BRIDGESTONE® - FIRESTONE®
58
REFERENCE INFORMATION
TIRE SIDEWALL LABELING
A lot can be learned by reading the tire’s sidewall. The following figures show typical
in
formation on the sidewall of passenger (Figure 3) and light truck tires (Figure 4):
Tire Size, Load Range, Load Index, and Speed Symbol: Example Tire SizeLoad IndexSpeed Symbol Load Range
Figure 3 P215/65R15 95H-
Figure 4 LT235/85R16 114/111 QD
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59
DOT Symbol and Tire Identification Number: The “DOT” symbol constitutes a certification
that the tire conforms to applicable US Department of Transportation (DOT) motor
vehicle safety standards (for tires). Following the “DOT” symbol is the tire identification
number, also known as the DOT serial number or code. For example:
The DOT symbol and tire identification number can be found on at least one sidewall near
th
e wheel. The other sidewall may have a partial serial code that excludes (e) and (f)
above.
Maximum Load and Inflation: T
he maximum load and maximum inflation pressure is
marked on each sidewall in metric and English units. For example:
MAX LOAD 685 kg (1,510 lbs) AT 240 kPa (35 psi) MAX PRESS
NOTE:
The load and inflation values marked on the tire sidewall are maximum permissible
v a
lues for the tire only. Never assume that these values are the actual maximum load
capacity or recommended tire pressure values for your vehicle. See “Tire Inflation Pres -
sure,” “Tips for Safe Tire Inflation,” and “Tips for Safe Loading” in this manual.
Ply Composition and Materials: T
he actual number of plies in the sidewall and tread area
and the generic name(s) of their cord material(s) are marked on at least one sidewall. For
example:
• T READ 2 PLY POLYESTER + 2 STEEL
•
SIDEWALL 2 PLY POLYESTER
R
adial: Radial ply tires will have the word "radial" on at least one sidewall. An “R” in the
t
ire size designation also indicates radial ply construction.
Tubeless or Tube Type: T
ires are marked as either “tubeless” or “tube type,” whichever
is applicable, on at least one sidewall.
(a) DOT Symbol (d) Tire Manufacturer’s Code
(b) Manufacture Plant Code (e) Week of Production (01-52)
(c) Tire Size Code (f) Year of Production (last two digits of year)
* For tires produced from 2000-on. In the example above, the tire was produced in the 18th week of
2000. For tires produced prior to 2000, there is one digit in group (f) which identifies the last digit of the
year of production, i.e. “329” would likely signify the 32nd week of 1999, but could possibly signify the
32nd week of 1989. If in doubt, consult a qualified tire service professional.
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60
UNIFORM TIRE QUALITY GRADING
The Uniform Tire Quality Grading (“UTQG”) standards are intended to assist you in
making an informed choice in your purchase of passenger car tires by providing
information indicating relative performance of these tires in the areas of tread wear, wet
braking traction (straight-ahead), and temperature resistance. All passenger car tires
must conform to federal safety requirements in addition to these grades.
Treadwear
The treadwear grade is a comparative rating based on the wear rate of the tire when
te
sted under controlled conditions on a specified government test course. For example,
a tire graded 150 would wear one and one half (1 1/2) times as well on the government
course as a tire graded 100. The relative performance of tires depends upon the actual
conditions of their use, however, and may depart significantly from the norm due to
variation in driving habits, service practices and differences in road characteristics and
climate.
Traction
The traction grades, from highest to lowest, are AA, A, B, and C. Those grades represent
t h
e tire’s ability to stop on wet pavement as measured under controlled conditions on
specified government test surfaces of asphalt and concrete.
NOTE:
The traction grade assigned to a tire is based on straight-ahead braking traction tests,
an
d does not include acceleration, cornering, hydroplaning, or peak traction characteris -
tics.
Temperature
The temperature grades are A (the highest), B, and C, representing the tire’s resistance
t o
the generation of heat and its ability to dissipate heat when tested under controlled
conditions on a specified indoor laboratory test wheel. Sustained high temperature can
cause the material of the tire to degenerate and reduce tire life, and excessive
temperature can lead to sudden tire failure. The grade C corresponds to a level of
performance which all passenger car tires must meet under the Federal Motor Vehicle
Safety Standard No. 109. Grades B and A represent higher levels of performance on the
laboratory test wheel than the minimum required by law.
WARNING!
