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Mobile moan

My sister and brother-in-law bought an M-reg VW T4 transporter about three months ago, in order to take a road trip around Western and Eastern Europe. It was originally a minibus, but the (private) seller had converted it in to a campervan. The conversion is of a very high standard, and it also passed its MOT. Having done over 2,000 miles, they returned home for a week, before setting off for three weeks around the UK. However, on the day they were due to set off, they noticed an unusual noise from the power steering. Having taken the van to a VW dealer, they've been told that the aftermarket wheels fitted to the van are too big. Every time they have turned the wheels it has damaged the power steering system. It will cost about £1,400 to repair, and there will be a wait of several days for the part to come from Germany. Other than the financial cost, it has also spoiled the last part of their trip. The only upside is that they noticed while in this country, as opposed to when they were out on the continent. What action can they take?

Asked on 5 September 2009 by

Answered by Honest John
None. The wheels are not illegal. They are simply a larger size, possibly with a different offset from the original so they have imposed a strain on the steering. Since the van is at least 15 years old your sister must expect to have to replace components like power steering racks.
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