A mechanic in Cranberry Township, Pennsylvania, faces serious legal repercussions after being arrested for illegally loaning out customer vehicles without their consent. Keith Smith, the owner of Oilology, was taken into custody following allegations that he provided customer cars as loaner vehicles to other clients. This revelation has left many local residents shocked and questioning the integrity of automotive service providers.
One victim of Smith’s scheme reported dropping off his 2011 Suzuki Kizashi at Oilology in June 2023. Upon receiving his car back, he discovered an addition of 5,000 miles on the odometer, which raised immediate concerns about the car’s value and condition. The victim, who remained anonymous, expressed disbelief that a friend would engage in such deceptive practices despite knowing Smith’s troubled past.
Local news outlet WXPI 11 News highlighted that this incident is not an isolated case. Smith is currently on probation for previous charges involving similar misconduct, affecting at least 11 other victims. These charges date back to March 2023, revealing a pattern of behavior that has now culminated in his arrest.
Following a probation violation hearing on December 5, 2023, Smith was granted release on bond but will be monitored and barred from conducting any business activities. The Oilology shop has since displayed a closed sign, and the landlord intends to sell the property. In response to inquiries about his actions, Smith claimed he was unaware that his behavior was wrong.
This case is part of a broader issue within the automotive repair industry, with other incidents surfacing globally. For example, a woman in Australia discovered dashcam footage of a mechanic using her Ford Focus RS for personal errands, including a trip to McDonald’s. Although this incident did not lead to criminal charges, it serves as a reminder of the potential risks associated with entrusting vehicles to mechanics.
To protect themselves, vehicle owners are encouraged to take proactive steps. Documenting the exact mileage before dropping off a vehicle can serve as evidence in case of discrepancies. Additionally, using tracking devices like Airtags can provide real-time location information, allowing owners to monitor their vehicle’s whereabouts. Many modern vehicles also come equipped with smartphone integration, enabling owners to track their cars and control certain functions remotely.
While these measures cannot completely eliminate the risk of unauthorized use, they can offer peace of mind to car owners. As the case against Smith unfolds, it underscores the importance of vigilance when selecting a mechanic and the necessity of safeguarding one’s property.
