NHTSA Complaint #11641240 — 2022 AUDI A5

NHTSA Recall ID: 24T009 Continental Claim Number: [XXX] While driving on the highway from Lake Tahoe to Los Angeles with my family in the car, the front passenger-side tire unexpectedly exploded. The entire tread detached from the tire, causing damage to the right side of the vehicle as it separated. Prior to the incident, the car had undergone an inspection at an official Audi dealership, which included a tire inspection and alignment. No issues were identified at that time. The incident occurred in September 2024. The weather was extremely hot in the desert, so I was closely monitoring the tire pressure through the vehicle’s sensors. No abnormalities were detected before the sudden explosion. Fortunately, I was able to safely maneuver the vehicle off the highway despite the shock of the situation. It took several months for the Audi Pacific Service Center to replace the tires and send them to Continental for analysis. Continental has since denied reimbursement for the vehicle repairs, providing only a general report stating that the failure was unrelated to the recall. On [XXX] I requested a more detailed analysis, including a comprehensive report with supporting images and videos. Continental indicated a one-week turnaround, but as of February 6, 2025, I have not received any further information. The Important Safety Recall notice I received explicitly states that the affected tires may develop belt edge separation due to excessive flexing in the tread shoulder, leading to potential tread/belt loss. This description aligns precisely with the failure I experienced. However, Continental has not provided any evidence or a substantive explanation as to why my case does not fall within the scope of the recall. Given the circumstances and the clear similarities between my experience and the recall description, I am requesting reimbursement for the repair costs resulting from this incident. My car is still not safe to drive because of the damage. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (F