what tools do you need to be a mechanic

Auto Mechanic Tools and Equipment List

• 1. Oil Filter Wrench An oil change is one of the most common works for an entry-level mechanic. ...
• 2. Wrench and Socket Set Wrenches are of different types and sizes. ...
• 3. Screwdrivers This is another basic tool that every mechanic needs to have in their toolbox. ...
• 4. Impact Gun ...
• 5. Hammer ...
• 6. Pliers ...
• 7. Vise-Grip ...
• 8. Ratchet ...

Full Answer

What are the best tools for a mechanic?

The Top Automotive Tools Every Mechanic Needs

• See Around Corners and Retrieve Lost Parts. ...
• Get Maximum Leverage in Tight Places. ...
• Light Up Your Project. ...
• Reach into Tight Places with a Ratchet Extender. ...
• Big, Beefy, Buy-Once Mechanic’s Tools. ...
• Needle Scaler Blasts Off Rust. ...
• Split a Nut. ...
• Locking Extension Bars Hold onto Sockets. ...
• Out-of-Sight Pliers. ...
• Flexible Sockets Get in Tight Places. ...

More items...

What skills do I need to be a mechanic?

You’ll need:

• the ability to use, repair and maintain machines and tools.
• to be thorough and pay attention to detail.
• problem-solving skills.
• the ability to use your initiative.
• persistence and determination.
• the ability to work well with others.
• knowledge of engineering science and technology.
• customer service skills.

What skill do you need to become a mechanic?

What skills do you need to be a mechanic? An excellent knowledge of motor technology. Good communication skills. The ability to listen to and follow instructions. Excellent practical skills. The ability to solve problems. A willingness to work as part of a team. The ability to concentrate for long periods of time.

Do mechanic buy their own tools?

Yes, almost exclusively professionals are expected to buy their own tools, and depending on the shop, big items like scanners and other specialty tools the shop having on hand. Hand and air tools are usually bought by the mechanics themselves. Do automechanics have to use their own tools? In most cases yes they do.

How do oil filter wrenches work?

How to use a jack stand for a car?

How does an air compressor work?

What is socket set?

How do spark plugs work?

What is a breaker bar?

How does a torque wrench work?

See 2 more

What is the most used tool by a mechanic?

Below are some of the most commonly used tools by mechanics:Screwdriver. Screwdrivers allow mechanics to insert a screw into an object by turning its top, called a head. ... Wrench. ... Torque wrench. ... Pliers. ... Ratchet and socket set. ... Spark plug gapper. ... Oil filter wrench. ... Oil drain pan.More items...•

What are the 3 skills you should be able to do as an auto mechanic?

Auto mechanics must develop skills in areas like problem-solving, communication, and attention to detail. Mechanics don't need a postsecondary degree, but many complete non-degree training programs at a technical school. Auto mechanics need dexterity to complete their jobs.

Does a mechanic need his own tools?

As it stands, the common practice in the United States is for a mechanic to provide his own tools for the job, regardless of whether he's self-employed or employed by a service center. Sure, some employers provide specialty tools, and sometimes, they even provide some really basic tools that can get most jobs done.

How do I prepare to be a mechanic?

Steps to Becoming a MechanicDo Some Homework. Career mechanics have physically demanding jobs. ... Complete a High School Education. ... Complete a Mechanic Training Program. ... Become Entry-Level Certified. ... Complete an Apprenticeship or Internship. ... Get Hired as a Mechanic. ... Become a Certified Professional Technician. ... Keep Learning.

What does a number 1 mechanic do?

READ MORE: The insider's guide to… The number one is accountable for the car – meaning that the front- and rear-end mechanics, the hydraulics and gearbox technicians all report to them. In turn, the number one liaises with race engineer, chief mechanic and the team manager.

How stressful is being a mechanic?

Compared to an office job, mechanic careers are much more physically demanding. You spend much of your day on your feet or in uncomfortable positions when completing repairs. You also typically work routinely with tools and greasy car parts, which is uncomfortable, and often wearing on your hands and arms.

What are the best tool sets to get as a beginner mechanic?

