Orr Chevrolet of Fort Smith

Jan 8, 2021

Every house has tools that you can’t live without: hammers, wrenches, and screwdrivers come to mind. Why wouldn’t a car have basic tools too? You might want to safeguard yourself from troubles on the road, or simply want to run maintenance on your car yourself. Having a car tool kit filled with essentials can be very helpful.

1. Socket Wrenches


A good socket wrench will certainly come in handy. Make sure you get the right set of wrenches for your vehicle and also make sure you have the correct socket size for your tires. This makes removing lug nuts and changing a flat tire a snap, and it’s a must-have tool.

2. Duct Tape

Let’s be honest for a second: is there anything a good roll of duct tape can’t do? From providing an impromptu patch job to holding an object in place long enough for proper repairs, it’s something every driver should keep in their arsenal.

3. Work Light

While a flashlight or phone might be able to illuminate a small area at night, chances are you might need both hands for certain types of repairs. A high-quality work light can allow you to work hands-free in a well-lit area, speeding up the repair process and turning night into day. If you get one that is battery powered, then make sure to always check the batteries, and have a few replacement ones on hand.

4. Lubricant

This is a must-have, especially if you are repairing an older car. Sometimes parts get rusted, dry, or just plain stuck, and a few drops of lubricant will allow you to get things moving again. Make sure to always have at least two full bottles on hand, and partner them with a rag to catch any spills. Additionally, there are several different types of lubricants, so make sure to use the one that will provide you with the most benefit.

5. The Manual

Remember the manual? The large paperback booklet that came with your car and probably is sitting in the glovebox? The book that wasn’t read? Well, it’s often the most valuable piece of a tool kit. Since it was made specifically for your vehicle, it contains a lot of useful information that will help you make repairs. If you want to find the exact model of your vehicle or an exact specification number, it’s all there in the manual!

A good tool kit can last you quite a long time. You might not use it as much as an emergency tool kit, but it can help you repair your car in a pinch. So always make sure to keep it well stocked and up to date, and it will be there when you need it the most. If you want to find great starter tool kits, then be sure to visit or call Orr Chevrolet of Fort Smith to get started.