Tire Recalls
The road to a tire recall is forked: either the manufacturer identifies a real or potential safety issue and begins the process or the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration receives enough complaints, launches an investigation and, depending on the results, initiates the recall.
If you think you have a valid complaint regarding either your vehicle’s stock or replacement tires, take them back to the car dealer and tire shop to help determine if the tire failure was a result of a tire defect or simple wear and tear or road hazards. This kick starts the process through the tire manufacturer. If you’re convinced the tire is defective, or that suspicion is verified at the point of purchase, register a complaint through the NHTSA by calling 1-800-DASH-2-DOT or go to the administration’s website (www-odi.nhtsa.dot.gov/ivoq/) and register your complaint. Even if the tires are stock equipment on a new vehicle, the tire manufacturer, not the automaker, is responsible for the recall procedure.
If your tires have been recalled, here’s what to expect:
- You should receive a letter informing you of the tire recall. Unfortunately, this isn’t always the case. Many owners of recalled tires hear of the issue through the news media. The only way to guarantee you will be notified of tire recalls is to go to the NHTSA website and fill out the appropriate form to receive email notifications of tire recalls. Make sure you are aware of the time frame within which you have to replace the tires.
- The letter or the NHTSA email will provide instructions you need to follow. There should be a customer service, toll-free number to call to verify that you have tires subject to the recall.
- The instructions will usually tell you to visit an authorized service center where you can have your tires replaced. If the manufacturer does not have enough inventory for a same-tire swap, you will receive equivalent tires that meet your vehicle’s requirements.
- During the time between your notification and your trip to the service center, make sure the tires are as safe as possible until you have them replaced. Check the vehicle’s inflation instructions, usually posted on the driver’s door jamb or in the owner’s manual and follow the recommended air pressure. Also, avoid driving at high speeds especially on exceptionally hot roads. Eliminate any extra weight in the vehicle and comply with the manufacturer’s maximum load rating.
If you have been involved in a tire-related accident, contact us using the form on the right and we’ll help you locate an attorney.
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