5 Handy Tools for DIY Auto Mechanics
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If you frequently perform light maintenance tasks on your vehicle, it’s important to have the right tools in your arsenal. Here are five products worth purchasing to facilitate your do-it-yourself mechanic sessions.
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Under-hood light kit
While having a well-illuminated garage is important for tooling on your car, so is task lighting. Invest in a light kit that attaches to the underside of your vehicle’s hood to boost visibility and reduce eyestrain when you’re servicing your ride. At the time of writing, this light kit is available from Amazon for under $17.
OBD2 scanner
OBD2 scannerIf you don’t already have one, an OBD2 scanner is another must-have tool for DIY car repair. Accurately and easily diagnose what’s wrong with your vehicle so you use your time in the garage efficiently. This universal Bluetooth scanner available from Amazon for under $100 is compatible with a variety of vehicle makes. And it syncs with Apple and Android smartphones as well as Windows PCs.
Circuit tester
A circuit tester is another helpful gadget worth purchasing for those times when your car’s headlights or fuse connections need some TLC. The tester’s bulb lights up if the circuit you’re testing detects power, and stays dark if there’s no power, to help you locate which circuit needs repair. At the time of writing, the circuit tester depicted above is available from Amazon for just under $22.
A portable oil drain tank
Oil changes are a common service task to perform on your own. A portable oil drain tank makes this task easier and a bit less messy. This 18-gallon capacity model available from Amazon currently costs under $100.
Automotive test kit
A well-rounded automotive test kit assists with brake bleeds, windshield fixes, fluid transfers, and more. It has an ergonomic and durable design to last you for many years of DIY car care. At the time of writing, this one is available from Amazon for just under $70.
Save yourself time and hassle by taking your car into a trusted dealership’s service department instead of going the DIY route. Here are some tips for safely servicing your car at a dealership during these uncertain times.
Whitney Russell resides in Dayton, though her spirit can be found beach-bumming in Puerto Rico (the land of her half-Puerto Rican heritage). When not crafting car-related content, she can be found chasing after the most amazing toddler in the world, watching her “beaver” of a husband build amazing woodworking projects, hanging out with two crazy dogs, and visiting family and friends. She also enjoys traveling, crafting, and binge-watching period dramas when time allows. See more articles by Whitney.