10 Must-Have Car Tools
Friday, September 30th, 2011Jack and wheel brace
All cars must have them, but sometimes they just aren’t where they are supposed to be when you need them most. The car’s manufacturer will have provided a specific jack and wheel brace designed for your particular model, but you can buy a jack and wheel braces from auto stores if they are missing or damaged. As a general rule, it’s best to stick with the ones that came with the car. They fit nicely in their allotted position and work exactly as they should. Just remember to put them back when you have finished with them.
Spanners and screwdrivers
It doesn’t have to be a toolbox full of gear – in fact, you want to keep the number of tools down to a minimum and keep them in a compact way so they don’t take up too much space. You will want a couple of adjustable spanners of varying sizes, plus a few screwdrivers – both flat blade and Phillips head – of common sizes.
Jumper leads
We have all suffered a flat battery at some stage, and there is nothing more frustrating. If you have some jumper cables, you can get yourself going again. Make sure you get the right ones, though. Newer cars need a certain type that prevents an overload on the car’s computer when you connect the leads up to the flat battery and the charged battery of a friend or kind, helping motorist. Make sure you always follow the instructions on how to use them.
Mobile phone charger
Everyone has a mobile phone these days and they are invaluable in times of need, particularly if you are stuck on the side of the road. But you would hate for your phone to run out of battery life, so make sure you have an in-car charger that never leaves the vehicle.
First aid kit
There are kits made specifically for vehicles and they contain crucial items that could well save a life in times of emergency, such as bandages and thermal blankets. You can buy them from specialist retailers or make up a kit yourself.
Pen and paper
Not only should you have something to write with, but you should check that it works. A small notebook is handy as well – it comes in very handy when you need to take down details after a crash.
Old rag
Engines get dirty and sometimes you will need to check the coolant, oil or window washer levels. An old rag will prevent you from getting dirt and stains on yourself and your clothes.
Air compressor
There are plenty of small compressors on the market that won’t put a big hole in your wallet. They are compact, will hide away somewhere handy and are invaluable if you notice your tyre is a little flat and needs to be brought back up to pressure. They are also great for pumping up air mattresses when camping and bike tyres, so make sure you get one that plugs into your car’s lighter socket and has a range of attachment for a variety of valves. When getting car insurance quotes, check that items such as air compressors can be covered as well in case of theft.
Torch
A torch is invaluable if you need to change a tyre at night. Get one that gives you maximum brightness for your buck and also doesn’t take up too much room.
Tyre pressure gauge
Regularly check tyre pressure to prevent wearing and to ensure a safe ride. It’s easy and quick to do if you have your own gauge, which are cheap and compact.