JEDDAH, 30 January 2006 — Michelin yesterday notified that it is recalling its “Pilot Sport Extra Load” tires. In the United States and Canada alone, 6,500 such tires (255/35ZR20 97Y) are being recalled. Their number in the Gulf is estimated to be in hundreds, with Saudi Arabia accounting for more than 130. The company’s decision follows an analysis based on customer returns in Europe, which revealed an anomaly that in certain cases the tires may lead to a rapid loss of air pressure in the tire. “This situation constitutes a potential safety risk and so as a precautionary measure Michelin has decided to exchange all the specified tires,” a major tire dealer said.