The temperature grade is established for a tire that is properly inflated and not
overloaded. Excessive speed, underinflation, or excessive loading, either separately or
in combination, can cause heat buildup and a possible tire failure.
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61
LIMITED WARRANTY
ORIGINAL EQUIPMENT
PASSENGER AND LIGHT TRUCK TIRES
Including Tires with Run-Flat Technology
ELIGIBILITY
This Limited Warranty covers Bridgestone® and Firestone® brand passenger and light
t r
uck tires, including RFT and temporary spare tires, originally installed by the vehicle
manufacturer on a new vehicle. You are covered under the terms of this Limited Warranty
if the tire was produced after July 4, 2004 (DOT serial 2704 or later) and has been used
only on the vehicle on which it was originally installed in non-commercial service.
WHAT IS WARRANTED AND FOR HOW LONG
Before wearing down to 2/32 of an inch (1.6 mm) remaining original tread depth (i.e.
w o
rn down to the top of the built-in indicators in the tread grooves) and within 6 years
from the date of purchase (proof of purchase date required; without proof of purchase
date, then within 6 years from the date of tire manufacture), for any reason other than
those excluded in the section entitled “What This Limited Warranty Does Not Cover,” any
eligible tire that becomes unusable for any reason within the manufacturer’s control will
be replaced with an equivalent new tire on the basis set forth in this Limited Warranty.
WHAT THIS LIMITED WARRANTY DOES NOT COVER
This Limited Warranty does not cover the following:
1. T ire damage or irregular wear due to:
• Road hazards,
including, without limitation: Puncture, cut, impact break, stone
drill, bruise, bulge, snag, etc.
• Improper use or operation,
including, without limitation: Improper inflation pres -
sure, overloading, tire/wheel spinning, use of an improper wheel, tire chain
d a
mage, misuse, misapplication, negligence, tire alteration, or for racing or
competition purposes.
• Insufficient or improper maintenance,
including, without limitation: Failure to
rotate tires as recommended in this manual, wheel misalignment, worn suspen -
BRIDGESTONE® - FIRESTONE®
62
sion components, improper tire mounting or demounting, tire/wheel assembly
imbalance, or other vehicle conditions, defects, or characteristics.
• Contamination or degradation
by petroleum products or other chemicals, fire or
other externally generated heat, or water or other material trapped inside the tire
during mounting or inflation.
• Improper repair.
Improper repair voids this Limited Warranty
• For RFT tires only, improper run-flat or low tire pressure operation,
including,
without limitation: Exceeding speed, distance, or other run-flat/lowpressure oper-
ation limitations.
2. R apid tread wear or wear-out. Original equipment tires have no mileage warranty.
3
. W eather/ozone cracking after 4 years from date of tire manufacture.
4
. R ide disturbance or vibration after 1/32 of an inch (0.8mm) of tread wear use.
5
. T ires with sealant, balance, or other filler material that was not originally applied or
i
nserted by the tire manufacturer.
6. T ires used in commercial service.
7
. T ires purchased and normally used outside the United States and Canada.
8
. T he cost of applicable federal, state, and local taxes.
9
. F ailure to follow any of the safety and maintenance recommendations or warnings
c
ontained in this manual.
This Limited Warranty is in addition to and/or may be limited by any other applicable
w r
itten warranty you may have received concerning special tires or situations.
REPLACEMENT PRICE
Radial passenger and light truck tires adjusted under this Limited Warranty will be
replaced free of charge during the first 25% of tread wear or within 12 months from the
d a
te of purchase (proof of purchase date required; without proof of purchase date, then
within 12 months from the date of tire manufacture), whichever occurs first. During the
f r
ee replacement period, mounting and balancing are included free of charge.
To determine the replacement price after the free tire replacement period, the percent
o f
used tread wear is multiplied by the current selling price for the replacement tire(s).
The appropriate taxes, mounting, balancing, disposal fee, and other service charges may
be added to the adjustment replacement price.
In Canada, the tire will be adjusted at dealerships (subject to dealer discretion) at a
p r
edetermined “Adjustment Price.”
REPLACEMENT WARRANTY
If you receive a replacement tire under this Limited Warranty, it will be covered by the
manufacturer’s warranty, if any, given on that tire at that time.
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63
WHERE TO GO
Tire adjustments under this Limited Warranty will only be made at an authorized
Bridgestone® Firestone® retailer. Consult a phone directory (often listed in the Yellow
Pages under "Tire Dealers") or the internet at www.bridgestonetire.com for the location
nearest you.
