CPSC, Yamaha Motor Corporation, U.S.A. Announce Recall Reminder for ATVs

The following product safety recall was voluntarily conducted by the firm in cooperation with the CPSC. Consumers should stop using the product immediately unless otherwise instructed.

Name of product: Yamaha Raptor YFM660R ATVs

Units: About 86,000

Manufacturer/Distributor: Yamaha Motor Corporation, U.S.A. of Cypress, California

Hazard: In February 2004, Yamaha announced a voluntary recall of Raptor YFM660R ATVs. Vibration from the engine and driveline during long periods of high rpm usage could cause the rear master cylinder reservoir to agitate resulting in brake fluid aeration. A small amount of air bubbles could enter the master cylinder adversely affecting rear brake performance.

Incidents/Injuries: Yamaha received eight reports of incidents that may be attributed to rear brake fluid aeration. There are four reports of minor injuries.

Description: Model year 2001-2004 Raptor YFM660R ATVs are involved in this recall. The 2001 to 2004 model year ATVs have “660R” written on both sides of the bodywork and “Raptor” written on both sides of the rear fender. The 2001 and 2002 ATVs are either blue and white or black and white; the 2003 ATVs are either blue and white, black and red, or black with blue flame graphics; and the 2004 ATVs are either blue and white or red and white.

Sold at: Yamaha dealers sold these ATVs nationwide between 2000 and 2004 for between $6,199 and $6,699.

Manufactured in: Japan

Remedy: Free repair. Registered owners of the affected units were notified directly by mail sent on February 27, 2004 . Consumers who have already responded to the recall and had their units repaired do not need to take any further action. Consumers who have not already responded to the recall should stop using their ATV immediately and contact an authorized Yamaha dealer to schedule an appointment for repair.

Consumer Contact: Call Yamaha at (800) 227-5963 between 8 a.m. and 6 p.m. ET everyday, or log on to the company’s Web site at www.yamaha-motor.com