Getting Work for Themselves
In some places, a leak can occur and result in a repair bill. More common, however, is a cut at the end of the belt or a tear in the axle boot.
Cutting the fan belt was the most popular summer scam at highway gas stations in the days of filling up the tank. While examining the oil, the guard cut off the end of his belt (he had put a ring on his finger for this purpose) and showed us how he escaped death. It was popular because belt replacement only took 30 minutes and fewer part numbers were required. However, modern V-ribbed belts are much more difficult to replace.
Meanwhile, cut and ripped axle boots on front-wheel drive vehicles continue to be a popular money-maker. Quick Boot CV Joint Covers are inexpensive, easy to install, and cover many vehicle models with few parts. It’s harder for a mechanic to cause a crack, but not if you check tire pressure. As with any old fan belt, it only takes 30 minutes to replace it and get the car back on the road.
Other services that are commonly sold but rarely needed include changing the cabin and air filters. Some stores reportedly keep old, dirty air filters just to convince customers that they came from the car’s engine compartment.