Added on February 4, 2019  The News Wheel

Essential Automotive Tools to Start Working on Your Own Car

Do you want to get to know your vehicle better? If you want to become your own auto mechanic, you’ll need the right tools. This list suggests a few handy tools to perform some of the most common tasks.

It’s not necessary to buy the best or the fanciest tools. All you need are basic ones to keep your vehicle running at peak performance. These tools fix the most common problems that car owners run into. Some of these tools are cheaper than others, so have a budget in mind.

Oil filter wrench

Contrary to popular belief, it’s not necessary to change your oil filter every 3,000 miles. An oil filter wrench makes it easier to remove a jammed oil filter. It grips around the canister of the oil filter, allowing it to slide off. Check your owner’s manual to determine the duration and necessary equipment for oil filter removal.

You should get an oil filter wrench in various sizes. Oil filter wrenches work better than plier wrenches or strap wrenches, but you should have wrenches for both big and small oil filters. While a medium-sized oil filter wrench is a good place to start, the sizing depends on the vehicle you own.

Ratchet and sockets

You’ll need three types of ratchets that are 1/4 inches, 3/8 inches, and 1/2 inches in size and come with sockets. Get one that comes in a complete set since you’ll use it more than the other tools on this list.

Ratchets and sockets are available at most auto shops. A cordless electric ratchet is a good start, since it offers all the utilities at the convenience of mobility. You’ll only need one in your life, so invest in a few if you can.

If you can only buy one, get the 3/8-inch ratchet with matching sockets. Don’t purchase a standard size socket kit since it won’t fit most vehicles.

Wrench set

A wrench set will fix some of the most common vehicle problems. If you’re short on money, only buy a set of ratchet wrenches.

Keep in mind that ratchet wrenches don’t work the same as normal ratchets. The heads on these wrenches are wider and won’t fit on every type of vehicle, so it’s best to purchase the normal set instead.

Impact gun

An impact gun makes it easier to remove bolts, lug nuts, and other automotive components. It’s one of the best tools you’ll ever use in your life since it’s used for a wide variety of jobs. The best impact gun is one that’s cordless and uses a lithium-ion battery for added more torque power. Most impact guns come with settings that sync to an app on your smartphone or tablet.

Screwdrivers

The right screwdriver can help remove a clamp or a clip with screwdrivers on it. A complete set of screwdrivers isn’t necessary since you’ll mostly use Phillips and slot-headed screwdrivers. But sometimes it’s often cheaper and better to buy the complete set. They often come with a flat-head screwdriver, which is a great tool when used on its own and for a wide variety of jobs.

This is a collaborative article.