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

What was recalled

In April of 2018, a significant recall was issued by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) involving a specific range of all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) manufactured by BRP Can-Am. This action was taken to address a critical safety concern that could affect riders relying on these machines for recreation or utility work. The recall specifically targets model year 2017 Can-Am Outlander and Outlander Max ATVs. These are not isolated incidents involving a single batch but rather encompass all units of certain configurations produced during that model year.

The affected vehicles are equipped with a dynamic power steering (DPS) system and feature either a 450 or 570 engine. It is important to note that the recall applies regardless of the color in which the vehicle was sold, as the defect is mechanical rather than cosmetic. The specific models included in this recall are the 2017 Outlander DPS 570 EFI, the 2017 Outlander DPS 450 EFI, the 2017 Outlander XT 570 EFI, the 2017 Outlander Hunter Edition 570 EFI, and the 2017 Outlander XMR 570 EFI. Additionally, the recall extends to the Max versions of these models: the 2017 Outlander MAX DPS 570 EFI, the 2017 Outlander MAX DPS 450 EFI, the 2017 Outlander MAX XT 570 EFI, and the 2017 Outlander MAX XMR 570 EFI.

Vehicles were sold in various colors, including Yellow, Green, Camo, Pure Magnesium, Red, White, and Black. The model name is printed on the side panels of the vehicles, which can help owners identify their specific configuration at a glance. However, for precise verification, consumers are advised to check the vehicle identification number (VIN), which is printed on the frame under the seat in the middle and on the frame behind the right front wheel. This recall was announced on April 10, 2018, and BRP has been working to contact all known purchasers directly to inform them of the issue.

If you own a 2017 Can-Am Outlander or Outlander Max ATV with a dynamic power steering system and a 450 or 570 engine, it is crucial to verify your vehicle against this list. The recall affects a wide range of popular models, so do not assume that just because your ATV looks different from the examples listed that it might be exempt. The safety issue lies within the internal components common to these specific model years and engine types.

The hazard, explained

At the core of this recall is a critical mechanical failure within the steering system of specific BRP Can-Am all-terrain vehicles (ATVs). The issue centers on the dynamic power steering (DPS) shaft. In normal operation, this component is responsible for transmitting force to help you turn the vehicle’s wheels, making it easier to navigate rough terrain, tight corners, and heavy loads. However, the recalled units are susceptible to a sudden structural failure where the shaft can break unexpectedly. This is not a gradual wear-and-tear issue that might give you warning signs over time; rather, it is a catastrophic failure that can occur without prior indication.

When this shaft breaks, the immediate physical consequence is a total loss of steering control. Because the power steering mechanism is integral to how the vehicle responds to your input on the handlebars, its failure means the front wheels may stop turning in response to your commands or lock up entirely. For an ATV, which is often operated at speed or on uneven, unpredictable ground, losing the ability to steer is exceptionally dangerous. You might be riding along a trail, navigating a slope, or maneuvering through brush when the steering suddenly becomes unresponsive.

The harm resulting from this hazard typically stems from secondary collisions and loss of vehicle stability. When steering fails while the vehicle is in motion, it can veer off its intended path without the rider’s ability to correct it. This often leads to crashes into trees, rocks, or other obstacles, which can cause serious physical injury to the rider through impact or ejection. Additionally, the sudden loss of control can cause the ATV to tip over, especially on inclines or when carrying passengers or cargo. While the recall notice notes that no injuries have been reported to date among the 13 incidents documented worldwide, the potential for severe harm is inherent in the mechanics of the failure. An out-of-control vehicle at speed transforms from a tool into an unpredictable projectile, putting the rider and bystanders at significant risk.

It is important to understand that this hazard affects the fundamental safety of the machine. Unlike a flat tire or a loose bolt, which might slow you down but leave you with some control, a broken steering shaft removes your primary means of directing the vehicle. This makes immediate action essential. The repair involves replacing or reinforcing the faulty component to restore the integrity of the steering system, ensuring that your inputs on the handlebars translate correctly to the wheels again.

Who is most at risk

The individuals most immediately at risk are those who own or regularly operate the specific model year 2017 Can-Am Outlander and Outlander Max all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) equipped with dynamic power steering. This includes owners of units with either a 450 or 570 engine, regardless of the color they chose—whether it was Yellow, Green, Camo, Pure Magnesium, Red, White, or Black. Because the hazard involves a critical mechanical failure in the steering system, any operator of these specific machines faces a potential danger while riding. The risk is not limited to professional riders; it extends to recreational users who enjoy off-road trails, hunters utilizing the vehicle for work, and families who may use these ATVs for leisure activities on private property or designated public lands.

While the recall notice confirms that no injuries have been reported as of the recall date in April 2018, the nature of the hazard suggests that anyone operating the vehicle at speed or on uneven terrain is potentially vulnerable. The dynamic power steering shaft can break without warning, leading to an immediate loss of steering control. In such a scenario, the operator’s ability to react is severely compromised. For experienced riders, this sudden failure might be manageable if they are alert and riding at low speeds. However, for less experienced operators, the risk increases significantly. Novice riders may not have the muscle memory or situational awareness needed to safely dismount or stabilize the vehicle when steering fails, increasing their likelihood of a crash.

