GREENVILLE, S.C. (Sept. 29, 2004) — Michelin North America Inc. is recalling about 46,000 BFGoodrich and other brand passenger and light truck tires for a condition that possibly could result in steel-belt separation, the tire maker said.
Michelin said its quality system detected the condition, which initially could affect ride quality but could cause a separation if not addressed. To date, no accidents or injuries have been reported, and no property damage claims have been filed, Michelin said. The tire maker's investigation indicated possible issues with up to 3,500 tires in six brands, but Michelin is recalling all potentially affected tires.
The tires have a DOT code beginning with “DOT BF” and ending with either 1504 or 1604. All of the tires were made from April 11-24 at the tire maker's Fort Wayne, Ind., plant.
Affected tires include the following: BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO Load Range C RWL, size LT235/75R15, 33X12.50R15 and LT235/70R16; BFGoodrich Land Terrain size P245/75R16; Liberator A/T size P255/70R16; Medalist Trail A/P ORWL size P255/70R16 109S; Medalist Sport King A/T Steel Radial size P255/70R16; Phantom AP RWL size P255/70R16 109S; American Prospector AP RWL size P255/70R16; Uniroyal Laredo AWP size P245/75R16 and P255/70R16; Uniroyal Laredo AWP ORWL size P265/75R16 114S; and Uniroyal Laredo A/S size 265/75R15 SL112S.
Michelin said it informed the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration on Sept. 27 of the recall campaign. All recalled tires will be replaced free of charge.
“This decision was made based on six tires returned from service prematurely after consumers experienced tire vibration, noise and ride comfort issues,” said Michel Default, quality director for the tire maker. “Based on our analysis of these returned tires, we've discovered an issue with one of the semi-finished products sent to our Fort Wayne, Ind., facility and used in the production of up to 3,500 tires at the end of the 15th week and beginning of the 16th week this year. That issue has been addressed and corrected.”
Consumers affected by the recall should call either (877) 788-8899 or (877) 458-5878.