19 Best Mechanic Tool Sets in 2022 - Mechanic Approved (2024)

Part of being a vehicle owner involves having a set of tools for regular care and maintenance. Of course, taking your vehicle to a nearby mechanic is the most preferred option in case your car suddenly starts malfunctioning. However, there are certain instances where you might be able to handle the necessary repairs yourself, this is when having a proper mechanic tool set comes in handy. If you are someone who hasn’t bought a mechanic tool set before or perhaps own a fairly substandard one, looking for the right set can be daunting. There are simply tons of them around, and each of them can differ greatly depending on their intended uses.

Fortunately, here at Mechanic Approved, we’re happy to do the heavy lifting for you! We have researched quite a few of the best mechanic tool sets on the market so you don’t have to! After hours upon hours of research and comparisons mixed with personal experiences, we were able to come up with a list of what we think are the best mechanic tool sets in the market.

As you move through this list you may notice that we have taken the liberty of labeling certain tool sets as the best in their respective price ranges and quality for example, “Best Overall”, “Editors Choice”, “Best Under $200”, and “Best Under $100”. We hope that this will help you find the best mechanic tool set for you!

Here Are The Best Mechanic Tool Sets

1. Craftsman 450 Piece Tool Set (Best Overall)

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Key Specifications:

• Estimated Price: $300
• 450 Pieces
• 191 Sockets
• 6 extension bars
• Complete Allen key kit

Craftsman surely didn’t hold back when it comes to the sheer volume of tools they included in this tool set. Aptly named the 450-piece tool set, this product comes with an extremely wide variety of tools you can use for various purposes. Despite that huge assortment of items, however, we dare say it’s not the most comprehensive tool set in the market, especially since it doesn’t include any pliers and a few other automotive tools.

But hey! Don’t let that discourage you from buying this tool set. There are a couple of reasons why we believe it’s one of the best out there.

For one, it comes with a massive collection of bits, socket heads, and Allen keys. All of these tools have such a wide range and diversity that you probably won’t be needing any kit for a long time – or even a lifetime. As far as working on various areas of your car goes, this kit is ready to take on anything. In terms of quality and durability, each individual tool in the set have the same excellent construction quality that Craftsman is known for.

However, considering that this tool set includes a pretty large assortment of tools, you can expect it to be quite heavy. It weighs around 45 pounds which isn’t really that ideal to carry around. Luckily, Craftsman designed the kit into separate cases, allowing you to take only a portion of the kit when needed.

Bottom Line:

If you’re looking for a mechanic tool set that has almost everything you could ever need, then this one might be for you. However, its weight might be a bit off-putting, especially if you prefer moving your tool set around with ease.

2. Beta 2056E/I-20 163 Piece Tool Set (Editors Choice)

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Key Specifications:

• Estimated Price: $400
• 163 Pieces
• Aluminum carrying case
• Includes small cases for bits and drivers
• 17.6 lbs

The Beta brand is relatively new to the market, so it’s understandable that this particular tool set doesn’t have a lot of reviews yet. However, we can personally attest to the quality and reliability that it has to offer.

First of all, the tool set contains a wide selection of 163 tool pieces with all the essential tools you could ever need for repair and maintenance. All of the tools are made of high-quality material to ensure durability and strength. Beta is on the rise and there is no denying their place on our list!

Apart from that, the tools are encased in a solid aluminum casing that features shockproof reinforced corners. This is to make sure that your tools are properly secured inside. It also has a non-slip rubber carry handle to allow for easier portability.

Despite having 163 different pieces, the entire tool set isn’t as heavy as the other kits on this list at only 17 pounds. All in all, it’s one of the few tool sets in this list that we have personally tested with the performance and results being satisfactory.

Bottom Line:

Perhaps one thing that sets the Beta tool set apart is that it features an integrated tool holder at the bottom. This is a nice addition that secures a variety of tools in place without them scattering when you accidentally drop the tool set.

3. Pittsburgh 301 Piece Tool Set (Best Under $300)

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Key Specifications:

• Estimated Price: $250
• 301 Pieces
• Chrome vanadium steel construction
• Rugged and sturdy casing
• 47.8 lbs

The Pittsburg brand might not come up too often when it comes to the best brands in the power tools industry. However, when it comes to quality and durability, this 301-piece tool set can definitely hold its own.

