If you decide you want to start tackling some of your automotive repairs and care, you will need some basic tools and equipment. Here is what I recommend:

Must haves:

• Basic socket wrench set with both short and deep sockets-- $20 on the low end
• Socket wrench extender set-- about $12
• Basic screw driver set with flat and phillips heads-- $10 on the low end
• Vise grip-- about $12
• Oil filter universal wrench-- about $8
• Spark plug socket set-- about $12
• Ramp set (12,000 lbs recommended)-- about $40
• Hydraulic jack (3 ton recommended)-- $50 low end
• Jack stand set (recommend a 2 ton pair and 4 ton pair)-- $25 per pair on the low end
• Wheel chock set (recommend two sets-- could also use bricks)-- about $5 each set
• Oil catch pan-- $10 on the low end
• Funnels (recommend one for each: oil, antifreeze, power steering, brake fluid, and transmission fluid)-- about $1 each
• Tire pressure gauge-- $1 on the low end
• Shop towels-- $1 roll
• Disposable gloves-- about $0.25 per pair
• Old work clothes-- free
• Rags-- free

   

Add-ons:

• Spinner lug nut wrench-- about $12
• Torque wrench-- $25 on the low end
• An Allen wrench set-- $6 on the low end
• A Torx set-- $8 on the low end
• Spark plug gap coin-- $2
• Spark plug wire grippers-- about $6
• C clamp (4" for brake jobs)-- about $4
• Flashlight-- about $3
• Flat tire plug set-- $7
• Other tools as needed

You may already have some of these things, but you can find most on sale from time to time and many can be found dirt cheap in yard sales. Don't buy specialized tools unless you have multiple vehicles and continued use-- many auto parts stores have loaners that you can use for one-time jobs. Spending about $150-200 on the "must haves" covers most (about 90%) automotive DIY jobs. The savings on one tune-up or brake job will more than cover that initial investment-- trust me on this one.

If I have spent $500 on specialized auto tools and equipment, I have saved more than twice that in EACH of the last four years. There are still some jobs I can't or won't do-- mainly jobs that require very specialized and expensive training and equipment, but 80% of the work on a vehicle can, and should be DIY.

Finally, I highly recommend you become familiar with your owner's manual and strongly recommend getting the Haynes Auto Repair and Maintenance manual for your vehicle.