CONSUMER RIGHTS
This Limited Warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights
which vary in the United States from state to state or in Canada from province to
province.
CONDITIONS AND EXCLUSIONS
To the extent permitted by law, Bridgestone® Firestone® North American Tire, LLC
disclaims all other warranties, including but not limited to the implied warranties of
merchantability and fitness for a particular purpose and any liability for incidental and
consequential damages, loss of time, loss of vehicle use, or inconvenience. Some states
do not allow the exclusion or limitation of incidental or consequential damages, so the
above limitation or exclusion may not apply to you.
This Limited Warranty applies only to consumers actually using the tire in the United
S t
ates and Canada. For warranty conditions outside the United States and Canada, see
your local Bridgestone® Firestone® distributor.
Obligations under this policy may not be enlarged or altered by anyone.
In accordance with Federal Law, this Limited Warranty has been designated as a "Limited
W a
rranty.” Nothing in this Limited Warranty is intended to be a representation that tire
failures cannot occur. This Limited Warranty is given in the United States by
Bridgestone® Firestone® North American Tire, LLC, 535 Marriott Dr., Nashville, TN
37214 and in Canada by Bridgestone® Firestone® Canada Inc., 5770 Hurontario St.,
Suite 400, Mississauga, Ontario, Canada L5R 3G5.
OWNER’S OBLIGATIONS
In order to keep this Limited Warranty valid, we require you to have your tires regularly
inspected and rotated per the recommendations outlined in the sections of this manual
entitled "Tire Damage, Inspection and Service Life” and “Radial Tire Rotation” and to
furnish proof of same in order to receive an adjustment. Such proof should show the
date, mileage, and servicing location. A sales receipt containing this information will
suffice. In addition, a “Maintenance Record” is included on the back cover of this
manual. It is your obligation to maintain proper tire inflation pressures as specified by the
vehicle manufacturer and to operate the vehicle within tire/vehicle load capacity and
speed limitations. It is also your obligation to maintain proper wheel alignment and tire/
wheel assembly balance. To request an adjustment, you must present the tire to an
authorized Bridgestone® Firestone® retailer. Complete and sign the customer section
of the Bridgestone® Firestone® North American Tire, LLC Limited Warranty adjustment
form and pay appropriate replacement price, taxes, disposal fee, and service charges, if
any.
66
CONTINENTAL TIRE
LIMITED WARRANTY AND ADJUSTMENT POLICY FOR ORIGINA L EQUIPMENT PASSENGER
CAR & LIGHT TRUCK TIRES (Including TEMPORARY SPARE Tires)
This booklet also includes important safety warnings. ELIGIBILITY
This Limited Warranty and Adjustment Policy applies to the original owner of new
Continental brand passenger and light truck (LT) tires that are the new vehicle original
equipment tires bearing the Continental brand name and DOT Tire Identification
Number, operated in norma l service, and used on the same vehicle on which they were
originally installed according to the vehicle manufacturer’s recommendations.
Tire(s) on any vehicle registered and normally operated outside the United States and
Canada are excluded from eligibility under this Limited Warranty and Adjustment Policy.
WHAT IS THE ADJUSTMENT POLICY AND HOW LONG IS IT APPLICABLE? BASIC
COVERAGE:
Eligible Tires are covered by this Warranty for a maximum of 72 months from the date of
purchase, determined by the new vehicle registration date or new vehicle sales invoice
showing date of purchase.
Where to Go for Warranty Replacement: Contact the dealer from where you purchased
the vehicle or an alternate authorized Continental brand tire dealer (Authorized Dealer)
to determine the eligible warranty coverage for your tires and how to proceed from there.
Free Replacement Period: PASS & LT: If an eligible Continental brand PASS or LT tire
becomes unserviceable from a warrantable condition, other than those listed under
Section 3, during the first 12 months or first 2/32 of an inch (1.6 mm) of tread wear
(whichever comes first), it will be replaced with a **comparable new Continental brand
tire FREE OF CHARGE, including mounting and balancing (excluding on line orders).
Owner pays all applicable taxes.
TEMPORARY SPARE: If a temporary spare tire becomes unserviceable from a condition
other than those listed in Section 3, during the first 1/32 of an inch (0.8 mm) of tread
wear, then it will be replaced with a **comparable new Continental brand TS tire FREE
OF CHARGE, including mounting and balancing. The owner pays all applicable taxes.
