BRP Expands Recall of Snowmobiles Due to Fuel Leak and Fire Hazard (Recall Alert)

What was recalled

If you own a Ski-Doo snowmobile, it is important to verify whether your specific vehicle is part of this significant safety recall issued by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). This action involves BRP (Bombardier Recreational Products), a major manufacturer of recreational vehicles, who has expanded its recall efforts due to a serious defect in the fuel delivery system. The primary concern here is not just mechanical failure, but the potential for that failure to lead to a fire hazard on the slopes. If you have recently purchased or are currently using a Ski-Doo snowmobile from the model years 2017 and 2018, you need to check your vehicle’s details immediately against the list below.

The recall specifically targets certain Ski-Doo MXZ, Summit, and Renegade snowmobiles that are equipped with an 850 E-TEC engine. These engines are a key identifier for this batch of vehicles. The affected models span two distinct production years. For the 2017 model year, the recall includes the MXZ TNT, MXZ X, RENEGADE ADRENALINE, RENEGADE X, SUMMIT SP, and SUMMIT X variants. In 2018, the scope widens to include additional configurations of the MXZ line (such as the BLIZZARD, TNT, X, and XRS models) and a broader array of Renegade models (including the ADRENALINE, BC, BCX, X, and XRS versions). It is crucial to note that these vehicles were sold in a variety of colors, so the exterior paint scheme does not determine whether your vehicle is included. Instead, you must look at the model name and year.

To confirm if your snowmobile is part of this recall, you should locate the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). This number is found on a decal located on the right-hand side of the tunnel of the vehicle. You can also verify the make and model by looking at the side panels, where “Ski-Doo” and the specific model name are printed. While the provided recall facts do not specify the exact total number of units involved in this expanded recall, they do note that the company has received reports regarding these defects, including two confirmed incidents of fire. BRP is actively contacting all known purchasers directly to inform them of the issue. If you cannot find your VIN or are unsure about your model year, you should contact BRP directly for assistance.

This recall was officially announced on August 6, 2019. The affected snowmobiles were sold through authorized dealerships across the United States. Because these are high-performance recreational vehicles often used in remote or harsh winter conditions, ensuring your machine is safe to operate is critical. The remedy provided by BRP is a free repair conducted at an authorized BRP Snowmobile dealer. Consumers are urged to stop using the recalled vehicles immediately and reach out to a dealer or contact BRP via their toll-free number at 888-272-9222, available from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. ET every day of the week.

The hazard, explained

At the core of this recall is a failure within the fuel delivery system of specific Ski-Doo snowmobiles. To understand why this is dangerous, it helps to look at how these machines operate. Snowmobiles rely on a precise balance of air and fuel to generate power, especially in cold environments where engines must work harder to maintain performance. The vehicles involved in this recall are equipped with 850 E-TEC two-stroke engines. These engines inject fuel directly into the combustion chamber under high pressure to create the explosive force that moves the track. However, in the affected units, a defect in the fuel delivery system allows this pressurized fuel to escape where it should remain contained.

When a leak occurs, liquid gasoline or fuel mixture is no longer staying inside the sealed lines and injectors. Instead, it drips or sprays onto hot components of the snowmobile’s engine or exhaust system. Under normal circumstances, these parts operate at extremely high temperatures to expel exhaust gases. When flammable fuel comes into contact with these superheated surfaces, it does not just evaporate; it can ignite almost instantly. This creates a localized fire that may start small but can quickly spread to nearby plastic body panels, insulation, or other combustible materials on the vehicle.

The danger here is twofold: immediate fire risk and potential exposure to toxic fumes. The recall notice confirms that this mechanism has already resulted in actual fires in at least two reported cases. While no injuries have been reported to date, the situation remains volatile because the leak can happen without warning while you are riding. A sudden flame underfoot or near the engine compartment can startle a rider, potentially causing them to lose control of the sled on icy or uneven terrain. Even if a fire does not break out, a significant fuel leak in an enclosed space or near the rider’s legs can pose severe burn risks and inhalation hazards from unburnt hydrocarbons.

