Complete Mechanic Tool List: 59 Essential Tools for Automotive Professionals
Creating a mechanic tool list, especially when equipping a car shop, can feel overwhelming. Knowing where to start and what to prioritize is crucial before investing in new tools.
With over two decades immersed in the automotive industry, carscannertool.store is dedicated to providing an extensive range of high-quality power tools and equipment tailored for every workshop scenario. Our mission is to fulfill your equipment needs efficiently and safely. We understand the daily challenges of vehicle and auto part repairs. That’s why we’ve compiled this comprehensive list of essential tools and information, empowering you to make informed decisions when selecting the perfect equipment for your car shop or mechanic’s arsenal.
Alt text: Experienced mechanic in a car shop holding a wrench, highlighting essential car shop tools for automotive repair and maintenance.
Exploring the Path to Becoming a Mechanic in 4 Steps
Before diving into the Car Shop Tools List, understanding the journey to becoming a mechanic is beneficial. Here are the essential steps:
Step 1. Research and High School Education
Begin your journey to becoming a mechanic by obtaining a GED and conducting thorough research. Familiarize yourself with the demands of the profession and commit to staying updated on the latest automotive technologies. If you own a vehicle, use it as a practical learning tool to hone your skills. Reach out to local repair shops to inquire about potential job opportunities or internships. This will provide valuable firsthand experience in a car shop environment and allow you to learn from seasoned mechanics.
Step 2. Mechanical Training Programs and Entry-level Certifications
Select a mechanic training program that aligns with your career goals. Consider various options such as:
- Trade and vocational schools
- Community colleges
- Military programs
- Specialized car mechanic schools
Pursue entry-level certifications as you progress through your chosen program. The National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) offers certifications across various specialties, including:
- Engine Repair
- Electrical systems
- Brakes
- Steering
- Suspension
These exams can be taken during or after your training program, with no time restrictions. The ASE also provides practice tests and resources to aid in your preparation for car mechanic certifications.
Step 3. Complete an Apprenticeship and Become a Mechanic
Advance your mechanic career by gaining practical experience through employment in the field. Participating in an apprenticeship or internship program offers invaluable hands-on training and skill enhancement. Contact major car dealerships or local repair shops about entry-level positions or apprenticeships to kickstart your practical experience in a real car shop setting.
Step 4. Becoming a Certified Professional Mechanic
To gain recognition as a Certified Professional Mechanic, study for and pass the ASE certification exam. This certification validates your experience and knowledge in the automotive repair field. Typically, one to two years of work experience are required before you are eligible to take the ASE certification exam, solidifying your status as a qualified mechanic ready for any car shop environment.
How Much Do Mechanics’ Tools Cost?
Cost is a significant factor when assembling a car shop tools list or acquiring tools for mechanic school or an apprenticeship. Expenses vary based on the specific car shop or program requirements. While pinpointing an exact figure for mechanic tool costs is challenging, we can provide a general estimate to guide your budget planning.
Alt text: Close-up of a mechanic’s hand holding a wrench in a car shop, illustrating the essential hand tools needed for automotive work and highlighting the cost of car shop tools.
Budgeting for tools is an ongoing aspect of a technician’s career. A typical mechanic’s tool inventory ranges from $7,500 to $11,000, with specialists potentially investing around $27,000, according to LendingTree. Mechanics continually expand their tool collections to adapt to new technologies and improve their efficiency in the car shop.
Hand Tools
Hand tools are the foundation of any car shop tools list. They offer the precision, adaptability, and control necessary for mechanics to perform intricate tasks, diagnose issues, and maintain equipment effectively. From pliers to screwdrivers and wrenches, these tools provide tactile feedback essential for fine adjustments and precise work in automotive repair. Hand tools are crucial for mechanics to work efficiently in tight spaces and handle components with dexterity, forming the core of expert craftsmanship in a car shop.
Know What You Need?
Table of content
Screwdrivers
Assorted Pliers
Wrenches
Sockets
Allen Wrenches
Hammers
Pry Bars
Files and Rasps
Screwdrivers
Screwdrivers are indispensable instruments for mechanics in any car shop tools list, valued for their versatility and precision. They are essential for tightening and loosening screws, fasteners, and various components. The availability of diverse types and sizes allows mechanics to handle a wide array of screw heads. Screwdrivers are vital for detailed repairs and adjustments, ensuring secure fastening in numerous automotive applications.
Screwdriver Kit
A comprehensive screwdriver kit, such as the Milwaukee 48-22-2710 10 Piece Screwdriver Kit, is a highly advantageous addition to any car shop tools list. It eliminates the need to purchase numerous individual screwdrivers. Bit types are clearly marked on each tool’s cap for quick identification and efficient work on the job. This set includes a variety of sizes and types, such as Phillips, slotted, and square drive screwdrivers, covering a wide range of applications in a car shop.
Our Expert Pick: Milwaukee 48-22-2710 10 Piece Screwdriver Kit
Need another option? Consider GearWrench’s screwdriver set:
GearWrench 80066H 20 Pc. Phillips/Slotted/Torx Dual Material Screwdriver Set
Alt text: Milwaukee 10-piece screwdriver kit laid out, showcasing a vital component of a car shop tools list for screw driving and fastening tasks.
Precision Screwdriver Kit
Including both a regular screwdriver kit and a precision screwdriver set in your car shop tools list is essential for handling diverse repair needs. Precision screwdriver sets become invaluable when working with automotive equipment in tight spots where standard screwdrivers are too bulky. A precision set can save time and frustration in delicate automotive repairs.
Our Expert Pick: Milwaukee 48-22-2606 6 PC Precision Screwdriver Set
Alt text: Milwaukee 6-piece precision screwdriver set displayed, highlighting fine tools essential for detailed work in a car shop tools list.
Assorted Pliers
Pliers are essential tools for mechanics, offering adaptability and crucial gripping capabilities for any car shop tools list. They are used to hold, cut, and bend various materials and components in automotive repair. Mechanics rely on pliers for tasks ranging from removing stubborn fasteners to manipulating small parts in confined spaces. With a variety of types available, pliers provide the necessary control and leverage for efficient and productive work in a car shop environment.
Plier Kit
Investing in a pliers kit is a practical approach to building your car shop tools list. It saves the trouble of buying pliers individually, ensuring you have the right tool readily available for diverse applications. A comprehensive kit enhances productivity and adaptability, typically including Tongue & Groove, Linesman, Diagonal Cutting, Long Nose, and Slip Joint pliers.
