Costco Refuses to Install Customer’s Tires Over Safety Concerns

A customer’s attempt to have new Mud Grappler tires installed at a Costco service center was denied after technicians identified a safety issue: the tires were rubbing against the truck’s sway bars. Content creator Creigh Riepe, who purchased the tires at Costco, acknowledged the rubbing but argued it wasn’t Costco’s decision to make. The store held its ground, citing liability and safety risks—continuous contact between tires and suspension components can lead to premature wear or even loss of vehicle control. Riepe later had the tires mounted at an independent shop, Latinoamerican Tire Shop. Experts caution that tire rubbing isn’t merely a noise issue—it signals potential mechanical damage. While some commended Costco for prioritizing safety, others criticized its inflexibility. Major tire chains frequently refuse to service older or mismatched tires due to liability concerns, a practice stemming from industry changes following past tire-related safety crises.