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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 mechanic 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. We set out to find the best mechanic tool set by putting several of the top kits through rigorous side-by-side hands-on testing.
- BEST OVERALL: DeWalt DWMT73802 142-Piece Mechanics Tool Set
- BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: Deko 258-Piece Mechanics Tool Kit On Wheels
- UPGRADE PICK: Craftsman 450-Piece Mechanics Tool Set
- BEST SOCKET: Crescent 180-Piece SAE/Metric Professional Tool Set
- BEST PROFESSIONAL: Gearwrench 232-Piece Mechanics Tool Set
- HEAVY-DUTY STORAGE: Workpro 408-Piece Mechanics Tool Set With Metal Box
- BEST FOR THE CAR: Stanley STMT75064 229-Piece Mixed Tool Set
How We Tested the Best Mechanic Tool Sets
Selecting the top mechanics set required a significant level of research and testing to learn what tools each kit included, the material used to manufacture the tools, whether the sets came with carrying cases, and how well or how poorly the set was organized.
We tested each set by putting them to work on a pickup truck, focusing on each kit’s set of sockets, ratchets, and combination wrenches, as these are the primary tools for a home mechanic. We put the socket wrenches to work on various bolts inside the engine and under the truck. Through this testing, we were able to determine several things, including how smoothly the ratchets worked, how snugly the sockets and box ends of the combination wrenches fit over bolt heads, and how comfortable each tool felt in our hands. We also considered how easy it was to work bolts in hard-to-reach places with the adapters and extenders included in the kit. Along with performance, we evaluated the portability of each kit by carrying it a short distance and attempting to place it in the bed of our truck.
Our Top Picks
The following mechanic tool sets are high in quality, boast useful features, and have excellent reputations. Any of these tool sets can outfit you for many of the most demanding auto or DIY jobs.
Best Overall
DeWalt DWMT73802 142-Piece Mechanics Tool Set
What We Like
- Includes 3 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
What We Don’t Like
- Does not include more common tools, like wrenches
Product Specs
- Pieces: 142
- Material: Chrome vanadium steel alloy
- Weight: 20.27 pounds
This Bob Vila Approved product carries our brand’s highest level of recommendation.
Bob Vila Approved recognizes the household and DIY products that impressed us most in our real-world testing and that exemplify core values of the Bob Vila brand, including craftsmanship, innovation, and value for the dollar. Winners of this designation come recommended by our professional review team and are personally approved by Bob Vila.
DeWalt’s tools are known for their high quality, so it should come as little surprise that this 142-piece mechanics tool set is perhaps the best all-around option for home mechanics.
The kit comes with two ratchet sizes: ⅜ inch and ¼ inch. Though it may not have the most comprehensive collection of socket sizes, it includes the ones home mechanics are most likely to use. There are Society for Automotive Engineers (SAE) sizes ranging from 5/16 inch up to ⅞ inch and metric sizes that run from 5 to 19 millimeters. There are also deep-socket versions for the most common socket sizes and a nice selection of extenders, adapters, and swivel joints that are useful for working bolts in tight spaces.
One of our favorite parts of this DeWalt kit are its power driver attachments, something we haven’t seen on other mechanics sets. There are three different chuck sizes and a bit holder that allow you to attach the sockets or the screwdriver bits to an impact driver. Rounding out this set are 10 combination wrenches and metric and SAE hex wrenches.
We expect good quality from DeWalt tools, and this set didn’t disappoint. Laser-etched markings on the sides of the 126 individual sockets identify the size and measurement unit of each, making it easy to select the right size. The box ends on the wrenches are precision cut to create a better fit on bolt heads, and the sockets have radius corners for increased torque. The ratchets have 72 teeth for smooth operation and a push-button locking mechanism that keeps them securely attached to the ratchet.
That all translated to excellent performance during our testing. The sockets fit securely on the nuts without slipping and/or popping off the ratchet, even when applying a lot of elbow grease. We experienced very little play between the box ends of the wrenches and the bolt heads we tested them on. The sockets even held up well when we attached them to an impact driver using the included chucks.
All the kit’s pieces fit securely into the molded case. We particularly like the smaller case that holds the driver bits and chucks. The compact size of this kit, compared to other larger ones we tested, made it easier to tote around or even store in a car trunk.
This mechanics tool kit is also surprisingly affordable given that it carries the DeWalt name.
Read our full review: DeWalt DWMT73802 142-Piece Mechanics Tool Set
Get the DeWalt mechanic tool set at Amazon or The Home Depot.