Best Mechanic Tool Sets For 2022Dekopro 158-piece : Best Budget Mechanics Tool Set.Dewalt 172-piece : Best Beginner Mechanics Tool Set.Craftsman 450-piece : Best Intermediate Mechanics Tool Set.Workpro 450-piece : Best Professional-Grade Mechanics Tool Set.Gearwrench 613-piece : Best Master Mechanics Tool Set.

What should you not say to a mechanic?

0:063:345 Things You Should Never Say to a Mechanic - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipLet's do it don't bring your own or you're gonna chase a good mechanic away cuz I said you go to aMoreLet's do it don't bring your own or you're gonna chase a good mechanic away cuz I said you go to a restaurant. You don't come in with ham. And eggs and say gee could you make me an omelet.

Do mechanics still wear overalls?

Mechanics often wear protective items like gloves and goggles. A mechanic's work clothing is usually a set of coveralls, which are durable and functional. Coveralls are jumpsuits that cover the mechanic's regular clothes and are made of durable, protective, flame resistant fabric.

Is becoming a mechanic hard?

The state of California, for example, has no formal certification or training requirements to work in a repair shop. With that said, it can be extremely tough to break into the auto repair field without a bare minimum level of education and job skills training.

What is the hardest part about being a mechanic?

THE 4 BIGGEST CHALLENGES OF BEING A MECHANICSPEED UP! We all know the classic phrase time is money. ... SPEED UP – AND PERFORM 100% It is not enough just to work faster. ... BE READY TO FACE THE FUTURE. In recent years, vehicles have become increasingly complex. ... MECHANICS CARRY AN ENORMOUS RESPONSIBILITY.

Can a mechanic be self taught?

In recent years, however, self-taught mechanics have become a dying breed thanks to ever-evolving technologies. These days, if you want to succeed in the automotive repair industry, you need the training and experience necessary to understand how to repair complex, high-tech systems.

What are 5 responsibilities of a mechanic?

ResponsibilitiesBuild and assemble machines or mechanical components according to requirements.Inspect machines, engines, transmissions etc. ... Conduct repairs aiming for maximum reliability.Troubleshoot reported problems and resolve them in a timely manner.Perform thorough maintenance on machinery, equipment and systems.More items...

What qualities should a mechanic have?

4 TRAITS OF A GREAT AUTO MECHANICGreat Communication Skills. If anything can strain a relationship – both personal and professional – it's a lack of communication. ... A Problem Solver with Technical Aptitude. ... A Willingness to Keep Learning. ... Strong Work Ethic.

What skills should a mechanic put on a resume?

Key SkillsEquipment and engine repair.Diagnostic skills.Troubleshooting skills.Strong work ethic.Keen attention to detail.Impeccable customer service skills.

What are the three types of mechanic?

Mechanics may be divided into three branches: statics, which deals with forces acting on and in a body at rest; kinematics, which describes the possible motions of a body or system of bodies; and kinetics, which attempts to explain or predict the motion that will occur in a given situation.

What are the different types of automotive tools?

When it comes to automotive tools, it’s helpful to look at them in terms of five categories: Core hand tools: This includes basic ratchets, wrenches, sockets, screwdrivers and pliers.

How long has UTI been working with Snap-on?

UTI and Snap-on have worked together for over 20 years now. Snap-on plays an important role in the student experience at UTI—while students complete their program, Snap-on supplies the tools and equipment used by the campuses to conduct the training.

Why is it important to have the right tools?

If a technician isn’t able to do their job well, they won’t be able to work in a professional environment and make an income.

What is the difference between a good technician and a great one?

The difference between a good technician and a great one is often their ability to know what tools to use and when to use them. At Universal Technical Institute, we know that tools are everything when it comes to preparing for a career in the automotive industry.

Why is it important to manage your time as a technician?

However, at the professional level, technicians are expected to complete their work in a certain time period with a high level of accuracy. Having the right tools is essential to being able to do this.

What is Universal Technical Institute?

At Universal Technical Institute, we know that tools are everything when it comes to preparing for a career in the automotive industry. This is why we’ve teamed up with Snap-on , a leading manufacturer of high-end tools and equipment for professionals in the transportation industry, to provide you with a complete automotive technician tool list.

