On October 29, 2008, Bridgestone Firestone North America Tire, LLC (BFNT) announced a recall of more than 160,000 imported tires because they were produced with insufficient tread base gauge. Consumers who continue to use recalled tires may notice tread separation or tread distortion, which could lead to a catastrophic injury from a car accident.

Included in the recall are 135,000 Firestone brand FR380 P235/75 R15 tires, imported into both the United States and Canada, and 27,000 LeMans Champion SE P235/75 R15 tires, imported into the United States.

The company said it has not received any reports of injuries related to the recalled Firestone tires. Consumers seeking information about identifying and inspecting tires may visit the company?s website.

Bridgestone Firestone North America Tire will notify owners of the recalled Firestone tires and will provide replacement tires. Owners may contact Bridgestone Firestone North America Tire at 1-800-465-1904, or may visit the company?s website.

For more information, consumers may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration?s Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236, or visit SaferCar.gov.

Source: National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Campaign ID Number 08T026000, October 29, 2008.