How to Buy Basic Automotive Tools

Every car owner should have basic tools at home for keeping a car running or for doing minor repairs. Tools should have insulated grips (rubber or plastic-coated) for extra protection. Keep tools in a box where they can stay dry, and clean off grease, dirt and especially water after using them. You'll find many of these tools at hardware stores and auto supply stores.

Difficulty:

Easy

Instructions

1. Figure out the extent of your capability. There's no need buying a slew of auto-repair tools if your maintenance knowledge is limited. However, that doesn't mean a novice can't repair minor damage.

2. Start simple. Buy a set of adjustable wrenches and a lug wrench, funnels, a jack and jumper cables. Stock up on some cleaning supplies and auto-only towels and rags to deal with oil spills and greasy hands.

3. Act like a pro. Even with limited knowledge, you can purchase a continuity tester to examine electrical circuits. They're fairly cheap, too. Buy a rubber mallet if you feel comfortable hammering out dings and making small body repairs.

4. Consult an auto mechanic on what's necessary. Just like a chef and his knife, a carpenter and his hammer, an auto mechanic usually has a couple of small, cheap must-have auto-maintenance tools. Ask around to see what you should get to begin your collection.

Tips & Warnings

• Never work underneath a jacked-up car. Jacks are not very stable and are meant for changing tires only. Use a proper automotive lift or wheel ramps (along with tire chocks and a set parking brake) designed for working under a car.