Maclaren has issued a recall for their Volo, Triumph, Quest Sport, Quest Mod, Techno XT, TechnoXLR, Twin Triumph, Twin Techno and Easy Traveller models, which accounts for over 1 million strollers. The hinge on the side of the stroller could possibly cut off a tot’s fingertips during folding and unfolding if their finger is placed there. There has been 15 fingertip amputation incidents to date. They are issuing a free repair kit with a zipped cover that goes over the hinges to prevent accidents. I have 3 of these strollers, the Volo, Techno XT and Twin Techno!! Yikes. Stop using the stroller until you get the repair kit! The Maclaren website is currently down from an overload of traffic and their toll free number, (877) 688-2326, has been busy for hours. You can also email them if the other contact methods are frustrating you. I will keep trying and when and if I get through, I will post an update.
UPDATE: I have been able to get to the web page that allows you to input your information so a repair kit can be sent to you. You will need to locate the VIN Product ID # that is located at the bottom of the stroller, it is a 21 digit number next to a bar code. But I warn you, it is very hard to submit your completed form, it will suddenly stop working and you have to start over.
UPDATE #2: I just received an email with this notice: “VIN number field on the Order Form is no longer a mandatory field. Please go ahead and submit an order for the hinge cover by visiting our recall website at www.maclaren.us/recall“. Also, as of Nov. 13, 2009, the website for Maclaren works now.
UPDATE #3: New update on Nov. 24: Maclaren will further promote child safety by offering its hinge cover design to all manufacturers of strollers and waive its rights through patent protection.
The company’s recent voluntary recall increased consumer awareness of the potential risks associated with strollers. Maclaren is calling upon all manufacturers to adopt its hinge cover solution for the protection of children. The safety of a child is Maclaren’s overriding concern.