NHTSA Complaint #11511439 — 2023 VOLVO C40BEV

PIRELLI Scorpion Zero AllSeason Elect 255/40 R20. Rear passenger tire developed a bulge in the sidewall due to manufacturer defect that led to a blowout while driving at highway speeds. Tire was less than two months old (as was the vehicle) with just over 2,000 miles on it. Never had any curb rash, never caught a corner of a pothole, or any other damage. In doing some research perusing Volvo-related forums such as SwedeSpeed, this specific problem seems to be a recurring issue with Pirelli Scorpion tires on C40s and XC40s -- and according to consumers, Volvo has done nothing to rectify this dangerous issue involving the fitting of their vehicles with faulty Pirelli tires despite being notified of the problems and potential risks. My rear passenger rim was damaged and I incurred a $410 expense for the tire replacement as it was not warrantied by either Volvo or Pirelli. When the TPMS went off, I was on a large bridge over the Ohio River, in the left lane of a four lane highway. It was difficult safely navigating through rush hour traffic as cars were swerving to get away from me. I had to drive approximately a mile and a half on a flat tire to the exit where a tire specialty business was located. The problem I noted above was identified and confirmed by a knowledgeable employee at Tire Discounters (Newport, KY) where I brought my vehicle. They could not order the replacement tire due to a national backorder, however they reached out to the closest Volvo dealership (Volvo Cincinnati East) and was able to obtain a tire from them that was delivered the following day. I have a photo of the damaged tire with bulge visible right next to the sidewall blowout.