Whether you’re a practiced grease monkey or just learning how to maintain your ride, these indispensable tools will help you tackle everything from simple tire changes to more complex engine work. And although you may get certain tools at a nearby tool store, the key is to buy quality gear that will last. Check out the top 10 tools you’ll need to do a little DIY car repair.

Socket Set

You can’t do any car repair without a big socket set! It enables you to remove and tighten bolts and nuts of different sizes, which is critical for performing a variety of jobs, like changing the oil, as well as replacing brake pads, or repairing engine parts. Search for a kit that includes both should and deep sockets to guarantee versatility. A good ratchet wrench will make the job of tightening and loosening bolts easier and faster. Socket sets are easy to come by in any tool shop, many times in sorted cases for storage.

Jack and Jack Stands

If you’re going to be working beneath your vehicle, a jack is an essential tool. Use a hydraulic floor jack to raise your vehicle to a height that will allow you to comfortably work on your car, such as changing the oil or examining the exhaust system. Jack stands are also important for safety, keeping your car off the ground as you’re working on it, which can help reduce the risk of injury. Always buy a jack that can support the weight of your car, along with jack stands with the same rating.

Spanners (Combination or Adjustable)

An excellent set of wrenches is essential for many car repairs. Combination wrenches are open on one end and closed on the other. They’re great for taking off nuts, bolts, and other fasteners and can be ultra handy for auto repair work. Adjustable wrenches are also great because they can be used with fasteners of different sizes. They’re readily available in any tool shop, and you should have them in your DIY car software set.

Screwdrivers Set

You’ll need a decent selection of screwdrivers — one that includes both flat and Phillips head for nearly any repair. These are great for unscrewing pieces and holding parts such as trim and panels, among many other uses. Opt for a set with multiple size options so you’ll always have the best size tool for the task. Some kits also have magnetic tips to help get into cramped spaces.

Pry Bars

Simple and effective, pry bars are great for popping off parts that are stuck on, like trim, door panels, or even portions of your engine. With a long, strong pry bar, you should be able to use enough leverage to pop out parts that don’t want to come out without breaking them. A collection of pry bars–a variety of sizes – can be incredibly useful around the house for doing all kinds of DIY repairs.

Torque Wrench

You must have a torque wrench to properly spanner them down to the manufacturer’s inviting torque values. Any over-torqueing or under-torqueing might cause components to fail and even create dangerous driving conditions. While changing lug nuts or dealing with engine parts, a torque wrench is the most essential tool to have with you. Both digital and click-style torque wrenches are available at most tool shops for accurate measurements.

Mechanic’s Creeper

Comfort and maneuverability are both key when you’re working under your car. A mechanic’s creeper is a rolling seat that allows you to slide under the car easily. It keeps you off the ground (which can be uncomfortable) and lets you roll around as you make repairs. The utility of this tool is perfect for jobs ranging from general maintenance and automotive repair to restoration and to customization.

Automotive Multimeter

An automotive multimeter is a crucial tool for diagnosing electrical issues in your vehicle. This capability will allow you to test for volts, amps, and ohms -perfect for pinpointing the battery, alternator, or other electrical systems when they run into issues. Using a multimeter helps you to see potential problems like a poor connection or a blown fuse, and can save you from making time-consuming and costly mistakes during a repair.

Brake Fluid Bleeder Kit

If you’re working on brake repairs, a kit to bleed brake fluid is a must-have tool. It is for bleeding brake systems and removing air from them. It’s important to ensure your brakes are properly bled for safety, and it’s a straightforward process when you have the right kit. These kits are available at your local tool store and are available in both manual and vacuum-operated varieties.

Work Light

A portable work light provides light where you need it, and the long-lasting LED technology means it will never need to be replaced. Opt for a rechargeable or battery-operated work light that can be easily placed in the area you need it the most.

Conclusion

The proper tools are crucial to successfully conducting your do-it-yourself car repairs. From a complete socket set to the jack stands and torque wrench, these tools will help you with your repair work and ensure your safety. Just always buy good-quality, long-lasting tools, and by all means, go into your local tool shop and ask advice on the best tools for you. Whether you’re changing oil, replacing brakes, or fixing electrical problems, you’re going to need the right tools to get the job done with ease.