BRP Recalls All-Terrain Vehicles Due to Fuel Leak and Fire Hazard (Recall Alert)

What was recalled

In June of 2018, the Consumer Product Safety Commission announced a significant safety recall involving BRP Can-Am all-terrain vehicles (ATVs). This action affects a wide range of models from the 2018 model year, specifically targeting units that were manufactured and sold with a defect in the fuel system. The recall is not limited to a single line or color; rather, it encompasses numerous configurations across the popular Outlander and Renegade families. If you purchased one of these vehicles around that time, it is important to verify whether your specific unit falls under this alert.

The affected products include the Can-Am Outlander and Renegade series. These are rugged machines designed for off-road use, available in a variety of colors such as Red, Squadron Green, Breakup Country Camo, Flat Black, Orange Crush, Brush Aluminium, Midnight Blue, White, Intense Red, Pure Magnesium, Black, Sunburst Yellow/Black/Hyper Silver, and Red/White/Black. The brand name "Can-Am" and the specific model name are printed on the side panels of the vehicles, making them easy to identify visually if you have the physical unit in front of you.

The recall covers a diverse list of models, including but not limited to:

• Outlander 450, 570, and 650
• Outlander 6X6 DPS 650
• Outlander 6X6 XT 1000
• Outlander DPS 450, 570, 650, 850, and 1000R
• Outlander DPS LE 570
• Outlander MAX 450 and 570
• Outlander MAX DPS 450, 570, and 650
• Outlander MAX LTD 1000R
• Outlander MAX WIN 650 and 850
• Outlander MAX XT 570, 650, 850, and 1000R
• Outlander MAX XT LE 650
• Outlander MAX XTP 850 and 1000R
• Outlander MOS 450, 570, and 1000R
• Outlander WIN 650 and 850
• Outlander XT 570, 650, 850, and 1000R
• Outlander XTP 850 and 1000R
• Outlander XXC 1000R
• Renegade 570, 850, and 1000
• Renegade XXC 850 and 1000R

To confirm if your vehicle is part of this recall, you will need to locate the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). This unique identifier is printed on the frame under the seat in the middle and also on the frame behind the right front wheel. The recall was officially announced on June 29, 2018, and it applies to vehicles sold in a variety of colors during that period. BRP has stated that they are contacting all known purchasers directly, but it is always best to verify your status independently to ensure your safety.

The hazard, explained

At the heart of this recall is a pressurization issue within the fuel system of specific model year 2018 BRP Can-Am all-terrain vehicles (ATVs). To understand why this is dangerous, it helps to look at how these engines breathe. ATVs like the Outlander and Renegade models involved in this alert operate with complex fuel systems that are often pressurized to ensure consistent delivery of gas to the engine, especially when navigating rough terrain or steep inclines. Under normal conditions, this pressure is managed safely within sealed lines and tanks. However, in the affected vehicles, a defect allows this pressurized fuel to escape unexpectedly.

The specific failure point occurs when you go to refuel. When you unscrew or lift the gas cap to add gasoline, the internal pressure of the tank has nowhere to vent safely. Instead of releasing gradually through an approved vapor recovery system, the fuel sprays out forcefully from the tank opening. This is not a slow drip; it is a sudden, high-pressure expulsion of liquid fuel into the immediate vicinity of the user and the engine compartment. Because gasoline is highly volatile, this spray creates two simultaneous dangers: a significant fire hazard and a direct physical exposure risk.

The fire risk arises from the combination of three elements present in that exact moment: atomized fuel (the spray), an ignition source, and oxygen. ATVs generate heat in their exhaust systems and electrical components during operation. If the vehicle has been running recently, nearby surfaces can be hot enough to ignite the sprayed fuel instantly. Even if the engine is off, static electricity from removing the cap or a stray spark from nearby tools could trigger a flash fire. This is particularly dangerous because the user’s hands are directly over the opening, and their face may be close by, increasing the severity of potential burns.

