For car enthusiasts and DIY mechanics, tackling auto repairs at home can be both rewarding and cost-effective. However, there are times when a repair job calls for specialized tools that you might not have in your standard toolbox. Among these, diagnostic scan tools are increasingly essential for modern vehicles, but they can be a significant investment for occasional use. This leads to a common question among DIYers: Does Advanceauto Let You Borrow Scan Tools?
The good news is that major auto parts retailers like Advance Auto Parts and AutoZone understand this dilemma and offer programs designed to help. While policies can vary slightly between retailers and locations, the general concept is known as a Loan-A-Tool program. These programs are a game-changer for anyone who wants to perform car repairs without the expense of purchasing tools they’ll only use sporadically.
Think about it: you might need a serpentine belt tool to replace a worn belt, a torque wrench for precise tightening, or indeed, a scan tool to diagnose that perplexing check engine light. These tools are crucial for specific jobs, but buying them outright can be a hefty expense, especially considering they might sit unused for long periods afterwards. A professional-grade scan tool, for instance, can cost hundreds, even thousands, of dollars.
This is where the beauty of a Loan-A-Tool service shines. Instead of buying a tool outright, you essentially borrow it from the auto parts store. Here’s how it typically works:
- Deposit: You pay a deposit for the tool, which is usually the full retail price of the tool. This acts as collateral and ensures the tool is returned.
- Tool Usage: You take the tool home, complete your car repair, and use the tool as needed within a specified timeframe (often around 90 days, as mentioned by AutoZone’s program).
- Return and Refund: Once you’re finished with the repair, you return the tool to the store in good working condition and within the allowed timeframe. Upon successful return, you receive a full refund of your deposit.
- Purchase Option: In some cases, if you find yourself needing the tool more often than anticipated, or if you simply decide you want to add it to your permanent collection, you can choose to keep the tool and effectively purchase it using your initial deposit.
So, to directly answer the question, while specific tool availability can vary by location, Advance Auto Parts, like AutoZone, generally does offer a Loan-A-Tool program that often includes scan tools. It’s always best to check with your local Advance Auto Parts store or AutoZone to confirm the availability of scan tools and the specifics of their Loan-A-Tool program. You can usually do this by visiting their website or calling your local store directly.
By utilizing these loaner programs, DIYers can access the specialty tools, including scan tools, necessary for a wide range of car repairs without breaking the bank. This not only saves money but also empowers individuals to confidently tackle more complex automotive maintenance tasks in their own garages. Before your next DIY car project, remember to check out the Loan-A-Tool options at your local auto parts store – it could be the key to getting the job done right without unnecessary expense.
