Firestone Press Release
Statement by Christine Karbowiak, Vice President Public Affairs of Bridgestone/Firestone

August 4, 2000

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Bridgestone/Firestone is working very closely with our customers, ranging from individual car owners to retailers, to address their concerns about the tires currently being evaluated by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s fact-finding process.

The tire lines are Firestone ATX, ATXII and Wilderness AT.

Sears is a longstanding and valued customer of Bridgestone/Firestone.

While they have informed us of their plan to stop selling the ATX and Wilderness lines until more information is available, Sears also assured us that they value our longstanding relationship and have great confidence in the Bridgestone/Firestone brands.

Again, we urge any concerned owner of ATX or Wilderness tires to schedule an appointment with their nearest company-owned Firestone Tire and Service Center for a free inspection of their tires. Any customer who is unaware of the nearest location should call 1-800-465-1904. We will inspect each customer’s tires for any improper conditions and ensure that the tires are wearing properly and inflated to the level specified by the vehicle’s manufacturer. As part of our long-standing customer satisfaction program, customers who would like to exchange their tires will be given a credit toward new tires, based on the remaining life of the tires. In fact, any issues or concerns following the inspection will be remedied to each customer’s satisfaction.

SOURCE: Bridgestone/Firestone