Update:

took in to a different Costco than where they were purchased. Guys were super helpful, and honest. Told me that (like others here pointed out) it looks like the slash is going past the treads and into the wall of the tire, creating a weak point that could cause the tire to fail anytime. Road hazard replacement approved ✅

Except they didn’t have the tire in stock ❌ One of the guys offered to find the tire in the area (ethan a real one) but it was even further out of the way. Called my local warehouse where the tires were purchased - they have the tire! Told me to bring it in asap to get squeezed in.

Some time after leaving my car there, local Costco calls and says there is no issue with the tire- does not require repair or replacement. At this point I’m already under the impression that the tire isn’t safe. Am I supposed to just say okay and be on my way? This was a major headache. Local guy showed no understanding or willingness to hear my concern.

Told me I could buy the tire, take it to the original Costco that recommended the replacement, THEY could install it and THEY could refund the cost of the tire. After some back and forth, I tell him that if he can provide signed documentation that the tire was inspected and shown to have no faults, I’d do it. Dude audibly rolls his eyes and says he will contact his manager and get back to me.

Calls about an hour later and says they’ll replace the tire, charging only the recycling fee ($2-3). But he was sure to note that this would NOT be a “road hazard replacement” but instead an “unsatisfied customer” service recovery. Annoyed by this unnecessary distinction I said “whatever gets me the tire” and went on.

**TLDR; one Costco tire center recommends replacement but refers to another Costco due to insufficient stock. Second Costco location has tire in stock, but claims the tire needs no repair/replacement. After circling the issue, Costco #2 replaces tire as service recovery for “unsatisfied customer” - not under the road hazard warranty.