Table Of Contents
- Goodyear Tire Recalls: What You Need to Know & How to Take Action
- Are You Affected by the Goodyear Tire Recall? Here’s How to Check
- What to Do If You Own Recalled Tires
- Settlement Amounts and Compensations Related to Goodyear Tire Recall Lawsuits
- Essential Documentation for Filing a Goodyear Tire Recall Lawsuit
- FAQs
- Do I Have a Goodyear Tires Recall Lawsuit?
Goodyear Tire Recalls: What You Need to Know & How to Take Action
Defective tires pose a serious safety risk, and Goodyear has faced growing scrutiny over multiple tire recalls due to tread separation issues.
Two major recalls—the 2022 G159 RV Tire Recall and the 2020 Fortera HL Tire Recall—have been linked to accidents, injuries, and fatalities.
If you own a vehicle equipped with these tires, understanding the details of the recalls and the steps to take for free replacements or refunds is crucial. This guide breaks down the recalls, highlights key dates, and explains what affected consumers need to do.
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A Breakdown of Goodyear’s Tire Recalls
Goodyear has issued two separate recalls, each with its own set of risks and solutions. Knowing which recall applies to your tires is the first step in ensuring your safety.
1. 2022 Recall – G159 RV Tires
This recall targets Goodyear G159 tires, which were originally designed for urban delivery trucks but ended up being used on large RVs—despite not being suited for highway speeds and long-distance travel. The consequences have been severe.
Key Details
- Tire Model: Goodyear G159
- Size: 275/70R22.5
- Manufacture Dates: 1996–2003
- Primary Issue: Tread separation, causing blowouts and loss of vehicle control.
- Impact: Linked to 95 deaths and numerous injuries since 1998.
- Recall Announcement: June 7, 2022
- Current Status:
- Goodyear is replacing affected tires for free.
- A $500 refund is available for unused tires that were never installed on RVs.
2. 2020 Recall – Fortera HL Tires
The Fortera HL recall affects a specific production batch that was found to have tread separation risks. Unlike the G159 recall, this issue was identified before widespread fatalities occurred.
Key Details
- Tire Model: Goodyear Fortera HL
- Size: P255/65R18
- Manufacture Dates: 2019 (Weeks 44 and 45)
- Primary Issue: Increased risk of tread separation, leading to potential tire failure.
- Recall Announcement: Details on the announcement date remain unclear, but the issue was flagged in 2020.
- Current Status:
- Affected tires can be replaced for free at authorized Goodyear dealerships.
Understanding these recall differences is important, as each presents distinct risks and solutions. Next, we’ll look at the timeline of events surrounding the G159 recall and the long battle that led to its acknowledgment.
The G159 Recall: A Timeline of Delayed Action
The G159 recall was not a sudden response—it was the result of years of mounting evidence, lawsuits, and regulatory pressure.
The following is a timeline of key events that ultimately forced Goodyear’s hand:
Date | Event |
---|---|
1996–2003 | Goodyear manufactures G159 tires, originally intended for delivery trucks but later used on RVs. |
1998–2015 | Reports of tread separation and tire failures linked to 95 deaths and injuries emerge. |
2017 (Dec.) | A judge orders the release of sealed Goodyear data, prompting an NHTSA investigation. |
2018 (March) | Goodyear begins cooperating with investigators but denies any defect in the tires. |
2021 (March) | A judge orders Goodyear to pay $520,000 for withholding internal high-speed testing results. |
2022 (Feb.) | NHTSA officially requests a recall due to safety risks; Goodyear initially refuses. |
2022 (June 7) | Facing regulatory pressure, Goodyear voluntarily recalls 173,000 G159 tires. |
2025 (Current) | Some of these tires may still be in use or available through secondary markets, posing ongoing risks. |
Goodyear’s recalls highlight the serious consequences of defective tires and delayed action. Whether you drive an RV, SUV, or another affected vehicle, verifying your tires is a simple step that could save lives.
Are You Affected by the Goodyear Tire Recall? Here’s How to Check
If you are concerned about the recent Goodyear tire recalls, checking whether your vehicle is affected is crucial for your safety.
Follow this step-by-step guide to determine if your tires are part of the recall and what actions you should take.
2022 Fortera HL P255/65R18 Recall: What You Need to Know
This recall affects specific Goodyear Fortera HL tires due to the risk of tread separation, which can lead to sudden tire failure and loss of vehicle control.
How to Check Your Tires
- Look for the Right Model and Size:
- Model: Goodyear Fortera HL
- Size: P255/65R18 109S
- Verify the Manufacturing Date:
- Affected tires were produced during the 44th and 45th weeks of 2019.
- Check the DOT number on the sidewall—the last four digits should be 4419 or 4519.
- Locate the DOT Number on Your Tire:
- The DOT number begins with “DOT” followed by a combination of letters and numbers.
- The last four digits indicate the week and year of manufacture.
- What to Do If Your Tires Are Affected:
- If your tire’s DOT number falls within the recall range (4BXMARDR4419 – 4519), contact a Goodyear retailer immediately for a free replacement.
G159 RV Tire Recall: A Deadly Risk
The G159 RV tire recall is one of the most dangerous in history, linked to 95 deaths since 1998. These tires were originally designed for urban delivery trucks but were mistakenly used on RVs, where they were prone to overheating and failure.
How to Determine if Your RV Tires Are Recalled
- Check the Model: Look for Goodyear’s official recall list for specific G159 tire models affected.
- Find the DOT Number: Just like the Fortera HL, check the tire sidewall for the DOT number to verify if your tires are included.
- Confirm with Goodyear: Use Goodyear’s online recall tool or call customer service to verify if your tires are under recall.
