BYD offers remedies after Great Tang wheel-rim mix-up

BYD said a supplier coding error led to front and rear wheel rims being installed in reverse on some Great Tang SUVs, and it is offering affected owners free repairs and other remedies. The automaker said it traced the problem to a Hubei wheel-rim supplier after owners reported the mix-up. BYD did not disclose how many vehicles or production batches were affected.

The wider rims intended for the rear axle were fitted at the front, while the narrower front rims were placed at the rear. Some owners who reported the issue raised concerns about tire wear and driving safety. BYD said its own testing found no effect on handling and no safety risk, an assessment that was not independently verified in the reports.

BYD said it corrected the assembly coding and that its supplier added visual checks on the production line to help prevent the error from recurring. The company apologized for the mistake and said affected owners can take their vehicles to service centers for free inspections and rim replacement.

The remedies also include a loaner vehicle or compensation for transportation costs while repairs are made. BYD said it would restart the affected vehicles’ warranty periods. The...