CPSC-Yamaha Repair Program

Information on the CPSC-Yamaha Repair Program Announcement (NOT A RECALL)
Repair Campaign Announcement

On March 31, 2009, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) announced a repair program for Rhino 660 and 450 models. Yamaha subsequently and voluntarily included the same offer for Rhino 700 models in order to reduce confusion and ensure customer satisfaction.

This is not a recall. This is a voluntary repair program.

According to the CPSC, the following two repairs are needed “to help reduce the chance of rollover and improve vehicle handling”:
1. Installation of a 2-inch spacer on each of the rear wheels.
2. Removal of the rear anti-sway bar.

This statement regarding the announcement can be attributed to Yamaha:
“It is important to note that the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) announcement on March 31, 2009, regarding the Rhino Side-by-Side vehicle was not a recall. This is a voluntary repair program. The difference is that this was the result of technical discussions between Yamaha and the CPSC, and Yamaha agreed to address concerns raised by CPSC.

The safety of our customers drives everything we do at Yamaha Motor Corporation, U.S.A. (Yamaha), and this announcement by the CPSC about Yamaha’s free repair offer for Rhino models 660, 450 and 700 reflects this commitment. Yamaha has had ongoing discussions with CPSC since 2006 to share information about the Rhino, including new product developments and safety features, as well as Yamaha’s efforts to promote safe and responsible use of the vehicles. This has included demonstration rides with CPSC staff and other field activities.

While more than 99 percent of Rhino owners use the product without incident, the CPSC and Yamaha examined the small segment of Rhino owners who have had an incident on the product to develop modifications that the CPSC feels may help reduce the chance of rollover and improve vehicle handling in certain situations.

Yamaha stands behind the Rhino and is proud of the Rhino’s safety record and safety features. The vehicle has won virtually every “first in class” award and top safety ratings in independent reviews since its introduction, and has skyrocketed in popularity due to its exceptional reliability, safety and versatility. And hundreds of Rhinos are used every day by law enforcement personnel, first responders, and federal and state agencies .

Yamaha is deeply saddened whenever anyone is injured in an accident with one of our vehicles. The vast majority of our customers operate their Rhinos safely and without reported incidents. Yamaha reminds all Rhino owners, as with any motorized vehicle, that safety features are no substitute for driving responsibly. Follow all safety rules and age guidelines, and always wear the three-point seat belt and a helmet when operating the Rhino.”

More information from Yamaha to Rhino customers:
http://www.yamaha-motor.com/outdoor/Rhino_Owner_Info_309.aspx

CPSC Free Repair Program press release: http://www.cpsc.gov/CPSCPUB/PREREL/prhtml09/09172.html

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