2011 Can-AM Spyder RT recalls and problems

The 2011 Can-AM Spyder RT has 2 safety recalls and 29 owner complaints filed with NHTSA. Recall repairs are free at any Can-AM dealer.

Recalls
2
Complaints
29
Crashes / fires
0 / 5
Injuries / deaths
5 / 0

Recalls may cover only some 2011 Can-AM Spyder RT vehicles. Check your VIN at NHTSA ↗ to see open recalls for your exact car.

2011 Can-AM Spyder RT recalls

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 11V-081: Power Train

Reported Feb 7, 2011 · 378 vehicles affected · BOMBARDIER RECREATIONAL PRODUCTS INC.

Problem: Brp is recalling certain model year 2011 spyder rt sm5 roadsters. While down shifting it may be possible to inadvertently engage reverse without depressing the reverse button due to a defective reverse actuator cable.

Risk: If this happens while the vehicle is moving forward, the rear wheel could lock and the engine could stall. If this happens while vehicle is stopped, the vehicle could back up. A vehicle stall without warning or an expected movement in reverse may increase the risk of a crash possibly resulting in injury or death.

Fix: Dealers will validate proper operation of the reverse actuator and if defective, the reverse actuator assembly will be replaced free of charge. The safety recallbegan on february 11, 2011. Owners may contact brp at 1-888-638-5397.

2011 Can-AM Spyder RT problems reported by owners

Problem areaReports
Engine11
Fuel/Propulsion System10
Fuel System, Gasoline5
Power Train4
Electrical System3
Engine and Engine Cooling2
Exterior Lighting2
Structure2
Steering1
Visibility1
Service Brakes1

Most reported parts

  • Structure › Body — 2
  • Engine and Engine Cooling › Exhaust System — 1
  • Steering › Electric Power Assist System — 1
  • Visibility › Windshield — 1

Typical mileage at the time of the problem: 2,935 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 2011 Can-AM Spyder RT complaints

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

Engine · reported Aug 9, 2023
This vehicle emits raw fuel fumes under pressure while driving and after parked for up to 45 minutes. Sometimes can her the fuel boiling in the fuel tank. If parked n a garage and any spark is near the vehicle will blow up. If parked outside the fumes are overpowering and if someone drops a cigarette nearby there will be an explosion.. I have contacted the local BRP Can A, dealer and they refuse to look at or repair due to liability concerns. I contacted BRP AND RECEIVED A CASE NUMBER 2 months ago and they have and continue to address the dangerous problem. The vehicle is a time bomb and I can…
Power Train · reported Dec 1, 2021
While driving vehicle it will randomly shift into reverse. It first happened 8/ 2021 Dealer replaced reverse actuator It was returned the following week for the same problem, We got it back and a month later and it has done it again BRP has acknowledged the problem because there was another vehicle that has had the same or similar problem. They have manufactured a new part to fix this issue. I cannot stress enough how dangerous it can be to have your vehicle to drop into reverse as you are driving at 30 to 40mph. I dont understand how BRP does not see this as an important issue to be…
Power Train · reported Apr 3, 2020
I completed the first oil change on my 2011 rt trike (Motorcyle) (I purchased it from a dealer used so it may be the first oil change ever performed since it only has 3500 miles. I found a small screw( Like a hex screw) part inside the oil pan magnet. See the attached photo. No aware that the engine is self destroying from the inside. It is a small black color bolt a bit larger than a rice grain it has threads on the outiside and a hex impression on one side and it does not appear to have been damaged since it was stuck to the oil pan plug magnet all this time. After further reading the spyder…
Power Train · at 18,000 miles · reported Jan 7, 2019
I own a 2011 canam spyder rt sm5 and have been experiencing a problem with the bike going into reverse while shifting. I found a recall letter concerning this about the "reverse actuator cable", on recall for the 2011 models, but when I put my VIN # in it comes up as "no recalls ". I'm clearly having this problem for over 6 months now and need to know how to go about getting this repaired under that recall?
Electrical System · at 2,935 miles · reported Oct 29, 2017
The contact owns a 2011 can-AM roadster spyder rt motorcycle. While driving 35 MPH, the engine failed and flames appeared under the motorcycle near the engine area. The contact was able to move safely onto the road shoulder. The fire department assisted to contain the fire and a fire report was filed. The motorcycle was taken to a tow yard. The motorcycle was not repaired. The dealer and manufacturer were not notified. The approximate failure mileage was 2,935.

Other Can-AM Spyder RT years

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

Frequently asked questions

Does the 2011 Can-AM Spyder RT have any recalls?

Yes — NHTSA lists 2 recalls for the 2011 Can-AM Spyder RT: 12V-582 (fuel system, gasoline), 11V-081 (power train). Not every vehicle is affected, so check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.

What is the most common problem with the 2011 Can-AM Spyder RT?

Owners report engine problems most often (11 reports), followed by fuel/propulsion system (10). The typical mileage when problems were reported is about 2,935 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.