Why do you need to replace a tool?

The only reason you would have to replace a tool is if it were lost or the technology changed. By investing in the right tools, you’re investing in your career!

What are the jobs that UTI graduates get?

Some UTI graduates get jobs within their field of study in positions other than as a technician, such as: parts associate, service writer, fabricator, paint and paint prep, and shop owner/operator. UTI is an educational institution and cannot guarantee employment or salary.

How long is UTI diesel tech?

UTI’s core Diesel Technology program starts every three to six weeks at our campus locations nationwide. We also have a variety of specialized training programs — like the 12-week agricultural equipment technician training program, which was created in collaboration with Fendt, part of the AGCO Corporation. Students who qualify for this program can gain valuable skills that could help them pursue employment as an agricultural technician. 15

What is NASCAR Technical Institute?

24) NASCAR Technical Institute prepares graduates to work as entry-level automotive service technicians. Graduates who take NASCAR-specific electives also may have job opportunities in racing-related industries. Of those 2019 graduates who took electives, approximately 20% found racing-related opportunities. NASCAR Tech’s overall employment rate for 2019 was 84%.

Is UTI an educational institution?

1) UTI is an educational institution and cannot guarantee employment or salary.

Does UTI accept diplomas?

UTI welcomes General Education Diploma students. Find out more in our resources.

Do I need all the tools for my future employer?

This is a long list, but you may not need all the tools on this list for your future employer. Some employers may even provide certain tools. It can help to contact employers you're interested in to see what they require. Also, take advantage of employer visits on your UTI campus.

Is VA available at all campuses?

20) VA benefits may not be available at all campus locations.

What are the problems with fuel injectors?

Some of the problems you will face as an auto mechanic are issues with fuel injectors. Most of the time, the issues are brought about by dirt, and they need to be cleaned with injector cleaners. Injector cleaners work very well to address initial problems with fuel injectors at their early stages. Some issues, such as clogging can be solves by using injector cleaners regularly. Using these cleaners leads to a more powerful engine, better throttle response, shorter cranking time, and smoother feel on how the car runs.

What is a paint sprayer?

A paint sprayer is a tool used to paint vehicles to give them a new look or restoring them to their old look after an accident. The best paint sprayers will make your car painting job as a mechanic, comfortable, quick, and efficient. The most common types of sprayers you can use are gravity feed spray guns, HVLP paint sprayers, LVLP paint sprayers, compressed air paint sprayers, and airless paint sprayers, Powder Coating Guns. All of them have their own pros and cons, but most professionals prefer to use the airless or the HVLP paint sprayers.

What is the most common job a mechanic does?

One common task a mechanic does is maintenance and tire jobs. You will need to check the air pressure of the car as you adjust them quite a number of times in a day. This job will only become easier if you have the best tire pressure and inflator gauge. A Tire pressure gauge is the most simple air compressed tool.

What tools do mechanics need?

Screwdrivers. This is another basic tool that every mechanic needs to have in their toolbox. Screwdrivers come in different gauges and lengths, and they save a lot of time. Get a screwdriver set that contains stubbed and small screwdrivers, skinny and long screwdrivers as well and torque screwdrivers.

What is a test light?

Test lights are used during the inspection of blown fuses, starters diagnosing, light bulbs not working, and other simple electric problems. The best type of test light you should buy is a dual polarity test light. It is of great help to any beginner mechanic for it will help them to make a correct electric diagnosis. Every Auto mechanic Should Include this tool mechanic hand tools list, especially those who repair the Vehicle’s electrical system.

What is the difference between a mechanic and a mechanic?

The difference between a mechanic and a great mechanic is having an understanding of the tools to use and when to use them.

Why are scissors important?

Scissors are an important tool for a mechanic since they can save them in an emergency. It is part of a tire puncture repair kit. It can help in cutting wires, electric tapes, and zip ties among other tasks. It may not be a specific tool for mechanics, but it is basic for a well-equipped toolbox due to its versatility.

What is a sardine can?

