Tools No Mechanic Should Be Without

A mechanic’s tools are essential for the job and investing in good ones over time is how many do it. There are many tool options available, so prioritizing tools that most people need first is a smart investment.

The Tool Conundrum

In the USA, mechanics provide their own tools most places. This leads to a high cost of entry into the mechanic’s field, even though there is a mechanic shortage. Shops figure that if they buy the tools, the tools will break or disappear. So new mechanics must prioritize their tool purchases based on what they make and do.

Basic Toolset

Often, these are sold with hundreds of parts. A good toolset can help mechanics work around tools they have not yet purchased. Look for toolsets with ratchet sets, pliers, wrenches, screwdrivers, and hammers. Having these solid basics means more than having many fancy extras.

Drill and Bits

A drill can speed up any mechanic’s work when used correctly. Power drills are great tools, though the more compact impact drills often work better for the compact spaces mechanic work requires sometimes.

Grinder

Grinders are a wonderfully useful for mechanics, and one with a myriad of uses. Grinding can help remove a stubborn bolt, help a part fit, and much more. It’s one of the many multipurpose machines in a mechanic’s arsenal.

Torque Wrench

Torque wrenches, especially digital ones, offer a unique option. Mechanics use these to apply a specific amount of pressure, which is useful when securing fasteners. Often used in specific operations like tire changing, a good torque wrench saves time.

Ratchet Extender

Often, mechanics need to reach difficult places and tighten things up. Ratchet extenders make that job infinitely easier. They come in various lengths, and a quality set reaches almost anywhere in the frame.

Vice Grips

Prizing rusted or stubborn bolts is part of the mechanic’s job description. Even on newer vehicles, there may be a stubborn bolt here and there. Vice grips are also useful while placing new pieces.

Code Reader

While shops may provide specific code readers for their specialties, having a general code reader is helpful. As computers become more sophisticated, the code readers will become more important than ever. They will also supply more useful data over time.

Out of Sight Options

At times, every mechanic will need out of sight options to secure connections. Whether it’s pliers or a ratchet set, each helps quickly complete jobs with minimal strain. Those options are priceless when working in and around vehicles all day.

Vice Grips

Prizing rusted or stubborn bolts is part of the mechanic’s job description. Even on newer vehicles, there may be a stubborn bolt here and there. Vice grips are also useful while placing new pieces.

Storage

Part of having tools is knowing where they are and accessing them quickly. Whether the choice uses drawers, cabinets, or even holds the distinct cases of each tool set, storage is a paramount consideration with tools.

Additionally, all storage option must be mobile. Mechanics never know when they will need to move to a new workspace or reorganize themselves.