2008 Can-Am Spyder RS
Safety record from NHTSA: recalls, owner complaints, investigations and service bulletins.
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Vehicles › Can-Am › Spyder RS › 2008
These records cover every 2008 Can-Am Spyder RS. To see whether one car still needs a recall repair, decode its VIN or check it with NHTSA.
Owner complaints
37 complaints1 involved a crash8 involved a fire1 injuries
What owners report most
Latest complaints
- Electrical system · Steering
TL* the contact owns a 2008 can-am spyder roadster. The contact stated the motorcycle was included in an unknown recall regarding the steering, which called for the software cluster console to be replaced. The motorcycle received the repair. In addition, the contact stated that the power steering…
TL* the contact owns a 2008 can-am spyder roadster. The contact stated the motorcycle was included in an unknown recall regarding the steering, which called for the software cluster console to be replaced. The motorcycle received the repair. In addition, the contact stated that the power steering assist failed. The contact had to apply excessive force in order to steer the motorcycle. The contact took the motorcycle to the tampa bay power sports dealer (13521 n florida avenue, tampa, fl; 813-968-7888) and informed the contact that the failure was related to nhtsa campaign number: 09v162000 (steering); however, the vin was not included. The motorcycle had not been repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and informed the contact that due to the previous recall and warranty, the vehicle was deemed repaired and would not receive a second repair free of charge. The vin was invalid. The approximate failure mileage was 10,000.
- Steering
TL* the contact owns a 2008 can-am spyder roadster motorcycle. While driving approximately 75 mph, the vehicle independently steered to the right and then the opposite direction. The vehicle was maneuvered to the side of the road. The contact disconnected the power steering fuse. The vehicle…
TL* the contact owns a 2008 can-am spyder roadster motorcycle. While driving approximately 75 mph, the vehicle independently steered to the right and then the opposite direction. The vehicle was maneuvered to the side of the road. The contact disconnected the power steering fuse. The vehicle resumed normal operation; however, a check dps warning indicator illuminated. The failure recurred. The vehicle was taken to the dealer three times for the same failure. On one occasion, the dps was reset. The vehicle was also taken to an independent mechanic where the rotor alternator was replaced. In 2010, the previous owner had the vehicle serviced under nhtsa campaign number: 09v162000 (steering). The vehicle was not repaired for the most recent failure. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 15,000.
- Steering
TL* the contact owns a 2008 can-am spyder roadster. Once the contact began riding the vehicle, the steering failed and a check dps warning indicator illuminated. This was a recurring failure. The vehicle was driven to the dealer for diagnostic testing. The technician stated that the dps unit needed to be replaced. The manufacturer was notified. The vin was invalid. The approximate failure mileage was 19,500.
- Fuel/propulsion system
Excessive heat coming from the body panel area causing the fuel in the gas tank to boil. *js
- Engine
Driving on I 75 northbound in troy, mi, the motorcycle overheated, even though it was only 78 degrees outside. It went into limp mode, causing rapid deceleration, nearly causing a rear end collision, which the driver behind just avoided hitting me. This has happened to my other can am spider also.…
Driving on I 75 northbound in troy, mi, the motorcycle overheated, even though it was only 78 degrees outside. It went into limp mode, causing rapid deceleration, nearly causing a rear end collision, which the driver behind just avoided hitting me. This has happened to my other can am spider also. The dealer claims this IS a normal thing, and bombardier says it IS suppose to happen in extreme heat. But 78 degrees IS not extreme heat. Someone IS going to die because of this defect. *tr
- Electronic stability control (esc) · Service brakes
I purchased a 2008 can-am spyder and had issues with the brake failure light. As I investigated more into it, I discovered multiple recalls listed for this particular bike. I took the bike to a certified can am dealer in st augustine in may 2013 first coast power sports. They kept the bike the…
