Car Tools Every Driver Should Own


Every vehicle owner should have a number of car tools at his or her disposal, invaluable items for when your car breaks down or maintenance needs to be accomplished. Today, we have cell phones and navigation systems for finding help, but it can still be a good idea to have the following tools nearby just in case.

Jack and tire iron - Any car without the means to change a tire is a problem waiting to happen. That used Chevy you bought for your teenage daughter may suit her just fine, but if you bought it without the necessary equipment, then you’re needlessly exposing her to a potential problem. You can find these items at flea markets or head to your local auto supply store to find something new. 

In any case, that tire iron should also have a wrench feature. If not, you’ll be springing for a third part.

Tire pressure gauge - New cars come equipped with tire pressure monitoring systems, but they’re not a substitute for a tire pressure gauge. This little device, which can fit your glove box, is essential and should be brought out at least once a month for checking air pressure. Check the pressure of the spare tire too, because unless your spare has air, you won’t be going anywhere!

Jumper cables - A dead battery often occurs without warning which means when your son leaves work late at night, his car may fail to start. Counting on someone else to have jumper cables is too risky of a proposition, therefore purchase a nice set of black and red cables to have on hand.

Funnel - You never know when you’re going to need to top off some fluids. Carrying the appropriate weight of motor oil with you is important, especially if your car’s engine is old and has a propensity to consume oil. A simple plastic funnel can work wonders just keep some rags on hand or a roll of paper towels to clean the funnel out after each use.

Diagnostic Tool - If you’re looking for a bit more sophistication, then carrying an OBD-II car code scanner is a great way for you to diagnose a problem on the spot. Cars built and sold in the 

Basic scanners supply you with the codes which you’ll need to check separately. More comprehensive scanners also explain what the problem is. Likely, you’ll want to keep this device in your glove box or other safe storage location.

As far as the box goes, any shipping package large enough to hold everything is sufficient. I like to find one with top flaps as you can close it up when not in use. Stick the tire iron and jack in the storage area in your trunk reserved for spare tire, don’t attempt to put it in the box. Include emergency items such as flares, rope and duct tape. Extra hoses and a belt can come in handy too as can pliers, screwdrivers and a hammer or mallet.

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