Beyond fire, there is the immediate risk of chemical exposure. Getting a high-pressure stream of gasoline on your skin or clothing can cause severe irritation, dermatitis, or chemical burns, especially if the fuel stays in contact with the skin for any length of time. Inhaling these concentrated fumes can also lead to dizziness or nausea. While the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) reports that no injuries or fires have been recorded from this defect so far, the mechanism itself is inherently unpredictable. A single spray event could easily result in serious harm depending on wind direction, proximity to heat sources, and individual reaction time. This is why the manufacturer has issued an immediate stop-use order rather than a simple maintenance reminder.

Who is most at risk

The individuals most directly affected by this recall are the owners and operators of specific model year 2018 Can-Am Outlander and Renegade all-terrain vehicles (ATVs). These are not standard passenger cars or household appliances; they are powerful, off-road machines designed for rugged terrain. The primary group at risk includes anyone who purchased these vehicles new in 2018, as well as subsequent used car buyers who may have acquired one of the affected models without realizing it. Because BRP has identified thousands of units with this specific fuel system defect, the risk is widespread among the community of ATV enthusiasts, hunters, farmers, and recreational riders who rely on these machines for work or play.

The nature of the hazard—fuel spraying from the tank when opening the gas cap—creates a unique set of dangers that extend beyond simple mechanical failure. When fuel sprays under pressure, it creates an immediate fire hazard. This is particularly concerning because ATV users often operate in remote areas, such as dense forests, dry brushlands, or agricultural fields, where emergency response times can be significantly longer than in urban environments. A small spark from the vehicle’s engine or electrical system, combined with a cloud of atomized fuel mist, can escalate into a rapidly spreading fire before the rider even realizes what has happened.

In terms of physical vulnerability, while the recall notes that no injuries have been reported to date, the potential for harm is severe for all riders. However, individuals who frequently perform maintenance on their own vehicles may be at higher immediate risk. The defect triggers precisely when accessing the fuel tank. If an owner attempts to refuel without being aware of the spray hazard, they could suffer direct contact with gasoline, leading to skin irritation or chemical burns. More critically, if that person is smoking nearby or working near open flames, the consequences could be fatal. Additionally, riders who are less experienced with mechanical systems might inadvertently exacerbate the situation by trying to force the cap open or ignoring warning signs like unusual smells or visible leaks.

Children and passengers are also at risk, albeit indirectly. While ATVs are generally single-rider vehicles, family members often assist with loading them onto trailers or maintaining them in driveways and garages. A fuel leak in an enclosed space like a garage can lead to the accumulation of explosive vapors. Therefore, homeowners who store these vehicles indoors or in attached garages must be particularly vigilant. The risk is not just about the rider falling off the vehicle; it is about the silent, invisible danger of fuel vapor igniting in confined spaces, posing a threat to anyone nearby, including children who might be playing in adjacent areas.

Ultimately, the most vulnerable group comprises those who continue to use these vehicles without checking their Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) against the recall list. Many owners may assume that because no incidents have been publicly reported yet, the vehicle is safe. This assumption is dangerous. The six reports of fuel spraying indicate that the defect is active and unpredictable. Therefore, every owner, regardless of their experience level or how carefully they maintain their machine, falls into the high-risk category until they receive and complete the free repair offered by BRP Can-Am.

How to tell if you have the recalled item

Before taking any action, you must verify whether your specific vehicle is part of this recall. Because BRP has recalled a wide array of All-Terrain Vehicles (ATVs) from its Can-Am line, simply seeing the Can-Am logo on the side panels is not enough to confirm if your machine is affected. The recall covers model year 2018 Outlander and Renegade ATVs sold in numerous colors and configurations. To determine if you are included, you need to look at two specific pieces of information: the model name printed on the vehicle and the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) stamped into the frame.

The first step is to identify the general model family. Check the side panels of your ATV for the "Can-Am" brand name and the specific model designation, such as Outlander or Renegade. This recall applies to a vast list of models within these families. If you have an Outlander, it could be one of many variations, including the 450, 570, 650, 850, or 1000R engines. It might also be a specific trim level like the DPS, XT, MAX, LTD, Win, XTP, MOS, or XXC. For example, the recall includes the Outlander 450 in Red or Squadron Green, but it also covers the Outlander MAX 450 in Brush Aluminium or Red. Similarly, Renegade models with 570, 850, or 1000R engines in Red are included, as are Renegade XXC models in Red, White, or Black. If your vehicle does not match one of these model names, it is likely not part of this specific recall.

