Prinx Chengshan Winter Tire Recall: Safety Concerns and Driver Guidance

Prinx Chengshan Tire North America (PCTNA) recently announced a major safety recall affecting over half a million winter tires across North America. Known for manufacturing rugged-terrain and mud-terrain tires, the company identified that certain winter tire models may not perform as expected in snowy conditions, posing potential safety risks for drivers. This recall has drawn attention to the importance of understanding tire standards and regional safety requirements.

The Recall Overview

The recall involves 541,632 tires manufactured between August 2020 and December 2024. The affected models include:

• Fortune Tormenta R/T (FSR309)
  
• Fortune Tormenta M/T (FSR310)
  
• Prinx HiCountry R/T (HR1)
  
• Prinx HiCountry M/T (HM1)
  

All of these models were marketed with the 3-Peak Mountain Snowflake (3PMS) symbol, which indicates suitability for snow conditions. While these tires met European testing standards, they failed to meet North America’s more rigorous ASTM F1805 standard, which measures snow traction under local conditions. This discrepancy forms the core reason for the recall.

Why the Tires Are Unsafe

Although the tires passed European ECE R-117 testing, their performance in North American winter conditions is insufficient. This lack of traction could increase the risk of accidents in snowy or icy conditions, particularly during braking or sudden maneuvers. Drivers relying on the Alpine symbol for winter driving may find their vehicle handling compromised.

Identifying Affected Tires

Owners can check for the 3PMS symbol on the tire sidewall. Additionally, each tire carries a Tire Identification Number (TIN), which allows users to verify whether their specific tire falls under the recall. Prinx Chengshan has provided a recall portal and support line to help consumers determine if their tires are affected.

The Company’s Response

Prinx Chengshan has offered a two-part remedy for the recalled tires:

1. Alpine Symbol Removal: For drivers who intend to continue using the tires, the company will remove the 3PMS symbol free of charge. This process usually takes under an hour.
   
2. Refund Option: For consumers in regions with heavy snowfall, Prinx offers a full refund, including mounting and balancing costs, if the tires are destroyed after removing the Alpine symbol.
   

Future tire production from Prinx Chengshan is set to comply fully with U.S. safety standards, and no Alpine symbol will be added to new units unless the tires meet North American snow traction requirements.

Geographic Scope

The recall affects both the United States and Canada. In the U.S., it is registered with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) as recall number 24T‑014. Canadian authorities list it under Transport Canada recall 2025004. Owners in both countries are advised to take action promptly to ensure safety on winter roads.

Risks and Consumer Guidance

Using tires that fail to meet local snow traction standards can result in a higher likelihood of accidents in slippery conditions. Drivers should:

• Inspect tires for the 3PMS symbol
  
• Check the TIN to confirm recall status
  
• Register affected tires through Prinx Chengshan’s official portal
  
• Schedule a symbol removal or request a refund if needed
  

Prinx Chengshan provides a toll-free number for consumers needing assistance, emphasizing the importance of taking immediate action.

Broader Implications

This recall highlights a significant issue in the tire industry: international standards may not align with regional requirements. While a tire might pass European tests, it does not guarantee safety in North American climates. This event underscores the need for consumers to understand the limitations of tire ratings and certifications, especially for winter driving.

About Prinx Chengshan

Prinx Chengshan Tire North America is part of a global tire manufacturer with facilities in Asia and North America. The company specializes in rugged and all-terrain tires and has been a notable player in the winter tire market. This recall marks one of the largest safety notifications for the brand in recent years and serves as a reminder of the rigorous safety expectations in North America.

Next Steps for Drivers

Consumers who own affected tires should:

1. Verify their tires’ sidewall symbols and TIN.
   
2. Use the official Prinx Chengshan recall portal to confirm eligibility.
   
3. Contact PCTNA to schedule either Alpine symbol removal or a refund.
   
4. Avoid using tires in heavy snow until the remedy is applied.
   

By following these steps, drivers can maintain safety during the winter season while complying with the manufacturer’s recall guidance.

Conclusion

The Prinx Chengshan winter tire recall serves as an important reminder for drivers and manufacturers alike. Snow-rated tires are only as effective as the standards they meet, and regional differences can create unexpected safety concerns. Prinx Chengshan’s recall response aims to protect consumers by offering both a practical remedy and a refund option for those who need full winter performance.

With over half a million tires involved, this recall underscores the critical importance of checking tire markings and understanding the limitations of international standards when driving in severe winter conditions. Ensuring proper traction is not just about vehicle performance; it is about safeguarding lives during the snowy months ahead.

Read Also What Does Chalk on Tires Do? Here’s Why You Might Notice It

FAQs