Included in this toolkit are 158 sockets, 10 combination wrenches, 24 screwdrivers, 3 pliers, universal joint adapters, extensions, and breaker bars among others. Due to their chrome vanadium steel construction, you can surely rely on the tools’ toughness and durability.

Aside from that, the labels on the sockets are fairly easy to read. It might not be a deal-breaker, but having easy-to-read labels can be really handy, especially if the tool set comes with hundreds of different tools in a single storage box.

Bottom Line:

Due to the inclusion of 301 tools, the entire tool set is pretty heavy, weighing around 47 pounds. This is something you want to consider before buying the set. Also, this may not provide you with the best value for your money, considering that the tool set from WORKPRO which we mentioned above has more tools at a much lower price.

4. Kobalt 227 Piece Mechanic’s Tool Set (Best Under $200)

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Key Specifications:

• Estimated Price: $150
• 227 Pieces
• Chrome vanadium steel construction
• Durable and organized case
• 29.9 lbs

We came across a large number of mechanic tool sets during our research, but the one that we believe is the best when it comes to its case design is this 227-piece tool set from Kobalt. What really captured our attention was its case which was designed to look like a cooler box with drawers. These drawers are specifically designed to allow you to organize all of the tools with ease.

There’s a total of three drawers that you can open and close easily. All those drawers are spacious enough to allow you to store your tools in a very organized manner. You can also find a carry handle so you can carry the box around without any problem.

Another thing that set this tool set as one of our top picks is the fact that the tools are made of vanadium and steel. In case you’re wondering, these two materials are known for their hardness and durability. Simply put, you can expect all of those tools to withstand any major damage without breaking.

Aside from that, all of the tools are enhanced with chromium to enhance their already solid durability. As a result, you can get chromium tools that are also resistant to melting and tarnishing. Of course, we can’t deny that it also adds to their overall appearance.

Lastly, the ratchets that are included in this tool set all come with a quick-release button for easy operation.

Bottom Line:

Overall, we’d be daring enough to claim this tool set has the most organized case in the market. If that’s something you’re looking for in a mechanic tool set, then this product is one that we would highly recommend.

5. Channellock 39070 94 Piece Tool Set (Best Under $100)

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Key Specifications:

• Estimated Price: $50
• 94 Pieces
• SAE and Metric sizes
• 8 lbs

Last on our list is this 94-piece set from Channellock. Though not as popular as the other brands we’ve mentioned thus far, Channellock still manages to hold its own as far as the quality and reliability of its tool set are concerned.

First off, this tool set is quite affordable and reliable, allowing it to receive a handful of positive reviews from its buyers. It contains all of the basic essential tools you would need for DIY repairs. Besides, the tools included are all made of chrome vanadium which makes them quite strong and durable.

In addition to all that, the set comes in a sturdy plastic case to keep all of the tools secure. It has a very lightweight profile, allowing you to carry it with ease.

Bottom Line:

If you only need the basic tools that come in a tool set, then this one might just be what you’re looking for. Despite being offered at a relatively cheap price, all of the tools have superior quality and durability, making the entire tool set a great value for your money.

6. DEWALT DWMT72165 204 Piece Tool Set

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Key Specifications:

• Estimated Price: $195
• 204 Pieces
• 72-tooth ratchet for 5-degree arc swings
• DEWALT DirectTorque technology
• 30.2 lbs

DEWALT is yet another well-known brand when it comes to making power tools. As a brand that’s been in the industry for almost a century, we can confidently claim that this particular tool set is one of the best there is in the market.

As the name implies, it comes with 204 different tools that include short and deep-set sockets, ratchets, swivel heads, Allen wrenches, box wrenches, and a whole lot more. However, compared to other tool sets on the market, the DEWALT 204-piece toolkit focuses more on ratchets and sockets. This makes it perfect for those who’re working with lots of nuts and bolts.

One of the selling points of this tool set is its primary 72-tooth ratchet that allows you to gain precise control on the torque you apply. It also has a slim profile which makes it easy to maneuver around hard-to-reach places. It’s also designed to be operated using a single hand, thanks to its quick socket changing feature.

