I recently got started doing my own auto maintenance - and when first got started there seemed to be an endless list of tools that I didn't have. (It seemed everyone else had a 'Dads garage' full of stuff) But now that I've done some more, I have a list that does 95% of my work. Just figure I'd share and also see what others use. If you're thinking about getting into working on your car this is what I need to keep both of my cars going well.
- Metric socket wrench set with extensions. Also deep sockets, flex-extensions, and ratcheting wrenches. Must-have. Basic screwdrivers, wrenches, and pliers. ($200 for Craftsman)
- 18" Breaker bar and 13/16 socket for lugnuts and loosening big bolts ($25)
- Torque wrench (harbor freight - $25)
- Dead-blow mallet and PB Blaster for loosening big bolts ($20) (use with breaker bar)
- Oxygen sensor socket, Oil Pressure Sensor socket, Oil filter removal socket ($20 total)
- Rubber gloves, bag-o-rags, shop paper towels ($10)
- Craftsman 3-ton floor jack and 4 jackstands ($150)
- 5-quart Mobil 1 oil jugs for transporting old oil.
- Brake parts cleaner, carb cleaner ($6)
- plastic funnel with tube, plastic oil drain pan ($10)
- factory service manual (ebay $60)
Total: $525. (paid for within one brake job and dealer 60k service)
Dave