Polaris recalling GEM electric runabouts over parking brake fears

Polaris is recalling 4,394 GEM electric vehicles due to faulty parking brakes. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the mechanism may prematurely wear, leaving the brake inoperable. If the brake fails and the driver exits the vehicle, the EV could roll away and cause a crash. The recall only applies to models built between January 14, 2010 and November 23, 2012.

As you may recall, Polaris purchased GEM from Chrysler in 2011 and promptly shifted production from Fargo, North Dakota to Minnesota and Iowa.

Owners can expect Polaris to replace the parking brake lever assembly free of charge once the recall campaign gets under way on February 4.

NHTSA Campaign ID number : 13V003000

Vehicle Make / Model: Model Year(s):
GEM / E2 2010-2013
GEM / E2 XLD 2010-2011
GEM / E2L 2010-2011
GEM / E2S 2010-2011 2013
GEM / E4 2010-2013
GEM / E4S 2012-2013
GEM / E6 2010-2013
GEM / E6S 2012-2013
GEM / EL 2012-2013
GEM / ELXD 2012-2013
GEM / ES 2012

Manufacturer: Polaris Industries, Inc.

Report Receipt Date: JAN 04, 2013

NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number: 13V003000

NHTSA Action Number: N/A

Component: PARKING BRAKE

Potential Number of Units Affected: 4,394

Summary:
Polaris is recalling certain model year 2010-2013 Global Electric Motorcars manufactured from January 14, 2010, through November 23, 2012. The parking brake has mechanical components which may wear prematurely and prevent the brake from engaging.

Consequence:
If the parking brake fails to engage while parking, the driver may not be able to prevent the vehicle from rolling away after exiting the vehicle, increasing the risk of a vehicle crash.

Remedy:
Polaris will notify owners and dealers will replace the parking brake lever assembly free of charge. The safety recall is expected to begin February 4, 2013. Owners may contact Polaris customer service by calling 1-888-704-5290.

Notes:
Polaris' recall numbers are L-13-01 and L-13-02. Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY: 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.

News Source: National Highway Traffic Safety Administration

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News Source: The Detroit News

 

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