Conti, Goodyear keeping commercial tire service networks open

AKRON — Continental Tire the Americas and Goodyear are keeping their respective U.S. truck care networks open during the COVID-19-induced economic slowdown to support the trucking industry help deliver needed products like medical supplies and groceries.

The companies' announcements are for their BestDrive L.L.C. commercial tire and retread business and Goodyear Commercial Tire Service (CTS) truck care centers, respectively.

In addition, Goodyear said it's offering free Department of Transportation (DOT) inspections, a value up to $120, through April 30.

These government-mandated inspections include a full review of the tractor and trailer, including brake systems, tires and wheels, exhaust systems, lighting and more, Goodyear said.

"Goodyear is dedicated to meeting tire and service needs for the many hardworking professional drivers, first responders and other essential workers who are making countless sacrifices to protect public health and safety and deliver needed goods during these difficult times," Frank Payne, director, Goodyear CTS, said.

"With the health and well-being of our customers and associates top of mind, we are taking a number of precautions to minimize the spread of COVID-19 at all of our centers so we can remain open and keep vehicles on the road."

Goodyear's company-owned CTSC network operates nearly 200 locations across the U.S., offering tires, maintenance and 24/7 emergency roadside assistance for fleets.

Continental's BestDrive unit will continue to provide emergency roadside service for fleets in need of immediate assistance through its 33 locations across the country as well as continue producing retreads, consistent with the "critical manufacturing" element specified by the Department of Homeland Security.

Continental noted that it expects to see increased retread demand based on the economy's increasing reliance on deliveries to grocery stores, pharmacies, health care facilities and other critical areas.

Conti also noted that it is suspending all nonessential functions not directly related to essential business needs, including face-to-face sales visits, to help protect employees. BestDrive will work with fleets to find ways to limit personal exposure while meeting business needs.