The Danger: Tire Tread Separation & Highway Failures
What Is Tread Separation?
In normal tires, the rubber tread is bonded firmly to the tire's internal structure. In this defect, the rubber tread is peeling away from that structure. When tread separation occurs, the tire loses structural integrity completely. The outer rubber essentially detaches from the tire, causing catastrophic failure.
TL;DR: The rubber is coming off the tire. At highway speed, this means immediate failure.
Why This Matters: Catastrophic Failure Risk
A tire failure at highway speed is one of the most dangerous vehicle problems. Here's what happens:
- Tread suddenly separates while driving at highway speed (50+ mph)
- Tire loses structural integrity and deflates completely
- Driver loses control—vehicle pulls hard toward the failed tire
- On mountain roads or highways, this leads to dangerous lane changes or off-road travel
- Risk of collision with other vehicles, guardrail strikes, or cliff edges
- Potential crash, serious injury, or death
- Secondary vehicle damage and liability questions
"A tire failure at highway speed is one of the most dangerous vehicle problems. Even experienced drivers often lose control of the vehicle."
— NHTSA Safety Alert
When This Becomes Critical
- •Long highway drives: Tread separation risk accelerates with heat and sustained speed
- •Sonoma County driving: Highway 101, mountain roads, high speeds = critical risk environment
- •Cold weather: Tread separation risk increases in winter when materials become brittle
- •Older tires: The defect manifests over time, not immediately after installation
Symptoms You Might Notice (Before Complete Failure)
- ⚠️Unusual vibration or shaking while driving
- ⚠️Bulges or tears visible on the tire sidewall
- ⚠️Noise or thumping sound coming from one tire
- ⚠️Vehicle pulling to one side despite straight steering
- ⚠️Loss of air pressure in the tire (gradual or sudden)
If you notice any of these symptoms, stop driving immediately and call us at (707) 584-7727.
Official Recall Information (NHTSA #25T018000)
Recall Summary
NHTSA Recall Number
25T018000
Reported by
Toyo Tire U.S.A. Corp.
& Nitto Denko Corp.
Recall Status
Active (In Progress)
Total Units Affected
36,919 tires
What's Being Recalled
- Brand:Toyo and Nitto brand tires
- Manufacturing Location:Toyo White, Georgia facility (specific production batches)
- Production Dates:Specific date ranges within 2018-2024 (check your DOT code)
- Total Affected:36,919 tires
The Defect Explained
During manufacturing, a defect in the bonding process caused the rubber tread to separate from the internal tire structure. This defect appears as microscopic failures that grow over time as the tire is used. Under heat and highway speed stress, the tread can suddenly separate completely from the tire body, causing instant tire failure.
When it manifests: The defect doesn't cause immediate failure. It develops over time with use. Depending on driving conditions, failure can occur anywhere from 6 months to 2 years after installation.
The Remedy (What Manufacturer Is Doing)
- ✓Manufacturer will replace affected tires at no cost
- ✓Replacement tires are new (not refurbished or retread)
- ✓Installation labor and fees covered by manufacturer
- ✓No out-of-pocket costs to owners
- ✓Complimentary safety inspection while we're down there
Notification Timeline
- 📅Notification Deadline: December 13, 2025 (last day for mailed notices)
- 📅Method: Direct mail to registered vehicle owners
- 📅If you haven't received notice: Check NHTSA database directly—don't wait
- 📅Don't delay: Check your tires NOW, don't wait for mail
Step-by-Step: Verify If Your Tires Are Affected
Step 1: Locate Your Tire's DOT Code
Every tire has a unique identification number. Follow these steps:
- Walk around your vehicle to one of the tires
- Look at the sidewall of the tire
- Find the text that starts with "DOT"
- Write down the full DOT code (10-14 characters)
- Take a photo for reference
Step 2: Visit NHTSA.gov
- Go to NHTSA.gov
- Click "Recalls"
- Select "Tires"
- Enter recall number: 25T018000
- Search by DOT code
Can't access online? Call NHTSA at 1-888-327-4236.
Step 3-5: Confirm & Book
✓ Match Found?
You have affected tires. Proceed to booking.
No Match?
Your tires are safe. No action needed.
Ready to Book?
Call or use button below (FREE replacement).
What to Expect: Your Tire Replacement Timeline
Check-In & Verification
(10 min)We verify your tires and confirm recall eligibility.
Tire Removal
(15 min)Professional removal, cleaning, and inspection.
New Tire Installation
(20 min)Installation, mounting, and balancing.
Safety Inspection
(15 min)Complimentary vehicle safety check.
Review
(10 min)Paperwork and optional service recommendations.
⏱️ Total Time: 1.5–2 hours
Simple replacements typically complete in 90 minutes. Optional services may add time.
Optional Services (While We Work)
Tire Balancing
Included with replacement—ensures smooth ride and extends tire life
Wheel Alignment
Critical on mountain roads—prevents rapid tire wear and pulling
Tire Rotation
Extends tire life significantly—professional rotation following manufacturer patterns
Winter Tire Consultation
Perfect for November—discuss winter tire options and safety benefits
Frequently Asked Questions
Why Rohnert Park Transmission
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- Family-owned
- ASE Certified technicians
- BBB A+ Rating
- 892+ reviews, 4.8 stars
💯 Honest & Transparent
- We tell you what you need
- No pressure upsells
- Competitive pricing
- Free inspections
Schedule Your Free Replacement Today
📞 Contact
Phone: (707) 584-7727
Hours:
Mon–Fri 8am–6pm
Sat 9am–5pm
📋 Bring
- ✓ Driver's license
- ✓ Vehicle registration
- ✓ Recall letter (if received)
Don't Wait—Act Now
Tread separation at highway speed is catastrophic. The manufacturer will replace your tires FREE. Deadline: December 13, 2025.