Gates Recalls ATV and UTV Clutches Due to Laceration and Injury Hazards (Recall Alert)

What was recalled

In late November 2016, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) announced a significant safety recall involving aftermarket parts for all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) and utility task vehicles (UTVs). The recall focuses specifically on certain G-Force continuously variable transmission (CVT) clutches manufactured by Gates Corporation. These are not standard factory-installed components but rather metallic, cylinder-shaped replacement clutch assemblies designed to be installed in various off-road and utility vehicles. If you have modified your vehicle with these specific aftermarket parts, it is crucial to verify whether they fall under this recall.

The recall covers two distinct model numbers of the G-Force CVT clutch: Part No. CVTPRM001 and Part No. CVTPRM002. These are identifiable by specific markings printed on the unit itself. On the round top surface of the clutch, you will find the text "G-FORCE" along with the Gates logo clearly printed. Additionally, the packaging for these products contains critical identification details, including the Universal Product Code (UPC), the part number, and an internal product number. For the CVTPRM001 model, the UPC is 770075699415 and the internal product number is 76920001. For the CVTPRM002 model, the UPC is 770075701316 and the internal product number is 76920005. If your clutch matches either of these part numbers and internal codes, it is included in this recall.

Gates Corporation initiated this recall because they identified a potential manufacturing defect that could lead to serious safety issues during operation. The company began contacting all known purchasers directly to inform them of the hazard. While the provided records do not specify the exact geographic regions or specific retailers where these clutches were sold, it is noted that Gates was actively reaching out to owners who had purchased these units. If you are unsure whether you own one of these recalled parts, checking your purchase records or physically inspecting the clutch for the aforementioned markings is the most reliable way to determine if your equipment is affected. This recall underscores the importance of verifying aftermarket parts, especially those that play a critical role in vehicle transmission and safety.

The scope of this recall is limited to these two specific models of G-Force CVT clutches. It does not extend to other Gates products or different models of clutches that may look similar but have different part numbers. Therefore, it is essential to double-check the part number printed on your clutch before taking any action. If you have replaced your vehicle's original clutch with one of these G-Force models, you must treat this recall with urgency. The potential for injury is real, and Gates has committed to providing a full refund plus additional compensation to those who return the defective parts. This proactive approach by Gates highlights the seriousness with which they view the safety of ATV and UTV operators.

The hazard, explained

To understand why this recall is necessary, it helps to look at what happens inside the drivetrain of your ATV or UTV when things go wrong. The recalled items are G-Force CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) clutches. In simple terms, a clutch is the mechanical component responsible for transferring power from the engine to the wheels. It works by changing its effective diameter to manage speed and torque, much like the gears in a car but operating automatically. These specific Gates clutches are aftermarket metallic assemblies designed to replace original equipment parts, meaning they sit directly within the high-stress environment of your vehicle’s transmission system.

The core issue here is structural integrity under load. During normal operation, these clutches spin at high speeds and endure significant centrifugal force and heat. According to the CPSC report, the clutch can break during this operation. When a metal component fails catastrophically while spinning at high velocity, it does not simply stop; it fragments. The recall notice specifically warns that these broken parts can be forcefully ejected from the assembly. This is not a slow wear-and-tear scenario where you might hear a squeak or feel a vibration over weeks. It is a sudden mechanical failure where the internal structure collapses and turns into high-velocity projectiles.

The danger to the operator comes from two distinct physical mechanisms: laceration and impact injury. Because these clutches are located within the vehicle’s drivetrain, often near the rider’s legs or lower body depending on the specific ATV or UTV model layout, ejected fragments travel with enough energy to penetrate skin, clothing, and protective gear. The CPSC has already documented three reports of this clutch breaking during operation, including one confirmed incident resulting in a laceration to the rider. This means sharp metal shards were propelled into soft tissue, causing cuts that can be deep and difficult to treat.

