2013 Can-Am Spyder RT and ST Models Recalled for Fire Risk

Transport Canada announced a recall for all 2013 Can-Am Spyder RT and ST series roadsters because of a risk of a vehicle fire. At the moment, a recall has only been announced for Canada but a representative from Bombardier Recreational Products says agencies in other countries such as the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration are also preparing for a recall. (UPDATE: NHTSA has now also announced a recall.)

According to Transport Canada, heat build-up near the brake master cylinder could cause the plastic manifold inlet on top of the tandem master cylinder to melt. A melting manifold inlet could cause a brake fluid leak which may result in a fire. The recall affects all versions of the RT and ST, including the S and Limited versions.

A BRP spokesperson posting on the SpyderLovers.com forum says the company has developed new heat shields which dealers will install to reduce the heat levels near the tandem master cylinder which will prevent the manifold inlet from melting.

The Transport Canada recall affects 2,380 units. We’ll provide an update once NHTSA releases information about a U.S. recall.

UPDATE: A recall has now been announced by NHTSA, affecting 5,042 units in the U.S. NHSTA documents reveal there have been three reports of vehicle fires stemming from this problem, with the first coming June 21.

[Source: Transport Canada, SpyderLovers.com]

By Dennis Chung