Basic Tools

Here is a list of basic tools every beginning mechanic needs to work on 95% of vehicles. I’m assuming you want to do basic things such as oil changes, brake pad/rotor/caliper swaps, basic engine repairs such as spark plugs and valve clearances, and finally general fluid swaps. I am preferential to Harbor Freight, and I will be posting links/pictures of the tools using Harbor Freight tools as an example. However, tools are universal, so feel free to use whatever your preference is. This list is written as a list of priorities. This means that, for example, if you want to change your rear differential fluid, you should have all the tools needed to do an oil change, as the majority of tools needed for an oil change (such as an drip pan) will be needed for both repairs.

Generic tools:

  1. Combination Wrenches (SAE and Metric, recommend having 2 sets)

  2. Socket Wrenches (1/4 inch, 3/8ths inch, and 1/2 inch drive both SAE and Metric)

  3. Socket extensions (2 inch, 4 inch, 6 inch, and 8 inch)

  4. Breaker bar (1/2 inch drive)

  5. Torque Wrench

  6. Floor Jack (3 ton works for most vehicles)

  7. Jack Stands (4 stands. Ensure they’re made of steel. Project Farm has a good video on safe jack stands)

  8. Screwdriver set (Long and short flathead, phillips/crosshead, T/star pattern)

  9. Hex/Allen Keys (SAE and Metric)

  10. Rubber Mallet

  11. Steel Hammer

  12. Torch

  13. Flashlight/headlamp

  14. Shop towels/paper towels

  15. Magnet

  16. Pliers (Regular, needle nose, and diagonal cutters)

  17. Magnetic Bowl

Oil Change:

  1. Drip Pan/Bucket

  2. Funnel

  3. Oil Filter Wrench (for screw on cannister filters)

Brakes (Up to a caliper swap/fluid flush):

  1. Impact screwdriver (some vehicles have a small bolt that bolts the rotor to the wheel bearing, and it often is rust-welded on)

  2. Caliper Piston Compression Tool

  3. Hose clamps

  4. Brake Caliper grease

  5. Brake Fluid vacuum Extractor (air compressor required/not required)

Fluid Flush/Change (Includes differentials, transfer cases, powersteering pumps, coolant

  1. Fluid Pump

  2. Funnels (Ensure you do not mix funnels that you use for oil with those you use for coolant)

  3. Coolant drip pan (Same issue as noted above).

Electrical:

  1. Digital Multimeter

  2. Crimping/Wire stripping tool

  3. Wire Stripping Gun

Ball Joints/Steering/Wheel Bearings):

(Note that vehicles will require different different tools to replace components in this section. My Chevy Suburban has a bolt on wheel bearing, but most Honda Civics use a press on, which requires a slide hammer to remove. Consult a maintenance manual on the tools necessary for the repair before you spend hundreds of dollars on tools).

  1. Ball Joint Separator

  2. Slide Hammer

  3. Grease gun

  4. Inner Tie Rod Removal tool

  5. Pitman Arm Puller

  6. Bearing Separator/Puller

  7. Bearing/Seal Driver