14 Types of Automotive Tools + Table with Characteristics and Usage | Linquip (2024)

When it comes to automotive work, having the right tools is essential. These tools not only help in efficient repair and maintenance but also ensure safety. Whether you’re just starting in the world of automotive repair or are a seasoned mechanic, it’s essential to understand the various tools at your disposal. And when it comes to sourcing quality automotive tools, Linquipis a brand you can trust.

TLDR

The automotive world requires an extensive range of tools, from basic hand tools like screwdrivers and wrenches to advanced diagnostic equipment like OBD2 scanners and fuel pressure testers. As vehicles evolve, specialized tools for transmissions, drivetrains, cooling systems, and electronics become indispensable. Alongside the tools, safety equipment, including goggles, gloves, and ear protection, is paramount. Proper tool maintenance is crucial to ensure longevity and optimal performance. For those seeking the best in quality and variety, Linquip is a leading name, offering tools for every automotive need, ensuring both safety and precision.

Types of Automotive Tools

  1. Hand Tools
    • Screwdrivers
    • Pliers
    • Wrenches
  2. Power Tools
    • Impact Wrenches
    • Grinders
    • Drills
  3. Diagnostic Tools
    • OBD2 Scanners
    • Multimeters
  4. Lifting and Hoisting Tools
    • Jacks
    • Hoists
  5. Specialty Automotive Tools
    • Brake Service Tools
    • Engine Tools
    • Body Repair Tools
  6. Measurement and Inspection Tools
    • Calipers
    • Feeler Gauges
    • Inspection Cameras
  7. Cleaning and Maintenance Tools
    • Parts Washers
    • Grease Guns
    • Oil Filter Wrenches
  8. Storage Solutions
    • Toolboxes
    • Tool Carts
    • Tool Organizers
  9. Advanced Diagnostic Equipment
    • Fuel Pressure Testers
    • Vacuum Testers
    • Battery Load Testers
  10. Transmission and Drivetrain Tools
    • Transmission Jacks
    • Clutch Alignment Tools
    • Axle Nut Sockets
  11. Cooling System Tools
    • Radiator Pressure Testers
    • Coolant Refractometers
    • Thermostat Removal Tools
  12. Safety Equipment
    • Safety Goggles
    • Mechanic’s Gloves
    • Ear Protection
    • Face Shields
  13. Tool Maintenance
    • Sharpening Stones
    • Tool Cleaners
    • Anti-Corrosion Sprays
  14. Automotive Electronics Tools
    • Circuit Testers
    • Relay Test Jumper Kits
    • Soldering Irons and Kits

Types of Automotive Tools Table with Characteristics and Usage

Tool TypeCharacteristicUsage
ScrewdriversVaried head designs (Flat-head, Phillips, Torx)Driving or removing screws
PliersGripping mechanism; varied jaws (needle-nose, channel locks)Gripping, bending, cutting wires
WrenchesFixed or adjustable grip; open or closed-endLoosening/tightening bolts and nuts
Impact WrenchesHigh torque; powered by air or electricityQuickly removing or tightening bolts, especially lug nuts
GrindersHigh-speed rotation; abrasive disc or wheelCutting, grinding, and polishing metals
DrillsRotating chuck; powered designDrilling holes or driving screws
OBD2 ScannersDigital display; plug-in designDiagnosing vehicle engine, transmission, and other systems
MultimetersDigital/analog display; multi-functional probesMeasuring voltage, current, resistance
JacksLifting mechanism; hydraulic or mechanicalLifting vehicles for maintenance or tire changes
Brake Service ToolsSpecific designs for brake componentsMaintaining and repairing the vehicle’s brake system
Engine ToolsTailored for engine componentsDiagnosing and servicing engines
CalipersSliding scale; digital or analog readingsMeasuring distances between two opposite sides of an object
Fuel Pressure TestersGauge display; hose connectionMeasuring the pressure within the fuel line
Transmission JacksHeavy-duty design; adjustable heightSafely removing or installing transmissions
Radiator Pressure TestersGauge display; plug-in designDetecting leaks in the cooling system by pressurizing it
Safety GogglesClear protective lens; secure fitProtecting eyes from debris, chemicals, or particles
Mechanic’s GlovesDurable material; resistant designProtecting hands from abrasions, cuts, or chemicals
ToolboxesCompartmentalized storage; portable or fixedOrganizing and storing automotive tools
Circuit TestersProbe design; light or gauge indicatorChecking the continuity of electrical circuits
Sharpening StonesAbrasive surfaces; varied gritsMaintaining the sharpness of edged tools

Hand Tools

14 Types of Automotive Tools + Table with Characteristics and Usage | Linquip (1)

Screwdrivers

Arguably the most common tools in any toolbox, screwdrivers come in various types:

  • Flat-head: Used for slotted screws.
  • Phillips: Ideal for screws with a cross-head pattern.
  • Torx: Used for star-shaped screw heads.

