tool kit for car

Best Tool Kit To Keep In Car

Look, let’s be honest with you; planning for the worst case scenario is not a fun task. Since our cars rarely give any heads up before requiring repairs anywhere and at any time, we will need to keep tool kits in our vehicle.

Car tool kits are a handy set of tools you should carry in your car for maintenance and routine repairs. It is always better to be safe; these tools can become your saving grace during a trip.

So you may even have a garage filled with various kinds and sizes of tools, it makes sense to have a toolkit in your car to sort most vehicle-related jobs in emergencies.

Although these kits are different from emergency tools like jumper cables, air compressor, flashlight, flares, multimeter or first aid kits, for safety’s sake, some car tool kits can be packed with some emergency toolkit to keep you best prepared for any situation. The car tool kit can offer you just about every combination of tools you can need easily kept in your trunk.

What should you look for in a car tool kit?

Every vehicle needs a set of tools, but as these kits may come, there is a common element with most. Then we have the question, “what difference makes one stand out as superior?”

You should have a good comparison of the various qualities of these tool kits based on certain essential factors. With these alone, you would have enough knowledge of the set for you and the way you work, while you go for your next tool shopping.

Carrying Case

Considering the carrying case may seem like a negligible detail for tools that have to function every day. But as all items need a home, all tools need to be organized and kept which makes casing your toolset important.

Think about a set of tools without a package, how disorganized it would be, and once you open the case they continually fall out and get mixed up – this factor already defeats the purpose of having an easy to access tool kit.

Even if all the tools in this article may have a box to keep them, they come in different quality to be effective. Some are durable with high quality; some have hinges, drawers or multiple clasps for extra security – these attributes are for you to keep on mind while you make a selection.

Check out the structural conditions of the carrying case; tool kits with lower prices come with plastic cases that do not hold the tools securely, after a bit of normal wear and tear, some others have clasps that brakes off too easily thereby preventing proper closure.

In a situation where you prefer a brand of the tool kit with an unreliable tool case, you can purchase a separate toolbox that is specifically designed for all the toolset you have bought. Whichever works for you!

Tool Count

Think about your intentions for the toolset to determine your selection. Consider how frequent you plan to use them and the in-depth work your car requires. Compare the need for a home mechanic who makes use of an extensive set of tools for everyday repairs with you that do not need the most expensive or most extensive selection.

Manufacturers also like to count everything in the kit as a tool, but you should not select automotive toolsets based on the giving tool count. The package with the more significant number of tool count does not mean more tools, so it is important to make sure your tool set has all the tools you want for your car regardless of the tool count.

Tool count could be enticing, but try not to pay so much for a higher tool count containing inexpensive hardware. Focus on quality rather than quantity.

Warranty

If possible, getting a lifetime warranty will be a huge help, but in cases where the product you want doesn’t offer that much guarantee, you are still safe as long as the product is durable.

A decent warranty tells a lot about the manufacturer’s faith in the craft and product’s quality against breakages, defects or wears. Tool sets are not created with equal warranties; the higher end brands tend to offer better warranty coverage than the cheaper ones with simple, shorter-term warranty. Some even back their products with lifetime coverage.

To choose a tool kit concerning their warranty; you should weigh the cost of the pricier brands against your needs and budget in comparison with their warranty coverage and cost of replacing damaged units. You would then know if you have to spend extra on a brand with a more extended warranty backing.

Product reviews

For proper care of your car, we have tracked down the best tool kits on the market today that you can keep in your vehicle. Take a look at our suggestions to make a pick on the ones that suit your need.

Top 6 Best Tool Kit To Keep In Car

OUR TOP PICK

Crescent 170 Piece General Purpose Tool Set - Closed Case - CTK170CMP2

The Crescent CTK10CMP2 Mechanics Tool Set is not as widely known as some of the largest commercial brands, but it is another awesome kit. The manufacturers have a record of being the first company to make an adjustable wrench in the U.S.A.

