Dimple Defect Leads to US Bridgestone Recall

A flaw that could potentially lead to tyre deflation has prompted Bridgestone Americas Tire Operations to recall 4,097 bus tyres. The recall applies to Bridgestone R192 275/70R22.5 Load Range J (18 ply) tyres used primarily on intra-city transit buses in the US and Canada.

Bridgestone explains that the R192 features a sidewall wear indicator (dimple) that is used to monitor sidewall wear. The specified depth of the subject tyres’ dimples may result in exposed body ply cord. Over time, this condition could result in the deterioration of the body ply cord, creating the potential for air loss at the location of the dimple. The NHTSA recall notice adds that this “will increase the risk of a crash”, however Bridgestone notes that it currently is not aware of any incidents of air loss related to this condition.”

The tyre maker says it will immediately begin replacing tyres in its mileage sales program, and fully expects that by July 10, 2010 a sufficient quantity of tyres will be available at regional locations to replace all the recalled tyres. Bridgestone anticipates that all recalled tyres will be replaced by the end of July.