On Aug. 12, Permobil recalled all models of its SpeedControl Dial for the SmartDrive MX2+ power assist unit. This is the third recall on the SpeedControl Dial in the last eight months and the fourth recall on a SmartDrive MX2+ control accessory since May 2023, heightening users’ concerns about the safety of the product and Permobil’s oversight procedures. 

The two previous recalls on the SpeedControl Dial in Dec. 2024 and April 2025 focused on problems with the printed circuit board assembly that could lead to a number of dangerous issues, including loss of control and power. Both recalls were limited to SpeedControl Dials made in certain periods. The new recall focuses on a different problem and has no limiting time period. All SpeedControl Dial users are urged to stop using the device immediately. 

“As we continued to monitor feedback and investigate complaints, we uncovered the separate design issue with the electrical connection between the SpeedControl Dial and the SmartDrive MX2+ motor,” says Audra Watt, Permobil’s vice president of marketing. “The intermittent connection design issue impacts all Dials manufactured since the Dial was first introduced in April 2022, which is why we decided to remove the Dial from the market.” 

SmartDrive users reacted with a mixture of frustration and outrage to news of the latest controller recall. As one commenter on Permobil’s Instagram post announcing the recall put it, “[The] PushTracker E3 that I received with my SmartDrive is discontinued and now the speed dial, which I purchased to replace the PushTracker. I’m so disappointed and frustrated and honestly fed up.” 

One of the SmartDrive MX2+’s main selling points when it was introduced in 2015 was wireless Bluetooth control. In May 2023, Permobil recalled the wristbands and Android software that managed the Bluetooth connection due to connectivity issues that jeopardized users’ safety. Permobil fixed the software, but presented the SpeedControl Dial as one of three wired solutions for users who didn’t want to take a chance on connection issues.  

In Dec. 2024, Permobil recalled SpeedControl Dials made between Aug. 17, 2023, and Nov. 21, 2024, due to variability with materials in the circuit board. In April, they extended the date range to March 2025. Both recalls offered a SpeedControl Dial as one of three replacement options. That is not the case with this recall. Permobil is offering users its own SwitchControl or SwitchControl with a mono jack that can be used with a Buddy Button, a larger third-party option.

Watt says Permobil is committed to users’ safety and points out that none of the recalls focused on the actual SmartDrive MX2+ unit.  

“We understand that trust is earned, especially related to the SpeedControl Dial and other components related to a product as important as SmartDrive,” she says. “To re-earn that trust, we are strengthening quality controls with more rigorous testing and validation. We’re also enhancing communication and education, so customers and clinicians have timely updates, clear expectations, and the information they need to make important decisions relating to health and safety.” 

Affected users can find out more about the recall, including how to order a replacement control mechanism for free, on Permobil’s website. You can also call Max Mobility/Permobil at 800/736-0925, ext. 6, or by email at sales.smartdrive@permobil.com. The support team is available Monday-Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. CT.