Over 40,000 John Deere mowers recalled over risk of Kawasaki engine fires, burns

Key Takeaways:

• Kawasaki Motors recalls approximately 39,000 John Deere mowers in the U.S.
• Voltage regulator failure in engines may cause overheating and fire risks.
• Affected models include Z720E, Z730M, Z740R, and Z760R sold since 2018.
• Five fires and 26 melting or smoking incidents reported; no injuries.
• Owners should stop using mowers immediately and contact dealers for free repairs.

Massive Recall of John Deere ZTrak Mowers Due to Engine Hazards

Kawasaki Motors has initiated a significant recall of approximately 39,000 John Deere ZTrak Zero Turn mowers across the United States. The recall stems from a critical engine issue that increases the risk of fires and burns, prompting immediate action from consumers.

Affected Models and Sales Period

The recall specifically targets John Deere ZTrak Zero Turn mowers equipped with Kawasaki engines. The models impacted are:

• Z720E
• Z730M
• Z740R
• Z760R

These mowers were sold through authorized John Deere dealers nationwide between October 2018 and September 2024 . Additionally, about 2,600 mowers in Canada are affected by this recall.

The Engine Issue Explained

The core of the problem lies in the voltage regulator within the Kawasaki engines. This component may fail during operation or even while the mower is stored. Such a failure can lead to the engine overheating, which poses significant fire and burn risks to users and property.

According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, there have been:

• Five reports of fires
• 26 reports of melting and/or smoking incidents

Fortunately, no injuries have been reported to date.

What Owners Need to Do

Owners of the affected mowers are strongly advised to cease use immediately to prevent any potential hazards. The next steps include:

• Contacting a local John Deere dealership : Dealers are prepared to handle the recall and provide assistance.
• Arranging for free repairs : John Deere is offering repairs at no cost to ensure the safety and functionality of the mowers.

Commitment to Safety

This recall underscores the commitment of Kawasaki Motors and John Deere to consumer safety. By addressing the voltage regulator issue proactively, they aim to prevent accidents and maintain trust with their customers.

For further information or assistance, owners should reach out to their local dealerships or consult official company communications.

Owners are urged to take this recall seriously and act promptly to ensure their safety and the safety of those around them.