Essential Automotive Tools List for Mechanics

Whether you’re embarking on a career as a new automotive technician or you’re already a seasoned pro in the field, having the right tools is paramount. Often, what distinguishes a good technician from an exceptional one is their expertise in selecting and effectively utilizing the appropriate tools for each job.

At Universal Technical Institute (UTI), we understand that tools are not just accessories; they are fundamental to preparing for a successful career in the automotive industry. This is why we have established a strong partnership with Snap-on®, a leading manufacturer renowned for its high-quality tools and equipment tailored for transportation industry professionals. Together, we ensure you have access to a comprehensive automotive technician tool list, setting you up for success from day one.

The Enduring Partnership Between Snap-on & UTI

For over two decades, UTI and Snap-on have cultivated a powerful synergy. Snap-on plays a vital role in the UTI student experience by providing the tools and equipment utilized across our campuses for hands-on training throughout our programs.

Furthermore, UTI’s collaboration with Snap-on extends beyond the classroom. Graduates benefit from exclusive discounts on professional-grade Snap-on tools, making it more affordable to acquire the essential equipment needed to launch their careers. This initiative allows students to begin building a professional toolset while still in their program, aligning with industry expectations for job applicants.

UTI unequivocally endorses the quality and reliability of Snap-on tools and equipment. In fact, collectively, UTI students represent the largest purchaser of Snap-on tools in the U.S., second only to the military, underscoring the trust and value placed in these tools within the automotive education and professional sectors.

READ MORE: UTI’S AFTERMARKET RELATIONSHIPS

Understanding the 5 Basic Categories of Automotive Tools

Navigating the vast world of automotive tools can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re starting out. To simplify things, it’s helpful to categorize automotive tools into five essential groups:

Core Hand Tools: This foundational category includes the must-have basics like ratchets, wrenches, sockets, screwdrivers, and pliers. These tools are the workhorses of any auto repair job, used for a wide range of tasks from basic maintenance to complex repairs.
Torque Measurement Tools: In automotive repair, precise reassembly is crucial. Torque wrenches and angle meters ensure fasteners are tightened to exact specifications, guaranteeing parts function correctly and safely after being put back together.
Power Tools: For efficiency and tackling tough jobs, power tools are indispensable. Impact wrenches, drills, and grinders allow technicians to accomplish tasks quickly, especially in hard-to-reach or stubborn areas, saving valuable time and effort.
Tool Storage & Organization: As tool collections grow, organization becomes key. Toolboxes, rolling cabinets, and storage carts are essential for keeping tools secure, organized, and readily accessible. Efficient tool storage maximizes productivity and minimizes downtime searching for equipment.
Diagnostic Tools & Testing Equipment: Modern automotive repair relies heavily on accurate diagnostics. Equipment like scan tools, multimeters, and oscilloscopes are vital for pinpointing the root cause of vehicle issues, enabling technicians to diagnose problems efficiently and effectively, leading to quicker repair solutions.

Comprehensive Automotive Technician Tool List

In the automotive industry, efficiency directly translates to profitability. As Barrett Crane, national sales manager for Snap-on, aptly states, “When you consider the daily tasks of a technician, time management is absolutely critical.”

While many enter the automotive field driven by a hobbyist passion without time constraints, the professional environment demands efficiency and precision. Technicians are expected to complete work within specified timeframes while maintaining a high standard of accuracy. Having the right tools is not just beneficial; it’s essential for meeting these professional demands.

“Tools are a fundamental component of operating professionally and profitably,” Barrett emphasizes. A technician’s ability to perform their job effectively directly impacts their professional standing and earning potential. This is where investing in a high-quality tool set, encompassing the essentials, becomes crucial.

The following tool lists are curated with guidance from industry experts, including dealership service managers, auto service center managers, and automotive business owners who regularly employ UTI graduates. These lists serve as invaluable guides for building your tool set, tailored to different career paths within the automotive industry.

Tools for a Technician Starting in a New Car Dealership

This tool list is specifically designed as a foundational set for automotive technicians beginning their careers in new car dealerships. It’s important to note that each Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) often requires specialized tools. These OEM-specific tools can be progressively added to your arsenal with guidance from a Snap-on education representative as you become more specialized.

The tools listed below are categorized by item name and description, and they are readily available for purchase at sep.snapon.com.

