Tool Shop

Even if you rarely get your hands greasy, there are several tools that every car owner should have. Many of these tools can replace high maintenance costs, as well as headaches. And no car owner would complain to receive anything listed as a gift!

First, the item that every car owner alive should have, without exception, is a diagnostics scanner. For all cars manufactured after 1996, OBDII is the standard for on board diagnostics. Any time your Check Engine Light comes on, you can plug this device in to your OBDII port, and find out what the error code is. With this information, you'll know if you're getting the runaround from your mechanic if they advice something unrelated to the error code. Here are two OBDII scanners, the first is basic and satisfies the vast majority. I own this scanner, and have no complaints. (Update: I have used this scanner on my 99 Integra and it works great. However, it does not read my girlfriend's Mazda 3. I would try to verify that the scanner will work with your car before purchasing). The second is more advanced, for those who want a bit more information from their engine.

If you're electronically adept (I wish I was more like you), then a multi-meter is a must. Even if you're lacking in this area of expertise, a multimeter is an incredidbly useful tool. It enables you to be able to measure anything from battery voltage, assorted motors, various sensors utilized by the ECM, to even windshield washer pumps. A voltmeter will often be the first tool utilized in identifying electrical problems (aside from checking the fuse box).

I used the first one in college, and it did it's job. The second option includes a thermometer, and the third is the most robust (at a price).

 

Lifting your car is essential for many basic repairs or preventative maintenance. Oil changes, tire changes, replacing brake pads, etc. Having a good floor jack, jack stands, and wheel chocks is important to safely get the job done. I purchased the jack below and it's worked great for my Integra. Remember when searching for these products to ensure they are rated above your vehicle's weight.

 

Having a simple way to inflate your tires is always useful. I use a bike pump, but you can also buy portable air compressors that you could leave in your car.

For those of us who actually want to touch an engine, the basics are listed below. Sockets are a must for nearly anything under the hood, and it doesn't hurt to buy socket specifically for spark plugs (I bought the one listed, it's great). For those more serious, many projects require a torque wrench. Also, screwdrivers have many more uses than you realize, so get a good set and enjoy the benefit.

Sometimes installations don't quite go the way you want them to. Here are some tools which are useful for removing stripped nuts and bolts, rusted nuts and bolts, or simply difficult to remove nuts and bolts. This includes socket extractors, penetration oil, and a breaker bar.

Finally, for those who just want to learn more, check out this reading list. See FAQs for more info on these excellent educational books.

Thanks for checking out the tool shop, now get your garage in shape (or your friend's)!