If your RV is equipped with G159 tires, replace them immediately. These tires have been responsible for fatal blowouts, making them extremely unsafe for highway travel.
What to Do If You Own Recalled Tires
If you discover that your vehicle is affected by either recall, take action right away:
- Stop using the tires and contact Goodyear for a free replacement.
- Schedule an appointment with a certified tire dealer for a professional inspection.
- If you have been involved in an accident due to these tires, consider seeking legal help.
Defective tires can lead to severe injuries, property damage, and even loss of life. If you or a loved one has been impacted, you may be eligible to file a Goodyear tire recall lawsuit.
By taking a few minutes to check your tires, you can protect yourself and others on the road. Do not wait—verify your tires today and take action if they are part of the recall.
As of February 2, 2025, several significant settlements and compensations have been reported in connection with lawsuits involving the recalled Goodyear tires, particularly the G159 model.
- $5.6 Million Jury Award:
- In June 2010, a jury awarded $5.6 million to a family severely injured when a Goodyear G159 tire failed. The tire tread separated at highway speeds, leading to a catastrophic accident involving their motorhome.
- $2.7 Million Verdict (Reversed):
- Goodyear was initially ordered to pay $2.7 million to the Haeger family after a G159 tire blowout caused a serious crash in 2003. However, this verdict was later reversed by the U.S. Supreme Court after Goodyear appealed, highlighting the complexities surrounding liability and compensation in these cases.
- Compensation for Affected Tires:
- For RV owners with recalled G159 tires, Goodyear is offering to replace these tires at no cost. Additionally, owners of tires used on other vehicles can exchange them for $500.
- Potential Future Settlements:
- Ongoing investigations and lawsuits may lead to further settlements as more claims are filed against Goodyear for injuries and damages related to the tire failures. The U.S. Department of Justice has also opened a criminal investigation into Goodyear’s handling of the recalls, which could impact future liabilities.
If you or someone you know has been affected by the Goodyear tire recalls, it is crucial to gather documentation and consider legal consultation regarding potential claims for damages or injuries sustained due to tire failures.
Essential Documentation for Filing a Goodyear Tire Recall Lawsuit
If you own Goodyear G159 RV tires or Fortera HL tires and have experienced tire failure, gathering the right documentation is crucial. Whether you’re filing for a replacement, refund, or legal claim, having the correct records can strengthen your case and improve your chances of receiving compensation.
The following is a step-by-step guide on the essential documents you need to support your Goodyear Tire Recall Lawsuit.
What Documents Do You Need?
To build a solid case, collect and organize the following documents:
1. Proof of Tire Purchase
- Receipts or invoices showing the purchase date, tire model, and size.
- If the tires came pre-installed with your vehicle, include a copy of your vehicle purchase documents.
- Credit card or bank statements can serve as alternative proof if receipts are unavailable.
2. Vehicle Maintenance Records
- Documentation of tire rotations, alignments, pressure checks, and repairs.
- Service records proving that you followed standard maintenance recommendations.
- Any communication with auto shops regarding tread issues or concerns about the tires.
3. Accident Reports (If Applicable)
- Police reports from any accidents related to tire failure.
- Insurance claims detailing vehicle damage caused by a tire blowout or tread separation.
- Any witness statements, dashcam footage, or expert assessments linking the accident to defective tires.
4. Medical Records (For Injuries Caused by Tire Failure)
- Emergency room and hospital visit records related to crash injuries.
- Doctor’s reports detailing treatment and long-term medical effects.
- Documentation of physical therapy or rehabilitation if required after the accident.
5. Photo & Evidence Preservation
- Clear photos of the tires, especially if they show tread separation or damage.
- Pictures of the vehicle damage, accident scene, and road conditions.
- Preserve damaged tires or any defective parts as evidence.
By organizing your evidence and taking timely action, you can protect your rights and hold Goodyear accountable for defective tires.
If you or a loved one suffered injuries, vehicle damage, or financial loss due to these recalls, consulting a legal professional may be your next best step.
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FAQs
How is Goodyear addressing the Fortera tire recall?
Goodyear is notifying registered owners, and dealers are replacing the potentially defective tires free of charge.
When did the Goodyear Fortera tire recall begin?
The recall for the Goodyear Fortera HL tires began on June 7, 2022.
What is the issue with Goodyear’s G159 RV tires?
Goodyear G159 tires, originally designed for delivery trucks, have been linked to 95 deaths due to tire tread separation when used on RVs. This led to loss of control and crashes at highway speeds.
How many Goodyear G159 tires are affected by the recall?
Goodyear is recalling over 173,000 G159 tires used on recreational vehicles due to the risk of tread separation.
How do I get my free replacement?
To get your free replacement, visit a Goodyear-authorized dealer or contact Goodyear customer service. You will need the DOT number from your tire, proof of purchase (if available), and vehicle details. The dealer will confirm if your tires qualify for the recall and provide a replacement or refund at no cost.
What if I already paid for replacements?
If you already paid for replacements for your tires before the recall, you may qualify for reimbursement. Submit proof of purchase, such as a receipt or mechanic’s report, to Goodyear. The company has offered up to $500 for unused recalled tires not installed on RVs, but compensation may vary based on your situation.
Do I Have a Goodyear Tires Recall Lawsuit?
The Product Liability Litigation Group at Schmidt & Clark, LLP law firm is an experienced team of trial lawyers that focus on the representation of plaintiffs in Goodyear Tires Recall Lawsuits. We are handling individual litigation nationwide and currently accepting new injury and death cases in all 50 states.
If you or a loved one has been injured by Goodyear Marathon Trailer Tires, you should contact our law firm immediately. You may be entitled to a settlement by filing a suit and we can help.