am Outlander XT 570
- Can-Am Outlander XXC 1000R
- Can-Am Renegade XMR 1000R
Additionally, you can find the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) stamped on the frame in two separate locations for easy access. Look under the seat in the middle of the frame, or check behind the right front wheel. These numbers are crucial for your dealer to confirm eligibility.
The recalled vehicles were sold in a variety of colors to suit different preferences and terrains. While color alone is not a definitive identifier, it can help narrow down your search if you remember how your ATV looked when new. The affected units included models finished in red, tundra green, granite gray-octane blue, camouflage patterns, and yellow. If your vehicle matches one of the nine model names listed above and falls under the 2021 model year designation, it is part of this recall. Do not rely solely on visual appearance; always confirm using the printed model name and VIN.
What to do — step by step
If you own one of the recalled all-terrain vehicles, your immediate priority is safety above all else. The first and most critical step is to stop using the vehicle right away. Do not attempt to ride it, even for a short distance or on flat ground. The hazard involves the rear wheel potentially separating from the chassis, which can cause an instant loss of control. By keeping the vehicle parked and powered down, you eliminate the risk of injury to yourself, your passengers, or bystanders while you arrange for the necessary fixes. This is not a situation where "proceed with caution" applies; complete cessation of use is the only safe path forward. Once you have secured the vehicle, you need to initiate the repair process through the proper channels. BRP has committed to contacting all known purchasers directly, so keep an eye out for their communication. However, do not wait passively if you have not heard from them yet. You should proactively reach out to ensure your specific unit is covered. You can contact BRP by calling 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, making it easy to get assistance regardless of when you notice the issue. Alternatively, you can visit their online contact form at https://can-am.brp.com/off-road/us/en/form/contact-us.html or navigate to www.can-am.brp.com and click on “Owner Zone” followed by “Safety Recalls” to find detailed information and support resources. When you speak with a representative or visit a dealer, your goal is to schedule a free repair at an authorized BRP Can-Am ATV dealership. The remedy for this recall is not a refund or a replacement unit, but rather a mechanical fix performed by certified professionals. These dealers have the specific tools and parts required to address the rear wheel assembly issue securely. Bring your vehicle identification number (VIN) with you when you contact them; you can find this number printed on the frame under the seat in the middle and behind the right front wheel. Providing this VIN helps the dealer confirm that your specific model year 2021 Can-Am Outlander or Renegade is part of this recall campaign. Finally, keep records of all your communications. Save any confirmation emails, note the date and time of phone calls, and ask for a work order number when you drop off the vehicle. This documentation proves that you acted promptly to address the safety hazard. Once the repair is complete, verify that the technician has addressed the rear wheel separation issue before taking the vehicle back into use. Following these steps ensures that your ATV is safe to ride again without compromising your well-being or voiding any protections offered by the manufacturer.Your refund, repair, or replacement options
If you own one of the recalled all-terrain vehicles, the most important thing to know is that you do not need to pay for the fix. BRP has committed to providing a free repair for all affected units. This remedy is designed to be straightforward and cost-free for consumers who have purchased these specific models. The company is taking full responsibility for correcting the mechanical defect that caused the rear wheel to potentially separate from the vehicle, ensuring that you can resume using your ATV safely without financial burden.
The process begins with contacting an authorized BRP Can-Am ATV dealer. You should not attempt to repair this issue yourself or take the vehicle to a generic mechanic, as the fix requires specific procedures and parts authorized by the manufacturer. When you reach out to a dealer, they will coordinate with BRP to schedule the necessary work. It is highly recommended that you stop using the recalled vehicles immediately while you arrange for this service. Driving a vehicle with a loose rear wheel is extremely dangerous, so keeping it off the ground until the repair is completed is critical for your safety and the safety of others.
BRP is also actively reaching out to all known purchasers directly to inform them of the recall. If you have been contacted by BRP, please follow the instructions provided in their communication. However, if you have not received a call or email, do not wait for one. Take the initiative to contact them yourself using the resources below. The company wants to ensure that every affected owner is aware of the issue and can access the free remedy as quickly as possible.
To get started, 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, seven days a week. This wide availability is intended to make it easier for you to find assistance regardless of your schedule. Alternatively, you can use the online contact form located at https://can-am.brp.com/off-road/us/en/form/contact-us.html or visit www.can-am.brp.com and navigate to the “Owner Zone,” then select “Safety Recalls” for more detailed information and support.
