When you think of scammers, typically, email or phone con artists probably come to mind, not a tire shop mechanic. Yet, when one particular driver in California took his car in to get a leak patched, it was too late before he realized he was being swindled. What happened was that one employee left the repaired tire against a wall, then another worker allegedly “thought it was to be discarded and threw it away.” The customer then asked if he would receive a free replacement, seeing how it was the tire shop’s fault. But to his surprise, the worker refused and instead offered to sell him a new one at a “discount” for $85.
“Accidentally” tossing out a customer’s item, only to try to make them pay for the mistake afterwards, is nothing but scummy. “I could just pay it but this whole situation seems like they are trying to rip me off,” the California customer remarked on r/legaladvice. At this point, it’s not just about the money involved: it’s about the tire shop’s blatant disrespect to the car owner.
“They disposed of your property,” stated a Reddit commenter. “They need to replace your tire with a comparable replacement.” The user suggested that if the shop refuses, then perhaps the customer could “go up the ladder” if the business is part of a franchise chain. Another individual claiming to be a former tire shop worker confidently said that “they are definitely trying to rip you off.” They continue, explaining how these businesses don’t simply “throw away” tires, but keep a large stack of them in a storage area. The ones that are to be disposed of are then scheduled to be taken away by a truck.
Naturally, the best course of action would be to take things to the police or the California Bureau of Automotive Repair. But in the end, one person noted that it’s crucial he doesn’t threaten them; “just tell them that is what you’re going to do next,” the user suggests.
