Regardless of if you’re a new car owner or if you’ve been driving all your life, it’s important to always carry essential car tools with you. We understand that car maintenance may be daunting, but understanding how your car works can save you both time and money in the long run. We’ve put together some of the best tools for cars that should always be in your trunk. These tools will become your emergency car tool kit and should allow you to handle minor repairs and emergencies. Here are the essential car tools we suggest:

• Socket Set – You’ll want to ensure your essential car tool kit is outfitted with a sturdy, fully stocked socket set. We recommend ensuring you have sizes ranging from 6mm to 19mm, a ratchet, an extender, and a hex key.
• Wire Cutters and Pliers – Almost every electrical project requires wire cutters and pliers. This includes rewiring headlights or even installing a new sound system. You’ll thank yourself for having these tools handy.
• Wrench Set – It’s almost impossible to get anything done in your car without a wrench set. Buchheit carries a wide variety of wrench sets that are perfect for your essential car tool kit.
• Screwdriver – You’ll need various shapes and sizes ready whenever you’re working on your car.
• Torque Wrench – The torque wrench is vital to carry with you. This is a specialized ratchet used to set nuts to the proper tightness. When you use a torque wrench, you prevent damage to the bolt and slippage and ensure it’ll be easier to remove the nut the next time.
• Breaker Bar – This long-handled ratchet is used to remove nuts and bolts.
• Impact Wrench – An impact wrench is an optional but handy tool. This is a high-powered tool that provides you with assistance when you need to replace or remove lug nuts quickly and easily.
• Rubber Mallet – A rubber mallet is a perfect example of when you don’t think you’ll need it until you do. These can get you through difficult situations, from removing stuck bolts to straightening bent parts.
• Jacks – If you have to replace a tire or get under your car for repair, a jack is an essential car tool.
• Jack Stands – Every time you lift your car with a jack, it’s highly recommended that you use a jack stand. These keep your car from slipping or shifting while you work on your car.

Whether you’re working at home or using your essential car tool kit on the go, we have the automotive tools you need to get the job done. Our mission is to be able to offer you the best car mechanic tools without breaking the bank. Each automotive tool we carry is made of premium components designed to provide reliable and long-lasting service. Whether you’re looking for a screwdriver, car wax, or a socket wrench, we have the tools you need. Be sure to visit one of our locations throughout the Midwest to discover why we’ve been the trusted store for automotive supplies and tools since 1934.