Failing alternator belt
In the past we have had a vehicle in the workshop for something trivial like a blown tail-light bulb, only for it to break down a few days later due to a failed radiator. When this happens we always get the same sentence thrown at us: “But you only had it in a few days ago!” We do try and cast an eye over every vehicle in the workshop to fend off potential problems, but this is not always possible.
This 1997 Rover 200 had been bought in for a front side-light bulb to be replaced and while we were carrying out this task we noticed the signs of an impending failure. The alternator belt was barely hanging on, and with sections actually missing, it was definitely in need of changing.
When phoning the owner to inform her about the belt, we were on the receiving end of another common gripe: “You garages are always looking for more work.” She did agree to let us replace the belt, and when she collected the vehicle and was shown the old belt, acknowledged that it needed renewing.