10 Best Automotive Hand Tools

Automotive hand tools have been helping mechanics and freelancers fix cars for years. Automotive hand tools came from a variety of vendors and improved over the years. Automotive hand tools have the advantage of repairing cars with little effort. Standard hand tools can do the job, but the tools may not be right for the job.

Many store mechanics want to invest in tool programs such as Snap On Tools, Mac Tools or Matco Tools. Other technicians or freelance mechanics may choose to purchase their own tools depending on their preference and budget. Budget tools may be good enough for the job at hand, but they may not be as adaptable to some conditions as higher-end tools.

To figure out which tools you need, it's best to first determine what you'll be working on.

Check out the following top 10 automotive hand tools recommended for you at an affordable price and good quality. The tools are ranked by quality so you can decide what best suits your needs.

Image: Harbor Freight

This tool kit for the experienced repairer contains a complete set of the most commonly used automotive and work tools, including adjustable wrenches, pliers and bits in SAE and metric grades. Constructed from durable chrome vanadium alloy, this genuine repair kit is built to last. This set comes in an individual storage case to keep your devices organized and safe.

This tool kit comes with a set of ¼", ⅜" and ½" wrenches. It also comes with 10 chrome vanadium protruding wrenches and 1 rolling wrench, 3 chrome vanadium pliers, 16 chrome vanadium screwdrivers, 8 precision screwdrivers, 42 carbon steel hex keys and a stylish case.

Buy this Harbor Freight tool kit from www.harbourfreight.com.

9. Stanley - Mixed Tool Set, 210 Pieces - $99.00

Image: Stanley

This set offers a full range of SAE and metric sizes fixtures and drives, bringing together the most common devices for easy openness. Stanley driven tools are made from premium steel and are plated with high purity chrome. The clasp handles are ergonomically designed and feature an easy-to-use thumb operated reverse switch component. Attachments and augmentations remain bolted to the actuator until they are separated with an easy to use low profile quick release latch.

Stanley bits highlight the Max-Drive Contour, a one-of-a-kind corner rounding plan that delivers increased torque to secure the fastener effectively and improve the turn of adjusted corners. This design reduces clasp wear by minimizing contact with the outer 5% of the clasp.

All Stanley fasteners, fixtures and wrenches are manufactured entirely with Stanley parts to meet and often exceed ANSI specifications.

Buy this Stanley tool kit on Amazon.

Image: Sears

The 192-piece Dewalt mechanical set offers a variety of mechanical elements. These pieces feature knurled rings that provide a non-slip holding surface, as well as laser-etched deep markings for easy mount size recognition.

The 5-degree circular rotation of the segment and the thin contour of the head are ideal for mobility in areas of constriction. The 72 tooth gear cage is designed for high torque tightening. The directional safety lever position reduces gear grinding and is designed for easy one-handed use. The set comes in a durable case for easy storage and maintenance.

Buy this Dewalt tool kit from overstock.com.

7. Husky - 349-Piece Mechanical Tool Set - $229.00

Image: Home Depot

The Husky 349-piece comes with a ¼", ⅜", and ½" tool kit. The ½" Drive Mechanics Tool Set includes one of the most versatile tools in the Husky line. With 168 different standard and compound sockets, plus 20 mixed wrenches and 19 sockets, you'll be able to handle any fixing or repair task. This 349-piece Husky tool kit makes the perfect kit for the professional handyman or repairman.

Buy this Husky tool kit from homedepot.com.

Image: Home Depot

This 297-piece set contains all the bits, wrenches and pliers you need for minor engine repairs and other mechanical parts. Tools are made from 45C carbon steel or chrome vanadium steel, heat treated and chrome plated for added strength. The handles of the device are made of double recessed plastic for a secure and pleasant hold. The housings of the devices are made of additional durable materials. All units meet or exceed ANSI standards. There, tools can last for years with proper care.

Buy this Apollo tool kit from homedepot.com.

5. Cobalt - Standard (SAE) & Metric 432 Piece Mechanic's Tool Kit - $199.00

Image: Lowes

This Kobalt set contains a very utilitarian arrangement of standard (according to the Society of Automotive Engineers) and metric sockets, gearless torques, bit sockets, wrenches, grouped bits and hex wrenches, quick release wrenches and expansion rods. Standard and metric gearless torques using a roller bearing drive will indicate if the latch needs to be locked in, allowing the wrench to perform excellently in very tight spaces. Most devices meet or exceed ANSI standards. In addition, the devices are made of chrome vanadium steel for high quality and durability, with a fully cleaned chrome plating. Devices are color coded to easily distinguish between SAE (red) and metric (blue) devices. All clasps feature Quick-discharge illumination with a 72-tooth fine gear for a pleasant curve.

Buy this Kobalt tool kit from lowes.com.

4. Bostitch - 318 Piece Socket/Wrench Set (1/4, 3/8, 1/2) - $229.25

Image: Walmart

Bostitch repairers are ideal for professionals and car enthusiasts. Whether you're working in the garage or on the construction site, this line of Bostitch mechanical tools offers a wide range of tools including ratchets, bits, wrenches and more. All Bostitch tools carry the Bostitch Lifetime Warranty. These devices are designed for professionals and work conscientiously. There is a heavy duty ratchet with 72 teeth for low round segment rotation, high torque tightening and better accessibility. The unit includes a plate for simple storage in store cabinets. Most attachments have anti-slip rings for a secure grip.

Buy this Bostitch tool kit from walmart.com.

Image: Sears Outlet

When you're dealing with intensive engine jobs, you can be sure that the 348-piece Craftsman mechanical tool set will help you take good care of the business. Designed for force setting flares, spinning headers, attaching engine squares and securing channel mounts, this tool set is built to withstand the toughest tasks you have as a top priority. Emphasizing a wide range of hand tools, it will help you when you are doing a wide range of jobs, from machines to small motors and occasional chores around the house. The box encases devices precision machined from high quality alloy steel that will withstand excessive torque throughout their lifetime. Whether you're completely behind the car or up to your elbows in the engine, this kit takes care of it all.

Buy this Craftsman tool kit from searsoutlet.com.

2. Craftsman - 540 Piece Mechanical Tool Set with 84T Ratchet - $584.93 - $909.93

Image: Sears Outlet

There is nothing more frustrating than being left without the best tools right in the middle of a simple or complex undertaking. The Craftsman mechanics set of 540 parts ensures this never happens again. It comes with screwdrivers, dynamometers, wrenches, 84-tooth ratchets and more. This set will not disappoint you, from simple operations such as changing the battery and settings, to traction motors and changing brakes.

Buy this Craftsman tool kit from searsoutlet.com.

Image: Nordic instrument

Klutch's massive 566-piece toolbox includes a wide range of tools that combine to help you get the job done efficiently in a variety of work environments (including tight spaces). The marks on the instruments are designed to be easy to read. This set comes with a lifetime warranty.

Buy this Klutch tool kit from northtool.com.

Inexpensive and high-quality tools are what all mechanics would like to spend their hard-earned earnings on. Be sure to choose the automotive hand tool set that best suits your needs. If you have any questions about buying automotive hand tools, ask your mechanic for help on how to go about it.