Can the 4S store be held responsible if a new car's tire gets punctured?
3 Answers
Car tire punctures are not a quality issue with the tire, so the car 4S store will not replace it for free. Tire Introduction: Tires are rubber products, so even if unused, they will naturally age. Before using stock tires, it is necessary to check for cracks and rubber aging. Tire Preservation: If stored in a suitable environment with constant temperature and away from light, the aging process of rubber will slow down significantly. Using them after several years is not a problem. If stored in a place with direct sunlight and large temperature variations, causing rubber aging and cracking, even unused tires are unsuitable for use as the rubber loses its elasticity and cannot provide the necessary grip.
I just got my new car not long ago, and within half a month of driving, a tire got punctured by a nail. I was quite anxious and rushed to the 4S store to ask if they could fix it for free. The staff patiently explained that the new car warranty generally only covers manufacturing defects, such as faulty parts, but a tire puncture is purely accidental and not their responsibility. Although a bit disappointed, I followed their advice and went to a nearby tire repair shop, spending a few dozen bucks to get it fixed. Since then, I’ve developed a good habit: glancing at the tires before each drive and avoiding potholes and debris on the road. Also, tire pressure tends to be unstable in the first few months of a new car, so I got a simple tire pressure monitor to check it in real time and ensure safety. Don’t expect the 4S store to cover these small issues—paying a little more attention yourself can save a lot of hassle.
Just a month after getting my new car, I found a huge nail stuck in the tire! I rushed to the 4S store immediately, demanding they take responsibility. However, they directly showed me the contract terms, which clearly stated that the warranty excludes external damages, tire aging, or accidental punctures—all of which are the owner's responsibility. That's when I realized I had gotten worked up for nothing. I quickly went to a roadside tire repair shop, where the mechanic did a great job at a fair price, fixing it for less than 100 yuan. My advice to new car owners: in similar situations, don’t waste time arguing—check your insurance first. Some comprehensive policies cover non-accidental tire damage. Also, pay more attention to road conditions while driving, avoiding construction zones and areas where nails are commonly found to prevent such issues in the first place.