DRIVERS preparing for snowfall have been urged to check their tires due to a massive recall.
The tires pose a massive crash risk and should be checked immediately.
Prinx Chengshan Tire North America is recalling more than 541,000 winter tires sold in the US.
Winter tires are designed to give drivers more control on the road in snowy and icy conditions.
But the tires do not provide sufficient traction, according to a notice posted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
PCTNA sent a letter to the NHTSA Monday notifying the public of the safety recall.
Around 541,632 Fortune Tormenta and Prinx Hicountry winter replacement tires, sold in more than 100 sizes, are involved in the recall.
The recalled tires feature three-peak mountain snowflake symbols.
PCTNA said the tires passed European tests but likely fail to comply with US safety standards.
That’s because they “do not have sufficient traction to perform in all snow weather conditions.”
Snow tires without sufficient traction can increase the risk of a crash.
PCTNA said a remedy is under development.
The company said owner notification letters are expected to be starting February 1, 2025.
Owners with questions may contact PCTNA customer service at 1-310-205-8355 extension 109, or the NHTSA Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153).
In the US, tire traction standards are graded from highest to lowest.
The ratings represent a tire’s ability to stop on wet pavement, according to the NHTSA.
An AA is the highest rating, while the lowest is a C.
More winter car advice from AAA
The American Automobile Association shared advice on preparing your car for the winter months.
AAA gave the following tips for drivers getting ready for cold weather:
- Get your brakes checked
- Check tire pressure
- Test your car’s battery
- Apply water repellent to your windshield
- Check antifreeze levels
- Clean your headlights
- Have emergency tools available like jumper cables, salt, and an ice scraper
Meanwhile, drivers have also been warned to check their tires ahead of the dead of winter.
Financial expert Ted Jenkins told The U.S. Sun that doing so could save drivers on the price of fuel.
“If you want to maximize gas mileage, it’s more important than ever to check and maintain your tire pressure,” Jenkins told The U.S. Sun.
“Every -10° change in ambient temperature could mean a loss of 1 PSI,” the oXYGen Financial business consultant said.
“This could reduce your overall miles per gallon if tire pressure falls lower and if you are in an area where you expect snow, it’s time to get out the winter tires if you own them.”
TMX contributed to this article.
