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Can I reject a car over a damaged wheel?

I bought a Ford Mondeo from a local car dealer eight days ago for £10k. It is due to go back tomorrow to have an alloy wheel repaired. When I looked today I could not find the security nut and do not believe it has been supplied.

Also, during my search for the nut I noticed that the spare tyre supplied is a R16x215mm whereas the car is fitted with R18x235mm tyres. Presumably this would be illegal to use in an emergency.

I have spoken to the dealer who say I will have to pay for both the security nut and change of tyre/wheel. I do not think this is fair - am I entitled to return the car tomorrow and insist on a full refund?

Asked on 25 October 2016 by Craney

Answered by Honest John
The car is fitted with an emergency spare wheel and that is normal. But there should have been a lock nut somewhere and the dealer is definitely liable for that. If you damaged the alloy wheel the dealer is not responsible for repairing it and can refuse to take the car back unless you compensate him for the damage, probably by buying a new wheel.

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