It is important to note that this hazard is not about the engine failing to start; it is about safety integrity while the machine is running. The 850 E-TEC engines in these 2017 and 2018 models are powerful and efficient, but that power relies on tight seals and precise fuel routing. When those routes fail, the energy stored in the fuel becomes a threat rather than a benefit. BRP has identified this pattern through consumer reports, bringing the total number of leak incidents to fifteen. While the majority of these did not result in fires, the potential for catastrophic failure exists as long as the defective component remains in place.

Who is most at risk

When we talk about who is "most at risk" in the context of this specific BRP snowmobile recall, it is important to distinguish between the individuals who are directly exposed to the mechanical failure and those who might be inadvertently placed in harm’s way. The primary group at risk here consists of owners and operators of the affected Ski-Doo snowmobiles. Specifically, this includes anyone who purchased or currently operates model year 2017 Ski-Doo MXZ, Summit, or Renegade models, as well as 2018 Ski-Doo MXZ and Renegade models that are equipped with an 850 E-TEC engine. These vehicles were marketed to a wide variety of consumers looking for winter recreation, meaning the owners span a broad demographic range rather than a single professional niche.

The physical danger posed by this recall is a fuel leak within the vehicle’s delivery system, which creates a tangible fire hazard. For the rider directly controlling the machine, the risk is immediate and severe. Snowmobiles are high-performance vehicles often used in remote, cold, and potentially isolated environments. A fuel leak while the engine is running or even when the unit is hot after use can ignite quickly. If you are operating one of these recalled models, you are at direct risk of being trapped in a fire scenario on the ice or snow, where escape might be difficult depending on your location. The fact that BRP has reported two fires among fifteen total fuel leak incidents indicates that while the event is not universal, the potential for ignition exists and has already materialized for some users.

However, the risk extends beyond just the driver. Snowmobiles are frequently used for family outings or group rides. Passengers on these vehicles are equally vulnerable because they have no control over the mechanical integrity of the machine. If a fire were to break out, passengers would be at significant risk of injury from flames, smoke inhalation, or burns. Furthermore, bystanders in the vicinity—such as other skiers, hikers, or residents living near popular snowmobiling trails—are also at risk if the fuel leak leads to an uncontrolled fire that spreads to nearby vegetation or structures.

In terms of demographic vulnerability, while the recall does not specify age-related restrictions, individuals who are less mobile, such as the elderly, or those with limited physical strength might face greater challenges in evacuating a vehicle quickly if a fire starts. Similarly, children riding as passengers may be less able to react swiftly to dangerous signs like the smell of fuel or visible smoke. It is crucial to understand that the hazard is not limited by age but by proximity to the faulty component. Therefore, anyone who has ever sat on, driven, or been near one of these specific Ski-Doo models should treat this recall with serious urgency.

Additionally, because BRP states they are contacting all known purchasers directly, it is worth noting that owners who may have forgotten about their winter gear or stored the vehicle long-term might not realize the danger until it is too late. The risk is highest for those who continue to use the snowmobile under the assumption that it is safe, simply because they have not yet encountered a leak. Do not wait for a leak to become visible; the presence of the recall itself is the warning sign that requires immediate action.

How to tell if you have the recalled item

Before taking any further action, the most critical step is confirming whether your specific snowmobile is part of this recall. Because BRP has issued an expansion of their recall notice, it is important to check your vehicle against the precise list of affected models rather than relying on general assumptions about the brand or year. The recall specifically targets Ski-Doo snowmobiles equipped with an 850 E-TEC engine. This detail is vital because not all Ski-Doo models from these years are included; only those with this particular engine configuration are at risk of the fuel leak hazard.

To begin your verification, you need to locate two key pieces of information: the model name and the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). The model name, such as MXZ, Summit, or Renegade, along with the Ski-Doo branding, is clearly printed on the side panels of the vehicle. These large, visible letters make it easy to identify the general line of your snowmobile. However, knowing it is a Ski-Doo is only the first step. You must then determine if it falls into one of the specific model years and configurations listed in the recall notice.

