Bridgestone/Firestone to recall 98,500 Firehawks

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (Feb. 20)—Bridgestone/Firestone Inc. is voluntarily recalling about 98,500 Firestone Firehawk GTA-02 tires, size P205/55R16, because of the possibility of the tires developing a surface crack along the shoulder. The majority of the tires were fitted as original equipment on the 2000 and 2001 Nissan Altima SE, Bridgestone/Firestone said. The company said it is not aware of any claims, accidents or injuries related to these tires, but decided to initiate the recall after an analysis of tires returned for adjustment showed a design-related issue that could result in surface crack at the edge of the tread and shoulder. The tires in question were made at the firm´s plant in Wilson, N.C., between the 28th week of 1999 and the 45th week of 2000. The company said it would offer customers free replacement GTA-02 tires, or their choice of Bridgestone Potenza RE92 or Bridgestone Turanza EL41. The company emphasized that its testing of the tires has not resulted in the development of tread belt detachment.