Pioneer Recalls Car Amplifiers

Improper Installation May Result in Safety Hazard

LONG BEACH, Calif., July 7 -- Pioneer Electronics (USA) Inc. today announced the recall of the following four car amplifiers: GM-X572, GM-X574, GM-X972 and GM-D500M which have been sold since November 2002. Pioneer has determined that the installation of these car amplifiers, in a manner other than as recommended by Pioneer, may result in a potential safety hazard under certain conditions. Pioneer is not currently aware of any injury or vehicle damage resulting from the improper installation of these car amplifiers.

Consumers who own any of these amplifiers should contact the dealer where they purchased the product for a free repair (if available) or for a different model amplifier or for a refund. These car amplifiers should be returned even if the owner believes it was properly installed or if the owner has previously obtained service for the amplifier or received a replacement amplifier.

"Pioneer strongly encourages consumers to return their car amplifier to their local retailer for free repair or replacement. By replacing their amplifier, consumers can continue to enjoy the highest quality sound and performance from Pioneer products without concern for problems related to improper installation," said Hiroaki Matsubara, president of the Mobile Entertainment Division of Pioneer Electronics (USA) Inc. "Pioneer sincerely apologizes for any inconvenience this may cause our customers."

Pioneer's primary concerns are the consumers' safety and satisfaction with the quality and operation of their Pioneer products.

The improper installation of these amplifiers may result in the amplifier overheating during use, the exterior surface becoming hot to the touch, the appearance of smoke and, the amplifier becoming inoperable.

More information about this issue is available on www.pioneerelectronics.com or by calling Pioneer's toll free customer service line in the U.S. at 800-421-1636.

Pioneer Electronics (USA) Inc. is headquartered in Long Beach, Calif., and its U.S. Web address is www.pioneerelectronics.com . Its parent company, Pioneer Corporation, is a leader in optical disc technology and a preeminent manufacturer of high-performance audio, video, computer and cable television equipment for the home, car and business markets. Pioneer Corporation focuses on four core business domains including DVD, display technologies, Digital Network Entertainment(TM) and components. Founded in 1938 in Tokyo, Pioneer Corporation and its affiliates employ more than 34,000 people worldwide. Its shares are traded on the New York Stock Exchange .