Are specialized tools really needed for DIY car repair and maintenance projects? Or can you get by with just a toolbox of general automotive tools? Here’s one example demonstrating why if you are a DIY type, you just might want to consult a repair manual to see what it takes to perform repairs before buying a new or used vehicle you are not familiar with.
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Your Toolbox Might Not Be Enough
If there is one maxim when it comes to working on cars it is that “You must use the right tool for the job.” Unfortunately, this means sometimes you have to reach deep not into your toolbox, but into your wallet to secure the tool you really need.
In the past I have been guilty of using the wrong tool, but only because it was the closest tool I had readily on hand to perform a specific task. More times than I care to remember, the end result was botching the repair and winding up having to redo the job and usually at a cost that was more than if I had just been patient and bought the tool I really needed in the first place before continuing with a repair.
Fortunately, however, many cars can be worked on with just a box of basic automotive tools. But there are those makes and models that I refer to as being "tool-needy" that I would not touch with a 10-foot extension bar.
That said, here’s a good video example that serves to demonstrate a tool-needy vehicle and why you should carefully research and reconsider buying some used car models if you plan to DIY your repairs. In other words, a good start is to beg, borrow, or buy a repair manual that will often recommend the tools needed for a task to see if your toolbox…and you, are up to the task before buying that used car.
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Another added value to this video is that it also showcases some tools that are really useful to work on many vehicle models that are not commonly found in most toolboxes.
Subaru Tools That You Need in Your Toolbox!
And finally…
For informative articles about tools and tool shopping, here are a few helpful pieces for your consideration:
• Best Tools for the DIY Home Mechanic
• Mechanic Responds to Harbor Freight Tool Shaming
• 25 Tools Under $15 Every Toolbox Needs from Harbor Freight
Timothy Boyer is a Torque News automotive reporter based in Cincinnati. Experienced with early car restorations, he regularly restores older vehicles with engine modifications for improved performance. Follow Tim on Twitter at @TimBoyerWrites for daily new and used vehicle news.
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