How It Works — AI Home Repair Diagnosis | Toolbox

How it works

How Toolbox works.

Record a video, talk through the problem, and get a clear diagnosis in seconds — with a safety rating, a cost estimate, and the right next step.

Step 01

Film and narrate.

Record a short video of what's wrong and talk through it. Toolbox analyzes your video and narration together — the combination is what makes the diagnosis accurate.

Prefer not to film? You can use text to describe the problem instead.

Toolbox recording screen — 1:00 timer, audio Ready, Video Quality Good.
Diagnosis Results — Flickering ceiling light fixture, Moderate Risk amber rating, with What we found, Why it matters, What we recommend, plus DIY and Hire-a-Pro options.

Step 02

Get a diagnosis.

In seconds you get a plain-language diagnosis: what's likely wrong, how risky it is to fix, and a cost estimate — so you know whether to pick up a wrench or pick up the phone.

Safe to DIY Moderate risk Call a pro

Every diagnosis is rated green, amber, or red.

Step 03

DIY with AI on every step.

If it's safe, follow a step-by-step DIY guide. AI chat stays with you the whole way — tap "Ask about this step" for a deeper dive, and tap any highlighted term for a plain-language definition, sometimes with a picture.

DIY Guide — 'Replace washer at pipe joint', step 1 'Turn off the water supply' with highlighted Ask-about-this-step button and chat sheet open.
Find a Pro — Plumbing Pipe Repair in Encino, typical price $500–$1,500, list of vetted local plumbers with ratings and prices.

Step 04

Or get matched with a pro.

If it's not safe, Toolbox matches you with a vetted local pro from Thumbtack's network — based on your diagnosis, not just proximity. Your full diagnosis goes to them before the visit. No wasted trips, no misdiagnosis, no surprises on the bill.

Already know you need a pro? Hire one free — no subscription needed.

Second opinion, on demand

Doesn't seem right? Refine the diagnosis.

Ask the AI to take another look — a second opinion that adjusts in real time as you add detail. Photos, follow-up questions, that thing the previous guy said: it all goes back into the diagnosis.

What you can diagnose

From dripping taps to flickering lights.

Stop guessing.
Start fixing.

Your first diagnosis is free. No card.

Toolbox

First diagnosis free

Coming soon