Interpretation ID: GF002230

Mr. Greg Adams
6099 Eastwood Place
Boise ID 83716

Dear Mr. Adams:

This responds to your letter concerning tire safety. You stated that you have a 2002 truck which has a label stating that 10 ply tires should be used.You asked, "If a tire dealer installed 6 ply tires without owners knowledge, would they be the one responsible if something happened, or would the owner?"

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) issues Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards applicable to new motor vehicles and motor vehicle equipment, including tires.Our tire standards specify tire dimensions; test requirements for strength, endurance, and high speed performance; labeling requirements; and tire load ratings.However, our regulations do not address the legal responsibilities of tire retailers vis--vis vehicle owners.

We note that our regulations require that the maximum load rating be labeled on the tire sidewalls.The maximum load rating is the best guide for determining the load carrying capability of a tire.Therefore, the replacement tires for your vehicle should have had at least the equal maximum load rating as the tires originally on the vehicle.

If you have further questions concerning our regulations, you may contact Mr. George Feygin of my staff at (202) 366-2992.

Sincerely,

Jacqueline Glassman
Chief Counsel

ref:110
d.5/17/05