Goodyear issued a voluntary recall of more than 170,000 G159 tires last week. This recall followed an investigation by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) that found 95 people were killed or injured in accidents involving the G159 tire from 1998 to 2015. NHTSA stated that these tires “experienced a high rate of failure on RVs when compared to similar tires.”
The recall specifically applies to the 275/70R22.5 sized G159 tire, which is commonly found on RVs. These tires were intended for use on inner-city delivery trucks but had instead been sold and installed on large RVs, which travel for longer periods and on highways at much higher speeds. According to NHTSA, Goodyear knew that this size of the G159 tire could not withstand this kind of use.
When the recalled G159 tire is installed on some RVs they are prone to “tread separations and other failures,” according to the recall report. “Tread separations can lead to loss of vehicle control, resulting in an increased risk of a crash.” On February 22, 2022, NHTSA sent a letter to Goodyear requesting it issue a recall. Goodyear responded on March 8, 2022, and declined to do so. The company since changed its mind.
NHTSA urges “anyone who owns, rents or uses an RV or truck with 22.5-inch rims to ensure these tires are not in use on their vehicle.” If located these tires should be removed from service. Spare tires should be checked, too.
If you or a loved one has been injured or killed as a result of Goodyear tire failure, please contact an attorney at Abraham Watkins, Nichols, Agosto, Aziz & Stogner by calling 713-222-7211 or toll-free at 1‑800-870-9584.