Suzuki V-Strom (VStrom) Owners Club DL250, DL650, DL1000 & DL1050

Oily Rag - Dedicated to Pat, Greywolf. 26/06/45 - 04/06/18 => Tyres => Topic started by: zenon on October 14, 2010, 15:25:24

Title: tyre installed backwards and no replacements, options?
Post by: zenon on October 14, 2010, 15:25:24
In May I replaced both tyres on my 2007 650 at one of the London Suzuki garages. No problems until August when I noticed the front tyre was showing some odd lumps on it. I noticed then that the arrow was pointing the wrong direction and the tyre was indeed on backwards which was causing the irregular wearing. By this point I had put about 3000 miles on it since it was replaced.

The garage aknowledged the mistake but does not have the tyre in stock (Michelin) to make the replacement and claims they can't get one because its on backorder, even know after two months. They seem sympathetic but I really do not get the impression they are doing all they can to find a tyre. For example, I suggested calling around other garages to see if they could find one but htey refused.
I have been riding it around the city a bit since but don't want to use it to heavily with the tyre in the shape its in.

What are my options here? Is it reasonable to simply ask for a refund and go somewhere else? Any way to take it up with the manufacturer, Michelin?

I'm new to the UK so not sure what level service to expect. Appreciate any advice.

Zen
Title: Re: tyre installed backwards and no replacements, options?
Post by: Fatbelly on October 14, 2010, 16:25:02
What they have done is dangerous and they should fix it immediately. Contact your local trading standards officer and tell them about it, they will help you. You can find them by calling your local council or through this website:

http://www.tradingstandards.gov.uk/advice/consumer-advice.cfm
Title: Re: tyre installed backwards and no replacements, options?
Post by: 2112 on October 14, 2010, 17:32:45
Sound advice  :thumb:
Title: Re: tyre installed backwards and no replacements, options?
Post by: Treadtrader on October 14, 2010, 18:32:10
It's no fault of Michelins, I think they would be reluctant to get involved.
The tyre was incorrectly fitted by the dealer. My advice would be to source a new tyre of the correct type and tell them to pay for it. Plenty of internet dealers or ads in MCN.
Title: Re: tyre installed backwards and no replacements, options?
Post by: Sven on October 14, 2010, 20:09:31
Quote from: "Fatbelly"
What they have done is dangerous and they should fix it immediately. Contact your local trading standards officer and tell them about it, they will help you. You can find them by calling your local council or through this website:

http://www.tradingstandards.gov.uk/advice/consumer-advice.cfm

+1. Fully agree.
Title: Re: tyre installed backwards and no replacements, options?
Post by: zenon on October 15, 2010, 13:01:40
Thanks for the advice. Will let everyone know how it turns out.


Zen
Title: Re: tyre installed backwards and no replacements, options?
Post by: Juvecu on October 15, 2010, 20:36:11
If they are part of a franchise/chain you could always try to contact the head office directly.
Title: Re: tyre installed backwards and no replacements, options?
Post by: firestrom on October 16, 2010, 20:26:24
Dangerous enough to have covered three thousand miles before noticing it? A bit of an over reaction in my opinion. I agree they should replace it and quickly, which michelin is it? Ring round a few tyre places to see if they have one in stock? They could be just saying that to fob you off. I would insist they replace BOTH tyres if they can't find a front or you'll be seeking advice from trading standards.
Title: Re: tyre installed backwards and no replacements, options?
Post by: Fatbelly on October 16, 2010, 21:58:02
Michelin would say dangerous - that's what matters.
Title: Re: tyre installed backwards and no replacements, options?
Post by: Gassoon on October 18, 2010, 12:17:33
Zenon - at least you have now noticed the issue, and a bloody serious one it sounds, what with the waythe  tyre's developing...takea few photos and tell the people who fitted it you hold them responsible for any insurance implications...
Title: Re: tyre installed backwards and no replacements, options?
Post by: zenon on October 27, 2010, 16:24:17
Finally got it replaced yesterday. I have made a complaint to Suzuki and will follow up with trading standards.
The garage was Chelsea Scooters on Wandsworth road. Needless to say, I wouldn't recommend them.

Zenon