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Handy DIY Auto Repair Tools Every Vehicle Lover Should Have

If you're thinking of mending your old car or keeping a fresh new model in mint condition, you can very well ditch the auto shop and start performing DIY car maintenance with the right tools - whether you're a beginner or a pro! The primary obstacle to auto repair isn't always a lack of patience or knowledge, sometimes it’s rather a shortage of resources. With the possibility of electrical repair and a variety of other standard maintenance tasks and potential unforeseen emergencies, the list of items you'll need might be lengthy.


Here’s where carefully picking the handiest and most economical DIY auto repair tools comes into play for every auto enthusiast! Learn more about the ultimate guide to building a DIY toolkit on our blog! You can also read our interesting articles on the important issue of the right to repair.


In the article:

Why DIY?

With your own auto repair tools, not only will you save time and money, but you will also acquire the confidence to perform repairs on your own. Regardless, you can't just take your regular toolkit to the garage; auto tools differ from those of, say, a carpenter. And, these days, a googling session can take you through almost any problem you'll encounter, whether it's as basic as a spark plug replacement or as complex as replacing the brake pads of your vehicle. 


So, how do you start? To begin with, create a realistic budget depending on the sort of repairs and maintenance you want to perform. Do you intend to perform minor maintenance, or have you considered rotating your tires and making repairs to your cooling, suspension, and electrical systems? The market costs differ for each of these activities.


Setting Up Your Home Garage Kit

A word of caution for all vehicle lovers: before handling any tools or equipment, read, follow, and comprehend all manufacturer's directions for appropriate and safe usage.


Covering Your Bases

There are some starter tools that every do-it-yourselfer should have in their kit:


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Screwdrivers are the most often used DIY tools. Consider getting a pair with softer, more ergonomic grips. This design delivers the most turning power while requiring the least amount of effort. They are an excellent investment.


Pliers are essential DIY equipment. Purchase a set that contains a diagonal wire cutter, slip-joint, needle-nose and groove, and arc-joint pliers.


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A cordless drill and driver, as well as drill bits and impact nut drivers, are required for almost every home or vehicle repair activity.


Allen wrenches (also known as hex keys) are still used in automobiles and trucks. To remove and tighten cap screws, you'll need a set of these.


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Zip ties are handy for organizing and securing wires and connections.


Adding The Advancements

If you're like most auto aficionados, your "quick fix" will almost certainly turn into a permanent repair – unknowingly, of course.


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Pry bars come in a variety of sizes. Small ones, the size of a pair of scissors, are useful for removing audio components from your vehicle's dashboard or the inner door panel. Larger ones can be used to delicately remove dents and to inspect the ball joints of a vehicle.


A decent tire gauge is invaluable. It tells you whether your tires are over-or under-inflated. The perks of well-inflated tires include less wear and tear, reduced likelihood of a blowout, a smoother ride, and improved fuel efficiency.


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A heavy-duty magnet will attract screws, bolts, and other metal objects, reducing back strain. A heavy-duty magnet may also help you hang onto loose metal components during auto repairs, so you don't have to scramble to find them when it's time to put things back together.


For more articles on everything auto-related, don't forget to head over to our blog

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Eric Smith
Right To Repair Advocate
A DIY geek, Eric combines his passion for automobiles and his deep engagement with right to repair issues to empower vehicle owners everywhere.