After this "Free Replacement Period" for your temporary spare tire expires, no warranty
claim will be accepted.
After the Free Replacement Period: The tire (except temporary spare tire) may still be
eligible for a pro rata replacement up to 72 months from date of original purchase until
the tread is worn down to the tread wear indicators (2/32 of an inch or 1.6 mm of tread
remaining.) If an eligible tire becomes unserviceable under the stipulations of this
Limited Warranty and Adjustment policy it will be replaced with a comparable 1
new
Continental brand tire, charging the owner a prorated amount. Owner pays all applicable
taxes (including F.E.T.), mounting and balancing charges.
1. A "comparable" new Continental brand tire may be of either the same tire line or the same basic construction but with a different sidewall or tread configuration. If a higher priced tire is selected, the
consumer will pay the difference in price.
CONTINENTAL TIRE
68
ATTENTION AUTHORIZED DEALERS: CONTINENTAL TIRE THE AMERICAS, LLC (CTA)
RESERVES THE RIGHT TO THE FINAL INSPECTION DECISION FOR ALL RETURNED TIRES
ON CONDITIONS UNDER SECTION 3.
THIS WARRANTY IS MADE IN LIEU OF ALL OTHER WARRANTIES, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED,
AN
D CTA EXPRESSLY DISCLAIMS ALL IMPLIED WARRANTIES, INCLUDING, BUT NOT
LIMITED TO, WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR
PURPOSE. SOME US AND/OR CANADIAN PROVINCES DO NOT ALLOW LIMITATIONS ON
THE DURATION OF AN IMPLIED WARRANTY, SO THE ABOVE MAY NOT APPLY TO YOU.
TO THE EXTENT PERMITTED BY LAW, CTA DISCLAIMS LIABILITY FOR ALL
CO
NSEQUENTIAL AND INCIDENTAL DAMAGES. THE REMEDIES SET FORTH IN THIS
LIMITED WARRANTY ARE THE SOLE AND EXCLUSIVE REMEDIES FOR BREACH OF
WARRANTY. SOME US AND/OR CANADIAN PROVINCES DO NOT ALLOW THE EXCLUSION
OR LIMITATION OF INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES, SO THE ABOVE
LIMITATION OR EXCLUSION MAY NOT APPLY TO YOU. THIS WARRANTY GIVES YOU
SPECIFIC LEGAL RIGHTS, AND YOU MAY ALSO HAVE OTHER RIGHTS WHICH VARY FROM
US STATE TO STATE AND/OR CANADIAN PROVINCE TO PROVINCE.
THIS IS THE ONLY EXPRESS WARRANTY MADE BY CTA. NO CTA EMPLOYEE, RETAILER,
O R
DEALER HAS THE AUTHORITY TO MAKE ANY WARRANTY, REPRESENTATION,
PROMISE OR AGREEMENT ON BEHALF OF CTA EXCEPT AS EXPRESSLY WRITTEN IN THIS
LIMITED WARRANTY AND ADJUSTMENT POLICY. IN OBSERVANCE OF US FEDERAL LAW,
THIS LIMITED WARRANTY AND ADJUSTMENT POLICY HAS BEEN DESIGNATED A “LIMITED
WARRANTY”. CTA DOES NOT INTEND TO REPRESENT THROUGH THIS LIMITED
WARRANTY AND ADJUSTMENT POLICY THAT TIRE FAILURES CAN OR CANNOT HAPPEN.
CTA’S OBLIGATIONS
Replacement of eligible tires will be made by the dealer where you purchased your
v e
hicle or by an alternate Authorized Dealer. CTA will replace the tire pursuant to the
terms of this Warranty. Tires that are replaced under this Warranty become the property
of CTA.
OWNER’S OBLIGATIONS
To make an eligible claim under this Warranty, the owner must present a claim, with the
t i
re to an Authorized Dealer. For the nearest Authorized Dealer, consult the Continental
brand internet address(es), or the 800 telephone number(s) located in the back of this
warranty section.
Owner must present new vehicle registration form or new vehicle sales invoice indicating
t h
e date of purchase. Owner will be required to sign the CTA Limited Warranty Claim Form
or dealer replacement sales receipt.
Owner is responsible for paying all applicable taxes charged by the servicing dealer and
i s
also responsible for paying shipping, local tire-disposal fees and parts or service