Best Bang for the Buck
Deko 258-Piece Mechanics Tool Kit On Wheels
What We Like
- Fits inside a rolling carrying case that makes it easy to transport
- Includes a broad range of tools to suit various odd jobs
- Large comfortable grips on the hand tools
What We Don’t Like
- Not a broad enough range of tools for serious mechanics
- Not the same quality steel found on other higher-end kits
- Molded case doesn’t hold tools securely
Product Specs
- Pieces: 258
- Material: Chrome vanadium steel alloy
- Weight: 27.8 pounds
If being a home mechanic is just one of the many odd jobs you find yourself performing, then the Deko 258-piece kit is a great option. This kit includes not only mechanics tools but also other tools for performing a variety of odd jobs around the house.
The tool kit includes a broad range of tools. It comes with a socket set, monkey wrenches, screwdrivers, a hammer, various pairs of pliers, a level, hacksaw, tape measure, wire stripper, and utility knife, all of which fit inside a large rolling suitcaselike carrying case. In short, this tool set can handle a variety of jobs.
While the number of tools in this set is impressive, it’s important to keep in mind that this jack-of-all-trades tool set may not suit serious home mechanics. There are only 27 sockets in this set, which include a mix of SAE and metric sizes, less than half the number found in other tool sets. It comes with ½-inch and ¼-inch ratchets, but it lacks the most common size, a ⅜-inch ratchet.
In terms of quality, there are things we liked and didn’t like about the Deko set. We loved the large handles and rubberized grip on the ratchets, pliers, and hammer. We were able to get a firm, comfortable grip on each.
However, the sockets don’t feel as beefy and the quality of the metal on the hand tools didn’t compare to other sets we tested. The hacksaw, for example, feels particularly flimsy. We also weren’t impressed with the molded case, which doesn’t hold larger tools in their spots during transit. One of the latches on our rolling case arrived badly bent, so we weren’t able to close the case properly.
Given the level of quality and the broad range of tools this kit offers, the Deko mechanics tool kit is a good option for those who do minor work on their car from time to time and also need tools to fulfill other odd jobs around the house. However, serious mechanics should look elsewhere as this kit doesn’t offer the breadth of tools they need.
Get the Deko mechanic tool set at Amazon.
Upgrade Pick
Craftsman 450-Piece Mechanics Tool Set
What We Like
- Outstanding selection of sockets, driver bits, wrenches, and hex keys
- Organizational design of storage box makes finding the right tool easy
- High-quality chrome stainless steel construction and precision-cut tools
What We Don’t Like
- Plastic drawers don’t open as smoothly as cabinets with metal drawer sliders
Product Specs
- Pieces: 450
- Material: Chrome stainless steel
- Weight: 43 pounds
There’s little a home mechanic will want for with this 450-piece mechanics set from Craftsman. It includes a wide assortment of sockets, ranging from tiny 5/32 inch to 1 inch for SAE and 4 to 24 millimeter for metric. There are also external sockets for Torx and hex wrenches, spark-plug sockets, a bit driver, a broad assortment of screwdriver bits, and an extensive collection of combination wrenches and Allen wrenches.
Craftsman has a reputation for making quality tools for the home mechanic and DIYer, and that holds true with this kit. The ratchets operate smoothly with their 72-teeth design, and the sockets feel sturdy with radius corners that provide increased torque and prevent them from rounding off bolts. They fit securely over bolts during testing without slipping or pulling off the fasteners. The bit driver has a large rubberized grip that feels comfortable in the hand even when applying a lot of torsional force.
One of the features we like most about this kit is how well it’s organized. All of the ratchets and sockets are divided into three separate drawers based on size: ¼ inch, ⅜ inch, and ½ inch. We found this organizational design makes it easier to find specific socket sizes. We also appreciated the convenience of being able to remove a drawer of sockets and have it next to us while working. Our only gripe is that the plastic drawers don’t open and close as smoothly as cabinet-style tool kits that use metal drawer slides.
However, the drawers fit nicely into a cabinet-style case that is part of the Craftsman Versastack storage system, which means it will stack neatly with other Versastack bins and carrying containers, a big advantage for Craftsman devotees.
With its broad selection of sockets, solid build, and smart organizational design, Craftsman’s 450-piece set is a great option for serious home mechanics.
Get the Craftsman mechanic tool set at Amazon, Walmart, or Sears.
Best Socket
Crescent 180-Piece SAE/Metric Professional Tool Set
What We Like
- Includes most of the essential tools for automotive DIY repairs
- Equipped with a broad range of both SAE and metric socket sizes
- Carrying case is quite portable thanks to its manageable size and weight
What We Don’t Like
- Molded case has a warped interior that makes it difficult to snap in tools
Product Specs
- Pieces: 180
- Material: Chrome vanadium steel alloy
- Weight: 20 pounds
Crescent includes a broad range of sockets with other tools home mechanics will appreciate in an easy-to-transport carrying case, making it a great option for those who spend their weekends working on their car or motorcycle.