Even if the fragments do not cut you directly, the forceful ejection itself poses an impact hazard. In the confined space of a vehicle’s engine bay or transmission housing, flying metal can strike nearby components, potentially causing secondary failures like brake line ruptures or steering cable damage. However, the primary and most immediate threat remains direct contact with the operator. The combination of high-speed rotation and brittle failure creates a situation where small pieces of metal become dangerous shrapnel. This is why the hazard is described as both a laceration and an impact risk—it is not just about being cut, but about being hit by fast-moving debris in an area critical to your safety.

It is important to note that this failure can occur without obvious warning signs beforehand. Unlike a worn belt that might slip or make noise, a sudden fracture in the clutch housing or internal components can happen abruptly during normal driving conditions. This unpredictability is what makes the hazard particularly serious. You cannot rely on feeling a change in performance to know if the clutch is about to fail; it could be intact one moment and fragmented the next. This is why immediate cessation of use is the only safe response once you confirm your vehicle contains one of the affected models.

Who is most at risk

The primary group at immediate risk consists of owners and operators of all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) and utility task vehicles (UTVs) who have installed the specific Gates G-Force CVT clutches identified in this recall. These are not standard factory-installed parts for most new vehicles; rather, they are aftermarket metallic, cylinder-shaped replacement clutch assemblies. This means the risk is concentrated among a specific subset of enthusiasts, mechanics, and fleet managers who actively modify or maintain their off-road vehicles. If you purchased these clutches to upgrade performance or replace a worn component, your vehicle is potentially affected. The recall specifically targets Part No. CVTPRM001 and Part No. CVTPRM002, identifiable by the "G-FORCE" branding and Gates logo printed on the round top of the clutch unit. Therefore, the most vulnerable individuals are those who have directly installed or plan to install these specific part numbers in their machinery.

While any operator using these defective clutches faces a significant hazard, the nature of the failure poses distinct risks based on physical proximity and exposure. The recalled clutches can break during operation, causing fragmentation that is forcefully ejected from the vehicle. This creates a high-velocity projectile hazard. For the primary driver or rider, who sits directly adjacent to the engine compartment where these clutches are typically located, the risk of direct impact injury is substantial. A laceration or blunt force trauma from ejected metal fragments can occur without warning, potentially leading to severe physical harm. The fact that three incidents have already been reported, including one confirmed laceration to a rider, underscores that this is not merely a theoretical mechanical failure but an active threat to personal safety.

Furthermore, individuals who lack proper protective gear are at heightened risk for serious injury. Operators of ATVs and UTVs often ride in dusty, rugged environments where clothing may be thin or torn, offering little barrier against sharp metal fragments. Younger riders, who may have less experience recognizing early mechanical warning signs like unusual vibrations or noises, might continue operating the vehicle until catastrophic failure occurs. Similarly, older operators might be more vulnerable to the secondary effects of such an injury due to slower recovery times or pre-existing health conditions, even if the initial impact is not fatal. It is also important to note that passengers on UTVs may be at risk if ejected parts breach the cabin or roll cage structure, although the primary design flaw centers on the clutch assembly itself. Anyone who has allowed a mechanic to install these parts without verifying the part number should consider this a critical safety check, as they may be unaware of the latent danger hidden within their vehicle’s drivetrain.

How to tell if you have the recalled item

If you own an all-terrain vehicle (ATV) or a utility task vehicle (UTV), taking a moment to inspect your clutch assembly is a crucial step in ensuring your safety. The recall issued by Gates specifically targets aftermarket metallic, cylinder-shaped replacement clutch assemblies designed for these types of vehicles. Because these parts are often installed by mechanics or enthusiasts rather than the original manufacturer, they may not be immediately obvious as a potential hazard. However, identifying them is straightforward if you know exactly what to look for and where to find the critical identification marks.

The primary visual cue is the physical construction of the part itself. You are looking for a metallic, cylinder-shaped clutch assembly. On the round top surface of this clutch, you should see specific branding. Look clearly for the words "G-FORCE" printed prominently, along with the Gates logo. If you have already removed the old clutch or have access to the packaging it came in, you will find more precise identifiers. The packaging typically displays the UPC code, the part number, and an internal product number. It is vital to check these specific numbers against the list below, as this is the most reliable way to confirm if your unit is included in this recall.

