Michelin Recalls 1.3M Tires for Trucks, Vans, RVs

Michelin has issued a safety recall for 1.3 million of its LTX M/S tires that were produced between January 2010 to June 2012 at its Nova Scotia plant.

Owners of 2010 to 2013 Ford E-Series vans or other full-size heavy duty vans, light-duty commercial trucks, large pickups, and small RVs could be affected by the tire recall.

Anyone affected by the recall may be entitled to recall remedies.

What's a Voluntary Recall?

Michelin voluntarily recalled its LTX M/S tire because of tread/belt endurance issues that could result in tread separation, rapid air loss, or tread loss. According to the Chicago Tribune, the only tire size that's part of the recall is the LT225/75R16 115/12R LRE.

The Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards set minimum performance requirements for tires. Most recalls are voluntary and put in place by the manufacturer.

A recall is generally necessary when:

• A motor vehicle or motor vehicle equipment doesn't comply with a Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard, or
• There's a safety-related defect in the equipment or vehicle.

Tires are considered motor vehicle equipment. Since the problems with the Michelin LTX M/S tires are related to tread separation and rapid air loss, they're definitely safety-related issues that would urge the manufacturer to issue a voluntary recall.

What Should Consumers Do?

Because the Michelin recall is specific to certain tires, consumers should check their tires' size. The tire size number will be found on the sidewall of your tires.

The Detroit News reports that Michelin will send a letter to owners in early January and provide specific instructions on how to obtain replacement products and get reimbursed. If you're using the recalled tires, remove them as soon as possible. Authorized Michelin retail locations will replace those tires at no charge.

So far, no injuries have been reported and only 20 consumers have sought reimbursement, The New York Times reports.

Related Resources:

• Motor Vehicle Defects and Safety Recalls: What Every Vehicle Owner Should Know (Safercar.gov)
• Your Right to Recall Remedies (FindLaw)
• Car & Motor Vehicle Recalls (FindLaw)
• How Do Car Recalls Work? (FindLaw's Injured)