The affected units are divided into two main groups based on their manufacture year. The first group includes model year 2017 Ski-Doo MXZ, Summit, and Renegade snowmobiles. The second group covers model year 2018 Ski-Doo MXZ and Renegade snowmobiles. Within these years, the recall applies to specific sub-models. For instance, if you own a 2017 vehicle, it must be one of the following: an MXZ TNT 850 E-TEC, an MXZ X 850 E-TEC, a Renegade Adrenaline 850 E-TEC, a Renegade X 850 E-TEC, a Summit SP 850 E-TEC, or a Summit X 850 E-TEC. If you have a 2018 model, it must be one of the following: an MXZ Blizzard, MXZ TNT, MXZ X, MXZ XRS, Renegade Adrenaline, Renegade BC, Renegade BCX, Renegade X, or Renegade XRS, all equipped with the 850 E-TEC engine.

Once you have identified the model name, turn your attention to the VIN for absolute confirmation. The VIN is located on a decal situated on the right-hand side of the tunnel. This alphanumeric code serves as the unique fingerprint for your vehicle and will allow you or a dealer to verify its exact production details. While the vehicles come in a variety of colors—ranging from standard black and white combinations to specific orange, yellow, green, and silver accents—the color itself is not a reliable way to determine if your snowmobile is recalled, as many different colored units are included. Therefore, rely on the printed model names and the VIN decal rather than visual aesthetics to confirm your status.

• Check the Side Panels: Look for the Ski-Doo logo and the specific model name (e.g., MXZ, Renegade, Summit).
• Verify the Engine: Ensure the vehicle is equipped with an 850 E-TEC engine.
• Confirm the Year: Check your registration or owner’s manual to see if it is a 2017 or 2018 model.
• Locate the VIN: Find the decal on the right-hand side of the tunnel for final verification with a dealer or BRP.

What to do — step by step

Your refund, repair, or replacement options

If you own one of the affected Ski-Doo snowmobiles, the good news is that BRP has established a clear and comprehensive remedy to address the fuel leak issue. You do not need to worry about bearing any costs for this safety correction. The company is offering a free repair service to all owners of the recalled vehicles. This means that the necessary parts, labor, and diagnostics required to fix the defect in the fuel delivery system will be provided at no charge to you. The goal here is straightforward: to eliminate the fire hazard by correcting the specific mechanical issue without placing any financial burden on the consumer.

To initiate this process, you have two convenient options for contact. You can call the BRP Snowmobile toll-free hotline at 888-272-9222. This line is open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Sunday, making it easy to reach someone regardless of your schedule. Alternatively, you can visit the official Ski-Doo website at https://www.ski-doo.com. Once there, navigate to the “Community” section and then click on “Safety” to find detailed information and resources related to this recall. These channels are specifically set up to handle inquiries about this defect, so you can expect knowledgeable support.

It is important to note that BRP is also actively contacting all known purchasers directly. If you bought one of these models recently, keep an eye on your mail or phone for communication from the manufacturer. However, do not wait for their contact if you are unsure about your status. It is your responsibility to verify whether your vehicle is included in this recall by checking the model year and engine type against the list provided earlier in this article. The recall covers specific 2017 and 2018 Ski-Doo MXZ, Summit, and Renegade models equipped with an 850 E-TEC engine.

While you arrange for your free repair, remember that the remedy is strictly a repair. There is no mention of a refund or replacement vehicle in the official recall facts provided by the CPSC. The fix involves a mechanical correction to the fuel system components. Please do not attempt to fix this yourself. The fuel delivery system is complex, and improper handling could worsen the leak or create new safety risks. Only authorized BRP Snowmobile dealers have been equipped with the proper tools and instructions to perform this recall repair safely and effectively. By using an authorized dealer, you ensure that the work meets the manufacturer’s safety standards.

If you encounter any difficulties reaching BRP or if a dealer claims they are not participating in the recall, document your interactions and report them. The company has received 15 reports of fuel leaks and two fires related to this defect, highlighting why they are prioritizing these repairs. Your cooperation in getting the free fix installed promptly is the best way to ensure your winter adventures remain safe and enjoyable.

