Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Firestone Replacement Program Announced October 4, 2001

1. What action are you taking today? 

Bridgestone/Firestone, Inc. (BFS) advised the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) today that it is replacing certain of its tires mounted on sport utility vehicles in response to an announcement by the agency of an initial determination regarding these tires.  As a result of BFS’ action, NHTSA informed BFS that it will close its investigation into Firestone tires which was opened in May, 2000. Firestone will replace those P235/75R15 and P255/70R16 Wilderness AT tires produced before May 1998, that are still in use on sport utility vehicles.  Firestone’s replacement program applies to tires installed as original equipment on certain 1995, 1996, 1997 and 1998 Ford Explorers and Mercury Mountaineers, as well as tires purchased in the replacement market for Ford, Mercury and other sport utility vehicles.

2. Is this a NHTSA mandated recall?

No, this is a replacement program undertaken by Firestone.

3. Are these tires defective?

We do not agree with NHTSA’s initial determination.  Our testing and science show our tires perform extremely well.  However, in order to put this matter behind us we will be conducting this replacement program on a limited number of tires.

4. Why did you decide to do this if you don’t think there is a problem with the tires?

This was a difficult decision to make.  Our testing and science clearly show that our tires are on a par with our competitors’ products.  However, we have decided that it is in the best interest of our company, our employees, our dealers and our customers if we replace the tires in question and close this chapter in the company’s history.  We recognize that a lengthy confrontation with the NHTSA would continue to bring into question the quality of our products and delay our on-going work of rebuilding the company. 

5. How will I know if my tires are involved?

Firestone will notify by mail those with original equipment tires on the Explorers and Mountaineers and the company will make every effort to send letters to those who have purchased replacement tires for other SUVs.  Consumers can also check the DOT number on their tires.   P235/75R15 and P255/70R16 Wilderness AT tires with DOT numbers ending in “4,”  “5,”  “6,” or “7” are covered by this replacement program.  In addition, these tires with the last three digits of the DOT number shown as 018 through 188 are also included.  Owners with any of these tires mounted on pickup trucks may also take advantage of the company’s customer satisfaction program.

Consumers with questions about whether their tires are covered can visit a company-owned Firestone Tire & Service Center or an authorized participating Firestone retailer for assistance. 

6. What should I do if these tires are on my pick-up truck?

When mounted on pick-up trucks, the tires that are the subject of the replacement program have demonstrated and continue to demonstrate exceptional performance and durability.  The fact that these tires are not included in the agency’s initial determination speaks volumes.  The company is aware, however, that the agency’s initial determination may cause concern and confusion among drivers of those pickup trucks with these same tires.   In order to address those concerns and alleviate any confusion, Firestone will replace any size P235/75R15 and P255/70R16 Wilderness ATs, produced before May 1998 which are still used on a pickup truck free of charge at the customer’s request.  Firestone’s dealers and company-owned stores will support this pick-up truck customer satisfaction program on the same basis as the SUV replacement program. 

7. How long will these programs last?

Consumers may take advantage of these programs through January 31, 2002.

 

 

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