According to Jarrett Wolf, product manager for GEARWRENCH, “Professional technicians we talked to said that the most important things they looked for in their pliers are grip and cutting ability. We know they’re cutting day in and day out, and we know that grip is critical to getting the job done. Those two goals are at the core of everything we put into our PitBull Pliers.”
Our Expert Pick: GearWrench 82204C 6 Pc. Pitbull Dual Material Mixed Plier Set
Alt text: GearWrench 6-piece Pitbull pliers set, a must-have in a car shop tools list for gripping, cutting, and bending tasks.
Duck Bill Jaw Pliers
Duckbill pliers are indispensable for mechanics and should be included in a comprehensive car shop tools list. They serve multiple critical purposes, such as straightening radiator fins with precision and without causing damage. They are also excellent for removing fuses and twisting locking wire, providing a secure and comfortable grip for delicate tasks in automotive repair.
Our Expert Pick: Proto J227G Duckbill Pliers W/Grip – 7-25/32″
Alt text: Proto duckbill pliers with grip, essential for delicate tasks and fuse removal in a car shop tools list.
Locking Pliers
Locking pliers, also known as vise grips or mole wrenches, are essential for a variety of uses and should be a part of every car shop tools list. Crescent C10CVN-08 curved jaw-locking pliers are highly favored by mechanics for their versatility. They feature curved, serrated jaws ideal for gripping round objects such as pipes, nuts, and bolt heads, making them indispensable in a car shop setting.
Our Expert Pick: Crescent C10CVN-08 10″ Curved Jaw Locking Pliers with Wire Cutter
Alt text: Crescent curved jaw locking pliers with wire cutter, a versatile tool for gripping and cutting in a car shop tools list.
Groovelock Pliers
Our Expert Pick, Vise-Grip 2078110 Groovelock pliers, are a superior addition to a car shop tools list, offering faster and more precise adjustments than traditional groove joint pliers. Their multi-groove ratcheting system provides enhanced grip with twice the groove positions. The anti-pinch, non-slip ProTouch Grips ensure comfort, control, and reduced hand fatigue, making them ideal for extended use in a car shop.
The NYT Wirecutter stated that “after putting in 20 hours of research, considering at least 50 different adjustable pliers, and testing nine,” they found “that the best pair for the home toolbox is Irwin’s GV10 10-inch GrooveLock Pliers with the V-jaw. This pair has a jaw capacity of more than 2 inches, an easy push-button jaw-size adjustment, and very comfortable handles.”
Our Expert Pick: Vise-Grip 2078110 10″ Quick Adjusting GrooveLock Pliers
Alt text: Vise-Grip GrooveLock pliers, quick adjusting and essential for versatile gripping in a car shop tools list.
Wire Stripper Pliers
Wire stripper pliers, such as the Milwaukee 48-22-3078 7-in-1 combination wire stripper pliers, are essential for mechanics tackling electrical projects in a car shop. From installing stereo head units and speakers to wiring new headlights, these pliers offer seven functions for seamless electrical installations. They are a must-have for any car shop tools list dealing with electrical repairs.
Our Expert Pick: Milwaukee 48-22-3078 7-in-1 Combination Wire Strippers Pliers
Alt text: Milwaukee 7-in-1 combination wire stripper pliers, indispensable for electrical work in a car shop tools list.
Wrenches
Wrenches are crucial tools for mechanics, providing the necessary grip and torque to tighten and loosen fasteners efficiently, making them vital for a car shop tools list. The wide variety of wrench types and sizes enables mechanics to handle a broad spectrum of applications. Wrenches are fundamental for any car shop toolkit, offering the leverage and adaptability required for competent automotive work.
Wrench Set
A high-quality wrench set is a cornerstone of any car shop tools list. Ratcheting wrenches, like our Expert Picks from GearWrench, are transformative tools for mechanics. The GearWrench 9702D set, with its small ratcheting mechanism in the boxed ends, simplifies tightening and loosening fasteners without constant repositioning. These wrenches offer a minimal 5-degree rotation, perfect for working in tight spaces within a car shop.
Our Expert Pick: GearWrench 9702D 13 Pc. 72-Tooth 12 Point Flex Head Ratcheting Combination SAE Wrench Set
Alt text: Gearwrench 13-piece combination ratcheting wrench set, a must-have for efficient fastening in a car shop tools list.
Adjustable Wrench
An adjustable wrench is a versatile tool that is essential in a car shop tools list, especially when the right-sized fixed wrench is unavailable. This 3-piece set from Crescent is made from tough alloy steel, capable of withstanding heavy use and providing versatility with both standard and metric measurements.
Popular Mechanics Magazine highlighted their experience with crescent wrenches over years of plumbing tasks and roadside vehicle repairs, concluding that “the Crescent AC26810CV 3 pc. adjustable cushion grip wrench set is the best” and “If you want to be prepared for a wide range of fastener sizes and working environments, this 3-piece set will have you covered.”
Our Expert Pick: Crescent AC26810CV 3 Pc. Adjustable Cushion Grip Wrench Set 6″, 8″ & 10″
Alt text: Crescent 3-piece adjustable cushion grip wrench set, offering versatility for various fastener sizes in a car shop tools list.
Torque Wrench
A digital torque wrench, such as the GearWrench 85196, is an innovative addition to a modern car shop tools list. It applies precise torque to fasteners like bolts and nuts, ensuring accurate tightening. The GearWrench torque wrench features a 3° ratcheting arc for tight spaces, multiple measurement scales, and digital tracking with alerts for precise torque and angle measurements. This tool is crucial for maintaining safety and quality in general mechanics, tire changes, and industrial maintenance and repair within a car shop.
Our Expert Pick: GearWrench 85196 1/2″ 120XP Flex Head Electronic Torque Wrench with Angle
Alt text: GearWrench digital torque wrench, essential for precise fastener tightening in a professional car shop tools list.
Pipe Wrench
While its relevance in automotive mechanics might be questioned by some, the pipe wrench proves invaluable for handling heavy-duty suspension components and stubborn, stripped, or rusted bolts, making it a worthy addition to a car shop tools list. Its robust design and strong grip make it an indispensable tool for overcoming challenging automotive repair and maintenance tasks in a car shop.
Our Expert Pick: Milwaukee 48-22-7112 12″ Steel Pipe Wrench
Alt text: Milwaukee 12-inch steel pipe wrench, a robust tool for heavy-duty tasks in a car shop tools list.
