Uganda, April 18 -- Even if a car hardly has any issues, there is still regular maintenance such as changing the oil, rotating the tyres and replacing parts. While those who are car savvy can perform some maintenance on their own, chances are, they will have to go to a mechanic for more complicated issues. And while not all mechanics are dishonest, it is a profession that makes it easy to swindle customers.

In February 2023, Rebecca Nayebare's car started making unusual sounds and vibrations in the steering wheel. When she visited a certain garage in Naalya, a Kampala suburb, the mechanic suggested a complete diagnosis to identify the root cause of the problem.

"He removed four parts he said were faulty, including the steering rack and ...