It is a great tool kit for beginners, easy to use, solidly built and does not weigh so much. You have no choice but to appreciate the smooth chrome finish, manufactured from heat-treated vanadium steel alloy to have no blemish and be flawless. 

Each tool set is small-sized and incredibly crafted which makes it the best choice for making lighter repairs in small vehicles. The collection is a combo of well-constructed tools like screwdrivers with well-constructed grips, sturdy ratchets, pliers, combo wrenches and sockets. The wrenches have a slender body to be very serviceable and tolerate a moderate amount of torque.

From experience, plastic cases are the best, and these tools are kept in a pretty foldable one to keep them organized and put them in place. The Crescent CTK170CMP2 is a right mix and a comprehensive set of tools every home can use.

Pros

  • Decent price
  • Portable and lightweight
  • A comprehensive selection of tools
  • Excellent and organized tool set

Cons

  • Some quality control issues
  • Advanced and specialized tools are missing
  • EDITORS CHOICE

    CARTMAN 148 Piece Automotive and Household Tool Set - Perfect for Car Enthusiasts and DIY Home Repairs

    If you have found a lower tool count attractive, then the Cartman 148 piece tool set is the real deal. It is the best option for DIY projects or emergency tasks around the home or in the office. Each tool is heat treated and chrome plated in a handy blow molded case.

    By purchasing this set of 148 pieces of relevant kits, you can expect to come across a wide array of tools. Each unit if the Cartman toolset has been carefully chosen to be necessarily needed for most daily maintenance and home repairs.

    The tool kits come in a plastic toolbox for secure storage. The Cartman 148 piece meets or exceeds ANSI all critical expectation for the general home and garage kit, as it functions for activities from cutting to hammering.

    Pros

    • Tools are chrome plated and heat treated to be well made
    • Comes with a small case that can fit anywhere
    • The set is versatile and useful
    • Reasonably priced

    Cons

    • The quality of the case could be better

    BEST VALUE

    Performance Tool W1193 SAE/Metric Multi-Use Tool Set, General Household Hand Tools, Auto Repair Tool Set, with Plastic Toolbox Storage Case, Gray, 119-Pieces

    Here is a basic tool kit specifically designed for roadside emergencies. The performance tool 119-piece SAE and metric is tagged as a multi-use toolset that functions for both home and automotive repairs. Some of the items in this unit include a ratchet, a set of box wrenches, screwdrivers, bit driver and bits, SAE and metric sockets and accessories, and pliers.

    The performance W1193 tool set is made with high quality, in-depth forged carbon steel material. They are heat treated for strength, and polished and chrome plated to resist corrosion and offer long lasting service. The 119 piece sets come in a heavy-duty, molded and organized plastic storage case to hold all the tools. The storage case is small-sized to fit into any car easily.

    This compact tool kit contains the most necessary tools for basic DIY household repairs. Apart from all that we have mentioned above, it also includes an adjustable wrench, a DC wire stripper, wire cutters, needle nose pliers and a spark plug socket. With all these, there is little, or nothing to complain about.

    Pros

    • Robust carbon steel construction and rust proof for utmost durability
    • Easy to figure out and use for novice mechanics
    • Complete kit for a small cost
    • Heavy-duty, blow molded storage case that can easily fit in your car.

    Cons

  • Not necessarily meant for extreme jobs.
  • Adaptors do not fit some uncommon vehicle models.
  • RUNNER UP

    Performance Tool W1532 107pc Home & Auto Tool Set, Hand Tools - Tool Sets , Red

    If you want a great general purpose toolset that can function as a home and car kit, the performance tool W1532 will do nicely. The performance tool W1532 107 piece is a top grade product expertly made as a standard. It offers a fusion of high-level craftsmanship and well-balanced design.

    The set contains all the up to date pieces of equipment to ensure enduring value and everlasting reliability. Some of the items include pliers, wrenches, tape measure, knife, bit driver hammer, adjustable wrench, hex key wrenches, precision screwdrivers, and several other accessories for repairs around your garage.

