Buying new tyres is one of the most effective ways to enhance your car’s performance and upgrade its overall aesthetics. However, failing to select the right tyres or falling victim to scams can make the tyre-buying process stressful, resulting in financial losses and unnecessary delays.
The UAE dynamic tyre market offers an endless range of high-quality branded tyres but some scammers also exist in this field who take advantage of your unawareness. So, understanding the common fraud and scams is necessary to avoid financial losses and ensure you are buying reliable rubber companions for your vehicle.
Here are some common tyre scams and tips on how to avoid them.
Selling Used Tyres as New
One of the most common scams involves selling used tyres in Abu Dhabi as brand new. These tyres may have been repainted or retreaded to appear new, but they pose significant safety risks.
How to Avoid:
Check the tyre’s DOT code, which includes the manufacturing date.
Inspect for signs of wear, such as uneven tread or visible patches.
Purchase from reputable dealers with verified reviews.
Overcharging for Basic Tyres
Some dishonest sellers inflate prices for standard tyres, claiming they are high-performance or special edition models.
How to Avoid:
- Compare prices from multiple sources, including online retailers and brick-and-mortar stores.
- Verify the tyre specifications against the manufacturer’s official listings.
- Request a detailed quote to ensure pricing transparency.
Fake Discounts and Promotions
Scammers may advertise huge discounts only to add hidden charges later or sell substandard products.
How to Avoid:
- Read the pricing quote and ask about any additional fees.
- Avoid falling for unrealistic or extra cheap offers.
- Purchase from authorized distributors to ensure quality.
Swapping New Tyres for Old Ones
Some repair shops may replace your new tyres with older or lower-quality ones while claiming to have installed the ones you purchased.
How to Avoid:
- Mark your tyres before installation to ensure you get what you paid for.
- Stay present during the installation process.
- Take pictures of your new tyres and check for serial number mismatches.
Selling Counterfeit Tyres
Counterfeit tyres often look identical to branded ones but are made of inferior materials that compromise safety.
How to Avoid:
- Purchase from reputable brands and official dealers or the best car tyres shop in Dubai or Abu Dhabi that have a positive track record.
- Check for holograms, barcodes, and branding inconsistencies.
- Review customer reviews for suspicious suppliers.
Charging for Non-Existent Services
Some sellers may charge for services that never exist such as balancing, alignment, or nitrogen inflation.
How to Avoid:
- Request a detailed quote or breakdown of the services provided.
- Ask to observe the services being performed.
- Keep an eye on your bill to ensure you’re not charged for unnecessary extras.
Bottom Line
Buying new tyres is an expensive investment and falling victim to common scams can cost you money and compromise your safety. By conducting proper research, staying aware of common scams, checking your tyres thoroughly, and buying from reputable sources, can protect you from falling victim to these fraudulent practices and make an informed decision.
