Primewell Tire Recall Issued Due to Risk Sidewall May Crack, Cause Accidents

A recall has been issued for nearly 400,000 Primewell tires distributed at Firestone dealers throughout the United States, due to a risk that the inner side walls may crack, potentially causing a loss of air pressure and increasing the risk of an accident. 

The GITI Primewell Valera Touring II tire recall was announced by the manufacturer on July 12, after receiving several consumer reports that indicate the tires developed a crack on the lower sidewall area of the tire. To date, the manufacturer has not reported any reports of crashes or injuries related to the recall.

Use of the recalled tires could result in serious injuries or death in the event a tire loses significant air pressure or blows out when traveling on highways. The tires may experience early cracking on the inner sidewall which may make it difficult for owners to detect the defect. Customers are being asked to inspect the inner side walls of their tires to detect whether the external cracks have developed.

The manufacturer, PT. Gaja Tunggal Tbk, warns that the cracks could be linked to an anomaly in the lower sidewall area, which can manifest as external, visible cracks after several months of use.

Included in the recall are Primewell Valera Touring II model tires that were manufactured in several sizes including 205/65R16 95H with serial numbers Y9 BC CLHX 1714 to 4016 4016, 205/50R17 93V XL with serial numbers Y9HF CLVX 1814 to 3516, 215/50R17 95V XL with serial numbers Y9 HH CLVX 2214 to 3516, 225/50R1794V with serial numbers Y9HJ CLVX 1614 to 3416, and 225/50R18 95T with serial numbers Y9 FH CLTX 1914 to 3416.

GITI has announced the company will begin notifying customers of the recall and will provide instructions on how to schedule a free tire replacement at local dealers when products become available. The recall repairs are anticipated to begin on July 20, 2017. Customers with additional questions regarding the recall are encouraged to contact GITI customer service at 1-866-488-4737.