NHTSA Complaint #11514930 — 2021 AUDI Q7

285/40R21 At the end of a Vermont ski trip, left to return home on the morning of 3/15/23 at approximately 8am. Outside temperature was approximately 30 deg F and it was snowing. Due to partially snow-covered roadways, speeds were limited to 35-40 mph. After driving for approximately 20 minutes, the tire pressure warning indicated, followed approximately 30 seconds later by catastrophic sidewall failure and complete tire deflation. The rapid loss of tire pressure combined with the slippery road service was extremely dangerous and we were very fortunate in steering the car to a safe parking area without losing control or colliding with other nearby vehicles. Audi roadside assistance was contacted and the car was towed to a local dealer. Upon inspection, the failed tire (original OEM supplied) showed no evidence of puncture, only catastrophic failure of the sidewall. The failed tire is being held at the dealer in Rutland, VT. Because of a similar failure on 11/12/22 with another of the (4), original OEM tires, all (4) tires were replaced with Pirelli tires as it was no longer safe to continue driving on any of the original Continentals.