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Working on your own auto repair is a great way to save time and money. In addition, knowing the inner workings of your own vehicle improves dramatically when you understand how everything works together. But to do this valuable work, you need to have a good mechanics tool set to assure your maintenance and repairs will go smoothly.
The mechanics tool sets on the market today are varied and wide. You can find one that suits your level of expertise whether you are just learning this skill or are a talented professional.
This guide will help you understand what you should look for in a good mechanics tool set no matter what your car repair needs. Here are the top ten mechanics tool sets on the market today.
What is a Mechanics Tool Set?
Contents
A mechanics tool set is a collection of tools to help you make most, if not all of your car repair needs. A good mechanics tool set comes in its own carrying case which means you will have a designated place for every single tool to keep you organized in a way that makes total sense.
Mechanics tool sets come in a range of sizes. With a basic set, you can manage most common repairs, such as changing your oil or replacing spark plugs. With more sophisticated sets you can have the auxiliary items you need on hand, such as tools to cut wires or to unscrew tricky connectors.
The Standard of Automotive Engineering (SAE) is a measurement system that all auto makers comply to. You will find tools that meet this standard in the mechanics tool sets available today. In addition, most sets include metric versions of the tools to comply with the design and characteristics of foreign cars.
What are the Advantages of Mechanics Tool Sets?
Whether you are skilled at basic car repair or have a complete working knowledge of the intricacies of automotive engines, having your own set of tools specifically for mechanics saves you time and money. Purchasing these items individually as you need them will cost many times more what you can pay for a complete set.
Even if you aren’t mechanically inclined yourself, having a set of mechanics tools in the trunk of your car can be to your advantage. A good mechanics tool set might be just the thing someone offering assistance would need to help get you back on your way if you end up getting stuck on the side of the road.
Finally, having your own mechanics tool set will give you that edge if you are learning automotive repair. Instead of borrowing what you need, you can become familiar with your own set as you develop your skills and gain vital knowledge.
What are the Types of Mechanics Tool Sets?
Basically, mechanics tool sets come in different levels of complexity. A basic bare bones package includes combination wrenches which feature a closed end on one end of the wrench and an open end on the other. A basic set is useful for most car brands, regardless of a vehicle’s nation of origin.
Moving up the scale of available mechanics tool sets you will find additional types of tools included. Drive tools, such as screwdrivers, extenders, and socket wrenches can help you tackle bigger jobs.
Finally, the comprehensive mechanics tool sets include a wide variety of items you may need for specialized jobs, such as wire cutters, pliers, cable extenders, and clips.
What Mechanics Tool Sets are the Best on the Market?
Performance Tool W1069 22 Piece Mechanics Tool Set
This is a useful basic set that can address your simple car-repair needs. With both metric and SAE sizes, you are set to work on just about any vehicle make or model.
Stanley STMT71654 201-Piece Mechanics Tool Set
This kit gives you the next level of supplies beyond the standard auto wrenches. Both both drivers and ratchets are included in ample supply to help you complete some to the more complicated auto repair jobs.
WorkPro W009028A 229-Piece Mechanic Tool Kit
This comprehensive mechanics tool set includes the basics plus pliers, both needle-nosed and standard, a hacksaw, a snap-off blade knife, and an adjustable wrench. These additional items assure your ability to tackle most any auto repair project.
Features to Consider
Warranty
Purchasing a mechanics tool set means you are making an investment. The best way to protect that investment is to select a product that has a viable warranty. You want to protect against any damage, whether that be in the quality of construction or the function of the tool. Look for a warranty that covers you for a reasonable period of time. Some mechanics tool sets come with a lifetime warranty. Be sure you register your product after purchase to establish your warranty rights.
Durability
Nobody wants a tool that breaks while you’re working. Look for a mechanics tool set that offers high quality construction in steel and alloyed materials. In addition, look for handles and connectors that are built to last. A tool that fits into your hand in such a way that you do not have to strain so hard to use it adds to a tool’s durability and function. Lastly, since your mechanics tool set may spend time in the car or in an out-building such as a shop or garage, make sure you select a set that won’t be impacted by heat and cold.
Versatility
A mechanics tool set that allows you to tackle just about any auto repair or maintenance task will be a friend for life. Look for a set that provides all you need in one spot so you don’t waste time searching through drawers for that one special tool you need to get the job done. Also, consider the benefit of replaceable extenders and connectors so that you can reach any spot. With auto engines growing more compact, getting the right angle to reach the deepest areas can be troublesome. The versatility you can gain with a comprehensive mechanics tool set will give you the advantage in servicing your engine.
Organization
Many tool owners have good intentions when they think about how they’ll store their tools for easy access later. Let the design of a good mechanics tool set help you in this quest. Many of the sets offered come with their own carrying case that provides the organization you need with fitted grooves, drawers, and wells for the various tools. Staying organized saves you time and aggravation, so pick a mechanics tool set that takes care of this work for you.