Sockets are the bread and butter of any mechanic’s tool set, and this Crescent tool kit offers plenty to choose from. There’s a mix of deep and standard socket sizes ranging from 4 millimeters up to 24 millimeters in metric sizes and 5/32 inch up to 1 inch in SAE sizes. There are also ratchets in ⅛-inch and ¼-inch sizes, plus multiple extension bars and size adapters. Additional tools include various-size combination wrenches, a bit driver with assorted bits, pliers, screwdrivers, hex keys, and, of course, a crescent wrench. This makes for a very comprehensive collection of mechanic tools for the weekend warrior.
Crescent manages to pack all these tools into a case that weighs a very manageable 20 pounds, which means you can have all these tools by your side while you work. While the tools are well organized into the case, we did wish the quality of the molded case was better. Ours arrived somewhat warped on the inside, which made it difficult to snap some of the sockets into their respective pockets.
Case aside, this collection of Crescent tools offers great quality for a home mechanic kit. The sockets have a heavy feel within a radius corner design that prevents them from slipping on bolts or rounding off bolt heads. The 72-tooth ratchets work smoothly and have rounded handles that fit comfortably in the hand even when applying a lot of pressure. Each socket we tested fit nicely over the bolt heads with little play and no slippage even when applying a lot of pressure. We particularly liked the large handles and rubberized grips on the screwdrivers, which allowed us to get a firm grip while wrestling with stubborn bolts.
With its comprehensive collection of mechanic tools and socket sizes, compact size, and manageable weight, the Crescent tool set is a great option for serious home mechanics.
Get the Crescent mechanic tool set at The Home Depot or Acme Tools.
Best Professional
Gearwrench 232-Piece Mechanics Tool Set
What We Like
- 3-drawer storage box makes it easy to store and access tools
- Locking side flaps and a hinged lid keep tools securely in place during transit
- Includes a broad range of types and sizes, including SAE, metric, Torx bit, and External Torx sockets
- Comes with a full collection of Gearwrench’s well-regarded ratcheting combination wrenches
What We Don’t Like
- Is heavier than other mechanic tool sets with a total weight of 41 pounds
Product Specs
- Pieces: 232
- Material: Chrome vanadium steel alloy
- Weight: 41 pounds
Gearwrench has designed this high-quality chrome vanadium steel-alloy mechanics tool set with 232 various pieces, making it ideal for the serious or even pro home mechanic.
This is one of the most comprehensive kits we tested, ranging from 5/32 inch all the way up to ⅞ inch for SAE and 4 millimeters up to 22 millimeters for metric sizes. There are also a variety of socket types, including 6 point, 12 point, and Torx along with external hex wrench and Torx bit sockets. We loved the vast selection of socket types and sizes in this kit, though we did wish there was a swivel joint socket or two in the mix.
In addition to offering a variety of tool types, this set also has pro-level quality. The 90-tooth ratchets allow for a shorter swing arc than the 72-tooth models typically included in home mechanics sets, making it easier to work in tight spaces, and the sockets use thicker metal and have a radius corner design. Gearwrench’s combination wrenches come equipped with its renowned ratcheting box ends, a feature not found on other home mechanic tool kits.
All of this translated into excellent performance. The higher teeth count on the ratchets made them easier to use in tight spaces than the 72-tooth count ratchets we tested. We also loved the ratcheting box ends on the combination wrenches, which puts them well ahead of any other combination wrench we tested in terms of functionality.
The rugged plastic storage cabinet is also a definite highlight. It features three pull-out drawers, a top compartment, and locking side flaps so the tool kit won’t open accidentally. Gearwrench uses a tray to hold the tools versus a snap-in design, which makes it much easier to grab and replace sockets. We also liked the fact that we could remove the trays from the case completely for easier access. The tool box is heavy at 41 pounds, but it’s compact enough to carry short distances or lift into a truck bed or car trunk.
While the Gearwrench tool kit does come with a high price tag, if you find yourself spending a good chunk of your week working on your car, truck, or motorcycle, then the Gearwrench mechanics tool kit is an ideal workmate.
Get the Gearwrench mechanic tool set at Amazon or The Home Depot.
Heavy-Duty Storage
Workpro 408-Piece Mechanics Tool Set With Metal Box
What We Like
- Heavy-duty, high-durability steel storage cabinet is ideal for frequent use
- Includes a broad range of tools that mechanics use in addition to sockets
- Comes with a comprehensive range of socket sizes and 3 ratchet sizes
What We Don’t Like
- Not the same level of build quality as higher-end tool sets
- Lacks some critical mechanics tools, including a set of deep sockets
Product Specs
- Pieces: 408
- Material: Chrome vanadium steel alloy
- Weight: 27 pounds
There’s a lot to like about the collection of tools in the Workpro mechanics set. It comes with 12-point and 6-point sockets for metric sizes that range from 7 to 21 millimeters and SAE sockets that range from 5/32 inch to ⅞ inch. We also like the fact that the set includes three ratchet sizes, extender bars, and spark-plug sockets. Home mechanics will also appreciate the inclusion of Torx bits, hex wrenches, and the broad collection of screwdriver bits and a bit driver. The inclusion of a ball peen hammer, the hammer of choice for mechanics, is also a nice touch.