Once you have identified the model family, you must locate your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) to be absolutely certain. The VIN is a unique serial number that distinguishes your vehicle from every other one made. For these recalled units, the VIN is stamped in two distinct locations: first, on the frame under the seat in the middle of the vehicle, and second, on the frame behind the right front wheel. You will need to physically look at these spots, as the number may be obscured by dirt or debris after use. Compare the model name and the VIN against the official recall list provided by BRP. If your model year is 2018 and the model matches one of the listed configurations, your ATV is part of the recall.

If you are unsure about your model or cannot locate the VIN, do not guess. The safest approach is to contact BRP Can-Am directly. They have a dedicated customer service line available toll-free at 888-272-9222, operating from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. ET, Monday through Sunday. You can also visit www.can-am.brp.com and navigate to the “Owner Center” and then click on “Safety” to access detailed information and confirm your vehicle’s status. This step is crucial because the recall includes many color options for the same model, such as Flat Black, Breakup Country Camo, Orange Crush, Squadron Green, Intense Red, Pure Magnesium, Midnight Blue, White, Sunburst Yellow/Black/Hyper Silver, and Brush Aluminium. Only a precise check of your VIN against BRP’s database will give you a definitive answer.

What to do — step by step

If you own or operate a recalled BRP Can-Am all-terrain vehicle (ATV), your immediate priority must be safety. The recall notice issued by the Consumer Product Safety Commission on June 29, 2018, identifies a specific and potentially dangerous flaw: fuel can spray out of the fuel tank when you open the gas cap. This creates an immediate risk of fuel leakage and fire. Therefore, the very first and most critical step is to stop using the vehicle immediately. Do not attempt to ride it, even for short distances or in open fields. The hazard exists whenever the fuel cap is accessed, which happens during routine refueling. By ceasing use right now, you eliminate the primary mechanism by which this accident could occur.

Once you have secured the vehicle and ensured no one attempts to ride it, your next action is to initiate the repair process. BRP has committed to providing a free repair for all affected units. You do not need to pay for parts or labor; the manufacturer is covering these costs entirely as part of their recall remedy. To arrange this service, you should contact an authorized BRP Can-Am ATV dealer in your area. If you are unsure which dealers are nearby or how to reach them, you can call the toll-free number provided by BRP at 888-272-9222. The support team is available from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Eastern Time, seven days a week, making it easy to find assistance regardless of your schedule. When you call, clearly state that you have a recalled ATV and need to schedule a repair appointment.

In addition to calling a dealer or the central hotline, BRP is also contacting all known purchasers directly to inform them of the recall. If you have received such a communication, follow the instructions provided within that letter or email carefully. However, do not wait passively for contact if you believe your vehicle might be included. It is safer and more efficient to take proactive steps. You can also visit the official BRP website at www.can-am.brp.com. Navigate to the “Owner Center” and select the “Safety” section to find detailed information about the recall, confirm your specific model status, and understand the repair process in greater depth.

While you wait for your repair appointment, ensure the vehicle is stored in a well-ventilated area away from any ignition sources, such as water heaters, furnaces, or dryers. This is a standard precaution when dealing with potential fuel leaks, even though no fires have been reported to date. Remember that six reports of fuel spraying have been documented, which confirms the physical likelihood of this hazard occurring during normal operation. By following these steps—stopping use, contacting a dealer or BRP directly, and utilizing the free repair service—you are taking the correct actions to mitigate risk and restore your vehicle’s safety.

Your refund, repair, or replacement options

What can happen if you ignore it

When a manufacturer issues a recall for a fuel system defect, the urgency is rarely about bureaucratic procedure; it is about immediate physical risk. In the case of these recalled BRP Can-Am all-terrain vehicles, the specific danger lies in the behavior of the fuel tank when the gas cap is removed. The recall notice states that fuel can spray out during this routine action. While refueling might seem like a mundane part of owning an ATV, ignoring this defect turns a simple maintenance task into a potential ignition event.