Oil Filter Wrench
No matter the mechanic’s skill level, encountering a stubborn oil filter is a common challenge, making oil filter wrenches essential for any car shop tools list. Oil filter wrenches are specifically designed for spin-on type oil filters and are remarkably easy to use, ensuring efficient oil changes in a car shop.
Our Expert Pick: Proto J3007 2-7/8-3-1/4 Oil Filter Wrench
Alt text: Proto oil filter wrench, specifically designed for easy oil filter removal in a car shop tools list.
Sockets
Socket sets are essential supporting tools for mechanics, offering mobility and convenience in fastening and loosening nuts and bolts, making them crucial for a car shop tools list. They provide a precise fit, access to tight spaces, and allow for quick interchangeability. Mechanics rely on socket sets for secure fastening and efficient work in various automotive repairs within a car shop.
Socket Set
A comprehensive socket set is indispensable for a mechanic’s line of work and a fundamental element of any car shop tools list. It enables quick tightening or loosening of different-sized fasteners such as bolts, nuts, and screws. Our Expert Pick, the GearWrench 84947N socket set, offers versatility and helps mechanics efficiently handle engine repairs, suspension adjustments, and routine maintenance in a car shop setting.
Chris Coll, product manager at GearWrench, stated, “Pros don’t have the luxury of only working with the most common sizes; they need to be able to fix whatever’s in front of them,” and “These sets are comprehensive with no gaps in sizes or styles because that’s what professionals need.”
Our Expert Pick: GearWrench 84947N 39 Pc. 1/2″ Drive 6 Point Standard & Deep Impact SAE Socket Set
Need a second option? Check out this Milwaukee socket set:
Second Option:
Milwaukee 49-66-7015 29PCSHOCKWAVE Impact Duty™ 1/2″ Drive Metric Deep 6 Point Socket Set
Alt text: GearWrench 39-piece SAE standard & deep impact socket set, a comprehensive set for various car shop tasks and part of a complete car shop tools list.
Allen Wrenches
Allen wrenches, also known as hex keys, are essential for precise and secure fastening of hex socket screws and bolts, making them a necessary inclusion in a car shop tools list. Their compact size and range of sizes make Allen wrenches versatile for accessing tight spaces. Mechanics rely on these tools for various applications, including assembly, disassembly, and adjustments in automotive repair.
Allen Wrench Set
Our expert Allen wrench set recommendation for a car shop tools list is the Eklind Tools Hex Keys. Made from high-quality alloy steel and heat-treated for durability, these tools are built to withstand rigorous use. With their extra-long shafts, mechanics can reach tight and hard-to-access areas, providing the necessary leverage to handle heavy-duty tasks with ease in a car shop.
Our Expert Pick: Eklind 60811 Ball End T-Handle Allen Wrench Set
Alt text: Eklind ball end T-handle Allen wrench set, durable and essential for hex screw fastening in a car shop tools list.
Hammers
Hammers are vital tools for mechanics, offering versatility and durability in their work and making them a key component of a car shop tools list. Different hammer types serve specific purposes: ball-pein, rubber mallet, dead blow, claw, and cross-pein hammers. Ball-pein hammers are ideal for metalworking, while rubber mallets provide non-damaging impact. Dead blow hammers offer controlled strikes, and claw hammers excel at nail removal. Cross-pein hammers are excellent for riveting and punch driving, making a variety of hammers essential for comprehensive car shop operations.
5 Piece Set
The GearWrench 82303D hammer set is a must-have for mechanics and a valuable addition to a car shop tools list, offering a range of five hammers and mallets. Designed with exceptional strength and versatility, these hammers are ideal for various tasks in a car shop. The set includes a 16-ounce ball pein hammer, a 3-pound drilling hammer, a 12-ounce soft-faced hammer, a 16-ounce dead blow hammer, and a 16-ounce rubber mallet. Each hammer is crafted with high-quality materials such as fiberglass, composite, and hickory, ensuring durability and precise results for any car shop task.
Our Expert Pick: GearWrench 82303D 5 Pc. Hammer and Mallet Set
If you don’t need a full set of hammers, check these out.
Alt text: GearWrench 5-piece hammer and mallet set, providing a range of options for different car shop tasks and part of a complete car shop tools list.
Ball Pein Hammer
The ball-pein hammer, also known as an engineer’s hammer, is a versatile tool essential for metalwork in a car shop tools list. Unlike a claw hammer, it features a flat striking surface on one face and a rounded one on the other. With a hardened steel ball peen head, it offers enhanced durability and is less prone to chipping, making it ideal for driving punches and cold chisels, setting rivets, and shaping metal in automotive repair.
Our Expert Pick: Vaughan FS432 Fiberglass Ball Pein Hammer, 32 oz
Alt text: Vaughan fiberglass ball pein hammer, ideal for metal shaping and rivet setting in a car shop tools list.
Rubber Mallet
Rubber mallets are excellent tools for mechanics and should be included in a car shop tools list because of their non-damaging impact. They are used for tasks such as assembling delicate components, aligning parts, and tapping objects into place without causing damage, crucial for precision work in a car shop.
Our Expert Pick: MarshallTown RM435 16435 – Rubber Mallet
Alt text: MarshallTown rubber mallet, essential for non-damaging impacts during assembly in a car shop tools list.
Dead Blow Hammer
The unique design of a dead blow hammer, featuring a hollow head filled with steel shot or sand, provides controlled and precise strikes without rebound, making it a valuable addition to a car shop tools list. Mechanics rely on dead blow hammers to align parts, remove stubborn fasteners, and work on delicate surfaces, ensuring precision and preventing damage in automotive repairs.
Our Expert Pick: Milwaukee 48-22-9151 48oz Dead Blow Hammer
Alt text: Milwaukee 48oz dead blow hammer, providing controlled strikes for delicate work in a car shop tools list.
Claw Hammer
Arguably the most commonly owned hammer type, claw hammers are versatile tools used for driving and removing nails, dismantling components, and general construction and auto repair work, making them an essential part of a car shop tools list. With their dual-purpose design, mechanics rely on claw hammers for various applications, making them a valuable and frequently used tool in any car shop.
Our Expert Pick: Milwaukee 48-22-9018 16oz Smooth Face Hybrid Claw Hammer
Alt text: Milwaukee smooth face hybrid claw hammer, a versatile and commonly used tool in a car shop tools list for general repair tasks.