A sardine can is roomy compared to your average engine compartment. Mechanics need all the help they can get trying to work in such cramped quarters. These “crows foot” wrenches attach to any 3/8-inch-drive extension bar and let you remove nuts and bolts from far away. Their flare nut design is great for removing brake and power steering lines. Just slip the line through the opening and the wrench will encircle the flare nut to give you extra turning power.

How to use a tite reach tool?

That’s where this Tite-Reach tool comes in handy. Slap your socket onto one end of the extension tool and attach your ratchet to the other end. Then loosen or tighten the “unreachable” bolt.

What is Dewalt socket?

DeWalt, a brand known for its heavy-duty power tools, is now making sockets and wrenches as well. After giving them a try, we can tell you that these are no ordinary tools. As soon as you pick up one of these ratchets, you’ll notice that it’s heavier and has a beefier handle that fits better in your palm.

How many lumens does a 120 LED nightstick have?

Click the switch to choose either 650 or 1,200 lumens. The 120-LED light is rechargeable and comes with an under-hood bracket and a charging transformer. The internal battery runs the Nightstick for 4.5 hours at 1,200 lumens, and 8.5 hours at 650 lumens.

How many pieces does a Dewalt socket/wrench have?

DeWalt offers two socket/wrench set configurations, a 204-piece socket/wrench set and a 118-piece set. DeWalt mechanic’s tools have a lifetime warranty. But from the feel of them, we doubt you’ll ever need a replacement.

Is Bayco Nightstick a good light?

Although the Bayco Nightstick is called an under-hood light, it’s an even better under-vehicle light. Just unsnap it from the bracket to use it down under. The strong magnets hold it in place, and the tube rotates 200 degrees, so you can aim the light exactly where you need it. Click the switch to choose either 650 or 1,200 lumens.

Can you pull a ratchet out of a tight spot?

It’s a drag when you pull your ratchet and extension bar out of a tight spot only to discover that the socket is still stuck on the bolt head. That’ll never happen if you use locking extension bars. Pull back the locking ring, snap on a socket and let go.

Why I Wear Safety Glasses?

I’ve been working on the shop floor for more than twenty years, and I’ve seen some accidents that were preventable and predictable and some that weren’t.

Is A Torque Wrench Essential?

A torque wrench is a tool that tightens fasteners to an adjustable specific measurement. All nuts, bolts, and screws will have an exact torque specification set out by the manufacturer.

What Chisels Do Mechanics Use?

Chisels are not all the same. They come in lots of different sizes and have other functions. Mechanics use what’s known as a cold chisel, named by blacksmiths as it’s the best chisel to cut cold metal. The striking head is unique in that it’s not heat treated like the shaft and tip.

What is a peen head?

The peen is the ball of the hammer, it leaves a smaller witness mark than a flat faced hammer. The Rubber hammer, yea I know it sounds like a joke, but it’s real.

How many hammers do you need for a truck?

Hammers are graded by type, weight and material used. A mechanic will typically need 3 to 4 ham mers. A large 3-4 lbs steel head hammer is great for loosening ball-joints, especially if your working on a truck. The basic Peen hammer will have a ball head on one side and a flat face head on the other.

What happens if you over tighten a bolt?

Over-tightening and under-tightening can cause bolts to break and components to come loose, which obviously can endanger life if the component is part of the suspension, braking, or steering systems.

What is a rubber hammer?

It’s a metal hammer, with a lead filled head covered in heavy rubber. It’s used to strike softer materials, like plastic, rubber and sheet metal. A mechanic would likely use a rubber hammer to move a component rather than reshape it.

How do oil filter wrenches work?

When oily, they become difficult to use.#N#How do they work? First, you attach a loop of the chain around the filter. The bar is then turned by hand in an anticlockwise motion until the chain wraps around the oil-filter. You then use an adjustable spanner or socket wrench to turn the bar further in the same direction. This increases the chain’s tightness. It also grips into the oil filter’s soft metal casing and stops spillage.#N#When choosing an oil filter wrench, here are some considerations to make.#N#• Oil filter’s size#N#• How much space you have around the oil filter#N#• The tightness of the oil filter

How to use a jack stand for a car?