    Just like many of the other brands of tool kits, the tool count is a little misleading in that it includes a 50-piece fastener set. The set also features some tools that are not commonly part of other auto tool kits like the metric sockets, a 3/8-inch drive reversible ratchet, and SAE. But there is nothing to worry about since the price is reasonable.

    The 50-piece fastener assortment may not necessarily add value to the set, but they can come in handy. To crown it up, it comes packed in a heavy-duty case for organized storage.

    Pros

    • Heavy-duty, blow molded storage case that can easily fit in your car.
    • Easy to use for novice mechanics
    • High-quality solid carbon steel construction and rust proof for utmost durability
    • Complete kit for a small cost
    • 50 piece fastener assortment

    Cons

    • Not necessarily meant for extreme jobs.
    • Only 107-piece

    RUNNER UP

    Apollo Tools 56 Piece Compact SAE Auto Tool Set in Zippered Case, Small Mechanic Tool Set for Car Emergency, Motorcycle Repair on the Road, Great for Travel Tool Needs - Red - DT9774

    For basic car repair jobs, you will need a set of tools containing sockets, pliers, hex wrenches and screwdrivers – the Apollo Tool DT9774 offers these and more to get your jobs done.

    The tools are essentials handy items housed inside a zippered soft tool case to fit anywhere. The case is compact and small-sized to fit in larger glove compartments or backpacks.

    Each tool is made with the right quality materials and can be a great addition to your garage. For easy access, you can put the kit in your car so you can use it for emergency repairs. Apollo hand tool is known for their life quality guarantee.

    Some of the characteristics of these tools are the high-grade steel alloy, non-slip comfort grip and handles for extra torque; chrome plated to resist corrosion and promise of lifetime use.

    As an extra, the kit comes with metric sockets (Model 9775) or SAE sockets (Model DT9774). It is offered at a reasonable price; you would not have a hard time finding this product for around 20 dollars

    Pros

    • Compact tool kit for secure storage and use
    • Tools are chrome plated and heat treated to resist corrosion
    • Small zipper case
    • Nonslip comfort grip and handles for extra torque
    • Lifetime warranty

    Cons

    • Not necessarily meant for extreme jobs.
    • It does not come in a hard plastic case

    RUNNER UP

    Hi-Spec Tools 67pc SAE Auto Mechanics Hand Tool Kit Set. Complete Car, Motorcycle, Engine & Garage Repairs with Sockets, Ratchet Wrench, Pliers & More

    The Hi-Spec 67 Piece SAE Auto Mechanics Tool Set is more robust and advanced than most of the other tool kits in this set. The package is based on 67 pieces of tools featuring pliers, wrenches, and screwdrivers of several sizes to help you overcome unexpected car issues.

    The various choices and sizes of the tool in this auto mechanic sets are crafted out of quality materials and allow you handle more task than most of the other sets including mechanical, industrial, repairs and automotive application.

    It includes the most useful socket accessories like the Slide T bar for extra torque leverage, range of adaptors, SAE sockets, extension bars for hard to reach places, and universal joints.

    A plus is that with the sleek hard case, it can easily fit into a shelf in your garage or be great additions to your car accessories. The price may vary depending on your vendor, but you should find it around 30 dollars, which sounds like an absolute steal to us.

    Pros

    • Sleek hard case
    • Functions for more applications
    • Reasonable price
    • It includes the most useful socket accessories

    Cons

    • The quality of the case could be better

    RUNNER UP

    Performance Tool W1556 Commuter Emergency Roadside Safety Tool Kit

    The performance tool W1556 Commuter Emergency roadside tool kit has pliers, wrenches, jumper cables, fuses, mechanic’s gloves, electrical tapes, and tire pressure monitors – which are precisely the items you would be yearning for in a roadside emergency.

