What tools should I get if I want to work on my car? I need to bleed the brakes on my GE8 soon, but all I have is a drill, and I don’t want to keep asking my neighbors for tools, haha. Here’s what I have saved on my Harbor Freight list. Let me know if I’m missing anything!
I’d suggest going for a toolbox instead of buying individual items. You might find some great deals where you can get a bunch of tools for less than if you bought them separately. Jack stands are definitely something to consider if you don’t already have them. A torque wrench is also important if you’re working on parts that need specific torque. Overall, it looks good to me!
10 mm socket is a must.
Merrick said:
10 mm socket is a must.
I came here to say the same thing, haha.
I’d recommend only getting the tools you need for the specific job. For example, no need to buy trim tools if you’re just doing brakes. Buying tools can get addictive, and you might end up with tools you never use if you find you don’t like working on your car. A good socket set is a solid start. I don’t know Harbor Freight, but look for something that includes basic sockets, spanners, hex keys, screwdrivers, and pliers in one kit. This sort of thing:
It has a lot of tools plus a case for just $10.
If I were to choose:
- I’d skip the impact driver for now. If you get really into it, you can invest in a good impact tool that works with a range of batteries. A breaker bar is great for getting tight bolts off: 1/2 in. Drive 25 in. Breaker Bar
- Jack stands are definitely needed: 3 Ton Heavy Duty Ratcheting Jack Stands, Metallic Purple
- Don’t forget safety gear like rubber gloves, especially when working on brakes. Brake fluid is toxic: 7 mil Textured Nitrile Powder-Free Gloves, 50-Pack, X-Large
- For oil changes, you can get an oil can with a feature to drain oil into it, so you don’t need a second pan.
- If you’re working on brakes or oils, brake cleaner is essential: 14 oz. Brakleen Non-Chlorinated Brake Parts Cleaner
- Small wire brushes help clean up brakes to prevent squeaking: Detail Brush Set, 6 Piece
- Having penetrating fluid, anti-seize, and grease for the job is also helpful.
- For brake screws, these might come in handy: 6 Bit Impact Screwdriver Set With Case
You can grab all this for the same price as just the impact gun.
Every time you find you need a tool, just head over to Harbor Freight and grab it. Buy tools as you need them.
You’ll need either a 3/8" or a 1/2" impact. Also, get metal interior trim panel removal tools and a mechanics tool set. Learn how to use hand tools before going all out with power tools. The goal is to save money, not break more stuff. A motive products brake bleeder is really good too.
If you’re getting an impact wrench, go for a brand that has a variety of tools. The impact wrench is just the beginning of many tools you’ll want. If you buy different brands, you’ll end up with multiple power tools that need different batteries. Also, a torque wrench, pliers, a hammer, a pry bar, funnels, cutters, ratcheting wrenches, screwdrivers, and the list goes on! Don’t feel pressured to buy everything at once. It’s fun to tackle new projects and find you need to buy a new tool to finish the job. Your toolbox will grow over time.
Common socket sizes for Honda are 17mm, 14mm, 10mm, and 19mm. I just replaced my struts and CV axles with just those four sockets.
Look for a toolbox that has a mix of sockets and ratchets. Wrenches are nice, and a torque wrench is a must-have for me. Those are the basics, and if you want to go deeper into specific tasks, there are specialized tools, but they aren’t always necessary.