I have a small bubble developing on my right front tire. I've had this car for 4 monthes (7,000 miles). Would the dealer replace the tire for free?

 

I believe that it should be covered under warranty of the tire itself as a defect.

 

You can try speaking with the dealer, but I suspect that they will most likely refer you to the tire manufacturer as most tires a warranteed by the manufacturer directly.

 

It could be a defect, but if you recall hitting a pot hole or big bump, your rim may have flexed and pinched the tire.

Good luck.

 

As this was a common problem on the CL's I can chime in.

Had 2 bubbles on my car. Both were referred to the tire manufacturer. in order for them to look at your claim they will refer you to one of their local offices that will then take a look at the tire. You may luck out and they will help you but with 7k on the tire you may be screwed.

Good luck

 

I had same problem

 

What brand of tires do you have?

 

Michelin??

 

The best case scenario if they determine a defect is probably pro-rating a new one for you. I doubt you'd get one for free and it may be difficult convincing them it's a defect anyway.

 

An Acura dealer will only replace a tire under warranty if it is damaged due a warrantable defect on the car, not due to a defect in the tire itself. In other words:

If my tie rod end has excessive play and causes the tires to wear abnormally, Acura will cover the cost to replace the tie rod, align the vehicle & replace the tire. If the tire itself it defective, and it was not caused by a problem with the vehicle, warranty is up to a Michelin dealer.

I recommend calling the 800 number in your warranty booklet for Michelin & asking them where to go.

 

I've seen hundreds of sidewall bubbles in my time an I never saw one that was the result of a defect. They were all from the rim cutting the inner liner due to an impact.

 

I'd agree with that statement, but I haven't seen the tire so was attempting not to pass judgement.