Earlier quoted context omitted.
Same experience mid December in the evening, with a ~$110 fare. I’m happy to wait if the alternative is taking a taxi though. I’ve gotten way too tired of the “machine isn’t working” schtick.
Out of curiosity, why don't people ask if the machine is working when they get in if that's such a common scam?
If you are skeptical these scams happen, there are many reported examples. Here’s a doozy:
https://www.sfchronicle.com/bayarea/article/sf-taxi-credit-c...