Customer falsely blames mechanic for a pre-existing, unrelated engine timing failure after a water pump replacement.

Workarounds Described

• takes photo of old parts with phone to show customer
• verbally explains unrelated systems to customer

Implied Software Gaps

• Automated pre-repair diagnostic snapshot app with customer acknowledgment workflow

BlameProof Mechanic

A diagnostic documentation app that automatically records pre-repair baseline readings (timing codes, sensor data) via OBD2 and creates a timestamped, immutable report. It ties each repair to a digital signature from the customer acknowledging inspection findings, preventing he-said-she-said disputes.