When repairing a car, you need enough space to move, which requires that you suspend it. A jack stand is a tower or tripod shaped tool designed for supporting a car’s weight during the repair.#N#For extra support to an elevated vehicle, place the jack stand under the car’s frame or axel. You can use them on level or hard surfaces and only for vehicles within the stand’s weight limits.#N#When choosing a jack stand, consider your car’s weight and the height you want to achieve. Unlike other ways of supporting a suspended car, jack stands are safer. Ensure that you pack your vehicle and the ignition is off before using your jack stand.#N#To maintain your jack stand, ensure that you oil it often. When buying a jack stand, it comes with a floor jack.

How does an air compressor work?

Air compressors change power into energy using gasoline and diesel engines or electric motors. That energy is then stored in compressed air, which has several uses.#N#You can use it to fill impact wrenches, blow out carburetor fuel passages, or dust your garage. They are cheaper than their battery counterparts and have higher horsepower. Their cubic feet per meter (CFM) rating is also higher.#N#But, they produce more noise than the battery ones. When buying an air compressor, ensure that the CFM matches the kinds of jobs you intend to do with them.#N#To increase the life of your air compressor, check for any leaks, change the oil often, and keep it in safe operating temperatures.

What is socket set?

Socket sets are convenient and versatile toolkit accessories. They give you the flexibility to deal with different types and sizes of fasteners. They tighten or lose different types and sizes of bolts and nuts.#N#They come in one box or case of different interchangeable attachments.

How do spark plugs work?

What are spark plugs, and how do they work? For your car to run, gasoline combustion must take place for energy production.#N#Spark plugs are the ones that produce the spark to ignite the fuel/air mixture for power production. Alongside the timing and electrical equipment, spark plugs make up the ignition system.#N#Spark plugs can withstand millions of explosions before they wear out because of their durable material. But when do you need to change your spark plug? Over time the explosions cause weaker sparks, which may fail to fire or to misfire.#N#That reduces your engine’s efficiency. When you notice the misfiring, rattling noises from your engine or longer ignition time, you should change your spark plug. Even without those signs, it is best to replace it every 20,000 to 30,000 miles.#N#Yet, other extended-life spark plugs have a lifespan of 100,000 miles. How do you choose the best spark plug? Often, the repair shop attendants will help you with this. You must first know if the plug is the right one for your car.#N#Next, look at the material. Some materials like platinum are expensive but are longer lasting than materials like copper. It all depends on your budget.

What is a breaker bar?

They are also called power bars. Breaker bars are long non-ratcheting bars used to break tight fasteners. This is enabled by their extra length, which allows you to apply more torque with less force.#N#Since they have no moving parts, breaker bars don’t break easily, and if they do, they are cheaper to replace. While it is easy to mistake it for a torque wrench, they are two different tools.#N#Breaker bars need less strength to get more torque. However, torque wrenches need continuous adjustment of the handle. When buying a breaker bar, consider the length. The longer the tool, the better.#N#Also, consider how the head turns. Look for a head that rotates in 180 degrees. It makes it easier for you to work in any direction.

How does a torque wrench work?

A torque wrench is a device used to tighten bolts and nuts to a predetermined torque number. It allows you to tighten bolts and nuts to the proper tension. It also helps in avoiding damage by over-tightening or coming apart of joints from under-tightening.#N#Torque wrenches are not only useful in the automotive industry. You can also use hem in-home repairs where you need to fasten bolts or nuts to a certain degree. They come in ¼” for small bolts (0-30nm) and ½” for larger bolts.#N#How do they work? Torque wrenches have calibrations to exert a specific amount of torque to fasteners. What is torque? It is the amount of force needed to rotate an object. Its measuring units are lb., lb.in, or N.m.#N#How much torque you need depends on the length of the wrench and the force on the handle. There is an internal mechanical indicator on the handle connected to a calibrated scale. It indicates when you reach the desired torque.#N#Torque wrenches also have a display screen or easy-to-read scale, which shows how much torque you are applying. You can change the settings to increase or reduce the torque. For more torque, turn the handle clockwise, and for less, turn it counter-clockwise.#N#For effective results, when using the tool, you should calibrate it once it reaches 2500-3000 repetitions.