I purchased an air ratchet a couple of months ago. Last month, the ratchet stopped working. The tool guy said that it had to be sent out for repairs. I told him that I had the ratchet less than six weeks and that he needed to give me a new one. Who's right?
"It depends upon the tool company's policy. Before you purchase another gizmo, you need to know which company will give you an instant replacement versus those who 'send it out' for repair. And, don't forget to find out what the parameters are regarding warranty and customer satisfaction returns. You don't want to get stuck with something that you cannot use because it failed or it doesn't suit your needs as a tech."
The tool guy gave me a flyer the other week. On the back page, it had a big ad saying buy a tool box, get free tools. I need to get a larger box, so would this be a good deal?
"Sounds like a good deal, doesn't it? It wouldn't hurt to check out the competition to see how much this box is really reduced. Also, what 'free' tools do you get with the box? Is it something you can use or are they items you have multiples of? You need to take this all in consideration before picking out the box color and placing your order."
Have an automotive service-related question for Pam Oakes? Email it to Tire Business reporter William Schertz at [email protected].
ASE-certified technician Pam Oakes is the owner of Pam's Motor City Auto & Tire Center, an award-winning automotive service business in Fort Myers, Fla. She also is the author of the book series Car Care for the Clueless and hosts a weekly radio talk show by the same name on CBS Radio's The Sky and CoachMeRadio. And yes, she still "turns wrenches."