Top 5 Tools Every Car Owner Should Have

Owning a car brings with it a sense of freedom and independence, but it also comes with responsibilities. From routine maintenance tasks to unexpected roadside emergencies, being prepared with the right tools can make all the difference between a minor inconvenience and a major headache! 

Whether you’re a seasoned automotive enthusiast or a new driver, having a well-equipped toolbox is essential for keeping your vehicle running smoothly and handling unexpected situations with confidence. 

You can always depend on your local NAPA Auto Parts Store to have these tools in stock, empowering you to tackle common automotive challenges and ensure your peace of mind on the road ahead.

1. Jack And Jack Stands

A hydraulic jack and sturdy jack stands are critical tools to make sure your vehicle can be lifted safely during tire changes, brake inspections, and other routine maintenance tasks. Properly lifting and securing the car with jack stands is the extra step that can reduce the risk of injury while you are working underneath your vehicle.

2. Jumper Cables

Every motorist should have a set of jumper cables in their car, as dead batteries are one of the most common roadside emergencies. These allow you to start your battery with the help of another vehicle, giving you a temporary power boost to start the engine and drive to safety.

3. Complete Socket Set

A full socket set has a variety of metric and standard sockets, ratchets, and extensions designed to loosen and tighten nuts and bolts. A socket set is essential to performing basic maintenance tasks like changing your car’s oil or replacing spark plugs. It also enables you to tackle more complex repairs and projects.

4. Tire Pressure Gauge

Maintaining proper tire pressure is important to ensure your car is operating at an optimal level for fuel efficiency, tire longevity, and safe driving performance. A tire pressure gauge allows you to accurately measure tire pressure and adjust it as needed, reducing the risk of tire wear and roadside emergencies like blowouts.

5. Lug Wrench Or Tire Iron

These tools are specifically designed for removing lug nuts, allowing you to change a flat tire efficiently. It’s essential to have a lug wrench that fits the size of your vehicle’s lug nuts to ensure proper torque and prevent damage during tire changes. 

Many modern vehicles come equipped with a lug wrench or tire iron when you purchase them, but always check to make sure you don’t get stranded with a flat tire and no way to change it!

Bonus Car Tools To Consider

These top five tools are a great start for any car owner, but there are a few more that we recommend you keep on hand.

First Aid Kit

Keep a stocked first aid kit in your vehicle in case of emergencies. From cuts and scrapes to burns and bruises, having those basic supplies can help you provide essential care until professionals arrive.

Flashlight

You can stash this in your glove box or in your first aid kit. While it’s not a traditional automotive tool, it’s essential if your car breaks down at night or if you need extra light to diagnose an issue.

Tire Repair Kit

If you’ve sustained a minor puncture in your tire or picked up a nail while driving, having a tire repair kit on hand can allow you to temporarily patch it, inflate the tire, and drive home or to a mechanic for a professional repair.

Your Local NAPA Auto Parts Store Is Here To Help

You can always trust your local NAPA Auto Parts Store to have the car tools you need, no matter the type of repair you need to complete.

Our staff members are a wealth of knowledge and expertise, always ready to offer their recommendations and advice to ensure you find the perfect replacement part for your vehicle.