The recall covers two specific models of the G-Force CVT clutches. Please compare the numbers on your clutch or its box with the following details:

• Part Number: CVTPRM001. If your part has this number, it is part of the recall. The associated UPC code is 770075699415, and the internal product number is 76920001.
• Part Number: CVTPRM002. This is the second model included in the recall. Its corresponding UPC code is 770075701316, and the internal product number is 76920005.

If you are unsure whether your vehicle uses one of these specific clutches, check your owner’s manual or any service records from when the clutch was last installed. These G-Force CVT clutches are aftermarket replacements, meaning they were likely added after the vehicle was purchased as an upgrade or repair. If you recently had work done on your ATV or UTV, ask your mechanic which brand and model of clutch was installed. If you bought the part yourself, locate the original box or receipt to verify the part number.

When in doubt, do not attempt to guess. The safest approach is to contact Gates directly using the information provided below. They can confirm whether your specific serial or part number falls within the affected batch. Remember, the hazard involves the clutch breaking during operation and ejecting fragments, so accurate identification is the first step toward protecting yourself from injury.

What to do — step by step

Your refund, repair, or replacement options

When you discover that your vehicle is equipped with one of the recalled Gates clutches, it is natural to feel a mix of frustration and concern about how to proceed. The good news is that Gates has established a comprehensive remedy designed to make this process as straightforward and financially fair as possible. Understanding exactly what you are entitled to—and how to claim it—is the most important step in resolving this issue safely and efficiently.

First, it is crucial to understand the nature of the remedy provided. This is not a standard repair or a simple replacement with another clutch unit. Instead, Gates is offering a full refund for the cost of the recalled clutch itself. However, recognizing that removing and replacing a clutch is labor-intensive work for most vehicle owners, Gates has gone further by including additional financial support. Upon returning the defective part, you will receive an extra $300 specifically intended to cover the costs associated with disassembly and reinstallation. This allowance is meant to offset the time, tools, or professional labor fees you might incur to get your ATV or UTV back on the road safely.

In addition to the monetary refund and the installation assistance fund, Gates is also providing a complimentary G-Force Belt to consumers who return their recalled clutches. This is a significant value-add, as belts are essential components that wear out over time and typically need to be replaced alongside clutches during such maintenance. By including this part at no cost, Gates ensures that you have the necessary hardware to complete the repair without needing to make additional purchases from other retailers.

To access these benefits, you must follow a specific process. Do not attempt to dispose of the recalled clutch or install it elsewhere before contacting Gates, as the return shipping and verification are required for your refund. You can initiate this process by calling Gates directly at 800-766-9504 between 7:30 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. Mountain Time, Monday through Friday. Alternatively, you may reach out via email at cvtclutchrecall@gates.com or visit www.gates.com and navigate to the "CVT Clutch Recall" section for detailed instructions. The company is also proactively contacting all known purchasers, so keep an eye on your mail or inbox for their direct outreach.

The conditions for receiving these remedies are clear: you must return the recalled clutch to Gates. Once they receive the part and verify it is one of the affected models (CVTPRM001 or CVTPRM002), they will process your full refund, issue the $300 payment for labor costs, and ship your free G-Force Belt. This structured approach ensures that you are fully compensated for both the product and the inconvenience of having a defective part in your vehicle.

What can happen if you ignore it

When a manufacturer issues a recall for a critical mechanical component like a clutch, it is rarely due to a minor inconvenience. In this specific case involving Gates CVT clutches for ATVs and UTVs, the decision to issue a recall stems from a fundamental failure in the product's structural integrity during operation. Ignoring this alert means continuing to operate a vehicle with a component that has been identified as unstable under normal working conditions. The core danger lies in the potential for the clutch to break apart while the engine is running and the vehicle is in motion. This is not a scenario where a part might simply wear out slowly over time; it is a risk of sudden, catastrophic fragmentation.

