Tire Sidewall problems of the 1999 Ford Taurus

Michelin hydroedge have developed cracks in bottom of all treads with only 37,000 miles on a 90,000 mile rated tire. They do not have sidewall weather-checking so it is not a weather or chemical issue. Michelin was asked to pay for at least 50% of replacement cost but they refused. There is only 40% of the miles used on this set of $600 set of tires. The local dealer said he would replace with a different style for $450, which I did. Michelin owes me $150.

The consumer noticed cracks on all four tires. The front tires had major cracks all over the surface of the sidewall, while the two rear tires had fine cracks on the surface of the sidewall.

Two blowouts have occurred on this vehicle in about a year. In both cases, the tires had been inspected and properly inflated within a few days of the incidents (by two different shops). The first was a flat tire discovered in the morning, removal of the tire showed a 2+ inch gash on the inside sidewall of the tire, they had been rotated two days previous. The second occured while driving-- the tire fell apart while travelling on the new jersey tpke, 3 days before, I requested the pressure on the tires be checked during a routine oil change. Mr.

All four continental tires on the vehicle had cracks in the side wall. (continental tires).