A basic tool kit with the DIY essentials—a hammer, screwdriver, and measuring tape—can see you through any number of straightforward household projects. But when you’re undertaking more complex jobs, such as automotive work, you most likely need a solid mechanics tool kit. These sets typically include more than 100 different tools, including wrenches, screwdrivers, sockets, extension bars, and ratchets.
If one tool in a poorly-made kit can break easily, then 100 can as well. Investing in the best mechanic tool set with components of high-quality chrome vanadium or stainless steel will save you a lot of frustration. Whether you’re working on the car or around the home, this selection of auto mechanics tool sets can point you in the right direction to durable options.
- BEST OVERALL: Crescent 180-Piece Professional Tool Set
- BEST BUDGET: DEKOPRO 168-Piece Mechanic Tool Set
- UPGRADE PICK: Craftsman 450-Piece Mechanic Tool Set
- BEST SOCKET: DeWalt 192-Piece Mechanic Tool Set
- BEST PROFESSIONAL: GEARWRENCH Mechanics Tool Set 230 Piece
- HEAVY-DUTY STORAGE: WorkPro 408-Piece Mechanic Tool Set
- BEST FOR THE CAR: EPAuto Mechanics Tool Set 122 Piece
Mechanic tool sets can come with 300 or more different pieces. For those not used to using a tool kit of this size, it’s important to educate yourself on what each set includes and how to use a set effectively. Consider the key product features of the ideal automotive tools below.
Essential Tools
Before buying a mechanic tool set, make sure that the set has the tools that you use most frequently. Some mechanic tool sets have a wide variety of tools, including hammers, wrenches, ratchets, pliers, screwdrivers, sockets, and more. These variety packs are great for a large number of DIY jobs but lack the needed size selection for sockets and wrenches.
Other mechanic tool sets have only ratchets, sockets, hex keys, bits, and wrenches, but the size selection of those tools is diverse, making such kits great for automotive DIY jobs, like replacing the brake pads on the car. However, these professional mechanic tool sets may lack some of the most basic and essential tools, such as screwdrivers, so consider what tools are needed and what is already owned before purchasing more.
Number of Parts
Kits may advertise 400 pieces, but keep in mind that each screwdriver bit, socket, hex key, and utility knife blade counts as a piece, so there aren’t actually 400 individual tools. Plus, don’t just assume that a 400-piece set will have what is needed—before buying, check the product’s parts listing, usually found on the manufacturer’s website.
Also, a helpful standard to remember is that the more parts in the set, the higher the price of the set. So, if only 100 of the 400 are going to be used, maybe opt for a smaller set of only the must-have mechanic tools.
Accessories and Adapters
Mechanic tool sets can have a large number of accessories and adapters, including screwdriver bits, sockets, universal joint adapters, or breaker bars. The accessories and adapters included with a kit can vary widely and should be itemized on the parts list.
Standard mechanic tool sets will come with basic accessories and adapters, including hex keys, extender bars, sockets, and screwdriver bits. For more specialized adapters, like a breaker bar or a torque wrench, a larger set may be needed.
Warranty
Purchasing a large number of tools at once is an investment, so it’s important to be confident that the tools will work as expected. The best mechanic tools usually come with a warranty in case the product does not end up being as advertised.
Check the manufacturer’s website or the seller’s product information to determine if there is a warranty on the tool set, and to find out the details of the warranty.
Storage and Organization
The case that holds the pieces of the tool set should be of the same high quality as the tools inside. Don’t get caught paying a premium price for high-end tools in a poor-quality case.
The tools should fit neatly into designated areas within the case, making it easy for a user to retrieve a specific tool. The tools should fasten tightly enough within their positions so as not to fall when the case is closed. This includes more difficult-to-store items, like sockets.
Ideally, a storage case will be sturdy enough to withstand impact on a job site or in a vehicle without breaking or scattering the parts inside the case. Both metal and durable plastic are good options, with metal being a tougher exterior option and plastic weighing less for easier transportation.
Our Top Picks
The following mechanic tool sets meet the mark of being high quality, boasting useful features, and having excellent reputations. Any of these tool sets can outfit you for many of the most demanding auto or DIY jobs.
Photo: walmart.com
Packed with tools every mechanic needs, the Crescent mechanic tool set comes in a sturdy plastic case that keeps every tool secure, whether users are transporting or storing. The chrome vanadium steel alloy tools include wrenches, sockets, screwdriver bits, pliers, screwdrivers, ratchets, and hex keys, with multiple extension bars and size adapters.
The case only weighs 20 pounds and has a sleek design that makes it great for mobility. While it doesn’t have some of the more specific adapters, like a breaker bar, it does contain a good variety of the standard DIY tools that can be found in a superior mechanic tool set.