If you choose to keep using the recalled clutches, you are exposing yourself to the very real possibility that internal parts could be forcefully ejected from the clutch assembly. Because these clutches are metallic and cylinder-shaped replacement assemblies designed for high-torque environments, they endure significant stress. When that stress causes a break, the resulting debris does not just fall harmlessly to the ground. The force of the ejection can propel sharp metal fragments outward with considerable velocity. For an ATV or UTV rider, who is often seated close to the engine and transmission components, this creates an immediate and severe laceration hazard. You could suffer deep cuts from flying shards of metal, which can lead to significant blood loss, nerve damage, or other serious injuries requiring emergency medical attention.

The reality of this risk is underscored by the reports already received by Gates. The company has documented three distinct incidents where the clutch broke during operation. While the total number may seem small, each incident represents a person who was driving their vehicle under normal conditions and experienced a sudden mechanical failure. One of these reports resulted in a laceration to the rider, confirming that the theoretical risk has already materialized into physical harm for real consumers. By ignoring the recall, you are gambling with your safety based on the hope that you will not be part of the next reported incident. There is no way to predict when the clutch will fail; it could happen during a slow crawl or at high speed, leaving you with little time to react.

Beyond the immediate physical danger, continuing to use these clutches can lead to secondary vehicle failures. A broken clutch inside a CVT system can cause sudden loss of power transmission, potentially leaving you stranded in remote areas or causing the vehicle to behave unpredictably if it happens while navigating difficult terrain. The combination of potential injury and the likelihood of being left without reliable transportation in hazardous environments makes ignoring this recall a dangerous choice. The remedy offered by Gates is designed to remove this risk entirely, but only if you act promptly. Delaying action does not reduce the danger; it only prolongs your exposure to a known hazard that has already caused injuries.

Staying safe: broader tips

While this specific recall addresses a critical mechanical failure in aftermarket clutch assemblies for all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) and utility task vehicles (UTVs), the underlying principle of safety extends far beyond replacing a single part. When you invest in high-performance machinery, particularly one used in rugged, off-road environments, your responsibility shifts from passive ownership to active stewardship. The best way to protect yourself and your passengers is to cultivate a mindset of proactive maintenance and continuous learning about the equipment you operate.

First and foremost, establish a rigorous pre-operation checklist routine. Before you ever turn the key or pull the start cord on any powersports vehicle, perform a visual and physical inspection. Look for loose bolts, frayed cables, worn belts, or signs of metal fatigue that might not be visible during a quick glance. In the case of clutches and drivetrain components, listen to how the vehicle sounds when idling and accelerating. Unusual grinding, slipping, or vibration are early warning signs that mechanical integrity is compromised. By catching these issues before they reach the point of catastrophic failure, you prevent the kind of fragmentation hazards described in this recall from ever becoming a reality. Regular maintenance is not just about keeping the machine running; it is about ensuring the safety systems function exactly as engineered.

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 a wide variety of products, from children’s toys to power tools and automotive parts. Many consumers do not realize that they can subscribe to email alerts directly from the CPSC website or create accounts on manufacturer portals to receive notifications specific to their vehicle models. Ignorance is rarely an excuse in safety matters; by proactively signing up for these alerts, you ensure that you are among the first to know if a defect is discovered in your equipment, allowing you to act before an incident occurs.

Finally, never underestimate the value of proper training and protective gear. Even with perfectly maintained machinery, accidents can happen due to loss of control or unexpected terrain changes. Always wear appropriate personal protective equipment, including helmets, eye protection, and gloves, regardless of how skilled you believe yourself to be. Consider taking a certified safety course offered by organizations like the Off-Highway Vehicle Safety Institute (OHVSI) if you are new to ATVs or UTVs. These courses teach crucial skills such as weight distribution, braking techniques on slopes, and how to recover from a tip-over. Combining mechanical diligence with operational knowledge creates a comprehensive safety net that protects you long after the immediate recall period has passed.