beware hidden charges (National Tyres and Autocare)

Member Name: colakops

Product:	National Tyres and Autocare
Date:	29/09/08 (221 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: quick

Disadvantages: overcharged for something I wasn't even told about.

I visited National Tyres today in Hamilton, Scotland as I had discovered a slow puncture whilst out shopping with my toddler son. Having been told that my tyre was not repairable (a nail in the wall of the tyre) I asked for a mid price tyre. I was offered a Barum brand which was fine and the job was done reasonably quick. I have never used National tyres before, I only used them as they were the closest place when I discovered my puncture. I paid for the tyre and the mechanic folded up the receipt and handed it to me. Having a young toddler with me I was happy just to get home with a safe new tyre on.
On getting home I opened up my receipt to discover I had been charged and extra fiver for the national Tyre guarantee - this was never mentioned when I asked for a new tyre! I was also never told they take tesco Clubcards and add points.
Why does every tyre company rip you off in some way. I was never told about this extra guarantee you pay for to give the tyre a lifetime guarantee but they just charged me anyway hoping me being a woman wouldn't check. Their head office has told me they should have asked before charging it and assured me I am being refunded. If I don't get a letter by the end of the week I am going into the branch and contacting trading standards.
Only plus point is the quick service I got.

Summary: Beware of charges for a lifetime guarantee for tyres that magically appears on your bill