A method of performing a plurality of friction stir spot welds with a friction stir spot welding (FSSW) system includes measuring a length of a pin of a weld tool of the FSSW system. The length is compared to a first limit to determine if the length is above or below the first limit. Debris is removed off of a tip of the pin when the length is determined to be above the first limit. The length is also compared to a second limit to determine if the length is above or below the second limit. At least one friction stir spot weld is performed on a workpiece when the length is determined to be less than the first limit and above the second limit.