Article
Mario Kart Ride-On Toy Recalled for Unintended Acceleration
The Consumer Product Safety Commission has issued a recall for the Jakks Pacific Mario Kart ride-on toy due to unintended acceleration issues. Approximately 17,500 24-volt Mario Kart ride-on cars are affected by this problem, which poses a crash hazard to children. The accelerator pedal mechanism may get clogged with debris, causing the pedal to remain stuck even when the user’s foot is lifted. This can lead to unintended acceleration, potentially resulting in accidents.
Details of the Recall
The CPSC has highlighted that the current models available for sale have been fixed to prevent this issue. Owners of the affected Mario Karts will receive a free replacement pedal kit along with instructions on how to install it. Until the pedal is fixed, users are advised to stop using the toy to avoid any accidents. Despite 65 reports of the problem and 15 incidents of karts crashing into structures, there have been no serious injuries, with only one minor injury reported – a chafed hand.
How to Check if Your Mario Kart is Affected
If you own one of the Jakks Pacific Mario Karts and are unsure if it is part of the recall, check for an eight-digit alphanumeric date code on the bottom of the kart. The list of affected date codes can be found here.
Conclusion
While the idea of a Mario Kart recall may seem amusing at first, the safety implications for children are serious. Unexpected acceleration can potentially lead to dangerous situations, emphasizing the importance of resolving this issue promptly.
FAQ
Q: How many Mario Karts are affected by the recall?
A: Around 17,500 24-volt Mario Kart ride-on cars are affected by the unintended acceleration issue.
Q: Are there any reported injuries related to this problem?
A: There have been no serious injuries reported; however, one minor injury involving a chafed hand has been documented.
Q: How can owners determine if their Mario Kart is part of the recall?
A: Owners can check for an eight-digit alphanumeric date code on the bottom of the kart to see if it is among the recalled units.
Q: What should owners do if they have an affected Mario Kart?
A: Owners of the affected Mario Karts will receive a free replacement pedal kit and instructions to fix the issue. It is recommended to stop using the toy until the pedal is replaced.
Q: Is it safe to purchase a new Mario Kart ride-on toy now?
A: The CPSC has confirmed that the current models available for sale have been fixed to address the acceleration problem, ensuring they are safe to use.