The recent Goodyear recall is a significant problem for one of the most popular RV tire brands.
Unfortunately, for nearly a decade, many drivers were traveling on ticking time bombs. It goes to show you that even name brands can be a letdown and create a hazardous situation.
Today, we’re digging into the recall on Goodyear and why you might want to check your tires.
Let’s get started!
Grand Jury Collects Evidence on Goodyear’s Role in RV Tire Recall
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) began investigating certain Goodyear tires as early as 2017. However, they’ve recently started collecting evidence, which many presume is to build their case against the major manufacturer.
Considering the role of the NHTSA is to keep people safe on the roads, it’s not looking like it’ll be a good year after all for this mega business. The administration is likely investigating whether the company did its due diligence to keep drivers safe. Goodyear did cave into the pressure and issued a recall on the tires.
Unfortunately, it was likely far too late, as the damage had already been done to most consumers.
How the evidence collection will impact the manufacturer remains to be seen. Thankfully, drivers can have the assurance that officials are looking out for their safety while traveling. The roads are a bit safer without these wheels on them.
What Led to the RV Tire Recall?
Complaints regarding the specific tires in question are nothing new. A lawsuit was initially filed in 2017 against the brand. The case resulted from several accidents involving motorhomes that all had the same wheels. Unfortunately, some inccidents were serious and resulted in injuries and fatalities.
Research by the NHTSA found that consumers weren’t aware of the dangers of overloading and underinflation. Of course, Goodyear is blaming RV manufacturers for the recall. However, who’s to blame won’t bring back the lost lives or fix some of the injuries resulting from the faulty tires. The results of this could help provide closure and compensation to those affected by the design.
What Goodyear RV Tires are Being Recalled?
In June 2022, Goodyear finally issued the seemingly long-overdue tire recall. The items in question are approximately 170,000 G159 wheels, size 275/70R22.5. Production of these units occurred between 1996 and 2003.
While these tires are past their usable life, there’s a chance an owner may still have them lying around. If you have an older rig, you need to check to ensure these aren’t on your vehicle. In addition, if you’re renting or using an RV or truck with 22.5-inch rims, it’s a good idea to ensure they’re not present.
Because a recall was issued, you can get a free replacement. If you have yet to put them on your rig, the company offers $500 in exchange for them. You’ll need to contact their Consumer Relations department for more information.
Pro Tip: Use our guide on Where Can You Buy the Best Tires to ensure you have the best tires for your rig.
Did Goodyear Know of Defective RV Tires as Early as 2002?
Reports show that the NHTSA was first alerted to the issue in 2002. As a result, Goodyear would have heard about the problem long before the recall. Investigators believe the business knew about the potentially dangerous tires for over two decades. However, they failed to act and risked consumers’ lives.
In a February 2022 letter, the NHTSA said, “The safety-related defect is clear, identified failure that leads to a loss of vehicle control, causing crashes and potentially catastrophic consequences such as death and serious injury.”
Goodyear countered in a response stating that the wheels were examined and passed all their tests with flying colors. They said, “No subject tire inspected by Goodyear engineers ever revealed or even suggested a defect of any kind.”
While this battle is likely far from over, it could have a significant impact on the organization. Knowing of a potential danger and doing nothing about it could have a significant financial impact on the company and its leadership. Officials could issue criminal charges for anyone involved with covering up the problem.
How Do You Know if Your RV Tires Are Bad?
Even if the Goodyear recall didn’t affect you, it’s still worth checking your wheels. If you want to get the most life out of your tires, you need to drive on them. Those that don’t get used regularly will go bad faster.
Luckily, there are some things you can check to make sure your wheels can handle just about anything the road throws at them. First, look for worn-down treads. They’ll naturally rub off as your RV hits the highway. In an ideal world, they’ll even wear down evenly.
Keeping an eye on things can help you to identify potential alignment or suspension issues with your rig. Ensure you’re checking your tread regularly and purchasing replacements when they get too low.
The second thing you need to check for are bulges, bubbles, tears, or cracks in the rubber. These can occur naturally, especially as the tires experience dry rot. Internal damages to the structure also present themselves in external blemishes.
Finally, another way to know if your wheels are bad is to check the manufacture date. The sidewall of every vehicle tire has the week and year it was produced stamped on it. A good rule of thumb is to replace them every six to seven years or when the tread gets too low. Don’t forget to check the date on your spare too!
How Do I Check for RV Recalls?
The NHTSA makes it very simple for consumers to check for RV recalls. You can punch in your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), and it’ll search its massive database. If there are any active issues, you’ll be able to know precisely what and why you need to fix them.
Additionally, it’s worth reaching out directly to the manufacturer of your RV. They’ll likely be aware of any potential recalls for components used in manufacturing your rig. Keep your contact information up to date with the manufacturer so they can contact you. Whether it’s a phone call, email, or mail, they’ll be sure you know what affects you and your rig.
Pro Tip: Need to get rid of your tires? Use these tips on How to Get Rid of Old Tires.
What’s the Best Long-Lasting Tires?
Before the recall, Goodyear was a go-to recommendation for RVers. However, knowing that they were potentially aware of the situation might be challenging for you as a consumer. As a result, a handful of other brands are worth considering.
Companes like Michelin, Bridgestone, and Carlisle are in good standing in the RV community. When it comes to a smooth and quiet ride, these brands have a reputation for doing just that. They provide traction and stability in different terrains and road surfaces.
Will they be the cheapest options? Likely not. However, saving a few bucks isn’t worth putting you, your passengers, or other drivers in a dangerous situation.
When selecting the best tire for your motorhome, you have to do your research. Two critical factors to consider are the speed and load ranges. While a good dealer should point you in the right direction, they’re trying to make a sale. It’s up to you to ensure you know what you’re getting.
The Goodyear Recall is an Important Reminder
Our hearts go out to those affected by the apparent shortcomings of Goodyear before the recall. This unfortunate situation spotlights the importance of safety for RVers and other drivers.
Avoid overloading your rig, and check your wheels regularly to prevent a potentially dangerous and deadly situation. You don’t want to realize your mistake while experiencing a blowout. What are you waiting for? Go out and inspect your tires to make sure they’re in good shape!
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