One of the most popular things car enthusiasts like to do in their spare time is fix up broken-down cars. Some people enjoy modifying them as well, but that can involve a whole host of other issues that those who only fix up cars never need to worry about. Either way, a passion for repairing cars can lead to a career as a mechanic.
These car enthusiasts usually start with a basic level of knowledge on fixing certain problems without taking it into a shop, but that doesn’t mean they have everything they need to become a professional. If you feel like this is a career path that you want to follow, then there is some essential equipment you’ll need to become a mechanic. Whether you decide to work for someone else or start a company of your own, here are the things that you’ll need to get started.
Oil Filter Wrench
No matter your specialty, at some point, you are going to be changing someone’s oil. In fact, that’s the number one reason people go to a mechanic. It might be a bit tedious and very monotonous, but this is the kind of work you signed up for. That said, you’ll want to make sure you have an oil filter wrench or two somewhere nearby, as it’ll be a necessity in the oil change process.
A Set of Coveralls
Nobody wants to get their street clothes dirty every day they go into work, so a few sets of coveralls make up your essential uniform. The history behind coveralls is actually quite intriguing. Still, if you want to get serious about your full-body suit usage, you’ll want to look into all the different kinds of coveralls available to you before making a decision on which ones will work best.
Impact Gun
The impact gun is a piece of essential equipment you’ll definitely need to become a mechanic. The biggest downside is that they can be quite expensive. However, the price is usually worth it because less expensive ones are prone to breakage, which can have some messy results. If you really want the best and most convenient one around, look into some cordless variations. But whatever you decide, just make sure you have one.
A Couple of Funnels
The number of people who try to free-aim fluids as they pour them is astounding. Sure, missing isn’t inherently a bad thing, but the more automotive fluids you waste when you miss, the more it’s going to end up costing you in the long run. Plus, funnels are cheap and easy to use, so you have no excuse not to pick up a few.
Vise-Grip Pliers
When it’s time to break through a stripped screw, vise-grip pliers are going to be your best friend. They can be quite the multipurpose tool in the auto shop, but they thrive in scenarios where you need to hold something down tightly. In fact, you’ll want to carry a pair around at all times, just in case you need them in a pinch.
Van Rundell is a writer and author who specializes in transportation, travel, guidance, health & fitness. With over 10 years of experience in the industry as a driver and an entrepreneur, he has seen it all. His tone is professional but friendly with a dash of humor thrown in for good measure. In past, he has been advising, educating and writing about transport for the public and professionals alike.
A qualified fitness instructor with over 5 years’ experience as a personal trainer and group fitness instructor, Van brings his deep knowledge of health and exercise science to his articles on health & fitness.
