Controversies
Controversies tied to this brand in public sources. A listing is not a finding of fault.
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1978
Firestone 500 tread-separation crisis
The Firestone 500 steel-belted radial developed a serious tread-separation problem. The episode led to recalls, investigations, hearings, lawsuits, deaths attributed to tire failures, a major regulatory penalty, and severe damage to Firestone’s reputation.
1950
Great American streetcar scandal
Firestone, General Motors, and Standard Oil were convicted of criminal conspiracy in a case involving the acquisition and dismantling of streetcar systems and their replacement with buses.
1926
Liberian rubber plantation controversy
Firestone’s large plantation in Liberia became a major part of the company’s global rubber supply system. Its labor, land, environmental, and political history has attracted continuing scrutiny, particularly during and after Liberia’s civil conflicts.