About this episode

Matt discusses the responsibility of purchasing auto repair tools between shop owners and employees.

Thanks to our Partners, Pico Technology, and Autel Watch Full Video Episode In this episode, Matt digs into a question that sits underneath a lot of shop economics, technician frustration, and industry culture: who should be responsible for buying the tools and equipment required to do the work a shop advertises? The discussion starts with a real-world example involving a dealership service department that did not have a connector depinning tool available, leaving a mechanical or technical specialist considering buying the tool personally. From there, Matt explores where the line should be drawn between personal hand tools and shop-owned equipment. Basic hand tools may be one thing. But scan tools, diagnostic equipment, specialty service tools, alignment systems, AC machines, tire equipment, connector service kits, and timing tools raise a different question entirely. If a shop sells those capabilities to customers, should the employee have to make the investment? Matt also looks at the long-term consequences of pushing too much cost onto specialists. If a specialist builds up enough personal tooling and equipment to perform a broad range of services, the industry may be quietly…

People in this episode

Host: Matt Fanslow

Topics covered

• auto repair tools
• shop economics
• technician frustration
• industry culture
• employee investment
• diagnostic tools

Sponsors

Pico Technology, Autel

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