Massive Tire Recall Issued Due to Risk of Sidewall Separation and Crash Risk

Federal highway safety officials have announced a recall of more than 430,000 Cooper tires, after the manufacturer recognized certain models may be prone to developing a bulge or sidewall separation problems, increasing the risk of a tire blow out and auto accident.

The Cooper Tire recall was announced by the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) on February 25, impacting 22 model lines of tires that could rapidly deflate or blow out while the vehicle is in motion.

According to the notice, the recalled tires have the potential to develop a bulge or separation in the sidewall while traveling at high speeds, which could increase the risk of a crash that results in serious injury or death. Officials warn customers to be alert for a bulge developing in the tire, which would be visually apparent on the outside wall of the tire, or would create an uneasy and rough feeling ride.

The recall includes 430,298 Cooper tires sold under the model names Discoverer, Evolution, Courser, Deegan, Adventurer, Hercules, Back Country, Multi-Mile Wild Country and Big O brand tires.

The recalled tires were manufactured by Cooper Tire & Rubber Co. and distributed for sale throughout the U.S. to various retailers. Cooper Tire warns the tires could have also been sold under different name brands including Pep Boys, Discount Tire, Mickey Thompson, Les Schwab and Mastercraft.

The NHTSA is instructing owners of the recalled tires to travel at reduced speeds to prevent the chances of a tire blow out and crash risk until they are able to schedule a replacement.

Cooper Tire indicates it will begin notifying registered owners with instructions on how to schedule a free replacement at their local dealer, where dealers will be instructed to replace the tires free of charge.

Customers with additional questions or concerns regarding the recall may contact Cooper Tire customer service at 1-800-854-6288 and reference the recall campaign number 178.

Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 or visit them online at to www.safercar.gov to enter equipment information to verify if their tires are included in the recall.