Cross-Pein Hammer
Mechanics frequently use cross-pein hammers in metalworking tasks for precise and controlled impact, making them a specialized but useful addition to a car shop tools list. With a wedge-shaped head and diagonal pein, they effectively shape, bend, and rivet metal, essential for custom fabrication and repair work in a car shop.
Our Expert Pick: Proto J1441G 4 Lb. Cross Pein Hammer
Alt text: Proto cross pein hammer, specialized for metal shaping and riveting in a car shop tools list.
Pry Bars
Pry bars are indispensable tools for mechanics, providing strength and flexibility for various tasks and making them a crucial part of a car shop tools list. They assist in prying, lifting, and removing stubborn components with ease. Mechanics rely on pry bars to apply controlled force and leverage, enabling the separation of parts and access to tight spaces during automotive repairs within a car shop. With various sizes and shapes available, these sturdy tools are suitable for multiple applications and assembly tasks like panel removal, component separation, and alignment in a car shop environment.
Pry Bar Variety Set
Our expert pry bar recommendation for a car shop tools list is the Proto J2100 Pry Bar Set and Rolling Head Bars Set, which includes the J2120 18″ and J2124 24″ Aligning Bars, as well as the J2126 12″ and J2130 16″ Rolling Head Bars.
These pry bars offer exceptional strength and versatility, allowing mechanics to efficiently lift, pry, align, and position heavy objects and components in a car shop.
Our Expert Pick: Proto J2100 4 Piece Pry Bar Set And Rolling Head Bars Set
Alt text: Proto 4-piece pry bar set and rolling head bars set, versatile for lifting and aligning heavy components in a car shop tools list.
Breaker Bar
Breaker bars are essential for mechanics and a key addition to a car shop tools list, providing high torque to loosen tough fasteners. For example, our expert pick, the Proto J5469 ½” Drive 24” Breaker Bar, offers flexibility and leverage in tight spaces, particularly within the engine compartment, making it indispensable for stubborn bolts in a car shop environment.
Our Expert Pick: Proto J5469 1/2″ Drive 24″ Breaker Bar, Hinge Handle, Chrome
Alt text: Proto 1/2-inch drive 24-inch breaker bar, essential for high-torque applications in a car shop tools list.
Extension Bar
Extension bars are invaluable for mechanics and should be included in a car shop tools list, enabling access to confined or hard-to-reach areas easily. The Makita E-07375 Earth Auger Drill Bit 21″ Extension Bar is a prime example of this versatile tool. Mechanics can attach this extension bar to their drill bits, extending their reach and performing drilling tasks in deep or distant spaces within a vehicle.
Our Expert Pick: Makita E-07375 Earth Auger Drill Bit 21″ Extension Bar
Alt text: Makita earth auger drill bit 21-inch extension bar, extending reach for drilling tasks in a car shop tools list.
Chisels and Punches
Mechanics rely on the GearWrench 82306 27 PC Punch and Chisel Set for various tasks, making this set a valuable component of a car shop tools list. This versatile set helps drive out pins, remove stubborn fasteners, and shape or cut metal components in automotive repair.
Our Expert Pick: GearWrench 82306 27 Pc. Punch and Chisel Set
If you’re looking for a cost-effective alternative without compromising quality, consider checking out Stanley’s file set:
Stanley 16-299 Cold Chisel & Punch Set – 12Pc
Alt text: GearWrench 27-piece punch and chisel set, essential for pin driving and fastener removal in a car shop tools list.
Wire Cutters and Strippers
While electrical wiring may not be a mechanic’s primary focus, encountering electrical tasks is inevitable, such as installing a new stereo or repairing a window. In such situations, the Klein 11057 Klein-Kurve Wire Stripper and Cutter are valuable tools and a practical addition to a car shop tools list. This tool serves two critical functions: cutting wires to the desired length and safely stripping insulation from wire ends, crucial for electrical repairs in a car shop.
Our Expert Pick: Klein 11057 Klein-Kurve Wire Stripper and Cutter
Alt text: Klein-Kurve wire stripper and cutter, essential for electrical wiring tasks in a car shop tools list.
Files and Rasps
To shape, smooth out, and fine-tune surfaces, files and rasps are necessary for mechanics and should be included in a comprehensive car shop tools list. Mechanics use files for precise shaping and smooth finishes, while rasps excel at coarse shaping. With different tooth patterns and sizes, these tools achieve desired levels of coarseness or fineness, allowing mechanics to enhance the functionality and appearance of components in automotive repair.
Files
The Nicholson 22040NN File Set is a versatile toolset for mechanics and a useful addition to a car shop tools list. It includes five files of different sizes and types, securely stored in a compact pouch. Designed for general-purpose use, this set is suitable for professional applications in a car shop. Mechanics can conveniently shape, smooth, and refine surfaces with this comprehensive file set.
Our Expert Pick: Nicholson 22040NN 5 Piece Maintenance File Set
Alt text: Nicholson 5-piece maintenance file set, versatile for shaping and smoothing in a car shop tools list.
Rasps
This Nicholson 19460N rasp features a half-round shape and a bastard cut, making it ideal for shaping and smoothing wood surfaces in a car shop setting. Mechanics can use it to remove material quickly and efficiently, whether for fitting components or creating custom shapes, making it a specialized but valuable tool for a car shop tools list. The 12″ length provides ample coverage for larger surfaces, while the bastard cut ensures aggressive cutting action.
Our Expert Pick: Nicholson 19460N 12″ Half Round Bastard Cut Wood Rasp
Alt text: Nicholson half round bastard cut wood rasp, ideal for shaping wood in automotive applications within a car shop tools list.
Feeler Gauge Set
Mechanics often rely on a feeler gauge set like the Proto J000AA for precise measurements and adjustments, making it a critical component of a car shop tools list. This tool consists of calibrated metal strips of different thicknesses, similar to a pocket knife. Feeler gauges are particularly useful for measuring and adjusting spark plug spacing, valve clearances, and other critical gaps in automotive engines.
Our Expert Pick: Proto J000AA 25 Blade Master Feeler Gauge Set
Alt text: Proto 25 blade master feeler gauge set, essential for precise measurements like spark plug gaps in a car shop tools list.
Vise Grips
Vice grips provide a firm and versatile grip for mechanics, making them an indispensable tool in a car shop tools list. They are used to securely clamp objects during repairs and maintenance tasks, offering a hands-free holding solution. With adjustable jaws and a locking mechanism, vice grips offer consistency and safety, ideal for handling challenges such as stubborn bolts, stripped screws, or pipes and wires in automotive repair.