    The tools come in a portable hard plastic case to smoothly fit into your car and also for better storage. This kit remains one of the best items you need in your vehicle for basic automotive repairs at any time. It includes a flashlight to help you work with precision.

    Just imagine having a roadside emergency without a kit, when this would cost only about 20 dollars.

    Pros

    • Compact tool kit for secure storage and use
    • The flashlight helps for precisive work.
    • Portable hard plastic case
    • Jumper cables and other items for emergencies

    Cons

    • Not necessarily meant for extreme jobs.

    RUNNER UP

    86-Piece Household Hand Tool Set with Roll-Up Bag – Tool Kit with Screwdrivers, Pliers, Wrenches, and More – Great for the Home or Car by Stalwart

    Stalwart 86 piece is an essential toolset that can be used by any handyman for many DIY projects, minor maintenance, and household improvements and repairs. Each tool is made from durable metal construction to give ultimate precision.

    It does not come in a plastic casing like most other. Instead, the tools are organized in a compact roll-up bag that gives easy visibility and access to each tool when unrolled. The bag is durable can conveniently be kept in your car.

    The set has a couple of unique tool combos which includes a large bit driver set and a ¼ inch socket set to tackle auto maintenance, assemblings, repairs, and little emergencies.

    When you are not using this toolset on your vehicle, the household hand tools by stalwart can also help you tackle most repair projects around the home or offices like fixing a leaky kitchen or bathroom faucets, tightening up loose screws or hanging up pictures.

    You can be sure of the quality of this product, as the tool sets are guaranteed to provide value to the users genuinely

    Pros

    • Convenient and compact roll-up storage
    • Easy to use for novice mechanics
    • Convenient storage
    • Durable metal construction for precision

    Cons

    • Not necessarily meant for extreme jobs.
    • It does not come in a hard plastic case.

    RUNNER UP

    Apollo Tools DT0101 Travel & Automotive Tool Kit, 64-Piece, Red

    The Apollo Tools 64-piece DT0101 trave; and automotive tool kit is small-sized and compact for use. It can easily be stored in your any car, recreational vehicles, mid-sized vehicles, pickup trucks or boats. The components of this kits heat treated, and chrome plated to resist corrosion for a lifetime warranty.

    Designed as a robust tool kit especially for roadside repairs, the Apollo DT0101 comes with everything you need, from screwdrivers and wrenches to jumper cables and tire pressure gauge. For emergencies, the tool kit includes an aluminum flashlight, safety hammer and other essentials for the road.

    It is an ideal kind of kit that offers some mechanical abilities to people with older cars that could break down anywhere. The price of this tool kit would vary depending on where you are buying it, although the cost should range around $40. The comfortable grip handles are made double dipped plastic while tools are securely organized and kept in an excellent quality soft-sided EVA case.

    Pros

    • Compact tool kit for secure storage and use
    • Tools are chrome plated and heat treated to resist corrosion
    • Soft-sided EVA case to organize and store tools conveniently.
    • Lifetime warranty

    Cons

    • Not necessarily meant for extreme jobs.
    • It does not come in a hard plastic case

    Best Tool Kit To Keep In Car Buying Guide

    Buying tools separately is not an excellent idea for your budget, which is why you need a tool kit. And after a review of these tool kits, it is essential to note that you do not just need them to keep in your car, you can also find them serviceable for works in your garage or at home.

    For homeowners, you can try out the Household 86 piece set Hand Tools by Stalwart; they are made with an excellent quality backed with a reliable warranty. The warranty offers a lifetime service under moderate usage, and the tool selections are the right type you would need for your home and garage usage.

    When making a purchase, take your time to review each item and remember to go for products based on your demands or the functions you need. Any of these nine tools can tackle any unforeseen issues with your car; you only need to grab it as soon as possible, so you never have regrets when your car suddenly breaks down between rides.

    For beginners, we recommend you start with the Crescent CKT170CMP2 mechanical tool set. It has good value and is packed with a variety of tools, making the product an ideal investment for starters.

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