SmartDriveMX2+ Faces Second Security Recall

For the second time in lower than two years, the businesses behind the SmartDrive MX2+ have recalled a essential element of the favored power-assist system attributable to security considerations. On Jan. 14, Permobil and Max Mobility introduced a nationwide recall of the SpeedControl Dial used with the SmartDrive MX2+ after figuring out an issue with the printed circuit board that controls the unit.

In accordance with the recall, points embrace failure of the SmartDrive to totally cease, even when the SpeedControl Dial is within the off place; unintended activation of the SmartDrive unit; sudden lack of energy; and failure to begin.

Within the recall announcement, Max Mobility/Permobil reported 646 complaints and at the very least three severe accidents. Affected SpeedControl Dial homeowners are eligible for a redesigned substitute unit for gratis.

The recall is particularly regarding as a result of Max Mobility/Permobil offered the SpeedControl Dial as one of many options to a earlier security concern that led to a separate recall solely 19 months in the past. New Mobility reported on issues with the software program within the watches used to manage the SmartDrive by way of Bluetooth. A number of customers complained that the SmartDrive did not disengage or reply to the Bluetooth controls. In Could 2023, Max Mobility/Permobil acknowledged the issue and recalled 6,196 models.

Max Mobility/Permobil recommended the SpeedControl Dial, which mounts on the wheelchair and doesn’t depend on Bluetooth, as a safer various. Max Mobility/Permobil additionally stopped promoting the PushTracker watches, although it did proceed to assist Bluetooth management on iOS and Android watches.

Audra Watt, vp of selling for Permobil Americas, says the difficulty with the SpeedControl Dial was associated to materials within the circuit board. “That’s why there’s quite a lot of variability,” she says. “We’ve seen some folks haven’t had a problem in any respect, after which some folks had a problem nearly instantly. It’s very wear-dependent.”

Max Mobility/Permobil stopped transport the models in December. Watt says the corporate is assured it has fastened the difficulty and began transport fastened fashions in mid-January. Watt was unable to supply a precise variety of recalled models, however mentioned “it’s at the very least a number of thousand.” She says anybody who obtained a SpeedControl Dial between August 17, 2023, and November 21, 2024, ought to exchange it, even when it’s at present working.    

If in case you have bought a SpeedControl Dial, you possibly can request a substitute by way of an internet portal (https://hub.permobil.com/smartdrive-scd-voluntary-field-action) or by cellphone by contacting the Max Mobility/Permobil technical assist group at 800/736-0925 (M-F, 8 a.m. CT to five p.m. CT).