I purchased a 2008 can-am spyder and had issues with the brake failure light. As I investigated more into it, I discovered multiple recalls listed for this particular bike. I took the bike to a certified can am dealer in st augustine in may 2013 first coast power sports. They kept the bike the first time 62 days, when it was returned to me, I was able to use for 1 week before I had to return to the shop. when it was returned to me the second time, I was able to keep for about a month when the brake failure light came on again, when I returned it to the shop, I was advised the bike needed the brakes bled and it would cost $700. I have been told that the bike was unrepairable and I needed to get a different bike by this dealer ship. the bike was suppose to returned to me during the thanksgiving weekend but the delivery driver was not available. I was assured I would receive the bike within the week. I received a phone call a week later from the new service manager and was told they used parts off my bike to repair someone elses bike instead of delivering my bike to me. Six weeks later, I still do not have my bike as they are waiting for a replacement part. I was told the person who originally worked on my bike was not certified to work on can am products and caused more harm then good. I attempted to talk with the owner of the company and he refused to discuss the situation with me. bob (the service manager) keeps advising me there IS not part and unsure how long the delay IS going to be. the spyder IS my primary form of transportation during the last two years, I have lost shift of work because of the repair delays. I am unsure exactly how many parts were removed from my bike or how many used parts were placed on my bike which may lead to the reason the repairs were not effective. it appears to me that this company IS dealing in stolen parts for profit.a *tr
- Fuel system, gasoline
Can am spyder was being ridden by owners when it caught fire and within 5 minutes the gas tank had exploded and bike was engulfed in flames . the motorcycle had been in the dealership less than a month before the incident and nothing was mentioned of problems with the evaporation canister which we…
Can am spyder was being ridden by owners when it caught fire and within 5 minutes the gas tank had exploded and bike was engulfed in flames . the motorcycle had been in the dealership less than a month before the incident and nothing was mentioned of problems with the evaporation canister which we have since heard there was problems with this make and year. we have contacted the brp company and they have not acknowledged there was a problem until they issued a recall in december 2012. we could have been killed very easily had someone not spotted the fire underneath the spyder close to the gas tank and alerted us to get off the bike. within minutes the bike was consumed in flames and the fire dept. Had to extinguish the fire. we had all routine maintenance done on the bike and all recalls performed. we still have not been able to get brp to respond to our correspondence.
- Engine
TL* the contact owned 2008 can-am spyder RS motorcycle. The contact stated that she came to a complete stop after driving 5 mph. While stopped, the vehicle caught on fire. The vehicle was towed to a repair shop; however an inspection was not conducted. There were no injuries. The vehicle was destroyed. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The approximate failure and current mileages were 12,000.
- Engine
It appears the foil-foam heat shield ignited from the heat of the exhaust pipe. *tr
- Engine · Power train
Clutch failed causing motorcycle to stall in gear. back wheel locked up and bike could not be pushed out of the road. when the clutch failed it ruined the motor and transmission beyond repair. *Tr
- Steering
Was traveling about 35 mph and entered a right hand curve. The power steering stopped working which caused me to cross the center line. Lucky nobody coming other direction. The motorcycle has had a dealer recall upgrade of software and the power steering unit replaced under recall. *tr
- Electrical system · Fuel system, gasoline
I was riding my 2005 canam spyder motorcycle to work and about 2 blocks away while I was stopped at a stoplight I heard a pop and saw a small amount of smoke come up from under the cowling. I immediately rushed to my work parking lot (because there were no trees or anything flammable around) and…
I was riding my 2005 canam spyder motorcycle to work and about 2 blocks away while I was stopped at a stoplight I heard a pop and saw a small amount of smoke come up from under the cowling. I immediately rushed to my work parking lot (because there were no trees or anything flammable around) and went into work to get some water to extinguish the small flames I saw. by the time I got back outside the bike was engulfed and melting. (the outer skin IS mainly fiberglass) I have been on the web and have found numerous postings of fires on the motorcycles and also the watercraft and atv's this company manufactures. *Tr
- Fuel system, gasoline
TL* the contact owned a 2008 can-am spyder RS. The contact stated that the vehicle was parked momentarily when it engulfed into flames. The contact extinguished the flames, but the fire department also appeared on the scene. The contact also stated that the fire originated near the fuel tank. The…
TL* the contact owned a 2008 can-am spyder RS. The contact stated that the vehicle was parked momentarily when it engulfed into flames. The contact extinguished the flames, but the fire department also appeared on the scene. The contact also stated that the fire originated near the fuel tank. The vehicle was destroyed and was not taken to have the failure diagnosed. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure and current mileages were 9,000.
