Why has my local garage inflated its tyre prices?

Last week I took my 2013 BMW 328i into my local garage (which is part of a national chain) for an MOT and service. My car failed the MoT because two runflat tyres had some damage that I was unaware of. I was quoted over £470 to replace the pair.

After doing some online research I found the same tyres being advertised on the company's website for £170 less. I challenged the garage on their quoted price and was told that "it was company policy to provide the higher shop retail price". I then ordered the tyres online and had them fitted by the same garage the following day.

What do you think of this behaviour?

Asked on 10 January 2023 by Terence Myers

Answered by Lawrence Allan

We always recommend that people shop around in this instance, tyres can have a particularly variable cost depending on where you look. Some companies will take advantage during an MoT to charge you an inflated price for tyres hoping that for the 'convenience factor' people will just pay up rather than do some research. It's not unique to the current times but disappointing to see.

Tags: wheels and tyres

Similar questions

My new BMW came with one different brand tyre - should the dealer make sure all four are the same?

I've just bought a 2014, 20,000 mile BMW 320i xDrive M Sport from a BMW main dealer. The salesman told us it had new tyres all round. After delivery we noticed that it had three Pirelli PZero tyres and...

Need a comfortable and refined car for £25,000

I'm looking for a new car with excellent comfort and quiet running. A petrol engine and manual gearbox is preferred. I am considering either the new Skoda Superb or BMW 3 Series for about 17 to 25k via...

Which wheel size is best for the BMW 3 Series?

I am buying a new BMW 320i SE and would welcome your advice on wheel size for a smooth ride.

Related models