Some tools are essential for every car
owner, even for owners who usually take their car to a mechanic. There are
common tools that can help people diagnose problems and fix minor car trouble
without turning their garage into an auto parts store. Many of these tools are
also useful around the house. Investing in and using the proper tools can save
money rather than always depending on a mechanic. All car owners should have
five basic tools at their disposal.
Diagnostic
Tool
All cars made after 1996 are required to
contain an onboard diagnostics or OBD port. The vehicle's computer, also called
the engine control unit or ECU, can send diagnostic codes through the port to a
special diagnostic tool. The port is usually under the hood on the driver's
side. Automotive technicians and auto parts stores charge their customers to
use these tools to find out what is wrong with a vehicle. Diagnostic tools are
not cheap, but many of them will work on any car. A good diagnostic tool could
save someone hundreds of dollars. Many tools provide a website where people can
upload diagnostic codes and get helpful information like the parts needed for
repair and the estimated costs. Diagnostic tools are also a great way to check
used cars before purchase.
Socket
Wrenches
A socket wrench has a socket attached at
one end that people usually use to turn a fastener like the ones on hubcaps and
other car parts. The most prevalent form is the ratcheting socket wrench, often
called a ratchet. A metal handle attached to a ratcheting mechanism attaches to
a socket. The socket fits onto a type of bolt or nut. When someone pulls or
pushes the handle in one direction, the ratchet loosens or tightens the bolt or
nut attached to the socket. If they turn it in the other direction, they
reposition the handle for another turn. This ratcheting action lets people
quickly tighten or loosen fasteners. A switch built into the ratchet head
allows the user to apply the ratcheting action in either direction as needed to
tighten or loosen a fastener. The sockets attach to the ratchet through a
square fitting called a drive that contains a spring-loaded mechanism to keep
them in place.
Socket
Sets
A socket set with many interchangeable
sizes and types of sockets saves money and space over having many separate
wrenches, and a ratchet is often included. Almost all screw and bolt types have
sockets made to fit them. Insulated sockets help to prevent electric shock
while working on hybrid or electric cars. A socket extension lets people work
on hard to reach areas.
Screwdrivers
Screwdrivers are useful for repairs around
the house as well as on the car. According to Automedia.com, cars use many
different types of screw heads. Car owners should have a few different sizes
and types of screwdrivers. Phillips and flathead screwdrivers are the most
common types. Stubby screwdrivers are very useful when working in confined
spaces. Long screwdrivers can also help if a part like the radiator or the
transmission is hard to reach. Many screwdrivers come with different heads so
that people will not have to buy several different sizes and types. A
ratcheting screwdriver also helps the user apply more torque in confined
spaces.
Pliers
Pliers
are useful for gripping objects, turning them, bending them, and otherwise
manipulating them. They are great for turning spark plugs as well as cutting,
twisting, and bending wire for stereos, headlights, air conditioning, and more.
- Long Nose Pliers- Round, pointed jaws perfect for twisting and bending wire
- Short Nose Pliers- Good for gripping and holding, especially in tight areas
- Tongue and Groove Pliers- Offset serrated jaws useful for reaching into oddly shaped areas. Long handles allow user to apply leverage
- Diagonal Pliers- Used to cut and shape wire
A plier set is a great way to get all of
these tools in one package. The consumer should double check that the set has a
good selection of plier types and sizes.
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