GSA Bulletin FPMR H-80
Utilization and Disposal

TO: Heads of Federal agencies

SUBJECT: Vehicles with Firestone-recalled tires

1. What is the purpose of this bulletin? This bulletin provides guidance to Federal agencies concerning the transfer, donation, sale, and in-use management of vehicles with Firestone-recalled tires,

2. When does this bulletin expire? This bulletin will remain in effect until specifically cancelled.

3. What is the background? The recall of Firestone tires has received significant publicity. Federal agencies, like other Firestone customers, must follow Firestone's procedures for identifying recalled tires on in-use vehicles (http://www.fss.gsa.gov/vehicles/). Agencies should promptly replace such recalled tires. Agencies also have requested guidance on the policy for handling vehicles with Firestone­recalled tires when they are available for transfer, donation, or sale, as well as sources of information on which tires are affected and how to get replacements.

4. What is the recommended policy we should follow when transferring, donating, or selling vehicles with Firestone­recalled tires? You must follow Firestone's procedures for identifying affected tires on your vehicles, and you must replace such tires prior to any disposal action. Agencies must indicate that replacement of tires has occurred when reporting vehicles to GSA for transfer, donation, or sale. For vehicles to be disposed of as scrap the recalled tires must be removed prior to issue.  Agencies must comply with Firestone's requirements regarding the disposal of the recalled tires to ensure that these tires do not remain in circulation.

5. How do we identify Firestone-recalled tires and where can we get more information about the recall? Firestone has provided information on how to identify tires subject to recall on their website (http://mirror.bridgestone-firestone.com/). The website also provides information and forms needed to obtain replacement tires. A toll-free number (1-800-465-1904) is available. Local Firestone-Bridgestone dealers should also be able to assist you.

6. Who should we contact for further information? For further information, contact Martha Caswell, Director, Personal Property Management Policy Division (MTP), Office of Governmentwide Policy, General Services Administration, Washington, DC 20405; telephone, (202) 501-3828; e-mail, martha.caswell@gsa.gov.