WASHINGTON — Cooper Tire & Rubber Co. is recalling nearly 2,000 Cooper CS5 Grand Touring and Mastercraft LSR Grand Touring tires that could be susceptible to tread separation and tire failure.
The subject tires, produced at Cooper's plant in Tupelo, Miss., from July 19 through Aug. 9, 2020, may have low tread gauge in the shoulder slot area, a condition that Cooper said may cause cracking at the base of the shoulder slots, which could lead to tread separation and, if undetected, tire failure.
Cooper is recalling 1,983 tires in size 225/55R17, which carry the DOT identification code starting with U9 and including the date codes of 2920 through 3220, and will replace them free of charge.
The affected tires may have a visual "anomaly" on the outside shoulder area, Cooper said, and may display a "ride disturbance" or — in certain cases — may impact the vehicle's steering or ride.
In its recall notice with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, Cooper cited a problem with a tread extrusion die as the cause of the problem. That situation has since been rectified.
Cooper said there have been no property damage or death or injury claims associated with any of these tires.
Cooper will contact registered owners of the tires starting Sept. 21 by registered mail, explaining the issue and including instructions on how to obtain replacement tires, as well as instructions for collecting reimbursement for remedies made prior to recall.