A device meant to keep yards looking clean has instead been recalled because of a threat it poses to safety.
The product in question is called the Exmark Quest 42 Inch ZRT Riding Mower. The recall was announced by the Beatrice, Nebraska-based Exmark Manufacturing Company when it was discovered that there exists a defect in the 2009 and 2010 models that causes interference with the controls of the mower. This critical error comes about when the mower’s deck support bearings fail. The possibility of this taking place and causing a crash has prompted the recall. The firm has already been informed of 18 such incidents, although thankfully, none of those ended with an injury to a user or bystander.
Around 2,200 mowers are affected by the recall. Consumers can identity the defective units by looking behind the seat at the metal plate, where the model and serial numbers are emblazoned. The model number is QST20BE422 and affected serial numbers range from 790,000 to 860,652.
The riding mowers retailed from $4,200 to $4,400 between March 2009 and April 2010. Consumers with the item in their possession are being advised to cease usage at once. Exmark has said they have contacted registered owners, but anyone else with the item in their possession can get in touch with the company to a) schedule a no-cost repair or b) determine whether repairs have already been made.