Pliers

These are multi-purpose tools used for gripping, bending, and cutting wires. Some common types include:

  • Needle-nose: Ideal for reaching into tight spaces.
  • Channel locks: Used for gripping larger objects.

Wrenches

A must-have for any automotive work, wrenches are used for loosening or tightening bolts and nuts. Types include:

  • Open-end: Offers two different-sized ends.
  • Box-end: Encloses the bolt head entirely.

Power Tools

14 Types of Automotive Tools + Table with Characteristics and Usage | Linquip (2)

Impact Wrenches

These are powerful tools designed to deliver high torque output with minimal effort. They are commonly used for:

  • Removing lug nuts from wheels.
  • Tightening bolts to specific torque values.

Grinders

Used for cutting, grinding, and polishing metals. There are two main types:

  • Angle grinders: Ideal for larger jobs.
  • Die grinders: Used for more precise work.

Drills

From drilling holes to driving screws, drills are versatile power tools in automotive repair. They come in both corded and cordless variants.

Diagnostic Tools

14 Types of Automotive Tools + Table with Characteristics and Usage | Linquip (3)

OBD2 Scanners

An essential tool for modern vehicles, it helps diagnose problems within a car’s engine, transmission, and other systems.

  • Code readers: Read and clear codes.
  • Scan tools: Offer more functionality like live data and advanced diagnostics.

Multimeters

Used to measure voltage, current, and resistance in electrical systems. Vital for diagnosing electrical problems.

Lifting and Hoisting Tools

14 Types of Automotive Tools + Table with Characteristics and Usage | Linquip (4)

Jacks

Used for lifting vehicles off the ground. Types include:

  • Hydraulic floor jacks: Ideal for lifting heavy vehicles.
  • Scissor jacks: Typically come with new cars and are used for tire changes.

Hoists

Used in professional settings, hoists allow for the entire vehicle to be lifted off the ground, making undercarriage work easier.

Specialty Automotive Tools

14 Types of Automotive Tools + Table with Characteristics and Usage | Linquip (5)

Brake Service Tools

Maintaining and repairing a vehicle’s brake system is crucial for safety. Essential tools include:

  • Brake Bleeder Kit: Helps in changing brake fluid and removing air from the brake lines.
  • Brake Spring Pliers: Assists in the removal and installation of shoe return springs on drum brakes.

Engine Tools

Specific tools are required for diagnosing and servicing engines:

  • Compression Testers: Measures the compression pressure produced by the cylinders.
  • Timing Lights: Used to set the ignition timing accurately.

Body Repair Tools

For dents, scratches, and more, these tools are indispensable:

  • Dent Pullers: Used to pull dents out from the car’s body.
  • Body Hammers & Dollies: Help in reshaping metal surfaces.

Measurement and Inspection Tools

14 Types of Automotive Tools + Table with Characteristics and Usage | Linquip (6)

Calipers

Used to measure the distance between two opposite sides of an object accurately. Types include:

  • Vernier Calipers: Offers a sliding scale for precise measurements.
  • Digital Calipers: Provides digital readings for more accurate measurements.

Feeler Gauges

These are sets of thin metal strips used to measure gap widths, primarily for setting the gap on spark plugs.

Inspection Cameras

Used to inspect areas that are hard to reach or see, such as inside cylinders or behind automotive parts.

Cleaning and Maintenance Tools

14 Types of Automotive Tools + Table with Characteristics and Usage | Linquip (7)

Parts Washers

Used for cleaning greasy and oily auto parts, ensuring they’re free of contaminants before installation or further use.

Grease Guns

Essential for lubricating car components, they allow mechanics to apply lubrication to specific points.

Oil Filter Wrenches

Designed to remove spin-on type oil filters, they come in several styles, including straps, sockets, and claws.

Storage Solutions

14 Types of Automotive Tools + Table with Characteristics and Usage | Linquip (8)

Toolboxes

From portable ones to large cabinets, these are essential for organizing and protecting tools.

Tool Carts

Usually smaller than toolboxes, they provide mobile storage solutions, allowing mechanics to move their tools with them.

Tool Organizers

Items like wrench racks, socket trays, and magnetic holders help in keeping tools organized and easily accessible.

Advanced Diagnostic Equipment

14 Types of Automotive Tools + Table with Characteristics and Usage | Linquip (9)

Fuel Pressure Testers

Used to determine the pressure within the fuel line, ensuring proper fuel delivery to the engine.