- Power train › Driveline
Brp issued service bulletins sb-2009-01 identifying failure of the gear position sensors on some of their can am spyder roadsters. Symptoms of failure include "e" or incorrect gear number indicated in cluster indicator; intermittent power steering operation; difficulty shifting; "check engine"…
Brp issued service bulletins sb-2009-01 identifying failure of the gear position sensors on some of their can am spyder roadsters. Symptoms of failure include "e" or incorrect gear number indicated in cluster indicator; intermittent power steering operation; difficulty shifting; "check engine" warning scroll in cluster indicator. Presented to authorized dealer for service 3 times while under warranty, unsuccessful remedy was reset of gear position sensor. Presented to same dealer after expiration of warranty, remedy was replacement at customer expense in excess of $200. Brp factory tech at brp event indicated that replacement was proper remedy. Faulty original manufacturer installed gear position sensors are replaced with new designed part from brp only at owners expense. *tr
- Power train › Driveline
Brp, despite issuing service bulletins about high drive belt tension, will not repair damage caused by the high tension specified in manufacture and service for their can am spyder roadster. Tsb 2010-06 advises reduced tension from 1400 newtons to 450 newtons to protect against damage to front…
Brp, despite issuing service bulletins about high drive belt tension, will not repair damage caused by the high tension specified in manufacture and service for their can am spyder roadster. Tsb 2010-06 advises reduced tension from 1400 newtons to 450 newtons to protect against damage to front output shaft and rear bearing failures. Consequently, costs to repair damage resulting from their original tension specification are assessed to the owner. Repair costs are in excess of $2,000. *tr
- Steering
Brp has issued a recall for dynamic power steering unit replacement. date of my notice was 9-7-2010. my can am roadster IS still not repaired as brp will not send out a replacement part until they rec'd the old unit. this makes dealer repair defective roadsters 1 at a time. 6 months with a…
Brp has issued a recall for dynamic power steering unit replacement. date of my notice was 9-7-2010. my can am roadster IS still not repaired as brp will not send out a replacement part until they rec'd the old unit. this makes dealer repair defective roadsters 1 at a time. 6 months with a recall notice and I am 8TH of my dealers list. how come brp doesn't ramp up production of replacement units to get them out to the dealers. *tr
- Steering
Tl*the contact owns a 2008 can-am spyder RS. The contact stated that there was a recall 09v162000 (steering); the vehicle was repaired by the dealer. However, after the repair, the vehicle still experienced failure. The vehicle darted across the road. The contact had a front alignment performed and…
Tl*the contact owns a 2008 can-am spyder RS. The contact stated that there was a recall 09v162000 (steering); the vehicle was repaired by the dealer. However, after the repair, the vehicle still experienced failure. The vehicle darted across the road. The contact had a front alignment performed and added new tires; the failure continued. The vehicle was taken back to the dealer where a new power steering box was installed. The failure continued. The dealer stated that they could offer no further assistance. The manufacturer had not been notified. The failure mileage was approximately 38,000.
- Fuel system, gasoline
I was driving my 2008 canam spyder roadster and it started on fire - I got off just in time and blue flames were coming up from the tank/ seat area. the bike was a total loss and if I had been on the highway vs. A back road this could have ended with injuries. the spyder had been maintained perfectly. *Tr
- Electrical system
I had ridden the can am spyder roadster for approximately 30 minutes before stopping at costco and filling it up. No overfill or gas spilled. I road approx. 2 miles home, parked, and went into the house for approx. 3 or 4 minutes. I returned to spyder started it & backed up approx. 10 feet, pulled…
I had ridden the can am spyder roadster for approximately 30 minutes before stopping at costco and filling it up. No overfill or gas spilled. I road approx. 2 miles home, parked, and went into the house for approx. 3 or 4 minutes. I returned to spyder started it & backed up approx. 10 feet, pulled forward, backed up again, started forward out of my driveway. When I turned & started forward there was a smell electrical wire burning. I saw smoke coming from the front of my seat & central plastic panel. Before I could react to that I had moved forward maybe 10 or 15 feet. There was a whooshing sound & a large amount of smoke from the same area. It scared me enough that I panicked & tried stepping off the spyder as it was moving. I tripped and struck the driveway on my left arm, shoulder and head. I rolled over & looked to see what happened. The spyder had continued forward into the fence & tree at the side of my driveway. There was a lot of smoke and a small flame approx. A foot high at the front of the seat & center panel. When the spyder hit the tree the flame jumped to around 3 to 4 feet. The spyder had run over my garden hose and hit the water line so that I could not get to a hose or turn the water on. I was afraid the gas tank would explode any way so I called 911. By the time the fire department arrived the spyder was approximately 75 % burnt. The fireman in charged stated he felt the fire started on the right side. My can am spyder IS the 8TH one to burn up this way. On 09/28/2010 another 2008 can am spyder self-ignited while the ride was moving. He reported that his machine was also a total loss. Fire department station #21 incident #10-0107129 updated ivoq 10/26/10*jb *tr
- Fuel system, gasoline · Steering
Tl*the contact owns a 2008 can-am spyder RS motorcycle. There were numerous defects and failures on his motorcycle. The power steering pulled to the right and the dealer replaced the gps unit under the warranty. The fuel gauge was not reading as if there was a full tank or if it was empty. The…
Tl*the contact owns a 2008 can-am spyder RS motorcycle. There were numerous defects and failures on his motorcycle. The power steering pulled to the right and the dealer replaced the gps unit under the warranty. The fuel gauge was not reading as if there was a full tank or if it was empty. The dealer replaced the sending unit within the tank and the instrumentation panel under warranty. The manufacturer was called in regards to all of the problems the motorcycle had and was told that they would contact him. They had not contacted him when the complaint was filed. The failure mileage was 1,781.
