What's causing the awful handling on my Vauxhall Vivaro?

I have recently bought a 2008 Vauxhall Vivaro but the handling is awful. It drifts from left to right and feels like driving on snow. It has new alloys but these are commercial and for the Vivaro. I had the underside checked out and there are no mechanical issues. The only thing is the front axle has two different speed rating T & R. All four tyres are different brands and tread The alignment is off but only very slightly according to the mechanic and not enough to cause such severe drifting.

Asked on 18 April 2017 by Karie

Answered by Dan Powell
This reads like a tyre problem. It could be a serious alignment issue or it could be that the van simply has the wrong wheels and tyres fitted. It isn't uncommon for some people to get confused and fit car alloys and tyres to a van, which results in problems when it comes to handling and tyre wear. First things first, take it back to the dealer. Ask them to fix the problem or refund your money. Remember, the dealer is liable for any faults that develop within the first six months from the date of sale, so don't let them fob you off with any excuses. Personally, I’d ask them to replace the tyres to ensure they all have matching load and speed ratings. For your consumer rights, see: www.honestjohn.co.uk/faq/consumer-rights/
Similar questions
My Toyota Auris has tyres that are 205/55/16. An option on the car is 195/65/15. I'm after a softer, quieter ride and I wondered if 'downgrading' to the 65 section tyres would be noticeable?
We live on a rural road which does not have a good surface, there are some small potholes. We are both over sixty and would like a medium-sized SUV or similar. At present we have a Hyundai Kona in the...
I'm baffled by the different wheel sizes on offer for the same model of car. Often the higher spec models have bigger wheels. Are there any advantages to these bigger tyres, which seem to be considerably...
Related models
Vauxhall version of the Renault Trafic, reliable and well built, comfortable ride and a good all-rounder.
 

Value my van

Save £75 on Warranty using code HJ75

with MotorEasy

Get a warranty quote

Save 12% on GAP Insurance

Use HJ21 to save on an ALA policy

See offer