112STMMY – 1/4DR 12PC 6PT DP SKTSET
117TMM – 1/4DR 17PC 6PT MM STARTER GSS
206EAU – 6PC 3/8DR ADP/EXT SET
207EFAMY – 3/8DR 7PC HX STD DR SET
212EFTXY – 3/8DR 12PC STD TORX SKTSET
212FSMY – 3/8DR 12PC 6PT SHL SKTSET
212SFSMY – 3/8DR 12PC 6PT DP SKTSET
317AMMPC – 1/2DR 17PC 6PT MET GEN SER SET
97ACF – 8IN LONG NOSE PLIERS
ATECH3FR250B – TORQ WR 1/2IN ELEC 26.6IN LONG
CSA8C – BLK 7-5/8IN RIG CAR SCRA
F80 – 3/8DR 80T STD RAT
FADH12B – 12IN ADJUSTABLE WR. FADH12B
FX80A – 3/8DR 80T STD LCK RAT
FXK11 – 3/8DR 11IN KNR FRIC BLL EXT
HBBD24 – DEAD/BLW 24OZ BPEEN SFT/GR HM
LP10WR – 10IN PLIER CURVED JAW W/CUTTER
PK23A – SGL BVL MPL HDL PTY KNF
PL400B – PLIER SET
PPC710BK – 11PC PNCH/CHSL SET
PRH57A – 8IN CONVERT SNP RING PLIERS
PWC6 – WIRE CRIMP
S9704KA – SOCKET
S9706KRA – 6PT 5/8″ STD RET SPRKPLG SKT
SGA173BR – PCK RADIATR HOSE SG RED 10.3IN
SGASA204CO – MINI PICK SET 4PC ORANGE
SGDMRC44BO – RAT S/GR STD ORG SD
SGDX60BO – 6PC COMBO INS S/GR ORG SD SET
SGT4BR – SOFTGRIP 1/4IN DRIVER
SPBS704AO – 4PC STRIKING PRYBAR SET ORANGE
TMXK60 – 1/4DR 6IN KNR EXT
UIM225 – 2-1/4″DI.MIRROR
UPT35 – 3LB MAG-5LB POWERCAP MAG
SOEXM710 – 10PC F/DR+ STD MET COMWRSET
CT8850 – Cordless 1/2 Drive Impact
CTR761 – Cordless 3/8 Drive Ratchet
315SIMMYA – 1/2 Drive Deep Impact Sockets
315IMMYA – 1/2 Drive Shallow Impact Sockets
214SIMFMYA – 3/8 Drive Deep Impact Sockets
214IMFMYA – 3/8 Drive Shallow Impact Sockets
EEDM504 – DVOM – Digital Volt/Ohm Meter
KRA2422 – 55″ Roll Cabinet Tool Storage

Image alt text: Snap-on tools arranged on a workbench, showcasing essential automotive tools for dealership technicians.

Tools for a General Automotive Technician

This comprehensive list is tailored for new technicians starting out as general automotive technicians. Whether you’re joining an automotive service franchise, a dealership, or an independent repair shop, this list ensures you’re well-equipped. General technicians need to be versatile, prepared to service both the latest vehicle models and older vehicles and equipment that may require SAE (Society of Automotive Engineers) sizes.

The following tools are categorized by item name and item description, and are available for purchase at sep.snapon.com.

110STMY – 1/4DR 10PC 6PT DP SKTSET
112TMMY – 1/4DR 12PC 6PT SHL SKTSET
114ATMP – 1/4DR 14PC 6PT SAE GSS
206EAU – 6PC 3/8DR ADP/EXT SET
207EFAMY – 3/8DR 7PC HX STD DR SET
211FSY – 3/8DR 11PC 6PT SHL SKTSET
211SFSY – 3/8DR 11PC 6PT DP SKTSET
212EFTXY – 3/8DR 12PC STD TORX SKTSET
212FSMY – 3/8DR 12PC 6PT SHL SKTSET
212SFSMY – 3/8DR 12PC 6PT DP SKTSET
313SWMYA – 1/2DR 13PC 12PT SHL SKTSET
317MSPC – 1/2DR 17PC 6PT GEN SER SET
97ACF – 8IN LONG NOSE PLIERS
CSA8C – BLK 7-5/8IN RIG CAR SCRA
F80 – 3/8DR 80T STD RAT
FADH12B – 12IN ADJUSTABLE WR. FADH12B
FX80A – 3/8DR 80T STD LCK RAT
FXK11 – 3/8DR 11IN KNR FRIC BLL EXT
GSAF1F – ADAPTER 1/2″ INT – 3/8″ EXT DR
HBBD24 – DEAD/BLW 24OZ BPEEN SFT/GR HM
LP10WR – 10IN PLIER CURVED JAW W/CUTTER
PK23A – SGL BVL MPL HDL PTY KNF
PL400B – PLIER SET
PPC710BK – 11PC PNCH/CHSL SET
PRH57A – 8IN CONVERT SNP RING PLIERS
PWC6 – WIRE CRIMP
QD3R250A – TORQ WR 1/2IN DR 80T 50-250FT
S9704KA – SOCKET
S9706KRA – 6PT 5/8″ STD RET SPRKPLG SKT
SGA173BR – PCK RADIATR HOSE SG RED 10.3IN
SGASA204CR – MINI PICK SET 4PC RED
SGDMRC44B – RAT S/GR STD RED SD
SGDX60BR – 6PC COMBO INS S/GR RED SD SET
SGT4BR – SOFTGRIP 1/4IN DRIVER
SOEX707 – 7PC 12PT F/DR+ COMWRSET
SOEXM710 – 10PC F/DR+ STD MET COMWRSET
SPBS704AR – 4PC STRIKING PRYBAR SET RED
TMXK60 – 1/4DR 6IN KNR EXT
UIM225 – 2-1/4″DI.MIRROR
UPT35 – 3LB MAG-5LB POWERCAP MAG
CT8850 – Cordless 1/2 Drive Impact
CTR761 – Cordless 3/8 Drive Ratchet
315SIMMYA – 1/2 Drive Deep Impact Sockets
315IMMYA – 1/2 Drive Shallow Impact Sockets
214SIMFMYA – 3/8 Drive Deep Impact Sockets
214IMFMYA – 3/8 Drive Shallow Impact Sockets
EEDM504 – DVOM – Digital Volt/Ohm Meter
KRA2422 – 55″ Roll Cabinet Tool Storage

