A well-equipped car tool kit can help you handle minor repairs, maintenance tasks, and emergencies on the road. Here’s a detailed list of items that should be included in a comprehensive car tool kit:
Basic Tools
Screwdrivers (All shapes and in various sizes and lengths).
Pliers
Small, large adjustable, needle nose, and locking models.
Combination Wrenches
One adjustable wrench.
One set of metric and one set of standard wrenches in assorted sizes.
Socket Set
Choose a set with short and deep sockets. Sockets designed for impact wrenches are stronger and less likely to crack as compared to chrome sockets. Make sure you have metric and standard sizes. 6-point sockets are less likely to strip than 12-point sockets.
Ratchet wrench.
Have socket extensions and universal wobble attachments for hard to reach bolts.
Always have an extendible magnetic pickup tool for when that crucial socket drops down into an inaccessible spot beside the engine.
Tool bag (Preferably nylon or canvas. Plastic tool boxes can crack in cold weather)
Battery Tools
Jumper Cables
Portable Jump Starter
Portable jump starters can jump-start your car without another vehicle. Carry the charger with you for recharging at hotels. Make sure it is of sufficient power for your engine size. Recharge it after every use and only use it according to the manufacturer’s directions. Make sure it has accessories to charge your phone also. Check the battery level often and recharge after every use.
Cutting and Gripping Tools
Utility knife
Survival saw
Wire Cutters, Strippers, and Electrical Repair Kit
For electrical repairs and installations.
Multitool
A versatile tool with various functions. Keep it on your belt so you always have a basic tool.
Electrical Tools
Electrical tape (For insulating electrical wires and connections.)
Multimeter (For checking electrical circuits and battery voltage.)
A selection of common fuses for your vehicle.
Fasteners and Adhesives
Zip ties for securing loose items.
Strong multi-purpose tape for temporary fixes.
Super glue or epoxy (For quick repairs).
Safety and Maintenance Items
Gloves and eye protection
LED flashlight with extra batteries.
Carry a headlight for hands-free repairs or first aid situations.
Penetrating oil or similar lubricant (For loosening bolts and general lubrication).
Replacement engine and drive belts (especially for snowmobiles) and air filters.
Fluids
A few bottles of the proper grade of motor oil.
Transmission fluid
Pre-mixed antifreeze
Washer fluid.
Additional Useful Items
Bungee cords for securing items in place.
A small hammer for general use.
Hex Keys (Metric and standard sizes).
Measuring tape
Valve stem tool (For replacing tire valve stems).
Rags and paper towels
Emergency Gear
Food, water clothing, and other vital items if you can’t make it home right away.
Reflective triangle or flares and a reflective vest (To increase visibility during a roadside emergency).
Shovel, traction aids, and a tow rope
Emergency blanket
Vehicle-Specific Items
A spare tire (Inspect the spare often and make sure it holds air.)Tire Pressure Gauge
Tire repair kit (Includes plugs, sealant, and tools to fix a puncture. Plug repair sets should be only used according to manufacturers’ directions.)
Jack, and Lug Wrench
Ensure these are in good condition and you know how to use them.
Consider carrying a larger traditional crossed tire iron or long breaker bar and socket for easier lug nut loosening or tightening. Manufacturer-provided lug wrenches can be very short and will not provide much leverage. Cordless battery-powered impact wrenches are handy but storing them in a cold car can damage the batteries.
Carry a foam kneeling pad for roadside repairs or use a floor mat.
Owner’s Manual
For troubleshooting and maintenance instructions specific to your vehicle. Take time to view online videos about basic troubleshooting for your model of vehicle.
Take time to read your vehicle manual front to back for less understood functions. You will be surprised by what you never knew about the car you have been driving for years. Example: Where to find your fuel pump reset switch which can trip off even after low-speed bumps.
This list of tools is not all inclusive and the type of tools and emergency items you carry depends on your personal needs, priorities, and unique circumstances. By keeping these tools and items in your vehicle, you’ll be better prepared to handle a variety of minor repairs and maintenance tasks on the road. Regularly check and update your tool kit to ensure everything is in working order and ready when you need it. Consider high visibility tools to prevent loss. Keep tools in the tool kit until needed, never lay tools on the ground and avoid misplacing them under the hood. Keep up with your vehicle’s maintenance and have all systems examined by a qualified mechanic at regular intervals according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. Speak to mechanics who have experience repairing your model of vehicle to gain useful knowledge. Do not attempt repairs that are beyond your scope of safety or ability to avoid making things worse or injuring yourself.
