Buying tyres online is a popular trend among car enthusiasts because of comfort and convenience. Reliable online stores offer an endless fleet of local and branded tyres at competent rates, allowing you to get your desired vehicles without going through the stress of traditional shopping and wasting your precious time.
Online shopping for car tyres is a cost-effective and time-efficient approach to getting premier quality tyres but it also carries the risk of scams or fraud. Therefore, before starting the tyre purchase online process, make sure to learn about the common scams involved and effective strategies to avoid them.
Here are seven common scams to watch out for when buying tyres online;
Fake Websites
Many scammers have fake websites that can mimic legitimate or trusted tyre retailers to fool beginners and drive more traffic. However, looking for the URL contact information and reviewing their previous client reviews can help you avoid this scam.
You can also check the date of website development because fake websites are usually recently created.
Counterfeit tyres
Another scam that is quite common and often people, especially those who are buying tyres for the very first time, are unable to detect counterfeit tyres. They look like branded tyres but are cheap replicas. Buying such tyres not only causes financial loss but also impacts the car’s performance.
By checking the particular brand name or sign, manufacturer’s logo, serial number, and packaging, you can check tyre authenticity and say no to such scams.
Low Ball Pricing
Most scammers are habitual to offer extremely cheap rates to trap customers. They often provide poor-quality products at the rate of branded rubber companions and also charge hidden costs. Therefore, make sure to check and compare prices across multiple sites to ensure you are buying quality tyres at fair rates.
Unrealistic Offers and Discounts
If a retailer is offering extra discounts and unrealistic offers, be cautious, it can be a scam. Before falling for such discounts or offers make sure to check the overall rating, case studies, and track record of the particular stores.
Hidden Costs
Hidden costs or unnecessary charges are also common online shopping scams that can cause you heavy financial loss. Always choose a retailer that provides you with a detailed and transparent pricing quote before making any deal.
Retreaded tyres
Some retailers also sell used or retreaded tyres as new. However, checking the tyre condition, tread depth and date code can help you to ensure it’s new.
No Written Warranty
It can lead to conflicts or disputes, financial scams, and poor-quality tyres. Therefore, make sure to get a written warranty card that has the signatures of both the customer and the retailer before payment.
In a Nutshell
Buying local or a branded like Continental tyre online may seem a simple process, but it demands thorough research and vigilance. Slight negligence, overlooking a single aspect, or rushing the process can lead to multiple troubles including poor quality tyres, financial scams, and legal consequences. However, being aware of common online tyre shopping scams and having the right strategies in place to tackle these challenges can help you buy tyres online without falling victim to any scam or fraud.
