Pam Oakes answers automotive service questions

Do you think that the tool truck will be giving out discounts because it's the end of the year? This is my first full year as a tech, and the guys in the shop were telling me to wait until the last week to get the best deals of the year. “That could be true with some tool distributors. Why guess? Why wait? Ask your tool rep if the deals get better at year's end. It can't hurt to ask if deeper discounts are coming your way in Santa's sleigh.” We just got a new tool guy. The old rep had fliers and passed them out each week. The new one hasn't so far, and this is his fifth week stopping at the shop. I would like to see what's on sale and what's new. Makes me not want to bother going on his truck. “Each tool rep has their own way of doing things. Possibly, this rep has the fliers on the tool truck. Or, if he or she doesn't, ask if they're available. I've never seen a tool rep without something to promote the company's product. But, you need to ask to get answers. Don't be shy and maybe miss out on a great product or sale.” Have an automotive service-related question for Pam Oakes? Email it to Tire Business reporter William Schertz at [email protected]. This “Ask Pam Oakes” first appeared in Service Zone, Tire Business' auto service e-newsletter. 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.”