GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Info - Tire Sidewall Damage

Subject:Tire Sidewall Damage

Models:2002 and Prior Passenger Cars and Light Duty Trucks



Inspection of a number of tires returned to the Warranty Parts Center and the various tire manufacturers has revealed gouges and/or abrasions that are located on the tire's outboard sidewall. Typically, these gouges and/or abrasions appear to be located near where the tire was marked for wheel balance weight installation at the vehicle assembly plant.

It has been determined that this type of surface damage to the tire may be the result of dealers or owners using a high pressure power washer to remove wax/paint/ink marks from the tire sidewall. Do not use a high pressure power washer on tires. To remove any markings from the tire's sidewall, only use soap, water and a scrub brush.

This type of tire sidewall damage should not be considered as a warrantable condition.