Our Expert Pick: Vise-Grip 10r 10″ Straight Vise-Grip 10R
Alt text: Vise-Grip straight vise grips, providing a firm and versatile grip for various car shop repair tasks and part of a car shop tools list.
Hacksaw
The Ideal 35-261 hacksaw is a go-to saw for mechanics in the automotive trade industry and should be considered for a car shop tools list. When working on a car, mechanics rely on this hacksaw to cut through stubborn U-bolts during exhaust system replacements, trim excess plastic from taillight lenses, shorten overly long replacement bolts, and craft custom mounting brackets for accessories like auxiliary lights.
Our Expert Pick: IDEAL 35-261 Ergonomic Hacksaw
Need a second option? Check out Dewalts 5-in-1 Multifunction Hacksaw.
DeWalt DWHT20547L 5-in-1 Multifunction Hacksaw
Alt text: Ideal ergonomic hacksaw, essential for cutting metal and plastic components in a car shop tools list.
Bolt Cutters
Mechanics use the Milwaukee 48-22-4114 Bolt Cutter for its exceptional performance and strength, making it a robust addition to a car shop tools list. Featuring power-move extendable arms, forged steel blades, and a bolt lock, it offers increased cutting power, durability, and secure operation. This bolt cutter is a reliable tool for mechanics to effortlessly cut through tough materials like thick bolts and rods in a car shop.
Our Expert Pick: Milwaukee 48-22-4114 14″ Adaptable Bolt Cutter with POWERMOVE
Need a second option? Check out Klein 63136 Bolt Cutters.
Klein 63136 Bolt Cutter with Fiberglass Handle, 36.5″
Alt text: Milwaukee adaptable bolt cutter with POWERMOVE, essential for cutting thick materials in a car shop tools list.
Power Tools
Mechanics heavily rely on power tools for their efficiency and effectiveness in various automotive tasks, making them indispensable for a car shop tools list. Cordless drills handle drilling and driving; impact wrenches tackle stubborn bolts; angle grinders cut and polish; reciprocating saws manage demolition; power sanders smooth surfaces, and circular saws make accurate cuts. These power tools significantly enhance a mechanic’s productivity and allow them to easily handle a wide range of automotive repair and maintenance tasks in a car shop.
Drill/Driver Set
The Dewalt DCK2050M2 Drill is a versatile and powerful tool set ideal for a car shop tools list. It effortlessly drills into various materials and substrates, while the impact driver excels at driving screws and bolts. Both devices feature brushless motors for improved operation and durability. With long-lasting 20V MAX lithium-ion batteries, mechanics can use these tools for extended periods in a car shop setting.
Our Expert Pick: DeWalt DCK2050M2 20V Max Brushless Cordless XR 1/2 In. Hammer Drill/Driver And Atomic 1/4 In. Impact Driver Kit With 4.0Ah Batteries
Alt text: DeWalt 20V Max brushless cordless drill/driver and impact driver kit, essential power tools for a comprehensive car shop tools list.
Drill Bits
Mechanics use drill bits to create holes for installations, adjustments, and repairs, making a variety of drill bits necessary for a car shop tools list. The wide range of sizes and types of drill bits ensures versatility and competence in their tasks, allowing for precise drilling in various materials encountered in automotive repair.
Bob Vila Reviews determined that their best overall drill bits were our expert pick of Milwaukee 48-89-0012 Thunderbolts. Check out the Pros they found:
- These general-purpose drill bits are suitable for use on wood, plastic, and soft metals.
- The ¼-inch hex shaft easily chucks into cordless drill/drivers; is also compatible with impact drivers.
- Quad-edge pilot point penetrates quickly and drills with superior precision.
- Variable helix and thick, tapered web offer aggressive chip removal with improved strength.
Our Expert Pick: Milwaukee 48-89-0012 29-Piece Thunderbolt Titanium Drill Bit Set
Alt text: Milwaukee 29-piece Thunderbolt titanium drill bit set, versatile for drilling into various materials in a car shop tools list.
Impact Wrench
Impact wrenches offer strong and productive success in fastening and removing bolts and nuts, making them essential for efficiency in a car shop tools list. With their high torque output, mechanics can quickly tackle challenging tasks, saving time and effort. The rotational impact mechanism on our Milwaukee pick delivers rapid bursts of torque, making it ideal for automotive applications such as tire rotations and suspension work in a car shop.
Our Expert Pick: Milwaukee 2767-22R M18 FUEL High Torque 1/2″ Impact Wrench with Friction Ring Kit
Alt text: Milwaukee M18 FUEL high torque 1/2-inch impact wrench kit, essential for fast bolt removal in a car shop tools list.
Angle Grinder
Angle grinders utilize rotating abrasive discs to grind, cut, polish, and shape materials, making them versatile power tools for a car shop tools list. Mechanics rely on angle grinders for tasks such as removing rust, smoothing edges, cutting metal, and grinding welds, essential for bodywork and fabrication in automotive repair.
Our Expert Pick: Makita GAG04M1 40V max XGT® 4-1/2” / 5″ Angle Grinder Kit
Alt text: Makita 40V max XGT angle grinder kit, versatile for grinding, cutting, and polishing in a car shop tools list.
Reciprocating Saw (With Various Blades)
Mechanics often rely on reciprocating saws for specific tasks, such as cutting out old sections of auto exhaust pipes for repairs, making them a practical addition to a car shop tools list. Our expert Milwaukee 2520-21XC pick delivers over 4X more run-time and provides up to 70% faster cutting than competitive saws, enhancing efficiency in a car shop setting.
Pro-Tip: Beware of “kickback” when using reciprocating saws. Kickback happens when the blade pulls out of a cut, causing the saw to buck violently. This “kickback” can occur suddenly and throw you off balance, so exercise caution when working on stools or leaning over.
Our Expert Pick: Milwaukee 2520-21XC M12 FUEL HACKZALL Recip Saw kit
Need a second option? Check out the Dewalt DCS389X2 Recip Saw.
DeWalt DCS389X2 60V MAX FLEXVOLT BRUSHLESS Recip Saw Kit 9.0AH
Alt text: Milwaukee M12 FUEL HACKZALL reciprocating saw kit, essential for cutting pipes and demolition in a car shop tools list.
