The contact owns a 2004 Ford F-350. While the vehicle was being serviced by an independent mechanic, it was observed that the driver and passenger side inner rocker panels had severe corrosion, failed, and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired. Prior to the failure, the contact noticed that the frame was cracked. The contact took the vehicle to the local dealer (formula Ford, 4318 middle rd, rutland, vt, 05701) where it was confirmed that the frame was fractured, but they would not repair the vehicle. The frame was repaired. The contact got the department of motor vehicles involved; therefore, the dealer paid some of the repair cost to be welded by the contact's independent professional welder. The manufacturer was not contacted. The failure mileage was approximately 140,590.

- Rochester, VT, USA

While traveling through tn, towing a trailer, the front driver's side tire delaminated and blew. This caused the vehicle to veer across the meridian and almost into on-coming traffic. The damages include the rim, fender, wheel well, front bumper and fairing. This is a estimate, the vehicle goes into the shop tomorrow to be evaluated by a mechanic and receive repairs. This is a similar incident that occurred in may of 2011, while hauling a 5th wheel camper to ar, the passenger front tire delaminated within 3 hours of stating the trip. The tire did not blow and I was able to maintain control of the vehicle. It goes without saying that I will research replacement tires and remove the other 5 tires (dually + spare). As a safety specialist/investigator, I originally thought that I had received "retread" tires on my vehicle when I purchased it. After reading this section I see/feel that this is more a case of poor design/workmanship.

- Jewett City, CT, USA