Ask Honest John

Honest John Ask Honest John » Can I reject a car over a damaged wheel?
What is life like with your car? Let us know and win £500 in John Lewis vouchers | No thanks

Can I reject a car over a damaged wheel?

I bought a Ford Mondeo from a local car dealer eight days ago for £10k. It is due to go back tomorrow to have an alloy wheel repaired. When I looked today I could not find the security nut and do not believe it has been supplied.

Also, during my search for the nut I noticed that the spare tyre supplied is a R16x215mm whereas the car is fitted with R18x235mm tyres. Presumably this would be illegal to use in an emergency.

I have spoken to the dealer who say I will have to pay for both the security nut and change of tyre/wheel. I do not think this is fair - am I entitled to return the car tomorrow and insist on a full refund?

Asked on 25 October 2016 by Craney

Answered by Honest John
The car is fitted with an emergency spare wheel and that is normal. But there should have been a lock nut somewhere and the dealer is definitely liable for that. If you damaged the alloy wheel the dealer is not responsible for repairing it and can refuse to take the car back unless you compensate him for the damage, probably by buying a new wheel.

From choosing the right tyre to what to do when it goes wrong - we have the answers.

Tyre News And Advice
Similar questions
When we bought my wife's Honda Jazz it came with a tyre repair kit but we could buy a spare, and this came in handy when she hit a kerbstone and ruptured a tyre. I'm about to get a Lexus UX. I could...
Does the latest VW Up get a spare wheel as standard?
I have just bought a new Volvo V40 which has not been supplied with a spare wheel, do you recommend sealant for a repair or buying a spare?
Related models
Very good to drive. Refined and comfortable to travel in. Massively roomy cabin and huge boot. Reasonable value. Efficient ECOnetic and EcoBoost models.