Product Specs
- Pieces: 180
- Material: Chrome vanadium steel alloy
- Weight: 20 pounds
Pros
- Includes essential tools for automotive DIY repairs
- High-quality chrome vanadium steel alloy construction
- Includes a convenient carrying case
- Corrosion-resistant finish; great longevity
Cons
- Essential set lacks specialized tools
Get the Crescent mechanic tool set at Amazon, The Home Depot, or Acme Tools.
Photo: amazon.com
The DEKOPRO 168-Piece Mechanic Tool Set is one of the best mechanic tool sets for the money, and is a great pick for new auto DIYers. The price is low enough that purchasing this large 168-piece set isn’t a huge investment. The set weighs only 13 pounds, making it a great mobile case to carry around the house.
The set includes the most essential DIY tools, including a hammer, utility knife, tape measure, screwdrivers, wrenches, sockets, and even a small, 10-inch hacksaw. While it doesn’t have the wide variety of sockets and bits that a larger specialty auto tool set may have, it has everything necessary for the most common DIY tasks, including thermostat replacement and pre-fabricated furniture assembly.
Product Specs
- Pieces: 168
- Material: Steel
- Weight: 13 pounds
Pros
- Lightweight mechanic tool set; great for traveling
- Durable blow-molded plastic case
- Affordable option for beginners
- Corrosion-resistant finish
Cons
- Basic socket set; no specialty tools
Get the DEKOPRO mechanic tool set on Amazon.
Photo: walmart.com
This full-polish chrome finished automotive tool set comes with 450 of the best tools for mechanics —but keep in mind that 419 of these pieces are sockets, bits, and hex keys. The set also comes with ratchets, wrenches, extension bars, and a screwdriver adapter, making it well suited for automotive work.
At 43 pounds, users won’t be moving it around much, but the sturdy design is perfect for a work truck, or garage. The four-tiered storage box is made of durable plastic and uses basic locking mechanisms on the sides of the drawers to keep them in place during transportation. The set is worth the higher price tag if the user works in an industry that provides opportunity to use all the included pieces.
Product Specs
- Pieces: 450
- Material: Chrome stainless steel
- Weight: 43 pounds
Pros
- Wide variety of sockets, bits, and hex keys
- Sturdy, four-tiered storage box; ideal organization
- High-quality chrome stainless steel construction
- Includes ratchets, wrenches, and extension bars
Cons
- Difficult to carry around at 43 pounds
- Pricey compared to other options
Get the Craftsman mechanic tool set at Walmart.
Photo: amazon.com
The socket is an essential auto mechanics tool that isn’t included in every mechanic kit. However, the DeWalt 192-Piece Mechanic Tool Set specializes in sockets and high-end ratchets, with three different ratchets that feature a 72-tooth gear system for higher torque. The kit weighs a substantial 37 pounds, making it the perfect mechanics tool set for the garage. It’s too bulky to store in the backseat, so it’s best to leave this one in the workshop.
Laser-etched markings on the sides of the 126 individual sockets identify the size and measurement unit of each. The set also includes screwdriver bits, a screwdriver adapter for the ratchets, extenders bars, universal adapters, and hex keys.
Product Specs
- Pieces: 192
- Material: Chrome vanadium steel alloy
- Weight: 37 pounds
Pros
- Includes three different ratchets to cover most needs
- Laser-etched markings for easy identification
- Convenient carrying case; keeps everything organized
- High-quality chrome vanadium steel alloy construction
Cons
- Does not include more common tools, like wrenches
- 37 pounds; a heavy set to carry around
Get the DeWalt mechanic tool set on Amazon or at The Home Depot.
Photo: amazon.com
GEARWRENCH has designed this high-quality chrome vanadium steel alloy mechanics tool set with 232 various pieces, including a wide range of sockets, wrenches, and hex keys. The sockets don’t just come in a variety of sizes; they are also available in numerous styles, including SAE, metric, Torx bit, hex bit, and external Torx.
The carrying case is a definite highlight that, while heavy at 41 pounds, is made of thick, durable steel to ensure the tools stay safe in storage or during transportation. It features three pull-out drawers, a top compartment with a steel hinged lid, and locking side flaps so the tool kit won’t open accidentally.
Product Specs
- Pieces: 232
- Material: Chrome vanadium steel alloy
- Weight: 41 pounds
Pros
- 3-drawer storage box; easy to store and organize
- Locking side flaps and a steel hinged lid
- Includes SAE, metric, Torx bit, and External Torx sockets
- Off-corner socket design protects fasteners from wear
Cons
- Weighs 41 pounds; heavy set to carry around
Get the GEARWRENCH mechanic tool set on Amazon.
Photo: amazon.com
The WorkPro 408-Piece Mechanic Tool Set comes in a heavy aluminum tool box, with the entire set weighing 27 pounds. While it isn’t the best set for mobility, the strength of the aluminum box will keep tools safe and can easily be set up in a garage or workshop for semi-permanent storage.