- Steering
Tl*the contact owns a 2008 cam am spider. While driving 45 mph the contact noticed that the handle bars had began to lock without warning. The vehicle was taken to the dealership where the contact was informed that a part on the power steering system needed to be replaced. There were no prior warnings and the vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was 500 and the current mileage was 600.
- Steering
Can am spyder every now and then while going around a sharp curve the power steering will turn off and come back on causing an over correction and possible unintended lane change. *Tr
- Steering
2008 can-an spyder model SE5 power steering problems :power steering locks up or catches and extra effort IS required to turn the handle bars. When the bars do release the extra effort causes vehicle to swerve making of a very dangerous condition. Also motor surges when shifting, back fires when…
2008 can-an spyder model SE5 power steering problems :power steering locks up or catches and extra effort IS required to turn the handle bars. When the bars do release the extra effort causes vehicle to swerve making of a very dangerous condition. Also motor surges when shifting, back fires when slowing and quits at red lights ....even though the incident date IS stated as 10-17 this has been an ongoing problem from date of purchase,and there have been 2 updates done by can-am but the problems remain. *Tr
- Electronic stability control (esc) · Suspension
While driving my can am spyder SM5 on the freeway on 11/7/o9 it pull to the right into the other lane it felt like it lock up and very hard to straightened wheels, it happen about six times in five mile radius. *Tr
- Steering
Steering pulled to right twice after riding back from dealer after they performed 3 recalls. One was for steering issues. *Tr
Service bulletins
Technical service bulletins and other communications the manufacturer sent dealers about this vehicle. Ask a dealer for the full document by its number.
- 10200278Air scoop retrofit kits.
- 10191376If a customer wants to change the radio pre-set channel number and is unable to do so, here is the reason this is happening.
- 10186274Trailer module may fail.
- 10129604Technical Service Tip (TST) addressing that on some SE5 engines a high pitched or whining noise may be heard under specific RPM only. After investigation the cause of this noise is from a thrust washer vibrating and spinning in the HCM. Inspection of the HCM housing for wear is proposed; it may need to be replaced.
- 10052086Brp: on the can-am roadster, the fuel cap fails to seal properly, on fuel tank filler neck, causing fuel vapors and in presence of an ignition source, might result in a fire and needs replacing. Models 2008-2012 can-am spyder GS, RS, and rt.
- 10051563Brp: the shift up and down paddle fails to work and adjustment IS needed that might improve the situation on certain model motorcycles. Model spyder gs/rs. No model years listed.
- 10026725Brp motorcycle: transmission won't shift; get stuck in gear; check transmission fault scrolls; won't downshift; won't up-shift or change gears.
- 10026543Can-am service campaign: see document search button for owner letter.brp: a limited quantity of roadster spyder vehicles may have one or two defective brake fluid reservoir caps. Csc letter was received.
- 10026521Can-am service campaign: see document search button for owner letter. Brp: csc letter referring to brake fluid reservoir caps replacement for can-am roadster vehicles.
- 10026462Can-am service campaign: see document search button for owner letter. Bombardier recreational products: a limited quantity of roadster spyder vehicles may have one or two defective brake fluid reservoir caps. Csc letter was received. 1/23/09.
Every Can-Am Spyder RS model year
Bars are owner complaints, dots mark years with recalls. Select a year to open its report.