Before we delve into the tools a mechanic needs, we need to ask ourselves, what does an auto mechanic do? An auto mechanic is someone who’s occupation is repairing and maintaining automobiles.
This is someone who can diagnose a problem in a car and come up with a solution. There are all-around mechanics, and then there are those that just concentrate on repairing certain parts. We have been to several garages around the country, and we noticed that there were different mechanics assigned to do different tasks on cars.
For example, there are some that dealt exclusively with the brake system of a vehicle, while others dealt with the gearbox alone. Some dealt with the electrical components of the vehicle, while some dealt exclusively with interior or body work.
Now that we know what a mechanic does, you will note that all the work requires tools to make their job easier. There are many tools that a mechanic needs, and especially if they are beginners.
Beginning can be a very tricky affair because in some instances, the mechanic might not be able to afford all of the tools that they need. In such situations, however, we would recommend that they try and get the most vital tools for their trade.
Another solution would be to get funding from a financial institution. Taking a loan on a start-up company can be a very tricky affair unless you are very sure about your market. That leaves the former option as the more favorable one.
Now that we know what a mechanic does and how they can go about their way if they don’t have enough capital, we are going to look at some of the tools that they need.
Wrench
This is a very important tool in a workshop. It is used to loosen or tighten bolts and nuts, and it comes in different sizes and measurements. The measurements are in both metric and standard, and are to be used according to the measurement standards of the bolts and nuts. It is important to get good-quality wrenches that will last long and ensure that work gets done without the wrenches breaking or bending.
Pliers
Pliers also play a very important part in a mechanic’s toolbox. The serrated jaws can be used for gripping things, while in some types, the jaws are blades that can be used for cutting wire. They come in different types as mentioned here.
- Regular pliers—These are the most common pliers for regular use
- Vise grips—These are the best pliers for gripping or clamping things
- Long and short needle-nose pliers—These are made in a way such that they either have long or short pointed noses, and they can be used for a number of things during repairs
Screwdrivers
They come in an assortment of lengths and thicknesses, and they are ideal for loosening or tightening screws, among other things. These come in both flat and star form. There are a number of types of screwdrivers that would be required in a workshop as mentioned below:
- Stubbed screwdrivers—These are best used in tight spaces and the perfect tool for removing sensors
- Normal length screwdrivers—they are the most common types of screwdrivers used for common tasks
- Long skinny screwdrivers—Characterized by their long rods, they are important for reaching deep or far places
- Heavy-duty flathead screwdriver—This is a screwdriver that can take a beating from a hammer and it can also be used as a pry bar
- Small flathead screwdriver—These are best used during vehicles tune-ups
- Torx screwdrivers—This is a star headed screwdriver that is usually found on sensors
Jack
This is an important tool that is used for lifting the vehicle. You can either get manual or hydraulic jacks.
Hammer
This can be used for hitting parts that need to be forced. They come in three types, namely ball peen, claw, and rubber mallet.
Breaker bar
This is one of the best tools for loosening tough bolts and nuts if you do not have a power tool.
Pry bar
These can be used to gently tear apart components if you don’t have a substitute for leverage.
Headlamp
This is a lamp that can be worn around the head. It works best where there is low lighting, and in situations where you have to work under vehicles.
Conclusion
We could go on and on with the tools, but these are some of the most common tools a mechanic needs in their tool kit. If you’re a DIY mechanic that just likes to work on their own vehicle, then perhaps you don’t have thousands to spend on the best mechanic tools and that’s ok. Check out our top 10 budget friendly mechanics tools list here.
