1. events leading to failure: No abnormal events prior to failure (no tire visual indications, no sounds, normal steering and suspension behavior, no tire impacts). Tire pressure checked monthly and tires rotated regularly (~ every 8,000 mi). 2. failure and its consequences: A single oem tire (Bridgestone potenza P225/60R16 E92qz) with 43,700 miles lost all pressure due to failure of sidewall, with separation apparent around entire circumference of tire. Failure occurred while parked on level parking lot surface after driving 10 minutes at moderate speed. 3. what was done to correct the failure; I.e, parts repaired or replaced (and if old part is available): Intend to replace tire shortly. Old tire is available. Photos available.

- Lexington Park, MD, USA

While driving in a middle lane on I-270, I sudenly became aware of a bumping noise. I pulled over to the right shoulder through several lanes of traffic. When I checked the tires, I saw that the sidewall of my passenger side rear tire had become completely disattached from the tread. The tire was original equipment on my 2003 Subaru Outback. A Firestone dealer inspected the tire in detail, but could find no puncture or other cause of tire failure besides spontaneous disintegration. Firestone wanted $56 to replace it under warranty, after treadwear measurement, even though tire had only 6800 miles on it.

- Germantown, MD, USA