Polaris Recalls Thousands of Off-Road Vehicles Over Fire Risk

More than 5,000 recreational off-road vehicles (ROVs) are being recalled due to a fire hazard, according to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. The recall affects model year 2025 and 2026 Polaris Ranger XP 1000 NorthStar and Ranger Crew XP 1000 NorthStar ROVs.

The issue stems from a potentially misrouted alternator cable. If this cable becomes damaged and makes contact with the negative battery post, it can cause an electrical short, leading to a fire. Polaris Industries has received five reports detailing sparking, smoking, or melting incidents, and one report of a fire. Fortunately, no injuries or property damage have been reported in connection with this issue.

The recalled vehicles were manufactured in the United States and sold by Polaris dealers nationwide between March 2025 and August 2025. The price range for these ROVs was between $28,000 and $38,000. The affected models were available in a variety of colors, including black, blue, bronze, brown, camouflage, gray, orange, red, and white, and came in both three and six-seat configurations. A distinguishing feature of the recalled vehicles is the “POLARIS” stamping on the front grille. The unique Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), which can be used to determine if a specific unit is part of the recall, is located on the left rear frame, below the cargo box on the driver’s side.

Polaris is offering a free repair to address the defect. Consumers are urged to immediately cease using the recalled ROVs. To determine if their vehicle is included in the recall, owners can visit the dedicated recall webpage at http://www.polaris.com/en-us/recalls/off-road/polaris-recalls-some-model-year-2025-2026-ranger-xp-1000-and-crew-xp-1000-vehicles/. The company is providing instructions for continued safe operation of the vehicles until the repair can be completed, or consumers can contact an authorized Polaris dealer to schedule a free repair at their convenience.

Consumers can also contact Polaris directly with questions. The company can be reached by phone at 800-765-2747, Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Central Time. Additional contact options include the owner’s connections team at Owner.Connections@polaris.com or through an online forum accessible via the Polaris website.

Article by Mel Anara, based upon information from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission.

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