One of the best things that we truly like about this tool set is that its ratchets come with knurled beauty rings to ensure a firm grip. However, if you’re looking for larger hex wrenches for brake work and other related activities, then you might be the ones included in the set to be a bit smaller. Aside from that, the entire toolkit is also pretty heavy to carry around at 30 pounds.

Bottom Line:

This tool set’s slim and lightweight 72-tooth ratchet is one of the best there is on the market. Also, considering that it’s manufactured by the DEWALT brand, we can vouch for this product’s overall quality and durability.

7. Stanley STMT71654 201 Piece Tool Set

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Key Specifications:

• Estimated Price: $100
• 201 Pieces
• 8 combination wrenches
• Chrome vanadium construction
• 10 lbs

This 201-piece tool set from Stanley is one of the simpler kits out there. However, don’t let that be a deciding factor that should affect your buying decision. Simple as it may, we can’t deny the fact that this tool set has a wide variety of tools that will be more than enough to take care of your repair and maintenance tasks.

At a price that’s cheaper than the previous tool sets we mentioned, the Stanley tool set didn’t hold back when it comes to quality. Its ratchet wrenches were all designed to be durable. Its overall build quality is great for its price, and the tools even have a polished chrome finish for excellent corrosion resistance.

Due to its cheaper price, you have to understand that it’s missing a handful of extras that you can typically find on higher-end tool sets. One such example is the extension bars. Then again, the fact that you’re getting good-quality tools for a relatively cheap price is something you’d want to consider.

Bottom Line:

Though lacking a handful of tools, this Stanley tool set can surely hold its own as far as quality goes. It might not have the same level of quality and durability that the more expensive tool sets possess, but for those who are on a budget, this is something that we’re confident enough to recommend.

8. Crescent CTK170CMP2 170 Piece Tool Set

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Key Specifications:

• Estimated Price: $150
• 170 Pieces
• Durable storage case
• 20.2 lbs

If you own a mechanic tool set that’s manufactured by Crescent, then you might see this one as the newer, upgraded version of the CTK170CMP tool set. One of the main improvements lies in its storage case which has been improved in terms of durability.

Depending on your budget, you can consider the CTK170CMP2 as either a starter or an upgrade kit. Containing a total of 170 different tools, this tool set comes with most of the tools you need for your car care and maintenance needs. It features pliers, wrenches, sockets, ratchets, and a whole lot more!

One of the best things about this tool set that really caught our attention is its storage case. It doesn’t have the same aesthetics or level of organization that the previous tool set from Kobalt has. However, it does come with interior compartments that allow you to organize each of the tools properly. There are separate compartments for sockets, pliers, wrenches, and others.

Bottom Line:

As the newer version of the CTK170CMP tool set, the CTK170CMP2 comes with a wide selection of tools that come in various sizes. It serves as an excellent starter kit for newbies, but it can also be considered a good upgrade kit that doesn’t necessarily cost you more.

9. WORKPRO 408 Piece Mechanics Tool Set

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Key Specifications:

• Estimated Price: $200
• 408 Pieces
• Chrome vanadium construction
• 3 Drawer metal storage box
• 27 lbs

With 408 different tools, this mechanic tool set from WORKPRO has all of the essential tools you need, whether you’re a professional mechanic or a DIY guy. Each of these tools is forged using chrome vanadium to ensure their durability and toughness. Besides, they’re also finished in full polish chrome to protect them from corrosion.

Just in case the wide assortment of tools isn’t enough, WORKPRO also offers a lifetime warranty for the tools. Then again, since all of these tools are made of superior quality material, you don’t have to worry about them getting damaged at all.

Another thing that makes this tool set a worthy investment is the fact that it has a heavy-duty metal case. Similar to the one from Kobalt, it also has 3 drawers which is really a nice feature to have for easier tool organization. It also comes with a handle at the top so you can carry it around with ease. However, it’s a bit heavy at 27 pounds, so mobility might be somewhat limited at times.

To add to that, the metal case is fitted with a locking mechanism that will keep the other drawers closed upon closing the top drawer.

Bottom Line:

This tool set’s 3-drawer design surely comes in handy in terms of organizing your tools. It’s a more expensive option than that of Kobalt’s, but the fact that it comes with more than twice the number of tools makes it a bit better provided that you have enough budget.