Certain demographics may face heightened consequences if they were involved in an incident. Younger riders, who are often permitted to operate ATVs under adult supervision, may lack the physical strength and cognitive maturity to handle a sudden loss of control effectively. Their smaller stature and developing coordination can make it harder to maintain balance or execute emergency maneuvers. Similarly, older adults who enjoy outdoor recreation might be more susceptible to serious injury from falls associated with such crashes. While the body’s natural resilience tends to decrease with age, a fall from an ATV due to mechanical failure can result in fractures, head injuries, or other trauma that takes longer to heal and recover from. Therefore, while the mechanical defect affects all owners equally, the physical outcome of a potential crash can be disproportionately severe for these groups.

It is also important to note that the risk extends beyond just the driver. Passengers on Can-Am Outlander models designed for two people are also at risk. If the vehicle crashes due to steering failure, passengers who may not be holding on as firmly or who have less control over their body position could suffer injuries from being thrown or jolted within the vehicle. Additionally, bystanders in the vicinity of a crashing ATV could be at risk if the vehicle veers unpredictably into populated areas. Although the company has received reports globally, including two in the U.S., the silent nature of this defect means that many owners might be using their vehicles daily without realizing they are part of this high-risk group until it is too late. This underscores the importance of checking your VIN immediately, as ignorance of the defect does not reduce the physical danger posed by the broken steering shaft.

How to tell if you have the recalled item

Before you take any action, it is crucial to verify whether your specific vehicle is part of this recall. Because BRP Can-Am has issued a recall that affects a wide range of configurations, simply knowing the brand name is not enough. You need to look for very specific details regarding the model year, engine size, and steering system type. The recall applies exclusively to model year 2017 Can-Am Outlander and Outlander Max all-terrain vehicles. If your vehicle is from a different year, such as 2016 or 2018, it is not included in this specific alert. Furthermore, the issue is tied to vehicles equipped with a dynamic power steering (DPS) system and specifically those with either a 450 or a 570 engine. If your ATV has a different engine displacement or lacks the DPS feature, it falls outside the scope of this recall.

To confirm your vehicle’s identity, you will need to examine two distinct areas on the frame. First, look at the side panels of the vehicle; the model name is clearly printed there. This helps you distinguish between the standard Outlander and the longer-wheelbase Outlander Max. Second, and most importantly for verification, you must locate the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). The recall notice specifies that this number is printed in two places: on the frame under the seat in the middle, and also on the frame behind the right front wheel. You should check both locations to ensure you are reading the correct identifier associated with your specific unit.

Once you have identified the model and engine type, you can cross-reference it against the specific color and trim combinations listed in the recall. The affected models include the 2017 Outlander DPS 570 EFI (available in Yellow, Green, or Camo), the 2017 Outlander DPS 450 EFI (also in Yellow, Green, or Camo), and the 2017 Outlander XT 570 EFI (in Pure Magnesium or Yellow). Additionally, the recall covers the 2017 Outlander Hunter Edition 570 EFI in Camo, the 2017 Outlander XMR 570 EFI (in Red, White, or Black), and several Outlander Max variants including the DPS 570 EFI (Yellow, Green), the DPS 450 EFI (Yellow, Green), and the XT 570 EFI (Pure Magnesium, Yellow). If your vehicle matches any of these exact specifications, it is part of this recall. Since the vehicles were sold in various colors without a centralized public database for immediate lookup at the time of this alert, checking the physical VIN against BRP’s records via their toll-free number or website is the most reliable method to confirm eligibility.

What to do — step by step

Your refund, repair, or replacement options

If you own one of the recalled 2017 Can-Am Outlander or Outlander Max all-terrain vehicles, it is important to know that you do not need to worry about paying for this safety fix. The manufacturer, BRP (Bombardier Recreational Products), has established a clear and straightforward remedy for this issue. Specifically, the recall provides for a free repair of the defective component. This means that if your vehicle is part of this recall campaign, you will not be charged for parts or labor to replace the broken dynamic power steering shaft. BRP considers this repair essential to restoring the safety of your vehicle, and they have committed to covering all associated costs directly.

The primary way to initiate this remedy is by contacting an authorized BRP Can-Am ATV dealer. These dealerships are equipped with the necessary technical training and genuine replacement parts to perform the repair correctly. The process begins when you reach out to one of these certified service centers. When you contact them, be prepared to provide your vehicle’s identification details so they can verify that your specific unit is included in this recall. Once verified, the dealer will schedule a time for you to bring the ATV in for the inspection and subsequent repair. This step is crucial because it ensures that the correct part is installed and that the steering system is fully restored to its intended operational standard.

In addition to directing consumers to dealers, BRP is also taking proactive steps to assist affected owners. The company has stated that they are contacting all known purchasers directly. If you recently purchased one of these vehicles or have been in touch with BRP regarding service or warranty matters, you may receive a notification from them with specific instructions tailored to your account. This direct outreach is designed to reduce the burden on you, ensuring that you are aware of the recall and know exactly how to proceed without having to search for information on your own.