The kit comes with a wide variety of tools, including pliers, screwdrivers, socket sets, wrenches, a hammer, utility knife, and more. While it doesn’t have specialty adapters, like a torque wrench, it does come with four extender bars and three different ratchets. The variety in this set makes it a great set for all-around DIY projects.
Product Specs
- Pieces: 408
- Material: Chrome vanadium steel alloy
- Weight: 27 pounds
Pros
- Heavy-duty, high-durability carrying case; ideal for frequent use
- Includes a variety of daily-use tools
- Premium chrome vanadium steel alloy construction
- Corrosion-resistant finish
Cons
- Essential set lacks specialized tools
Get the WorkPro mechanic tool set on Amazon.
Photo: amazon.com
Don’t get caught on the side of the road without the tools necessary to make simple, effective repairs. While this tool set doesn’t come with larger roadside repair tools, like jumper cables, road flares, or a tire iron, it does include ratchets, wrenches, screwdriver bits, a bit holder, sockets, extension bars, and socket adapters. These essential tools are packed into a blown plastic carrying case that both protects the tools and keeps the overall weight low.
The chrome vanadium steel alloy construction is tough, durable, and able to withstand years of regular use. A corrosion-resistant finish also helps to protect the tools from rust and corrosion, so users can rest easy knowing the tools are safe and secure in the protective case.
Product Specs
- Pieces: 122
- Material: Chrome vanadium steel alloy
- Weight: 13 pounds
Pros
- Compact, lightweight design; great for daily use
- Includes sockets, screwdriver bits, wrenches, and ratchets
- Small carrying case is easy to store in the car
- Corrosion-resistant finish for increased longevity
Cons
- Small number of tools; may be missing a few essentials
Get the EPAuto mechanic tool set on Amazon.
Our Verdict
Take care of a variety of DIY automotive repairs with the assortment of essential tools included in the 180-piece Crescent mechanic tool set, or opt for the more affordable 168-piece DEKOPRO mechanic tool set to keep more money in your wallet.
Selecting the top mechanics set required a significant level of research to learn what tools each kit included, the material used to manufacture the tools, whether the sets came with carrying cases, and it was even important to look at how well or how poorly the set was organized.
High-quality mechanic tool sets from the top brands tended to have a large number of essential mechanic tools made with a durable metal and a protective finish to keep the tools in good condition for years. The carrying case for a mechanic tool set needed to balance weight and durability in order to serve as both protection and a means of easy transportation for the entire kit.
In addition, any products with specialized tools, like breaker bars and torque wrenches, tended to stand out from competitors that only offered more common options.
There are many advantages to owning a mechanic tool set, chief among them being the variety and included organization.
The variety of tools in a standard auto tool kit alone is enough to warrant purchasing a mechanic tool set. A mechanics tool set can include a significant range of options for power, convenience, or access to tight spaces. While some tool sets are costlier than others, a higher price tag may be reasonable when you consider that some sets have more than 300 tools, enough to outfit a user for many common DIY projects. Whether you’re changing an electrical outlet, installing a thermostat, or replacing your brake pads, a large, good-quality set will provide you with everything you need without the inconvenience of having to buy each individual tool.
A mechanics tool set almost always comes with a handy carrying and storage case, keeping the tools neat and orderly, plus easy to find, transport, and store as a tool collection grows. Don’t worry about losing your tools anymore; just place them back into their designated spot in the carrying case, and they’ll rest safely until you need them again. The case is also handy for transporting the tools from home to the work site and back, or just carrying them from the shed to wherever you’re working on the house.
FAQs
Before you’re ready to buy your mechanic tool set, you may have some lingering questions that need to be addressed. See below for helpful responses to three of the most frequently asked questions.
Q: What tools do mechanics use most often?
The best mechanic tool set will typically include a few essential tools, including a hammer, tape measure, screwdrivers, ratchet and socket sets, as well as a wrench set, pliers, and a pry bar. Mechanics use quality tools both for professional use and to complete their own automotive repairs.
Q: What mechanics tools should you carry in your car?
Unfortunately, cars can break down while you are driving, so it’s a good idea to invest in a small mechanics tool set with some essentials for handling minor problems. Keep screwdrivers, pliers, adjustable wrenches, and sockets available in this mechanics tool kit, but also pack jumper cables, a jack, a tire iron, a spare tire, and a 12-volt air compressor, so that you are well-equipped in the case of an emergency.
Q: Why does the price of mechanic tool sets vary so much?
The main reason for the price fluctuation between different mechanic tool kits is the number of parts included in the kit, though the brand and the type of tools also factor into the price. So, if you are looking at a Craftsman tool set with more than 100 pieces, then it’s likely to be more expensive than a DeWalt mechanics tool kit with just 10 pieces. Unless the 10 pieces happen to be specialized tools. In which case, the DeWalt mechanics tool kit may be the premium option.
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