For guys across America who love tearing through snowy trails on their snowmobiles, Polaris is a name that often means rugged fun and reliable performance. But recent news about a major recall for certain Polaris MATRYX snowmobiles has raised some red flags, especially for those who own models from 2022 to 2025 equipped with PATRIOT 650 or 850 engines. This isn’t just a minor hiccup—it’s a serious issue involving the primary clutch that could put riders at risk. Here’s what every snowmobiler needs to know about this recall, why it’s happening, and what to do next.
Polaris, a big player in the powersports world, has found a problem with the primary (drive) clutch in some of its MATRYX snowmobiles. The clutch can crack and fail, which might cause it or its parts to break loose from the machine. When that happens, it’s not just a breakdown—it’s a safety hazard that could lead to injuries. The company has reported 133 cases of clutch failure, with 12 incidents where parts actually separated from the snowmobile. Even more concerning, there have been two reported injuries tied to this issue. For guys who hit the trails hard, this is a wake-up call to check if their ride is affected.
The recall covers about 21,160 snowmobiles worldwide, a hefty number that shows how widespread the problem could be. It includes specific models from 2022 to 2025 with PATRIOT 650 or 850 engines. These are popular machines, often used by guys who love backcountry riding or long winter trips. But the issue doesn’t stop with the snowmobiles themselves. If a rider has had their clutch replaced with service parts numbered 1323613 or 1323614, those parts are also part of the recall. That means even some folks who thought their sled was fixed might need another repair.
Polaris first raised the alarm back on July 13, 2023, with a “Stop Sale, Stop Ride” notice after informing the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). This wasn’t just a suggestion—it was a clear directive to stop using these snowmobiles immediately. Since then, the company has expanded the recall twice, first on January 18, 2024, and again on May 28, 2025, to include more affected vehicles. They also announced a formal voluntary recall with the CPSC on February 22, 2024 (CPSC Recall No. 24-740). Each step shows Polaris is taking the issue seriously, but it also highlights how complex the problem has become.
Jenny Nack, Vice President and General Manager of Polaris Snow, emphasized that rider safety is the company’s top concern. “This includes continually monitoring performance to help catch potential safety issues, which this expanded recall demonstrates,” she said. Polaris is working to make things right by offering free inspections and repairs through their dealers. They’re reaching out directly to registered owners and dealers to let them know if their snowmobile is part of the recall. If a rider’s clutch was replaced with one of the affected service parts, their dealer will also get in touch to sort it out.
For guys who own one of these snowmobiles, the message is clear: don’t ride until the machine is checked. Polaris is adamant that owners shouldn’t try to fix the clutch themselves—it’s a job for trained professionals at a Polaris dealership. Riders can check if their snowmobile is affected by visiting the Off-Road Safety Recalls page on the Polaris website or calling 800-765-2747. All it takes is the vehicle identification number (VIN) or model details to see if the sled is on the list. This is especially important for guys who bought used snowmobiles or had clutch repairs done in the past, as they might not realize their machine is at risk.
The recall process itself is straightforward. Once a rider confirms their snowmobile is affected, they can schedule a free inspection with a Polaris dealer. If the clutch needs fixing or replacing, the dealer will handle it at no cost. Polaris has been clear that they’ve got a solution in place, and they’re committed to getting these machines back on the snow safely. For guys who rely on their snowmobiles for winter adventures, this is a hassle, but it’s better than risking a breakdown—or worse—in the middle of a ride.
This recall hits home for middle-aged riders who see snowmobiling as a way to unwind, chase thrills, or bond with buddies on the trails. A clutch failure isn’t just an inconvenience; it could mean getting stranded in freezing conditions or, worse, dealing with flying parts that could cause serious harm. The fact that Polaris has already seen two injuries tied to this issue is enough to make any rider pause. Whether it’s a weekend warrior in Michigan or a guy tackling the Rockies, checking the snowmobile’s status is a no-brainer.
For those who’ve been riding Polaris sleds for years, this recall might feel like a bump in the road for a brand known for its tough machines. The company’s quick response and free repair program show they’re not dodging the issue, but it’s still a reminder to stay on top of maintenance and recalls. Snowmobiling is all about freedom and adventure, but it comes with responsibility, too. Guys who take their rides seriously will want to act fast to keep their season safe.
If you’re a snowmobiler with a 2022-2025 MATRYX model running a PATRIOT 650 or 850 engine, don’t wait for a letter from Polaris. Head to their website or call their hotline to check your VIN. Schedule that inspection, get the repair if needed, and get back to carving up the snow with peace of mind. After all, the trails are calling, and no one wants a clutch failure stealing their winter fun.
