Tools for the home mechanic

The right tools can make any job easier. Knowing how to use the tools also helps. Those delving into some do-it-yourself automotive work will soon find that there are certain tools that can make the work go more smoothly.

You do not need to have every automotive tool available to be successful with repairs. Once you know how tools function, which ones are essential and which ones are likely unnecessary, it might save you time and money to work on your car yourself.

* Jack stands: Oftentimes working on a car means getting underneath the body of the vehicle. Propping the car up on a jack alone is dangerous, therefore you should rely on jack stands instead. These are strong steel supports that reduce the chance of the car slipping or moving while elevated. Even better than one jack stand is two, which will offer more stability.

* Torque wrench: There are a variety of lugs and nuts on a vehicle that will need tightening at some point. Precision is the name of the game with tightening, as something that is too loose can fall off and something tightened too much can break or become stripped. There are electronic torque wrenches that can offer a specific digital readout on the amount of torque being applied.

* Oil filter wrench: This device is used to remove the spin-off canister top of oil filters. For those who plan on saving some money doing their own oil changes, this is an essential tool.

* Small-scale wrench set: Working inside of a car engine usually means fitting into tight spots. Full-sized tools may not be able to maneuver in all those tight crevices. Wrenches that are half the size of traditional ones may have more maneuverability.

* Socket set: Again, a socket set can prove invaluable with the various nuts and bolts on a car. An ergonomic socket set makes loosening and tightening even easier.

* Spare tire: Invest in a full-sized spare tire in the event you have a blow-out or need to change a tire that has a puncture in it.

* Funnel: A funnel helps direct liquids with minimal spillage when filling up the fluid reservoirs of the car, be it motor oil, windshield washer fluid, etc.

* Goggles and gloves: Protecting the eyes and hands while working in the engine or under the body of the car is a priority. Hot engine parts and kicked-up debris can make work dangerous. DIYers should always don gloves and goggles to protect themselves.

* Lighting: Flashlights, tool lights and even a high-powered work lamp can illuminate the caverns of the engine, making the project safer and easier.

Whether you're a professional or a do-it-yourselfer, having the right tools makes a difference when making automotive repairs.