What can happen if you ignore it

When a manufacturer issues a recall for a fuel leak, the urgency is not just about bureaucratic compliance; it is about immediate physical safety. The primary risk here is straightforward but severe: a leaking fuel system creates an environment where a fire can start and spread rapidly. Snowmobiles operate in cold environments, which might make you feel invincible or less concerned about heat-related issues, but gasoline is highly volatile. If the delivery system fails and fuel sprays or drips onto hot engine components, exhaust pipes, or electrical wiring, it can ignite instantly. This does not require a spark from a short circuit; the heat of the machine itself may be enough to turn a minor leak into a catastrophic blaze.

While the current incident reports indicate two fires with no injuries, relying on past data for future safety is dangerous. The fact that there have been 15 reported leaks and two confirmed fires suggests that the defect is active and recurring across different units. If you continue to ride your vehicle, you are gambling with the possibility that your specific unit could be the next one to experience a full ignition. In the context of a snowmobile, a fire is particularly perilous because these vehicles are often used in remote areas, far from immediate help. A fire can destroy the vehicle and trap you or your passengers in a dangerous situation just as quickly as it starts.

Beyond the risk of fire, ignoring the recall means accepting the possibility of mechanical failure while in motion. Fuel leaks can lead to engine stalling or loss of power. If this happens on a trail, especially one with steep inclines or deep powder, losing control of the vehicle can lead to crashes and secondary injuries unrelated to fire. Furthermore, fuel is a pollutant. A leaking snowmobile drips hazardous chemicals onto the snow and soil, which can harm local ecosystems and contaminate water sources if you are riding near creeks or lakes.

Finally, there is the issue of financial and legal liability. If you choose to ignore the recall and an accident occurs because of the known defect, your insurance company may deny coverage, arguing that you failed to maintain a safe vehicle. You could be held personally liable for damages to others’ property or injuries if your recalled snowmobile causes harm. The remedy offered by BRP is free because they acknowledge their responsibility in creating the hazard. By refusing the repair, you are not just risking your safety; you are also assuming all financial and legal consequences that come with operating a known defective machine.

Staying safe: broader tips

Snowmobiles are powerful machines that demand respect and careful handling, especially when operating in the harsh conditions of winter. While specific mechanical defects like fuel leaks require immediate professional attention, everyday safety largely depends on how you maintain your vehicle and prepare for the elements. One of the most critical aspects of snowmobile safety is rigorous pre-ride inspection. Before you ever turn the key, take a moment to walk around the machine. Check for obvious signs of wear, loose bolts, or damaged cables. Pay particular attention to the fuel lines and connections; even if your vehicle is not part of this specific recall, regular visual checks can help you spot early signs of deterioration that might lead to leaks or fires later on. Keeping a basic toolkit in your sled bag allows you to tighten minor fittings before they become major problems.

Understanding the environment you are riding in is just as important as knowing your machine. Fuel vapors are heavier than air and can settle in low-lying areas or snow drifts. If you experience a fuel leak, moving your vehicle away from the immediate area and allowing vapors to dissipate before attempting any repairs is a smart precaution. Furthermore, always ensure your exhaust system is intact. A damaged muffler not only creates noise pollution but can also allow hot gases to escape in unsafe directions, potentially igniting dry vegetation or snow near the engine components. Regular maintenance of the cooling system and engine filters ensures your snowmobile runs efficiently, reducing the likelihood of overheating—a common precursor to mechanical failures.

Finally, never underestimate the power of proper gear and communication. Always wear a certified helmet that fits correctly, along with goggles, gloves, and insulated clothing suitable for extreme cold. Consider carrying a mobile phone in a waterproof case or a two-way radio if you are riding in remote areas where cell service may be unreliable. Let someone know your planned route and expected return time before you head out. By combining diligent mechanical care with situational awareness and proper personal protective equipment, you can significantly reduce risks and enjoy the thrill of winter sports with greater peace of mind.

• Routine Checks: Inspect fuel lines and connections regularly for cracks or soft spots.
• Proper Gear: Always wear a helmet and appropriate cold-weather protection.
• Communication: Carry a reliable way to call for help in case of breakdowns or emergencies.