Auto parts and tools go hand in hand. So if you’re looking to grow your tool and equipment business, here are a few potential add-on sales opportunities to think about.

Let’s start with something simple: oil filters. For spin-on filters, your customer might need an oil-filter wrench to get the job done. For cartridge filters, they might need a special socket that won’t damage the plastic housing.

TPMS sensors are another popular item in parts stores. If your customer is looking for a TPMS sensor, you might want to recommend a TPMS kit that includes a torque wrench specially calibrated to apply TPMS valve-stem nuts and self-tapping screws on snap-in sensors.

Speaking of sensors, if your customer is replacing any kind of sensor or module, that might be the perfect opportunity to talk about diagnostic scan tools. Technicians have been using scan tools for years. But as vehicles continue to get more complex, it’s more important than ever to have the right scan tool on hand to get the job done right.

While it might seem counterintuitive, this isn’t about selling tools. It’s about partnering with your customers, understanding their needs, and having the tool knowledge to help them make an informed decision. In our next video, we’ll talk about how tool and equipment distributors can help you grow your business.