The Truth Every Motorist Should Know About National Tyres and Autocare – a Halfords company
By Keto Mbiri
If your car needs new tyres without blowing your budget, or you’re staring at a dodgy MOT result and wondering who won’t rip you off, then you’ve likely bumped into National Tyres & Autocare in your search. They’re one of the UK’s big fast-fit names — thousands of tyres fitted every week in hundreds of centres across the country.
But here’s the honest scoop no one tells you in the ads: the experience you get can vary hugely depending on where you go and what service you book. On one hand you’ll hear glowing praise for friendly staff and quick fit-ins; on the other, tales of late appointments and upsold extras that leave wallets stinging.
🚗 Shopper Feedback — What UK Drivers Are Actually Saying
⭐⭐⭐⭐ Solid Service with Price Perks
Some centres (like many reviewers in Northampton) get praise for clear pricing and good tyre deals.
⭐⭐⭐ Mixed Experiences Around the UK
Across UK reviews, experiences vary — some drivers say staff are friendly and professional, others mention slow fittings, scheduling issues or pricing that feels high for complicated jobs.
⭐⭐ Caution on Upsells & Costs
A few conversations from UK forums reveal tales of unexpected extras or unnecessary add-ons being suggested during servicing — something to watch for and question on the spot.
⭐ Customer Reviews — Real UK Voices
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“Booked online, fitted four tyres next day for a great price. Staff in Croydon were friendly, efficient and explained everything clearly.” — Tom, Croydon
⭐⭐⭐★
“Good tyre supply and MOT slot, but I had to wait longer than expected and the quotes weren’t fully clear until I was there. Helpful but a bit frustrating.” — Leanne, Orpington
⭐⭐☆☆
“Charged lots for extras I didn’t agree to and felt pressured into add-ons. Won’t be booking again.” — Jamie, Hendon
🧠 My Take — UK Driver & Auto Expert Perspective
Here’s the honest summary:
🚗 Best for: tyre purchases where you can book clear fitting slots online and get a straightforward installation.
🛠️ Good at: basic MOTs, tyre balancing, and garage services — often cheaper than dealership prices.
❗ Watch out for: upselling on extras during servicing and inconsistent experiences between different branches. Question everything and get written quotes.
If you want inexpensive tyres fitted quickly and without fuss — and you pick the right centre — National Tyres can be a solid option. Just go in prepared, ask for itemised pricing, and compare a few branches if you have a choice. That’s how you save the most. 👍
So before you book a tyre fitting or an MOT with National, read this guide — I’m covering all the real Qs and As shoppers are actually typing into Google.
