Serious question, when did we all start needing a scan tool for every little thing?

I hit 15 years in the trade last month and it hit me how much things have changed. Back in 2009, I could diagnose a no-start on a Ford 5.4 with just a test light and a fuel pressure gauge. Now I feel like I need a $5,000 scan tool just to tell me why a check engine light is on. Is this really progress or just a way for tool truck guys to laugh all the way to the bank? I spent 3 hours yesterday chasing a crank no-start on a 2023 Silverado and it turned out to be a TCM software glitch. Has anyone else noticed the job turning into more computer work than actual wrench turning?

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elliot_miller221mo ago

Yeah realize nobody talks about how the parts stores are loving this too. They make bank selling you a $400 scanner for a job you couldve done with a screwdriver ten years ago.