What Car? Q&A - Where can I get a tyre for my C-Max?

Q: I bought a new Ford Focus C-Max in May 2007. In September I damaged a tyre by hitting a pothole.

My Ford dealer in Essex told me the tyre size wasn't available. A number of tyre suppliers have given me the same answer.

The tyre is a Continental Sport Contact 2 (205/50 R17 93 W). Why is Ford selling cars fitted with tyres that aren't replaceable?
D. Woods

A: We're not sure why you've had trouble getting hold of a replacement tyre for your C-Max.

We called several Ford dealerships, and were told the Sport Contact 2 isn't kept in stock but, if ordered, should only take a couple of days to get in. The best price we were quoted was £187.19 (including fitting and balancing).

Buy online, though, and you could pick one up for a lot less. Blackcircles.com is selling the same tyre for £129.13 - also including fitting and balancing.

You simply choose a local tyre fitter on the website, and take your car along when the tyre arrives.