INDIANA– Bridgestone Americas Tire Operation (BATO) has announced a safety recall affecting specific light vehicle tires, citing a manufacturing defect that could lead to tread separation and an increased risk of accidents.
The recall (NHTSA ID: 25T021) focuses on a specific batch of Firestone Destination LE3 tires.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the affected tires—specifically size 265/70R17—may have an improperly positioned belt edge insert (BEI). This misalignment compromises the tire’s structural durability.
Under normal driving conditions, this defect can cause:
- Reduced tire lifespan.
- Tread separation, where the outer layer of the tire peels away from the casing.
- Increased crash risk due to sudden tire failure or loss of vehicle control.
Because of these risks, the tires fail to meet the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 139, which governs new pneumatic radial tires for light vehicles
Bridgestone has confirmed that a remedy is available and will be provided at no cost to the consumer.
Authorized dealers will inspect and replace the affected tires free of charge.
Official owner notification letters are scheduled to be mailed out starting February 6, 2026.
Owners do not need to wait for the letter to seek information. You can contact BATO customer service directly at 1-800-847-3272.
If you are unsure whether your tires are included in this recall, you can use the NHTSA Recall Look-up Tool by entering your tire brand and model. Drivers are encouraged to check the sidewall of their tires to confirm the size (265/70R17) and brand.
If you notice unusual vibrations, bulging, or irregular wear on your tires, contact a professional technician immediately, as these can be early warning signs of tread separation.
