2008 Can-AM Spyder GS recalls and problems

The 2008 Can-AM Spyder GS has 3 safety recalls and 31 owner complaints filed with NHTSA. Recall repairs are free at any Can-AM dealer.

Recalls
3
Complaints
31
Crashes / fires
3 / 3
Injuries / deaths
1 / 0

Recalls may cover only some 2008 Can-AM Spyder GS vehicles. Check your VIN at NHTSA ↗ to see open recalls for your exact car.

2008 Can-AM Spyder GS recalls

Recall 12V-581: Fuel System, Gasoline

Reported Dec 12, 2012 · 9,600 vehicles affected · Bombardier Recreational Products Inc.

Problem: Bombardier Recreational Products Inc. (BRP) is recalling certain model year 2008-2009 Can-Am Spyder GS and model year 2010 Can-AM Spyder RS vehicles. Fuel vapors may exit the fuel vapor canister vent hose in the enclosed engine compartment.

Risk: Fuel vapors in the presence of an ignition source could result in a fire and personal injury.

Fix: BRP will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the fuel vapor canister vent hose and replace and re-route it, as necessary, free of charge. The safety recall began on December 26, 2012. Owners may contact BRP AT 1-888-638-5397.

Recall 12V-582: Fuel System, Gasoline

Reported Dec 12, 2012 · 33,700 vehicles affected · Bombardier Recreational Products Inc.

Problem: Bombardier Recreational Products Inc. (BRP) is recalling certain model year 2008-2012 Can-Am Spyder GS, RS, and RT series vehicles. The fuel cap may not fit onto the fuel tank filler neck, preventing it from sealing properly.

Risk: If the fuel cap does not seal properly, it may leak fuel vapors. Fuel vapors in the presence of an ignition source could result in a fire and personal injury.

Fix: BRP will notify owners and send them a replacement fuel cap, free of charge. The safety recall is expected to begin in mid-January 2013. Owners may contact BRP AT 1-888-638-5397.

Recall 07V-561: Service Brakes, Hydraulic

Reported Dec 12, 2007 · 476 vehicles affected · BOMBARDIER RECREATIONAL PRODUCTS INC.

Problem: On certain passenger vehicles, there is a presence of an abnormal quantity of air in the hydraulic circuit of the front brake. Also some vehicles may have one or two brake fluid reservoir caps that are sealed and this could create a vacuum which could lead to adsorption of air into the brake circuits. The brake pedal may go almost to the floor when depressing.

Risk: A driver may be unable to stop the vehicle as expected increasing the risk of a crash.

Fix: Brp has notified each owner informing them of this problem and scheduling a pick-up time to retrieve the vehicle. Dealers will inspect and perform a bleeding of the brake system is needed. The brake fluid reservoir caps will be replaced and the brake system pressure will be validated. The recall began on november 21, 2007. Owners may contact brp at 1-888-864-2002.

2008 Can-AM Spyder GS problems reported by owners

Problem areaReports
Steering20
Electrical System5
Fuel/Propulsion System3
Structure3
Engine3
Electronic Stability Control (ESC)2
Service Brakes2
Fuel System, Gasoline1
Exterior Lighting1
Seats1
Power Train1
Vehicle Speed Control1

Most reported parts

  • Structure › Body — 3

Typical mileage at the time of the problem: 8,000 miles (median of owner reports).

Problems that are not covered by a recall are paid repairs; labor rates follow local mechanic pay — see what auto mechanics earn in each state.

Recent 2008 Can-AM Spyder GS complaints

Owner reports filed with NHTSA, as written (personal details removed). Complaints are not verified by NHTSA.

Steering · at 14,000 miles · reported May 21, 2019
The contact owns a 2008 can-AM spyder gs. While driving 55 MPH, the steering seized. The contact pulled the vehicle over to gain control of the vehicle. The dps and check engine warning indicator illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an unknown dealer where it was diagnosed that the dps failed. The vehicle was repaired. The manufacturer was not notified. The failure mileage was 14,000. 'parts of this document have been redacted to protect personally identifiable information pursuant to the freedom of information act (Foia), 5 U.S.c. 552(B)(6).'
Electrical System · at 4,000 miles · reported Oct 18, 2018
2008 can-AM spyder gs this bike is worthless and should be recalled back. My bike will not go out of limp mode ever again. Can't be fixed. Spent a lot of money and time trying to figure out issue at dealer. No technician that even know the year and any problem issues. Recall this bike or at least make it right!
Steering · at 9,500 miles · reported Sep 24, 2017
I purchased a 2008 can-AM spyder gs in 2008. Vin [xxx] vehicle purchase date 03/06/2008 brp issued a recall on sept 7, 2010 for a dynamic power steering (Dps) unit replacement https://can-AM.brp.com/spyder/owners/safety/safety-recalls/dynamic-power-steering--dps--unit-replacement.html the recall was due to a faulty power steering control unit, which severely hampered the ability to turn the bike, especially at higher speeds for sharper turns. I had the dps replaced in 2011. The unit has again failed, and the repair shop (Del amo motorsports in redondo beach, ca...who did the original…
Service Brakes · at 27,000 miles · reported Aug 4, 2016
My vss,ABS, and 4 other codes constantly flash. This machine loses power before I get to third gear. I was traveling on a busy city street during lunch hour traffic when out of no where I lose power and I get a check dps ,vss fault, hightemp, check engine and ABS warnings. Almost rear ended before swaying off the onto the shoulder. One day its running fine the next day every warning light on it comes on there are some real issues for a bike that has been well maintained and with such low miles . This purchase has changed my mind about purchasing a new one . I love the whole concept but the…
Structure · at 8,000 miles · reported Jun 20, 2016
While driving my 2008 can AM spyder on ct-2 west bound in connecticut at approximately 6:30pm in slow moving, stop & go traffic my wife (Who was the passenger) noticed by her right food there were fire flames coming from the vehicle. Simultaneously I noticed white smoke coming from the front of the vehicle. I stopped the bike immediately and both me and my passenger dismounted the bike. We quickly moved away from the bike as we feared our safety was in jeopardy. We could not retrieve any of our belongings. The bike then became completely engulfed in fire/flames. We called 911 emergent. The…

Other Can-AM Spyder GS years

20092008

Compare all Can-AM Spyder GS years · All Can-AM models

Frequently asked questions

Does the 2008 Can-AM Spyder GS have any recalls?

Yes — NHTSA lists 3 recalls for the 2008 Can-AM Spyder GS: 12V-581 (fuel system, gasoline), 12V-582 (fuel system, gasoline), 07V-561 (service brakes, hydraulic). Not every vehicle is affected, so check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.

What is the most common problem with the 2008 Can-AM Spyder GS?

Owners report steering problems most often (20 reports), followed by electrical system (5). The typical mileage when problems were reported is about 8,000 miles.

Are Can-AM recall repairs free?

Yes. Safety recall repairs are free at authorized Can-AM dealers, whether you are the first owner or bought the car used.