Power Sanders
Mechanics rely on various power sanders, including versatile belt and orbital sanders, to meet multiple needs in automotive refinishing and repair, making them necessary for a car shop tools list. Belt sanders excel in deburring, fine sanding, and rust removal tasks with their rapidly moving abrasive belts. They expertly smooth rough edges, refine surfaces, and eliminate stubborn paint or rust. Similarly, orbital sanders, powerful air sanders, are favored for lighter prep work such as edge smoothing and sanding old paint coats, offering versatility for surface preparation in a car shop.
Belt Sander (Tool Only)
Our featured Milwaukee power sander for a car shop tools list has a high-powered brushless motor for fast material removal. It offers intelligent performance protection and is compatible with 3″ x 18″ sanding belts. This belt sander also features variable speed control, quick belt changes, and automatic belt tracking, enhancing efficiency and ease of use in automotive sanding tasks.
Our Expert Pick: Milwaukee 2832-20 M18 FUEL 3″x18″ Belt Sander
Alt text: Milwaukee M18 FUEL 3×18-inch belt sander, essential for fast material removal and surface preparation in a car shop tools list.
Belt Sander Kit
Need the whole kit for your car shop tools list? Makita’s got you covered. Check out the Makita XSB01TJ Belt Sander Kit, which includes the sander, two 18V LXT Lithium-Ion 5.0Ah batteries (BL1850B), a rapid optimum charger (DC18RC), and a medium-sized interlocking case. This sander is compact with a 160-degree pivoting arm suitable for wood and steel applications, offering a complete sanding solution for a car shop.
Our Expert Pick: Makita XSB01TJ 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Brushless Cordless 3/8″ x 21″ Detail Belt Sander Kit, Bag (5.0Ah)
Alt text: Makita 18V LXT detail belt sander kit, offering a complete sanding solution for wood and steel in a car shop tools list.
Orbital Sander (Tool Only)
The DeWalt DWE6420 Orbit Sander is highly valued by mechanics and a practical addition to a car shop tools list. It features a powerful 3.0 amp motor operating at 12,000 OPM for efficient sanding, and its compact height allows for precise and controlled work. Critical areas of the tool have a rubber over-mold for better grip and reduced fatigue, enhancing user comfort and control in a car shop environment.
Our Expert Pick: DeWalt DWE6420 5″ Random Orbit Sander, Single Speed, PSA Pad
Alt text: DeWalt 5-inch random orbit sander, essential for efficient and precise sanding in a car shop tools list.
Orbital Sander Kit
Need the whole kit for your car shop tools list? DeWalt’s got you covered. The DeWalt DCW210D1 Orbital Sander Kit includes a random orbital sander, a lithium-ion battery charger, a compact battery pack, a carrying bag, and a dust bag. The sander features a brushless motor for extended run time, a texturized rubber over-mold grip for comfortable sanding, and a low height that allows mechanics better control and closer access to the sanding work surface, offering a complete and cordless sanding solution for a car shop.
Our Expert Pick: DeWalt DCW210D1 20V Max* Xr 5″ Cordless Random Orbital Sander Kit
Alt text: DeWalt 20V Max XR cordless random orbital sander kit, providing a complete cordless sanding system for a car shop tools list.
Circular Saw
Mechanics use circular saws to cut through metal, wood, and plastic, making them versatile and essential power tools for a car shop tools list. These portable tools are crucial for making straight, bevel, and rip cuts in various materials, necessary for fabrication and repair tasks in a car shop.
Our Expert Pick: Makita XSR01PT 18V X2 LXT Li-Ion (36V) Brushless Cordless Rear Handle 7-1/4″ Circular Saw Kit, 5.0A
Alt text: Makita 18V X2 LXT brushless cordless rear handle 7-1/4-inch circular saw kit, essential for versatile cutting tasks in a car shop tools list.
Jigsaw (With Assorted Blades)
Pro-Tip: When cutting metal with your jigsaw, minimize burr formation by “sandwiching” the metal between two thin plywood pieces. Cutting at a lower speed setting is also recommended to prevent excessive heat and maximize blade durability, enhancing precision and tool longevity in a car shop.
Our Expert Pick: DeWalt DCS334P1 20V MAX* XR Cordless Jig Saw (5 Ah) Kit
Alt text: DeWalt 20V MAX XR cordless jigsaw kit, ideal for precise curve cutting and metal work in a car shop tools list.
Air Compressor
Every mechanic needs a reliable air compressor in their garage or car shop, making it a fundamental component of a car shop tools list. With high-powered tools and operations common in automotive repair, a dependable air compressor is essential to power pneumatic tools and perform various tasks efficiently in a car shop.
In a comprehensive analysis by David Traver Adolphus of Autoguide, our expert pick, the Makita MAC5200 air compressor, was deemed supreme among small air compressors for car shops. Adolphus noted the higher price but stated, “there’s a reason the Makita MAC2400 is the gold standard for jobsite-style air compressors: It’s better than all the others,” highlighting its superior quality and reliability for car shop use.
Our Expert Pick: Makita MAC2400 2.5 H.P. Air Compressor (Twin Stack)
Alt text: Makita MAC2400 2.5 H.P. twin stack air compressor, essential for powering pneumatic tools in a car shop tools list.
Portable Air Compressor
Some mechanics in car shops prefer a portable air compressor for mobility. Makita offers this versatility with its MAC5200 model, making it a practical addition to a car shop tools list. This air compressor features durable, heavy-duty wheels capable of navigating stairs, oil, grease, and scrap metal parts. The oil-lubricated pump ensures cooler temperatures and reduced wear, while the large industrial air filter enhances air intake and usability in a car shop environment.
Our Expert Pick: Makita MAC5200 5.2 Gal 3 H.P. Electric Air Compressor, Portable (w/wheels) Single Tank
Alt text: Makita MAC5200 5.2 Gal portable air compressor with wheels, providing mobility and power for car shop tools list.
Diagnostics and Testing Tools
Diagnostic and testing tools are vital for mechanics to accurately identify and troubleshoot vehicle issues, making them a crucial category in a car shop tools list. Commonly used tools include multimeters for electrical measurements, compression testers for engine cylinder compression, battery testers for battery health, and oil pressure check kits for engine oil pressure. These tools enable mechanics to diagnose problems effectively and provide efficient solutions for automotive systems in a car shop.
Multimeter (For Electrical Testing)
Mechanics benefit greatly from having an Amprobe 4394419 PK-110 Digital Multimeter Electrical Tester Kit, making it an essential addition to a car shop tools list. It is invaluable for diagnosing vehicle electrical problems. This kit covers essential functions: voltage, current, resistance, and continuity measurements. It is a powerful tool that allows mechanics to troubleshoot batteries, alternators, sensors, fuses, wiring, and other electrical connections efficiently in a car shop.
