Essential car DIY tools

CIP4 · 14-02-2016 3:59pm #1

It's simple what do you deem to be important useful tools that any car DIYer should have. I'll start.

Trim removal tools simple but useful for removing trim without damaging it.

https://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/aw/d/B00VPMP9AS/ref=oh_aui_i_sh_in_o0_img?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Next a compact 1/4 inch socket set useful for a variety of jobs on your car. I have this one and find it good. Nice and compact so it can be thrown into the boot and take up little space.

http://www.halfords.ie/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/ProductMobileDisplay?catalogId=15551&langId=-1&categoryId=290505&productId=177537&storeId=11101

154864?$pm_small$

cletus · 14-02-2016 5:42pm

I'll add a set of axle stands or ramps

colm_mcm · 14-02-2016 5:52pm

socket set above everything. the big halfords one is awesome. so many little things you'd end up buying like odd bits, spark plug sockets etc.

Multimeter

breaker bar.

cable ties

biko · 14-02-2016 5:55pm

I find one of my most used tools is a Leatherman multitool I keep in the glovebox. Handy for when sorting small stuff out when not at home (where I keep my toolbox)

mickdw · 14-02-2016 6:00pm

+1 on the multimeter.
Good socket set
2 of every spanner
Torx set
A few screwdrivers
G clamps
brake rewind tool if you fancy
Oil filter wrench to suit your car

bop1977 · 14-02-2016 9:08pm

A Haynes manual. ;-)

nd · 14-02-2016 10:33pm

I actually don't have these myself but working with a friend recently he had a set of long ratchet spanners. They are very very handy and I must get myself a set.

CIP4 · 14-02-2016 10:36pm

nd wrote: »

I actually don't have these myself but working with a friend recently he had a set of long ratchet spanners. They are very very handy and I must get myself a set.

We have a set of them in the shed very handy ratchet ends that also rotate 180 degree I use them a good bit.

Del2005 · 14-02-2016 10:37pm

Decent pressure gauge, the ones in most places are usually miles off.

eringobragh · 14-02-2016 10:39pm

Oil filter cup wrench set - you can buy them individually but it cost about €25 for a set up 15 with different sizes so better just to grab the set.

No dicking about with straps, chains etc :cool:

615bNxJTNBL._SX355_.jpg

nd · 14-02-2016 10:42pm

CIP4 wrote: »

We have a set of them in the shed very handy ratchet ends that also rotate 180 degree I use them a good bit.

The ones the friend had, had a regular ring spanner at one end. So you'd use that to break a nut loose, then use the ratchet end to undo it. Great piece of kit.

johnayo · 14-02-2016 10:44pm

http://www.lidl.ie/en/Offers.htm?action=showDetail&id=36386

One of these.

CIP4 · 14-02-2016 10:44pm

A decent inspection lamp too useful for inspecting cars and working on the engine bay much easier with a proper light. I'm actually looking into buying one of the new type recharagable Chip on board ones far superior to traditional LED lights in terms of light output.

Edit: great minds think alike Johnayo

eringobragh · 14-02-2016 10:48pm

CIP4 wrote: »

A decent inspection lamp too useful for inspecting cars and working on the engine bay much easier with a proper light. I'm actually looking into buying one of the new type recharagable Chip on board ones far superior to traditional LED lights in terms of light output.

Edit: great minds think alike Johnayo

Headlamp as well - so you can use your hands if your solo

Got an adjustable CREE one from China a few years ago and it solid only got €3 at the time - takes 3 AAAs

Similar to these lads

http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/CREE-1000LM-LED-Headlamp-Flashlight-Zoomable-Headlight-Torch-Bike-Riding-Lamp-SP-/281586962947?hash=item418fe41203:g:g4YAAOSwm8VU0JXY