The primary consequence of continuing to use these vehicles without repair is the creation of a fire hazard. Fuel is highly volatile. When it sprays from the tank due to pressure or design flaws in the cap mechanism, it does not just drip onto the ground; it atomizes into a fine mist that mixes rapidly with air. This creates a flammable vapor cloud around the vehicle. If this mist comes into contact with any source of ignition—such as a hot exhaust component, an electrical spark from the engine or nearby electronics, or even static electricity—the result can be an immediate and intense fire. Even if no fire occurs, the accumulation of fuel on the vehicle’s bodywork creates a slick, slippery surface that can pose secondary safety risks during operation.

It is important to look at the incident data honestly. According to the CPSC report, BRP has received six reports of fuel spraying from the tanks in these models. While the agency notes that no injuries or fires have been reported to date, the absence of injury is not a guarantee of safety; it is simply a reflection of luck rather than design adequacy. Fuel leaks are unpredictable hazards. A spray that lands on a hot engine block during one refueling might cause smoke or damage, while the same leak in a different environment could ignite. Relying on the fact that "nothing has happened yet" is a dangerous gamble when dealing with combustible liquids.

Furthermore, ignoring the recall means you are operating a vehicle that does not meet its original safety standards. The fuel system is designed to contain and deliver fuel safely. When it fails to do so, you lose control over where the fuel goes. This not only endangers you but also anyone nearby who might be assisting with maintenance or riding in proximity. The cost of ignoring this recall is potentially your vehicle, your property, and your physical safety. The remedy offered—a free repair—is a straightforward solution to a complex chemical hazard. Waiting for a worse outcome to force the issue is neither necessary nor wise.

• Fire Risk: Sprayed fuel can ignite near hot engine parts or sparks.
• Pollution and Damage: Uncontained fuel damages vehicle components and the environment.
• Unpredictable Outcomes: Six incidents show the failure is real; no injuries yet does not mean it won't happen next time.

Staying safe: broader tips

Safety is never just about fixing one specific problem; it is about building a habit of vigilance that protects you long after the immediate news cycle has moved on. With vehicles like all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) and other heavy machinery, the risks often involve moving parts, fuel systems, and high-energy environments. While addressing the specific defect in your Can-Am model is the urgent first step, maintaining a proactive safety mindset can prevent accidents before they happen.

First, make regular recalls a non-negotiable part of your ownership routine. Manufacturers occasionally discover flaws that require correction, and these updates are often free but time-sensitive. Do not wait for a friend to tell you or for a news story to pop up on your feed. Register your vehicle immediately upon purchase so the manufacturer has your current contact information. Additionally, subscribe to safety alerts from the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) via email or SMS. This ensures that if a new hazard emerges with any product in your home—from lawn mowers to children’s toys—you are among the first to know.

For any fuel-powered equipment, proper storage and maintenance are your best defenses against fire hazards. Always refuel your vehicle when the engine is cool and the unit is on a level surface to prevent spillage. Never smoke or have open flames nearby while handling gasoline, as vapors are invisible but highly volatile. After every ride, inspect your fuel lines, caps, and tanks for signs of wear, cracking, or loose connections. If you notice a smell of gas that lingers longer than usual, or see droplets forming where there should be none, stop using the equipment immediately. Regular maintenance checks are far cheaper and safer than emergency repairs.

Beyond mechanical checks, always prioritize personal protective equipment (PPE). Helmets certified by the Snell Memorial Foundation or the Department of Transportation offer critical protection against traumatic brain injuries. Eye protection prevents debris from causing temporary blindness, which can lead to crashes, while gloves improve your grip and protect your hands from abrasions. Ensure that your ATV is being operated in a safe environment, free from unexpected obstacles, steep drops, or wet terrain that could cause loss of control. By combining diligent maintenance with smart operational habits, you extend the life of your equipment and, more importantly, ensure that every adventure ends safely at home.