The contact owns a 2005 Ford Escape. The vehicle has pep boys definity Dakota A/T tires, size P235/70/R16 (na). The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic for repair and he observed that fours tires exhibited severe tread separation and cracking. The tires are in the process of being replaced due to the safety risk involved. The contact has pictures of the defective tires. The failure and current mileages were 99,000. Updated 07/01/09 updated 07/06/09.

- Springfield, MI, USA

The purpose of my letter is either to inform or alert you to a tire situation. On May 7, 2007 the Continental tire tread on the 2005, Ford, Escape left the wheel in a complete circle, nearly causing a potential accident. I consider this to be a catastrophic failure unlike any that I have known. I used the spare tire, and reported the situation to my Ford dealer. They, in turn, reported the failure to both, Continental tire company and the Ford Motor Company. Since then the Continental tire company offered to replace the tire by offering me $20 off a replacement tire as the cost of fair wear and tear. At no time has Continental expressed any interest in viewing the separated tire. In short, $20 take it or leave it. On the other hand, the Ford dealer sold me a set of different tires at his cost just so that we could have some peace of mind while driving in the future. If you have an interest in obtaining more information I have a series of photos of the separated tire which I would send you upon request along with dot numbers, etc. My email is milpridbassett@aol.com.

- St. Johns, MI, USA

The driver noticed that a flash warning sign appeared on the dashboard while driving. Driver was able to pull over, and noticed that the passenger rear tire blew out. The driver was able to change the tire, and drove to the dealer. However, mechanic could not determine the cause of the problem.

- Mammoth Lakes, CA, USA