Dunlop Tyre Compound Deconstructs

<p>I purchased a Toyota Yaris brand new in 2011 and to date (2016) have clocked up 50500 km.</p> <p>All my tyres except one still have 3 mm tread and my spare is new and is now in use.</p> <p>My front left tyre has worn much faster and started to delaminate in chunks and presented almost smooth when I took it to Dunlop Jet Park for assessment.</p> <p>Dunlop functionary carried out a tick list form inspection of the tyre .</p> <p>Conclusion - and I quote "The tyre was manufactured in week 40 - 2010 it is over 5 years old and therefore the compound is no longer stable and that is why it is disintergrating. We suggest you replace all your tyres as it is not safe to drive your car with these tyres and if you have an accident your insurers will not cover you and Dunlop only guarantee tyres up to 5 years"</p> <p>I must be honest - I was expecting a replacement tyre even if I had to pay in a proportion of cost .</p> <p>My other tyres look perfect no cracks in side walls - no visible deterioration - no perish marks.</p> <p>Dunlop were not interested in compensating me.</p> <p>Needless to say I was shocked by the outcome.</p> <p>I immediately contacted the AA, JMPD Roadworthy and My Insurers to find out where I stood with ths scenario ie were my tyres roadworthy and covered by insurance.</p> <p>The AA were cagey - they refered me to web site wherin they state tyres only last 2 - 5 years and that dealers are not allowed to repair tyres that are older than 5 years etc</p> <p>(https://www.aa.co.za/services/technical-services/legal-advice/legal-questions/legal-tyre-lifetime-limit.html)</p> <p>JMPD on other hand state that as long as you have the required tread depth as per National Trafic Regulatons 212 and there are no cracks or visible perish marks then the tyre is roadworthy.</p> <p>Finally - my Insurance company agrees with JMPD view and has sent me written confirmation that the claim will not be repudiated as long as the tyre tread is compliant with the legal tyre tread limit stated by the National Road Traffic Act.</p> <p>Conclusion - dont buy Dunlop Tyres - as it appears they are only made to last 5 years - I will be replacing my tyres with a superior make and quality having lost faith in Dunlop.</p> <p> </p>