Warranty:
Performance Tool W1069 – this tool set comes with a manufacturer’s warranty. Upon receipt of the product you can register it with Performance Tool.
Stanley STMT71654 – Stanley tools offer a lifetime warranty on all their products. You can write directly to the manufacturer is you need assistance with returns and claims.
WorkPro W009028A – WorkPro products are manufactured in China by Hangzhou Great Star Industries. Some products are covered by warranty. The manufactures information is included with the product.
Durability:
Performance Tool W1069 – These tools are made of steel in India. They do not have the same rigid strength as alloyed steels, but they are useful for low force adjustments. If you need to release a fastener that’s super tight, consider adding a bit of lube before using the tool to ease the tension.
Stanley STMT71654 – These tools are made from high quality steel and sealed with nickel chrome or black chrome. To enhance the function of the tools, the ratchet set has it’s own thumb release reverse switch. The extenders and sockets are attached to the drive via a lock mechanism rather than a grooved twist that could eventually become stripped. All these features contribute to a standard in durability that Stanley has become known for.
WorkPro W009028A – WorkPro tools are made of steel and feature a chrome-vanadium (Cr-V) alloy which makes them strong and durable and unlikely to corrode. The handles for the drivers are wide and easy to grasp. The pliers have a somewhat spongy grip to avoid slipping typically caused by slick plastic. The carrying case is a durable metal box.
Versatility:
Performance Tool W1069 – This mechanics tool set is designed for your most basic car repair needs.
Stanley STMT71654 – The Stanley set gives you more function and versatility in addressing all your mechanical issues. This set allows more options for getting to hard to reach places and provides features that give the mechanic more flexibility in tool selection.
WorkPro W009028A – With the WorkPro you have all the tools you need for mechanical repairs right at your fingertips. Not only do the wrenches come in the typical auto repair sizes, but the drivers, ratchets, and sockets come in all the sizes you’d need for American, European, and Asian model vehicles.
Organization:
Performance Tool W1069 – The Performance Tool set comes with it’s own carrying case designed to keep your wrenches orderly and organized.
Stanley STMT71654 – This Stanley set comes with its own box that has a designated place for each item in the set. The grips are strong to keep everything in place regardless of how the box may tip or get jostled in the trunk of your car or bed of your truck.
WorkPro W009028A – The WorkPro metal case has a set of drawers. There are areas for the different types of tools, but you can decide how to organize them. A word of caution, since the set-up allows you to organize as you like, you may find items get rearranged when the box tips. This may be a non-issue if you plan to keep your mechanics tool set on a workbench. The ability to organize it in a way that makes sense to you can be a plus.
Our Mechanics Tool Set Reviews
Best Cheap: Performance Tool W1069
This is a great basic set for someone who wants to be able to do quick jobs without a lot of fuss.
Pros:
These combination wrenches come in both SAE and metric sizes, so you are likely to find the corrects size for your repairs. The carrying case easily fits in your trunk and keeps each wrench both visible and secure. The low price means you don’t have to spend much money to be able to work on your own car.
Cons:
This set offers the bare minimum, so you will likely be able to do only the most basic repairs. If you already have other tools, such as pliers and screwdrivers handy, then this set could definitely round out your car repair tools.
Best For the Money: Stanley STMT71654 201-Piece Mechanics Tool Set
Stanley is known for quality and innovative designs.
Pros:
These tools are ergonomically create less strain on your wrist. The added thumb-operated reverse switch saves you the aggravation of having to reset and operate the ratchet. Both SAE and metric sockets and drive tools come in a complete size range. The Stanley design has an answer to securing fasteners with rounded corners, and this same design prevents wear on fasteners without compromising on security.
Cons:
The case itself is pretty secure and can be difficult to open. The pieces inside are also so snug that you might need a flat head screwdriver to pry them out. On the plus side, you won’t be losing these tools.
Best Overall: WorkPro W009028A 229-Piece Mechanic Tool Kit
The WorkPro is a great buy due to its versatility and comprehensive array of tools.
Pros:
This is an intuitive set that anticipates all your potential needs for car maintenance. It carries way beyond the standard tools in a mechanics tool set, even going as far as including a mini hack-saw. The tools are Cr-V (chrome vanadium) which increases their durability. The addition of an adjustable wrench assures that you can still handle any bolt that’s slightly off size due to wear.
Cons:
While the carrying-case is durable, the drawers need to lined up just right to slide in. Use caution to prevent the drawers from jamming.
Conclusion
Being able to do your own auto repair can save you precious time and money. If you have the right set of tools, you can make progress more quickly. A good mechanics tool set will help you stay organized and productive by supplying the tools you need for any auto maintenance or repair. With a variety of options available to you, you can find a mechanics tool set that will meet your level of expertise. Whether you are just starting out as a “do it yourself” weekend warrior or if you are a well-seasoned mechanic, the right mechanics tool set is out there for you.