1. Screwdrivers

These are the basic tools that can be found in every household. You may however need a complete set of quality screwdrivers, one that contains multiple sizes ranging from larger flatheads that also work as small prying tools; and in addition, very small and delicate heads that will be useful for electronic work.

2. Pliers

These come in variations, also called nippers and wire cutters and are versatile universal tools when it comes to car repair. Ideally, a long nose plier is a must have in your tool box along with a combination of wire cutters, adjustable pliers and combination pliers. Therefore, a recommended set of three to six pliers should be good to go.

3. Mechanic Socket set

If you are really serious about DIY servicing, this is one thing you must have. A basic tool set with hex-sockets, socket extensions, ratchets and accessories is a needed investment and comes handy when removing or tightening nuts and bolts that are unreachable. If you do not have one, a good quality socket set is a worthwhile purchase in the long run.

4. Wrenches

Just like ratchets, they too perform the task of tightening nuts and bolts, however it is essential to have both in varying sizes. An assortment of wrenches in your tool box helps you immensely in getting repair jobs done. Go for a set with a range from about 8mm-24mm (if metric), as well as an adjustable wrench to be safe!

5. Torque wrench

Wheel nuts must be set to the proper torque, neglecting this can result in damage to the bolts and difficulty when removing the nuts. Use a click type torque wrench by setting the desired torque using the handle and tighten the nut until you feel the click.

6. Power tools

You may ask, why have a power tool in your mechanic set when you have all the other tools present. But, consider this – they could be bigger tasks that cannot be accomplished with screwdrivers and wrenches but need more power, plus it can save a lot of time. For instance, an impact wrench is a socket wrench power tool which delivers high torque output with less effort. Apart from other heavy duty uses, it can particularly be useful in removing lug nuts.

7. Oil Filter Wrench

Oil filters clear out impurities like dirt and debris from engine oil.
Changing oil filters on a regular basis is an important part of car maintenance. Having an oil filter wrench will help you do the task efficiently as sometimes they get jammed and it becomes extremely difficult to open with bare hands. You have to be careful while choosing the right one for your car.

8. Oil and fluid drain collection

When you are draining oil or other fluids from your car, it is important to do it efficiently and safely. Oil drainage units with larger pan surfaces help keep work areas clean from spills. Having a standing oil caddy with wheels is most safe and effective, however can only be used when your car is raised on a hoist. When the car is on ground level, a flat fluid collection tank/pan is sufficient.

9. Jack with stands

Car jack stands are yet another important DIY tool that you need in your garage. They provide easy under carriage access which are handy not only for changing tires but also for oil changing, installing mufflers, and inspecting exhaust pipes as well as many other repair jobs. Ensure that you go for a high quality jack stand, one that keeps you safe from injuries and also make your repair jobs quick and easy.

10. Fluid extractor and pressure testing kit

Vacuum pumps are useful for testing leaks in some of your car fluid systems. A fluid extractor pump will help drain and replace the brake fluid. If you wish to bleed the brakes yourself, there are plenty of useful tutorials that can be found online which will assist you.

11. Battery Starter

Dead batteries and issues of charging batteries are commonly faced by car owners. Battery chargers help in diagnosing, recovering, charging and maintaining batteries in a wide range of applications. If you have not yet invested on a battery jumper, it is highly recommended to do so.

12. Tyre Gauge

Checking if your tyre has the right pressure is a basic precautionary measure that one must take. A tyre gauge comes in handy to tell you the optimum pressure your tyre needs. In spite of the presence of advanced technology in cars nowadays, tyre pressure gauges are still recommended by technicians as a ‘first aid safety toolkit’ for your car as they help immensely in up keeping your car’s fuel economy, preventing tire wear and increasing traction.

13. Torch

These are basic tools one must possess in your toolkit at all times. Garages can be dark and going deep under the bonnet is almost impossible without a flashlight, preferably with high brightness LED.

14. Hammers

They come in handy when performing tasks that may require force, such as removing drum brakes, ball joints and tie rods etc. It is advisable to keep hammers of different sizes. Investing in a good quality hammer set is always beneficial.

15. Creepers

Car creepers are low profile trolleys with a wheeled frame attached to a platform. When servicing your car without a hoist, this is a valuable alternative. You can lie on this to gain access to the undercarriage of your car for maintenance or inspection. It can also be converted into a seat if required. The rotating caster wheels ensure you can maneuver easily.

16. Safety glasses

Protective eye wear becomes necessary when you perform tasks like sawing, drilling, spraying paint or using a sealant. They help in protecting your eyes from particulates, water or chemicals.

17. Gloves

When working on your car interiors, sometimes you are left with grease and dirt that sticks to your hands and causes irritation. A good pair of mechanic gloves can be useful and provide protection from chemicals and other harmful substances. Go for a good quality synthetic pair of gloves rather than latex for long lasting and better protection.

Mix and match all the essential tools that you need and make an investment now. This can save you boatloads of money on car repair and help you deal with a troublesome situation with confidence. All of these items can be purchased from us, if something is not on our website, reach out to us and we can easily bring them in. Good luck!

P.S: Don’t forget a trolley if you want to keep all of your tools tidy!