Our Expert Pick: Amprobe 4394419 PK-110 Digital Multimeter Electrical Tester Kit with Voltage Probe
Need a second option? Check out this Fluke 115 Digital Multimeter.
Fluke 115 True RMS AC/DC Digital Multimeter
Alt text: Amprobe digital multimeter electrical tester kit, crucial for diagnosing electrical issues in a car shop tools list.
Compression Tester (To Check Engine Compression)
To accurately diagnose engine performance, mechanics rely on compression testers like the Proto JCTR20RK., making it a vital diagnostic tool for a car shop tools list. These testers measure compression levels in engine cylinders, helping mechanics identify issues such as worn piston rings, leaking valves, or head gasket problems, essential for engine diagnostics in a car shop.
Our Expert Pick: Proto JCTR20RK Compression Tester Repair Kit
Alt text: Proto compression tester repair kit, essential for diagnosing engine compression issues in a car shop tools list.
Battery Tester (To Assess Battery Condition)
Mechanics depend on diagnostic equipment such as the Gardner Bender GBT-500A Battery Tester to evaluate battery conditions, making it a key diagnostic tool for a car shop tools list. With this tester, mechanics can accurately assess battery health and capacity, ensuring optimal performance and preventing battery-related failures in vehicles serviced in a car shop.
Our Expert Pick: Gardner Bender GBT-500A Battery Tester for 1.5V to 22.5V Analog Battery Tester
Alt text: Gardner Bender battery tester, crucial for assessing battery health and performance in a car shop tools list.
Oil Pressure Check Kit
The GearWrench 3289 Oil Pressure Check Kit is a trusted tool for accurately diagnosing oil pressure in automotive applications, making it a vital diagnostic tool for a car shop tools list. Monitoring oil pressure levels allows mechanics to pinpoint problems like pump failures or clogged filters, ensuring engine health and longevity in vehicles serviced in a car shop.
Our Expert Pick: GearWrench 3289 10 Pc. Oil Pressure Check Kit
Alt text: GearWrench oil pressure check kit, essential for diagnosing engine oil pressure issues in a car shop tools list.
Other Mechanics’ Tools and Supplies
Mechanics utilize various other tools, supplies, and safety gear to perform their work efficiently and safely in a car shop, all of which are important for a complete car shop tools list. Tools such as wrenches, socket sets, and screwdrivers aid in fastening and loosening components, while lubricants and fluids maintain vehicle performance. Safety gear like gloves, goggles, and ear protection protect mechanics from hazards, ensuring a safe and productive work environment in a car shop. Mechanics can work effectively and prioritize their well-being using the right tools and safety equipment in their car shop.
Utility Knife
Mechanics rely on utility knives like the Milwaukee 48-22-1505 FastbackTM 6-in-1 Folding Utility Knife for various cutting and scraping tasks in a car shop, making it a versatile addition to a car shop tools list. Its folding design and multiple blade options offer convenience and precision. From opening packages to stripping wires and cutting through different materials, this compact and durable tool is a must-have in a mechanic’s toolbox for a car shop.
Our Expert Pick: Milwaukee 48-22-1505 FASTBACKTM 6in1 Folding Utility Knife
Alt text: Milwaukee FASTBACK 6-in-1 folding utility knife, versatile for cutting and scraping tasks in a car shop tools list.
Tape Measure
Mechanics rely on tape measures like the Dewalt DWHT35625S ToughSeries Tape Measure for accurate measurements in a car shop, making it an essential measuring tool for a car shop tools list. With its durable construction and illuminated display, it aids in working in low-light conditions and ensures precise dimensions, clearances, and fitment for automotive components.
Our Expert Pick: DeWalt DWHT35625S TOUGHSERIES 25 FT Lighted Tape Measure
Alt text: DeWalt TOUGHSERIES 25 FT lighted tape measure, essential for precise measurements in a car shop tools list.
Serpentine Belt Tool (For Belt Removal & Installation)
For quick and easy serpentine belt repairs in a car shop, mechanics can use the GearWrench 89000 Serpentine Belt Tool Set, making it a specialized but useful tool for a car shop tools list. It simplifies reaching confined locations, adjusting tensioners, and properly routing belts, saving time and effort in serpentine belt replacement within a car shop.
Our Expert Pick: GearWrench 89000 15 Pc. Serpentine Belt Tool Set with Locking Flex Head Ratcheting Wrench
Alt text: GearWrench 15-piece serpentine belt tool set, specialized for easy belt service in a car shop tools list.
Spark Plug Socket
The GearWrench 80601 Spark Plug Socket Set is another standout tool for mechanics in a car shop and a valuable addition to a car shop tools list. Its magnetic swivel design securely holds and positions spark plugs during installation and removal, preventing stripping or damaging the plugs. It’s a valuable tool that saves time and ensures proper spark plug maintenance for optimal engine performance in a car shop.
Our Expert Pick: GearWrench 80601 5 Pc. 3/8″ Drive 6 Point Magnetic Swivel Spark Plug Socket Set
Alt text: GearWrench magnetic swivel spark plug socket set, specialized for spark plug service in a car shop tools list.
Funnel (For Fluid Transfer)
Just like the F-15 Eagle Fighter Jets, this Eagle F-15 funnel is fast and efficiently transfers automotive liquids into metal containers with utmost safety, making it a practical fluid handling tool for a car shop tools list. Mechanics trust this funnel to pour oil, coolant, gasoline, and other fluids precisely and cleanly into different automotive components. Crafted from durable polyethylene and measuring 9 inches, it resists chemical corrosion while maintaining its resilience in a car shop environment.
Our Expert Pick: Eagle F-15 9″ POLYETHYLENE FUNNEL for Metal Type I Cans
Alt text: Eagle F-15 polyethylene funnel, essential for clean and safe fluid transfer in a car shop tools list.
Telescoping Magnet
Mechanics use the Proto J2375 Magnetic Telescoping tool for retrieving metallic objects in tight spaces, such as nuts, bolts, screws, and other small metal items, making it a handy retrieval tool for a car shop tools list. Its telescoping design extends reach and allows for easy retrieval of dropped parts from engine bays or under car seats in a car shop.
Our Expert Pick: Proto J2375 Retriever Magnetic Telescoping 16-3/4
Alt text: Proto magnetic telescoping retriever tool, essential for retrieving dropped metal parts in a car shop tools list.