Start Building Your Automotive Tool Set: A Step-by-Step Guide

With a clear understanding of essential automotive tools, the next step is to begin assembling your personal tool collection. While the lists provided may seem extensive, remember that you likely won’t need every single tool right away. Employers often supply larger, more specialized diagnostic equipment and tools that are not used daily. However, technicians are generally expected to own a comprehensive set of common, frequently used tools.

The ideal time to start building your tool set is while you are enrolled in your automotive training program. Having a solid core set of tools before graduating is crucial when you start applying for your first jobs in the automotive industry. It shows initiative and preparedness that employers value.

Snap-on offers an extensive array of starter tool set options designed to cater to a wide range of needs. They provide over 40 different tool set configurations, ensuring there’s a suitable option for almost anyone entering the transportation service industry. As a UTI student, it’s highly advantageous to leverage your student discount to acquire these high-quality tools at a reduced cost, making professional tools more accessible as you begin your career.

Investing in professional-level automotive tools is an investment in your future. Snap-on tools are engineered for longevity, designed to withstand the rigors of daily use throughout a technician’s career while maintaining exceptional accuracy and durability. Typically, the only reasons to replace a Snap-on tool are loss or advancements in technology. By choosing quality tools from the outset, you are setting a strong foundation for a successful and enduring career in automotive technology.

Train to Become a Skilled Automotive Technician at UTI

Are you ready to pursue comprehensive training for a rewarding career in the automotive industry? UTI’s Automotive Technology program is meticulously designed to equip you with the essential knowledge, technical skills, and extensive hands-on training needed to excel in the field. To discover more about how UTI can pave the way for your automotive career, explore our program page and request information today.

Automotive Technician Tools FAQs

What are the must-have mechanic tools for beginners?

Determining the absolute “must-have” tools for entry-level automotive technicians can vary based on specific job roles and workplaces. It’s always beneficial to consult with your employer to understand what tools they provide and what they recommend you personally own. Generally, a well-rounded starter kit should include a selection from each of the five basic tool categories: core hand tools, torque measurement tools, and power tools, ensuring you’re prepared for a variety of common tasks.

Are there any mechanic tools that are considered industry standards?

Yes, several mechanic tools are widely recognized as industry standards due to their universal applicability, versatility, and proven reliability. These typically include comprehensive socket and wrench sets (both metric and SAE), a variety of screwdriver sets, essential diagnostic tools like multimeters and scan tools, and fundamental equipment such as car jacks and stands for safe vehicle lifting and support. These tools form the backbone of any automotive technician’s toolkit, regardless of specialization.

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1 ) UTI is an educational institution and cannot guarantee employment or salary.

2 ) For program outcome information and other disclosures, visit www.uti.edu/disclosures.

18 ) UTI now offers all of its automotive, diesel, motorcycle, and marine technician training in a blended-learning format, integrating online lecture courses with hands-on lab training.

19 ) Students nearing graduation, with no school obligations, and without prior tool voucher program participation, may be eligible for the UTI Tool Voucher Program. Vouchers expire 90 days post-graduation.

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