If you need more information or wish to confirm whether your vehicle is covered before visiting a dealer, you can reach out to BRP directly. You may call their toll-free customer service line at 888-272-9222. This line is available from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Sunday, which provides ample opportunity to speak with a representative at your convenience. Alternatively, you can visit the official Can-Am website at www.can-am.brp.com. Once there, navigate to the “Owner Center” and select the “Safety” section. This online resource will provide detailed recall information, including updates on repair availability and any additional steps you might need to take. It is vital to use these official channels for all communications to ensure you are receiving accurate and up-to-date guidance regarding your free repair option.

What can happen if you ignore it

When a manufacturer issues a recall for a critical safety component like the steering system on an all-terrain vehicle (ATV), the instruction to stop using the product immediately is not a suggestion—it is a necessary boundary for your physical safety. The hazard identified in this recall involves the dynamic power steering shaft, a mechanical part that allows you to turn the heavy front wheels of your Can-Am ATV with ease. When this shaft breaks, it does not just mean the vehicle becomes harder to steer; it means the fundamental link between your hands and the direction of the machine is severed. Ignoring this defect invites a scenario where you lose control of the vehicle without warning, particularly during turns or when navigating uneven terrain.

The real-world consequence of continuing to ride a recalled ATV is the high probability of a crash. Because the steering shaft failure can happen suddenly and without prior mechanical symptoms, you may find yourself unable to correct the vehicle’s path at all. On an ATV, which has a high center of gravity compared to cars, losing steering control often results in the vehicle tipping over or sliding into obstacles. This is not merely about damage to the machine; it is about the risk of serious bodily injury to the rider and any passengers. The force involved in an ATV crash can lead to fractures, head trauma, spinal injuries, or worse, especially if you are thrown from the seat or pinned under the vehicle.

It is important to look at the data provided by BRP with clear eyes. The company has reported 13 incidents of broken steering shafts globally, including two confirmed cases in the United States. While these specific reports have not yet resulted in documented injuries, each incident represents a near-miss where control was lost. In the context of heavy machinery operating at speed over rough ground, a loss of control is inherently dangerous. The fact that no injuries have been reported so far should not be interpreted as proof that the risk is low; rather, it highlights how fortunate those involved were to avoid harm. One broken shaft is one too many, and each failure increases the statistical likelihood of a severe accident for someone who chooses to ignore the warning.

Furthermore, continuing to use the vehicle exposes you to unpredictable handling characteristics even before complete failure. You may notice increased vibration or stiffness in the steering wheel, which are early signs that the internal components are degrading. Dismissing these subtle cues can lead to a catastrophic failure at a critical moment, such as when crossing a ditch, climbing a hill, or rounding a corner at speed. The environment where ATVs are typically used—remote trails, muddy fields, and rocky paths—is unforgiving. A crash in such settings is not only painful but can also complicate rescue efforts if you are far from help. By ignoring the recall, you are essentially gambling with your safety and the safety of others on the trail, relying on luck rather than engineering integrity to keep you upright.

Staying safe: broader tips

While this specific recall addresses a mechanical defect in certain Can-Am all-terrain vehicles, the underlying principle applies to virtually any complex machinery or vehicle you operate: proactive maintenance and regular safety checks are your best defense against unexpected failures. Dynamic power steering systems, like the one involved in this recall, rely on precise alignment and robust components to transfer force safely from the handlebars to the wheels. Over time, vibration, impact with terrain, and general wear can stress these connections. To stay safe on your own terms, establish a routine inspection schedule before every ride. Look for visible cracks, loose bolts, or unusual play in the steering column. If you hear clunking noises or feel resistance that wasn’t there before, do not ignore it. These are early warning signs that a component may be nearing failure. Treat your vehicle’s maintenance manual as a living document, following the manufacturer’s recommended service intervals for lubrication and part replacement strictly.

Beyond mechanical checks, situational awareness is critical when operating heavy machinery in unpredictable environments like trails, mud, or uneven terrain. Always wear appropriate protective gear, including helmets, goggles, gloves, and boots, regardless of how experienced you are. It is also wise to inform someone of your route and expected return time before heading out into remote areas. If you experience a mechanical issue while away from home, stop safely as soon as possible and assess the situation rather than attempting to push through a potential hazard. Pushing a vehicle with compromised steering can lead to loss of control, especially at higher speeds or on slopes.

Finally, make recall monitoring a habitual part of owning any significant appliance, vehicle, or tool. Manufacturers and government agencies like the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) issue recalls not to cause alarm, but to correct safety issues that may not be obvious during normal use. You can stay informed by registering your products with the manufacturer upon purchase, which ensures you receive direct notifications if a safety issue arises. Additionally, periodically check the CPSC website or sign up for their email alerts. By staying proactive and informed, you transform potential surprises into manageable maintenance tasks, ensuring that your outdoor adventures remain enjoyable and secure.