Creeper (For Comfortable Work Under Vehicles)
The Steelman Pro61029 Rolling Creeper offers mechanics enhanced comfort and mobility during automotive repair tasks performed under vehicles, making it a comfort and mobility tool for a car shop tools list. Its adjustable length and smooth-rolling casters provide easy access to various areas of the vehicle undercarriage, reducing strain and improving efficiency in a car shop.
Our Expert Pick: Steelman Pro 61029 40-Inch Adjustable Rolling Creeper
Alt text: Steelman Pro 40-inch adjustable rolling creeper, essential for comfortable under-vehicle work in a car shop tools list.
Work Gloves
Mechanix MP4X-75-008 gloves are favored by mechanics for their exceptional durability and protection, making them a crucial safety item for a car shop tools list. Made with Material4X synthetic leather, they provide four times the abrasion resistance of standard gloves. The impact-resistant TPR knuckle guards shield hands from impact hazards while maintaining excellent grip and dexterity, ensuring hand safety and performance in a car shop.
Mechanix Wear has provided Nascar teams with hand and knee safety gear for over 25 years. Mechanix Wear Marketing Director Shawn Douphner said they are “committed to providing high-performance work gloves with unmatched protection.”
Our Expert Pick:
Alt text: Mechanix Material4X M-Pact gloves, essential for hand protection and durability in a car shop tools list.
Safety Glasses
Mechanics choose Pyramex SB8710DTP Safety Glasses for reliable eye protection during their work in a car shop, making them a vital safety item for a car shop tools list. These safety glasses feature a clear lens that shields the eyes from debris, dust, and other hazards in the workshop or garage. The wraparound design provides a wide field of vision, ensuring optimal visibility while working on intricate tasks in automotive repair.
Our Expert Pick: Pyramex SB8710DTP Accurist Clear Safety Glasses
Alt text: Pyramex Accurist clear safety glasses, crucial for eye protection in a car shop tools list.
Shop Towels
For their multipurpose cleaning needs in auto shops, mechanics rely on the Kimberly Clark 05027 Shop Towels, making them an essential consumable for a car shop tools list. These wipers offer excellent absorbency and durability, ideal for handling liquids, oils, and grease, ensuring a clean and efficient work environment in a car shop.
Our Expert Pick: Kimberly Clark 05027 White WYPALL L40 All Purpose Wipers /Shop Towels 70 Sheet Roll
Alt text: Kimberly Clark WYPALL L40 all-purpose shop towels, essential for cleaning and maintenance in a car shop tools list.
Wheel Chocks
During vehicle maintenance in a car shop, rubber wheel chocks are needed to ensure safety and stability, making them a vital safety device for a car shop tools list. These prevent vehicle movement and keep vehicles securely immobilized during tire changes, undercarriage inspections, and brake repairs, ensuring a safe working environment in a car shop.
Our Expert Pick: Logistics Supply 0109765 Rubber Wheel Chock
Alt text: Logistics Supply rubber wheel chock, essential for vehicle stability and safety in a car shop tools list.
Software and Business Tools
Software and business tools have become essential for modern mechanics and car shops, helping streamline operations and improve efficiency. These tools include CRM software for customer data management, appointment scheduling software, inventory management software, and invoicing solutions, all contributing to efficient car shop management. Diagnostic software and scanning tools are also crucial for accurately pinpointing vehicle issues, enhancing diagnostic capabilities in a car shop. These tools optimize workflow, enhance customer service, and simplify administrative tasks, allowing mechanics to focus on repairs and overall business success in their car shop.
Websites
Smartphone Apps
Check out this Podcast to see how shops are changing their business tactics with new technology.
Podcast: Can Shopgenie Change How Shops Do Business? | Kieran O’Brien | Ratchet+Wrench
Wrapping Up the List
As you progress in your journey to becoming a mechanic or equipping a car shop, prioritizing the essential tool list is crucial for success in the automotive field. While research, education, and training are fundamental, having the right tools is vital for effective and efficient work in a car shop environment.
Hand tools offer the precision and control for intricate tasks, while power tools provide efficiency and effectiveness across numerous automotive projects. Diagnostic and testing tools enable accurate issue identification and troubleshooting, and software and business tools streamline operations and improve customer service in a car shop.
Investing in the right tools and continuously expanding your collection will prepare you to adapt to evolving technologies, enhance productivity, and deliver high-quality repairs and maintenance services in your car shop. Remember, your tool selection is a fundamental aspect of your professional life as a mechanic and car shop owner, so choose wisely and stay equipped for success.
Mechanic Tool List Frequently Asked Questions
What tools should you have in a mechanic tool set?
A well-equipped mechanic’s tool set should include a range of essential hand, power, diagnostic, testing, and other mechanical and safety gear. Comprehensive sets may also incorporate software and business tools for complete car shop operations.
What materials should your tools be made of?
High-quality mechanic tools are typically made from various steel alloys for optimal strength, toughness, and durability. Many tools are chrome-plated to enhance appearance and facilitate easier cleaning, adding a professional touch to any car shop.
How do you maintain your mechanic tool set?
Proper maintenance is crucial for the longevity and performance of your mechanic’s tool set. Clean tools after each use by wiping them down with a rag to remove dirt, grease, or oil. Use a wire brush or specialized cleaning solution for rusted tools. Store tools in a dry location to prevent rust and consider using a rust-preventive spray for added protection in a car shop environment.
How do I organize my mechanic tool set to maximize efficiency in a car shop?
Organize your tool set by categorizing tools, using tool trays or foam inserts, and labeling tool storage compartments. Keep frequently used tools easily accessible and maintain a systematic arrangement to maximize efficiency in a busy car shop.
How do I know if I have all the necessary tools for a specific automotive repair job?
To ensure you have all necessary tools for a specific automotive repair job, carefully review the repair manual or instructions. Identify the listed tools and compare them to your existing tool set. Consult with other mechanics or online forums for additional guidance on specialized car shop tools.
Do mechanics use SAE or metric?
SAE sockets and wrenches are commonly used for American-made cars. However, for imported cars, especially in the USA, metric units of measurement are generally required, necessitating both SAE and metric tools in a car shop.
What takes the longest to fix on a car in a car shop?
Certain complex components typically require more time and effort for repair or replacement due to their intricate nature. These include the engine, transmission, and catalytic converter, which often demand specialized car shop tools and expertise.