While we like the selection in this set, there are certainly some misses. Given its size and weight, we wish there were more socket adapters and deep sockets instead of the included tools that mechanics don’t need, such as the precision screwdrivers, zip ties, and drywall screws. We also would have liked to have seen a set of slip-joint pliers as opposed to the linesman and wire cutter pliers included in the set.
While using the Workpro tools, we were impressed with their quality. The large rubberized grips on the hand tools make them comfortable to hold, even when applying a lot of pressure on a stubborn bolt. The 72-teeth ratchets worked smoothly during our testing, as did the double-sided wrenches.
While performance was generally good, we did notice some quality issues during testing. While the sockets fit snugly on the bolt heads, they lack the radius corner design that improves torque and prevents wear. This made them more susceptible to rounding off the bolt heads or slipping while applying a lot of pressure.
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 semipermanent storage. The cabinet feels durable and solid with drawers that pull out smoothly. However, the tools sit in thin plastic trays, some of which were already warping under the weight of the tools when we opened up our test set.
Given these attributes, the Workpro kit seems best suited for those who may spend a Saturday working on their car as opposed to someone who spends their evenings in the garage or works on someone else’s vehicles.
Get the Workpro mechanic tool set at Amazon or Walmart.
Best for the Car
Stanley STMT75064 229-Piece Mixed Tool Set
What We Like
- Includes a broad range of standard and metric socket sizes and types
- Good-quality 72-teeth ¼-inch, ⅜-inch, and ½-inch ratchets
- Attractive black chrome finish with easy-to-read etched gold size labels
What We Don’t Like
- Blow-molded case is of poor quality and doesn’t hold all pieces in place
- Black chrome finish wears easily, which could eventually obscure labels
Product Specs
- Pieces: 229
- Material: Black chrome steel alloy
- Weight: 23 pounds
This 229-piece Stanley tool kit includes the staples you need to get off the side of the road, including an extensive collection of sockets, three ratchet sizes, bit sockets, and a bit driver with a broad range of bit types.
During testing, there was a lot to like about the Stanley tool set. The black chrome design gives it a durable feel and handsome look. The Stanley brand claims black chrome provides improved rust resistance over the traditional coloring. We particularly liked the gold etching labels on the sockets that make it easy to find the size you need. The 72-teeth ratchets have a sturdy feel and worked smoothly during our tests with little play between the sockets and bolts. We experienced no slippage during our testing. These tools work well—a must for a car kit.
Unfortunately, we did have some gripes about that black finish. While it’s certainly beautiful, we could already see wear on the edges of the sockets after just a few uses. This made us wonder how long these labels would last before they wore off. We also discovered the hard way that the black finish causes the tools to get quite hot if left out in the sun, a worry for anyone who works in a sunny driveway. The blow-molded case also isn’t the best quality. Some of the sockets resisted staying in their assigned spots during transport.
Despite those gripes, the selection and quality of the tools in this 229-piece tool kit coupled with its compact size make it worthy of a role as an emergency kit or as a home mechanic’s tool kit for weekend warriors. However, it’s probably not high enough quality for a serious home mechanic who spends many evenings working on their car.
Get the Stanley mechanic tool set at Amazon.
Jump to Our Top Picks
What to Consider When Choosing a Mechanic Tool Set
Mechanic tool sets can come with 300 or more different pieces. If you’re not accustomed 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 you need and what you already own 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 you need—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. If you’re only going to use 100 of the 400 pieces, 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, you may need a larger set.
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. It’s not fun 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 you 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 jobsite 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.
The Advantages of Owning a Mechanic Tool Kit
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 mechanic 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 worksite 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 the most frequently asked questions.
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.
Unfortunately, cars can break down while you are driving, so it’s a good idea to invest in a small mechanic tool set with some essentials for handling minor problems. Keep screwdrivers, pliers, adjustable wrenches, and sockets available in this mechanic tool kit, but it’s wise to 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 case of an emergency.
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. 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 mechanic 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.
Meet the Tester
Tony Carrick is a freelance writer specializing in home improvement, landscaping, technology, home security, and design. His articles have been featured on such sites as Angi, Popular Science, Futurism, 360 Reviews by U.S. News & World Report, Domino, and more. Carrick has conducted rigorous product testing on everything from power tools to home security systems to backyard grills. With each review, his goal is to help readers determine whether a product meets their needs and if it is or isn’t worth its price tag.
Additional research provided by Timothy Dale.