While the primary remedy is a free repair, BRP’s goal is to resolve the hazard completely. Since no refunds or replacements are explicitly mentioned in the recall notice as standard options, the focus remains on correcting the defect through professional dealer service. Ensure you keep records of your communication with both BRP and the dealer for your reference. If you have any questions about the scope of the repair or what to expect during the visit, ask the dealer directly. They are equipped to handle these inquiries and ensure your vehicle is returned to a safe operating condition.
What can happen if you ignore it
When a manufacturer issues a recall for a mechanical failure like this, it is rarely because they are being overly cautious. In the case of the BRP Can-Am All-Terrain Vehicles (ATVs) recalled on December 22, 2020, the stakes are physical and immediate. The core issue is structural: the rear wheel can detach from the vehicle entirely while you are riding. This is not a minor defect that causes a rough ride; it is a catastrophic loss of control. If you ignore this recall and continue to operate the vehicle, you are essentially driving on three wheels without knowing when the fourth might disappear beneath you.
The primary danger here is the sudden loss of stability. An ATV relies on all four points of contact with the ground to maintain balance and traction, especially on uneven terrain like trails, mud, or slopes. If the rear wheel separates while the vehicle is in motion, the center of gravity shifts instantly and unpredictably. The vehicle can snap sideways, tip over, or come to an abrupt halt. For the rider, this often results in being thrown from the seat. Even if you are wearing a helmet and protective gear, falling from a moving vehicle at speed poses significant risks of fractures, head trauma, and internal injuries. While BRP has reported no injuries so far, the absence of reported incidents does not mean the risk is low; it simply means that, to date, the specific combination of factors leading to harm has not occurred in their data set.
Furthermore, ignoring the recall puts you at risk of secondary accidents. When an ATV loses its rear wheel, it becomes a heavy, uncontrolled object. It may veer into other trail users, vehicles, or obstacles. This creates a hazard for everyone around you, not just yourself. Additionally, driving a vehicle with a detached wheel can cause further damage to the axle, frame, and suspension components. While the remedy is free, attempting to "make do" until the next scheduled service could turn a simple repair into a much more complex and costly mechanical failure down the line.
It is easy to rationalize waiting, thinking, "I haven't had a problem yet," or "I only use it on flat ground." However, mechanical failures in critical components like wheel hubs do not always follow a predictable pattern. They can happen after hours of smooth riding or during a routine turn. The recall exists because the potential for a crash is real and present in every unit covered. Continuing to ride these specific 2021 Outlander and Renegade models means accepting an unnecessary and preventable risk to your safety. The free repair offered by BRP is designed to eliminate this exact hazard, ensuring that your vehicle remains safe and reliable for years to come.
Staying safe: broader tips
While this specific recall addresses a mechanical defect in certain Can-Am all-terrain vehicles, the underlying principle of proactive safety applies to every piece of heavy machinery and outdoor equipment you own. Regular, intentional maintenance is your first line of defense against unexpected failures. For any vehicle with moving parts, tires, and suspension components, do not rely solely on manufacturer schedules or dealer visits. Take time to learn what "normal" feels and sounds like for your specific machine. Listen for new vibrations, unusual grinding noises, or changes in handling that suggest wear before it becomes a critical failure. When you inspect your own equipment, focus on the high-stress points: check fasteners for tightness, look for signs of metal fatigue or cracking near welds, and ensure that wheels are seated correctly and securely. These small, routine checks can often identify issues long before they result in a loss of control.
Equally important is staying informed about the broader landscape of product safety. Manufacturers and regulatory bodies like the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) issue recalls for many different categories of goods, from children’s toys to power tools, often due to similar risks of injury or property damage. The most effective way to protect yourself and your family is to register all significant purchases with the manufacturers immediately after buying them. This ensures that if a safety defect is discovered later, you are contacted directly rather than having to search for information yourself. Additionally, make it a habit to periodically check the CPSC’s recall database or sign up for their email alerts. Being aware of recalls relevant to your household allows you to act quickly and safely, rather than discovering a hazard only after an incident has occurred.
Finally, always respect the operational limits of your equipment. All-terrain vehicles are powerful machines designed for specific terrains and conditions. Overloading them, modifying their safety features, or using them in ways not intended by the manufacturer can drastically increase the risk of accidents. Read the owner’s manual thoroughly and adhere to recommended weight limits and speed restrictions. For off-road enthusiasts, consider taking a certified safety course to sharpen your skills in handling emergencies on uneven ground. By combining regular physical inspections with ongoing education about product safety and responsible usage habits, you create a robust shield against the kinds of hazards that lead to recalls in the first place. Safety is not just about fixing what is broken; it is about cultivating a mindset of vigilance and care.