I recently bought new front tyres (Dunlop SS Max) for my 09-plate Octiavia vRS (30K Miles).

The existing tyres were not excessively worn (5mm plus remaining), but due to the onset of winter and also increased levels of road noise, I decided to get them changed.

Feeling disappointed that the noise had not stopped, I assumed that it must be the wheel bearings. After taking the car into the main dealer, I was told that the rear tyres were suffering from saw tooth wear. I was told by the garage that a four wheel laser alignment was needed, and four new tyres. Having just spent £250 on two new rear tyres, I refused the offer, as they wanted £90 for the alignment (it never ceases to amaze me how a warranty evaporates at the first sign of trouble - the car has done neither 60K miles, nor is three years old, but my three year/60,000-mile warranty does not cover for wheel alignment).

My two main questions here:

1. Do I have an issue with Skoda, or with the tyre manufacturer?

2: Is it dangerous to be driving a car with saw tooth wear? The dealer told me that it is not, and I should turn up the stereo, a solution which to me is preferable to spending £600 on four new tyres and an alignment. Moreover, would it cause an MOT failure when due?