Editor:
We are disappointed with the headline (``Cooper faces issues similar to Bridgestone´s´´) that accompanied your story regarding Cooper Tire in the Sept. 4 issue. Cooper is not Firestone, and it is both false and misleading to compare issues facing these companies.
As with most other consumer product companies, we have some lawsuits including a highly publicized case still pending trial. In that particular case, independent experts determined the tire experienced a tread separation because of an unrepaired puncture completely through the tire by a nail or similar road hazard incurred earlier in the tire´s service life. There is no pattern of any kind to the tires at issue in cases pending against Cooper.
We believe it is important to set the record straight on these facts so that there is no undue concern among our customers and dealers. We are proud of Cooper´s reputation for quality and of our record of building millions of tough, durable tires each year.
Patricia J. Brown, vice president, Advertising and Communications, Cooper Tire & Rubber Co.