In: Accounting
The Heinrich Tire
Company recalled a tire in its subcompact line in December 2018.
Costs associated with the recall were originally thought to
approximate $55 million. Now, though, while management feels it is
probable the company will incur substantial costs, all discussions
indicate that $55 million is an excessive amount. Based on prior
recalls in the industry, management has provided the following
probability distribution for the potential loss: (FV of $1, PV of
$1, FVA of $1, PVA of $1, FVAD of $1 and PVAD of $1)
(Use appropriate factor(s) from the tables
provided.)
Loss Amount | Probability | ||
$ | 45 | million | 20% |
$ | 35 | million | 50% |
$ | 25 | million | 30% |
An arrangement with a consortium of distributors requires that all
recall costs be settled at the end of 2019. The risk-free rate of
interest is 8%.
Required:
1. & 2. By the traditional approach to
measuring loss contingencies, what amount would Heinrich record at
the end of 2018 for the loss and contingent liability? For the
remainder of this problem, apply the expected cash flow approach of
SFAC No. 7. Estimate Heinrich’s liability at the end of
the 2018 fiscal year.
3. to 5. Prepare the necessary journal
entries.
The Heinrich Tire Company recalled a tire in its subcompact line in December 2018. Costs associated with the recall were originally thought to approximate $55 million. Now, though, while management feels it is probable the company will incur substantial costs, all discussions indicate that $55 million is an excessive amount. Based on prior recalls in the industry, management has provided the following probability distribution for the potential loss: (FV of $1, PV of $1, FVA of $1, PVA of $1, FVAD of $1 and PVAD of $1) (Use appropriate factor(s) from the tables provided.)