Vacuum Testers

Helpful in diagnosing various engine problems, from valve leaks to incorrect timing.

Battery Load Testers

Assess the battery’s health by applying a load and measuring its ability to maintain voltage.

Transmission and Drivetrain Tools

14 Types of Automotive Tools + Table with Characteristics and Usage | Linquip (10)

Transmission Jacks

Specially designed to safely remove or install transmissions, which are heavy and difficult to manage with standard jacks.

Clutch Alignment Tools

Facilitates the alignment of the clutch disc between the pressure plate and flywheel.

Axle Nut Sockets

Specifically designed to handle the large nuts found on vehicle axles.

Cooling System Tools

14 Types of Automotive Tools + Table with Characteristics and Usage | Linquip (11)

Radiator Pressure Testers

Helps in detecting leaks in the cooling system by pressurizing it.

Coolant Refractometers

Measures the freezing and boiling points of coolant, ensuring it’s at the right mixture.

Thermostat Removal Tools

Specifically designed tools to help in the removal and installation of vehicle thermostats.

Safety Equipment

14 Types of Automotive Tools + Table with Characteristics and Usage | Linquip (12)

Safety Goggles

Protects the eyes from splashes of chemicals, flying debris, and dust.

Mechanic’s Gloves

Designed to provide protection against cuts, abrasions, and chemicals while offering dexterity.

Ear Protection

Protects against loud noises, especially when using high-powered tools, to prevent hearing damage.

Face Shields

Protects the face from flying debris, especially during grinding or cutting tasks.

Tool Maintenance

14 Types of Automotive Tools + Table with Characteristics and Usage | Linquip (13)

Sharpening Stones

Used to maintain the sharpness of tools like chisels or other edged instruments.

Tool Cleaners

Specialized cleaners are designed to remove grease, rust, and other contaminants from tools.

Anti-Corrosion Sprays

Helps protect tools from rust, especially when stored in damp environments.

Automotive Electronics Tools

14 Types of Automotive Tools + Table with Characteristics and Usage | Linquip (14)

Circuit Testers

Used to test the continuity of electrical circuits.

Relay Test Jumper Kits

Assists in diagnosing problems with relays, which are common in-vehicle electronic systems.

Soldering Irons and Kits

Used for repairing or creating electrical connections.

Conclusion

As the automotive industry evolves with technology and innovation, so does the toolkit required by professionals. Advanced diagnostics, specialized tools for newer vehicle models, and an emphasis on safety are now more crucial than ever. Linquip, a trusted name in the automotive industry, recognizes these ever-evolving needs, making it imperative to stay updated and equipped with the best. With Linquip by your side, your journey into the complex world of automotive tools becomes seamless, ensuring that you’re always ahead of the curve. Stay equipped, stay safe, and always strive for automotive excellence with Linquip.

Download PDF for Types of Automotive Tools

A PDF version of the article can be downloaded by clicking the link below.

Buy Equipment or Ask for a Service

By using Linquip RFQ Service, you can expectto receive quotations from various suppliers across multiple industries and regions.

Click Here to Request a Quotation From Suppliers and Service Providers

Read More on Linquip


  • 6 Types of Hammer Drills with Advantages
  • 10 Types of Wire Strippers + Table with Characteristics and Usage
  • 9 Types of Threading Tools + Table with Characteristics and Usage
  • 12 Types of Pipe Benders and Their Characteristics
  • 12 Types of Magnifiers + Table with Characteristics and Usage
  • 7 Types of Airbrush + Table with Characteristics and Usage
  • 12 Types of Magnifiers + Table with Characteristics and Usage
  • 7 Types of Airbrush + Table with Characteristics and Usage
  • 8 Types of Ventilators With Their Features
  • 20 Types of Tool Kits + Table with Characteristics and Usage

14 Types of Automotive Tools + Table with Characteristics and Usage | Linquip (2024)

References

Top Articles
Latest Posts
Article information

Author: Terrell Hackett

Last Updated:

Views: 6015

Rating: 4.1 / 5 (72 voted)

Reviews: 87% of readers found this page helpful

Author information

Name: Terrell Hackett

Birthday: 1992-03-17

Address: Suite 453 459 Gibson Squares, East Adriane, AK 71925-5692

Phone: +21811810803470

Job: Chief Representative

Hobby: Board games, Rock climbing, Ghost hunting, Origami, Kabaddi, Mushroom hunting, Gaming

Introduction: My name is Terrell Hackett, I am a gleaming, brainy, courageous, helpful, healthy, cooperative, graceful person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.