National Tyres: Your Guide to Contact & Support

Navigating the world of automotive care and tyre replacement can sometimes bring up questions. Whether you're looking to purchase new tyres, understand your vehicle's specifications, or manage an existing order, National Tyres & Autocare offers a comprehensive support system to assist you. This guide delves into the various avenues available for you to connect with their customer service team and find the answers you need, ensuring a smooth and satisfactory experience.

Getting in Touch with National Tyres & Autocare

When you need assistance from National Tyres & Autocare, there are several convenient methods to reach them. The primary contact number for customer service is 0161 429 1066. This line is available for a wide range of queries, from placing an order to modifying existing ones or seeking general advice. For immediate, real-time support, the 'click to chat' button on their website provides a direct channel to a customer service representative. This is an excellent option for quick questions that don't require a lengthy phone call.

Navigating the National Tyres Website

The National Tyres & Autocare website is designed for ease of use, particularly when purchasing tyres. The process is straightforward:

• Enter Vehicle Details: You can begin by entering your vehicle's registration number or your tyre size. This allows the system to quickly identify compatible tyres for your car.
• Tyre Selection: Browse through the available tyre options, comparing brands and specifications to find the best fit for your needs and budget.
• Fitting Options: Choose your preferred fitting method – either at a local branch or via their mobile fitting service. Select a convenient date and time for the appointment.
• Payment: Complete your purchase using a credit/debit card or PayPal.

Once your order is placed, your tyres will be ready at your chosen fitting centre, with all costs, including VAT, new valves, wheel balancing, and old tyre disposal, already covered in the displayed price.

Understanding Tyre Sizes

If you're unsure about how to read your tyre size, the website features a dedicated section titled "Reading a tyre sidewall." This resource provides clear explanations and diagrams to help you identify the correct dimensions for your vehicle. If you encounter any difficulties or have further questions after consulting this section, don't hesitate to call customer service on 0161 429 1066 for assistance.

National's Tyre Rating System

National Tyres & Autocare employs a comprehensive rating system for its tyres, which is informed by extensive industry experience and valuable customer feedback. Following a purchase, customers are invited to provide feedback via email on various performance criteria. These criteria typically include:

• Wet and dry grip
• Tyre wear versus mileage
• Quality versus price
• Steering responsiveness
• Cornering stability
• Ride comfort and smoothness

This feedback loop ensures that the ratings provided on the website are a reliable indicator of a tyre's real-world performance.

Brand Availability

While National Tyres & Autocare strives to list the most popular tyre brands, their inventory is extensive. If a specific brand you are looking for is not listed on the website, you are encouraged to contact them on 0161 429 1066 to inquire about availability. They may be able to source it for you or offer suitable alternatives.

Vehicle Registration Lookup: Accuracy and Troubleshooting

The website utilises a registration number lookup feature, powered by data from HaynesPro, a company licenced by the DVLA. HaynesPro matches your vehicle registration data with tyre size information from the SMMT (Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders), which lists original equipment tyre sizes.

Common Issues and Solutions

Tyre Size Mismatch: Occasionally, the tyre size displayed via the registration lookup might not match the tyres currently fitted to your vehicle. This can happen if a previous owner or dealer has upgraded the wheels or tyres. It is always recommended to double-check the tyre size physically marked on your existing tyres before placing an order. The sidewall of your tyre displays this information in a format such as '205/55 R16 91V'.

Vehicle Not Found: If your car doesn't appear in the registration lookup, first verify that you have entered the registration number correctly, paying attention to characters like '0' versus 'O'. The system may not yet include light commercial vehicles or motorcycles. If you have a recently transferred 'cherished' number plate, there might be a delay in the DVLA updating their database. In such cases, entering your tyre size directly will provide a full list of compatible options.

Incorrect Vehicle Information: If the vehicle details displayed are substantially incorrect, the information originates from the DVLA. You should contact the DVLA directly through their website (www.dvla.gov.uk) to report inaccuracies. Alternatively, you can proceed by entering your tyre size manually.

Managing Your Order

Changing or Cancelling Orders

Mistakes can happen, and National Tyres & Autocare understands this. If you've accidentally ordered the wrong tyre size, contact customer services immediately on 0161 429 1066. While it's your responsibility to ensure the correct fitment, they will do their best to assist you.

Amending Fitting Times: To change your scheduled fitting date or time, simply call the customer service team on the same number, 0161 429 1066. They can help rearrange your appointment.

Urgent Fittings: If you need your tyres fitted sooner than the dates available online, contact customer services. They will explore options to bring your booking forward if possible.

Delivery and Fitting Details

Your purchased tyres are delivered directly to your chosen fitting location, ready for your scheduled appointment. The price you see is the price you pay, which is fully inclusive of:

• VAT
• A new valve
• Wheel balancing
• Disposal of your old tyres

This transparent pricing means there are no hidden costs upon arrival at the fitting centre.

Postcode Issues with Fitting Centres

If the website doesn't recognise your postcode when searching for a fitting centre, try entering only the first part of your postcode (e.g., 'SW1A' instead of 'SW1A 0AA'). This should allow you to proceed with your search. The postcode is primarily used for generating location maps and directions.

Cancellations, Refunds, and Amendments

Cancelling an Order

You can cancel your order if you inform National Tyres & Autocare before your chosen fitting date or within 14 days of delivery (extended to 30 days if the goods are faulty). A clear written statement of your decision (by post, fax, or email) is required. If the tyres have already been delivered, arrangements will be made for their return. Note that refunds may be adjusted to account for any reduction in the goods' value due to unnecessary handling.

Refund Processing Times

Refunds are processed back to the original payment method. For credit and debit card payments, it may take 7-14 days for the refund to appear in your account, depending on your bank's processing times. Contact your card issuer for specific details.

Payment and Security

Accepted Payment Methods

National Tyres & Autocare accepts most major debit and credit cards, including Visa, MasterCard, Maestro, and Visa Electron. PayPal is also a preferred payment option.

Payment Confirmation

If you haven't received an email confirmation after payment, check your spam or junk mail folder, as some email providers may filter these messages. If it's not there, contact customer services on 0161 429 1066, and they will resend the confirmation.

Online Security

The website employs robust security measures, utilising the latest encryption techniques provided by Thawte, part of VeriSign Inc. This ensures that your transaction details are protected, with VeriSign being a trusted provider for secure online transactions. National Tyres & Autocare does not retain your payment card information.

At the Fitting Branch

What to Bring

When attending your fitting appointment, bring a copy of your confirmation email or the order number. The branch will have your order details readily available. In rare cases, you might be asked for additional photo ID as a precaution against online fraud; you will be notified of this in your confirmation email.

Staff Training

All tyre technicians at National Tyres & Autocare are fully trained to City and Guilds standards, ensuring professional and high-quality service.

Additional Work

If you require additional services, such as wheel alignment (tracking), upon arrival at the branch, speak to the branch manager. They will provide a quotation for any extra work, and no additional services will be performed without your explicit consent.

Tyre Guarantees

All tyres supplied by National Tyres & Autocare are guaranteed against manufacturing defects for their legal lifetime (down to 1.6mm tread depth), irrespective of mileage. Furthermore, they guarantee the fitting service provided by their network of centres. For added peace of mind, an optional accidental damage lifetime guarantee is also available, covering punctures and impact damage.

Frequently Asked Questions Recap

Here’s a quick summary of common queries:

By utilising these resources and contact methods, customers can ensure a smooth and informed experience when dealing with National Tyres & Autocare for all their tyre and vehicle maintenance needs.