A Tesco customer is facing a staggering £1,500 repair bill after what should have been a routine car wash turned into a financial nightmare. The incident has sparked fresh concerns about the safety of automated car wash facilities at major supermarket chains.
The Damaging Wash
Mark Johnson, a regular Tesco shopper, decided to use the in-store car wash facility during a weekly grocery trip. What happened next left him shocked and facing substantial repair costs.
"I heard loud banging noises during the wash cycle," Johnson recounted. "When I drove out, I immediately noticed deep scratches across the bonnet and roof, along with damage to the wing mirrors."
The Repair Bill Shock
After taking his vehicle to an independent assessor, Johnson received the devastating news: the damage would cost approximately £1,500 to repair properly. The assessment confirmed the marks were consistent with mechanical contact from car wash equipment.
"I never expected a simple car wash could cause this level of damage," Johnson said. "The repair costs are more than I paid for the car itself."
Tesco's Response
When approached for comment, Tesco representatives stated they were investigating the matter thoroughly. A supermarket spokesperson said: "We take all customer complaints seriously and are looking into this specific case. Our car wash facilities undergo regular maintenance and safety checks."
Consumer Rights Expert Weighs In
Consumer protection specialists note that such incidents raise important questions about liability and customer compensation. Under UK consumer law, services must be carried out with reasonable care and skill, and businesses can be held responsible for damage caused by their equipment.
Not an Isolated Incident
This case appears to be part of a wider pattern of complaints about supermarket car wash facilities across the UK. Multiple customers have reported similar experiences, though the extent of damage varies significantly.
What to Do If It Happens to You
- Document the damage immediately with photographs
- Report the incident to store management before leaving the premises
- Obtain an independent repair assessment
- Keep all receipts and correspondence
- Contact consumer protection agencies if the business is unresponsive
As Johnson awaits Tesco's final response, his experience serves as a cautionary tale for drivers using automated car wash facilities. The case highlights the importance of understanding your consumer rights and the potential risks of what many consider a routine vehicle maintenance task.
