Polaris Industries Inc. is recalling 16,550 of its consumer off-road vehicles because the throttle cable could melt, causing a rider to lose control of the four-wheeler.

The recall covers some but not all of the Medina-based firm's 2013 model year Polaris Ranger 500 EFI and Ranger Crew 500 EFI off-highway vehicles. The vehicles were sold from June 2012 through February 2014 at prices ranging from $9,300 to $11,000.

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission said it was possible for the throttle cable to melt on the vehicle's exhaust pipe and, as a result, fail to operate properly.

"This can cause the rider to lose control, posing a crash hazard," the commission said in a statement. One such incident has been reported to Polaris. The driver suffered minor scrapes.

The affected model numbers for the Ranger are R13RH50AG, R13RH50AH, R13RH50AM and R13RH50AR. The affected model numbers for the Ranger Crew are R13WH50AG, R13WH50AH, R13WH50AR and R13WH50AX.

The vehicle identification numbers, or VINs, of the recalled vehicles are between 4XA******DE210149 and 4XA******DE791730, but not all vehicles within that range are included in the recall. The VIN is stamped on the front lower frame rail of the vehicle on the driver's side. Consumers can call Polaris toll-free at 1-888-704-5290 or contact the company online at tinyurl.com/n4qx7yf.

Steve Alexander • 612-673-4553