Q: Is it worth investing in a scanner?
A: First of all, do you have a daily need for a scanner? Do you work at a shop where a scanner is shared among many techs or not updated on a regular basis? If so, you may want to consider purchasing a quality scanner.
But, before that sale, make sure the scanner is the right fit for your needs. Don't go off of a "sale" or deepest discounted item. Take the time and research this costly, long-term commitment. If you said "no" to these questions, why spend money on a tool that's expensive to maintain (updates) and isn't going to pay you back—for a very, very long time—in service hours used? Keep your money in your wallet.
Q: I just started at a shop. Would it be worth it to purchase a ratcheting wrench set?
A: It depends what you have in your box. First of all, do you have a ratcheting wrench set now? If not, I highly recommend having this in your arsenal. And, make sure it has a high "tooth" count. You want these as precise as possible for those hard to reach, restrictive area bolts. Ratcheting wrenches will definitely save you time, and saved time is money in your paycheck.
Have an automotive service-related question for Pam Oakes? Email it to Tire Business Senior Reporter William Schertz at [email protected].
Pam Oakes is a retired, 20-year owner of nationally awarded automotive shop Pam's Motor City Automotive and Tires, an ASE-certified technician, automotive author, automotive speaker, automotive patent holder and host of "Car Care for the Clueless” Daily Edition, a syndicated radio talk show airing on dozens of stations coast-to-coast. And, yes, she still "turns wrenches"—but just for fun, nowadays.