Several Akron-area Firestone tire dealers and a Ford dealership said they had not been officially notified of any tire recall as of late yesterday. He said he heard of the potential recall through news reports. Montrose Ford General Manager Tim Michel also said it's possible the dealership's service department would get a notice early this morning. A Firestone corporate spokesman said consumers can return the tires, even if there is no evidence of a defect. However, they will only receive credit for remaining tread on the tire.
Recalls customarily involve providing a new tire free to consumers.
Poor inflation and heat damage have been associated with the defective tires, and Firestone is offering to inspect tires for those problems at any of their stores. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has received 270 complaints, including reports of 46 deaths and 80 injuries, about failing Firestone truck tires. The complaints alleged that Firestone tires peel off their casings, sometimes while the light trucks or SUVs are traveling at high speeds. Ford officials said the car manufacturer has been fielding about 1,000 calls a day from customers regarding the tires. He did not provide more detail.