What are tire recalls?

Tire recalls are a critical safety issue that can affect drivers and vehicle owners. When a tire manufacturer or the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) determines that a tire model poses a safety risk, they will initiate a recall to address the problem. Understanding the reasons behind tire recalls and the steps to take can help ensure your vehicle's safety on the road.

What is a Tire Recall?

A tire recall is a notification issued by a tire manufacturer or the NHTSA when a tire model is found to have a defect or safety issue. This could be due to a variety of reasons, such as tread separation, sidewall cracking, or other structural problems that could lead to a blowout or loss of control of the vehicle. Tire recalls are issued to address these safety concerns and prevent potential accidents.

Common Reasons for Tire Recalls

Tire recalls can be initiated for several reasons, including:

• Tread Separation: This occurs when the tread on the tire separates from the rest of the tire, which can lead to a blowout and loss of control of the vehicle.


• Sidewall Cracking: Cracks in the sidewall of the tire can weaken the structure and increase the risk of a blowout.


• Manufacturing Defects: Issues during the manufacturing process, such as improper materials or assembly, can lead to tire failures.


• Design Flaws: Inherent design problems in the tire model can make it more susceptible to safety issues.

Tire recalls are issued to address these safety concerns and prevent potential accidents.

What to Do if Your Tires are Recalled

If your tires are subject to a recall, it's important to take the following steps:

• Check for Recalls: Regularly check the NHTSA website or the tire manufacturer's website to see if any of your tires have been recalled.


• Schedule a Replacement: If your tires are recalled, contact the tire manufacturer or a local tire dealer to schedule a replacement. Tire recalls are typically free of charge for the consumer.


• Follow Recall Instructions: Carefully follow any instructions provided by the tire manufacturer or NHTSA, such as how to identify the affected tires or where to have them replaced.


• Consider Replacing All Tires: Even if only one tire is recalled, it's often recommended to replace all four tires to ensure consistent performance and safety.

By staying informed and taking prompt action, you can help ensure your vehicle's safety and compliance with tire recall requirements.

How to check tire recalls?

You can check for tire recalls by using the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) website or the SaferCar app, searching the U.S. Tire Manufacturers Association (USTMA) recall lookup tool with your tire's DOT number, or by registering your tires with the manufacturer. For the most accurate results, use the DOT Tire Identification Number (TIN) found on the tire's sidewall. 
Using the NHTSA website or SaferCar app 

• Go to the NHTSA recalls website. 
• Search for recalls by entering your vehicle's VIN, license plate, or year, make, and model. 
• Alternatively, download the NHTSA SaferCar app to receive alerts for your specific vehicle and equipment, including tires. 

Using the USTMA recall lookup tool 

• Locate the DOT Tire Identification Number (TIN) on the sidewall of your tire. It begins with the letters "DOT".
• Go to the USTMA tire recall lookup tool.
• Enter your tire's TIN into the search tool to see if it's part of a recall. 

Other methods

• Register your tires: Register new tires with the manufacturer to receive direct recall notifications. 
• Check manufacturer websites: Some tire manufacturers, like Goodyear, have their own recall information pages. 
• Set up a Google Alert: Create a Google Alert for "tire recalls" to stay updated on general recall news. 

What is a tire recall?

A tire recall occurs when it is found that a certain batch of tires are defective and pose a risk to motorists. In the United States, this decision is made by the NHTSA, and must be followed to ensure the return of those tires to the manufacturer for replacement.

What tires are being recalled in 2025?

Several tire recalls have been issued in 2025, including Toyo and Nitto tires for tread separation risk, Continental tires with potential tread detachment, and Michelin Agilis CrossClimate C-Metric tires due to tread chunking. Additionally, some Bridgestone and GM EV tires are part of recalls. Customers should check their tire sidewalls for identifying information or contact the manufacturer to determine if their tires are affected.
 
Major recalls in 2025

• Toyo and Nitto: A large number of Open Country, Crosstek, Dura Grappler, and other models are being recalled for a risk of tread separation due to a manufacturing defect. Owners will receive notification letters by December 13, 2025, to schedule free replacement. 
• Continental: Certain Continental tires have been recalled for potentially using the wrong rubber, which could cause the tread to detach and increase the risk of a crash. Owners will be notified around December 1, 2025. 
• Michelin: The company is recalling certain 185/60R15C Agilis CrossClimate tires because surveillance testing revealed tread chunking. 
• Bridgestone: Two separate recalls were issued: 
  • Certain Blizzak 6 tires were shipped without the required Department of Transportation (DOT) marking. 
  • A small number of R123 Ecopia long-haul trailer tires have a stabilizer ply belt with an incorrect orientation that may lead to a crash risk. 
• GM EVs: Some 2025-2026 Cadillac Optiq and Chevrolet Equinox EV models are being recalled because their original equipment tires may experience tread separation, creating a road hazard. 

What to do if you think you have a recalled tire

1. Identify your tire: Check the sidewall for the brand, model, size, and Tire Identification Number (TIN). 
2. Contact the manufacturer: Visit the manufacturer's website or contact them directly to check if your specific tire is part of the recall. 
3. Schedule an appointment: If your tire is recalled, contact a dealer to schedule a free replacement. Note that recall campaigns have end dates, so act promptly. 
4. Check spare tires: Do not forget to check your spare tire as well, as it may also be included in the recall. 

What are the three types of recalls?

While both the FDA and USDA have their own definitions of product recall classes, they follow the same general rule – 1= most serious / dangerous, 2= potentially dangerous and 3 = least dangerous.