10. DekoPro 168 Piece Mechanic Tool Set

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Key Specifications:

• Estimated Price: $80
• 168 Pieces
• Sturdy storage case
• 12.9 lbs

By far the most affordable tool set we have on this list thus far, the DekoPro tool set is the perfect choice for DIYers who want to have their first tool set without spending more. Despite its very low price point, you can get most of the essential tools you’ll need in a mechanic tool set. These include screwdrivers, sockets, wrenches, a hammer, utility knife, and a few more.

Compared to the more expensive ones we’ve mentioned and are yet to mention, the number of tools, particularly sockets, included in the toolkit is fairly limited. But as far as common DIY tasks go, these can be more than enough to do the job.

That aside, it comes in a compact storage case with a sturdy and durable design. It’s also very lightweight at just 13 pounds, thus allowing you to carry it around with ease.

Bottom Line:

We highly recommend this tool set to those who want to have their very first tool set without spending more. Of course, this means that the variety of tools can be limited. Also, they’re not forged from chrome vanadium unlike the ones from higher-end tool sets. But then again, their high-quality steel is enough to make them tough, durable, and long-lasting.

11. GEARWRENCH 110 Piece Mechanic Tool Set

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Key Specifications:

• Estimated Price: $230
• 110 Pieces
• Corrosion-resistant full polish chrome finish
• Steel construction
• 18.7 lbs

This 110-piece tool set from GEARWRENCH can be considered a decent upgrade option. However, unlike most tool sets on this list, it only features up to 110 different tools including an 84-tooth ratchet, sockets, and combination wrenches.

The small number of tools included might discourage you from considering this tool set for your upgrade, but here’s a good thing. Each of the tools included in the set all have a comfortable grip that allows for easier usage. Aside from that, the combination wrenches are constructed with an off-corner loading design. In case you’re wondering what that’s for, it’s intended for better performance while fastening due to a 25% increase in torque.

Then again, its higher price with a small number of tools included can be off-putting for some, particularly starters and DIYers. But for professionals, it remains to be one of the most solid choices on the market. In fact, all of the sockets and ratchets in this set are designed with professionals in mind.

Lastly, the product comes with a nice lifetime warranty.

Bottom Line:

If you’re looking to upgrade from a starter tool set to one that’s intended for professionals, then this tool set from GEARWRENCH is something you’d want to consider. It even has a compact and sleek look to it which adds to its professional appeal.

12. Hi-Spec 67 Piece Tool Set

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Key Specifications:

• Estimated Price: $30
• 67 Pieces
• Quick-release ratchet
• 5.5 lbs

If you’re looking for an even cheaper option than the DekaPro tool set we mentioned above, then this one from Hi-Spec is for you. For its very low price, we can highly recommend it as a starter kit, especially if you’re a DIYer who wants a mechanic tool set that comes with the basic tools. This can also work for vehicle owners who already have a huge collection of tools but want some extra tools added.

What we mean by this is that this one only comes with the commonly used tools you might need. It doesn’t have those specialized tools that you can normally find on tool sets priced at $100 and above. That said, the Hi-Spec tool set includes nose pliers, a decent set of sockets, hex keys, a pro-grade ratchet, as well as a voltage tester.

Despite being a lot cheaper than the ones we mentioned, all tools in this set are made from heavy-duty chrome-plated steel. This means that you can rely on their durability and toughness. It also allows you to tackle a wide range of jobs without any problem.

Lastly, all of the tools come in a sturdy yet compact case, making it really mobile and easy to carry around as you do your repairs.

Bottom Line:

There’s no doubt that this one is cheaper than that of DekaPro’s. However, you have to keep in mind that it only contains 67 tools whereas DekaPro has a total of 168. If you need more tools in your collection but have extra money to spend without going over $100, then DekaPro would be the better option.

On the other hand, if you simply want a small collection of tools due to a really tight budget, then this one is definitely a great deal.

13. Craftsman 224 Piece Mechanics Tool Set

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Key Specifications:

• Estimated Price: $230
• 224 Pieces
• Cast alloy steel construction
• Sturdy Storage Case
• 36.8 lbs

Craftsman is a well-known brand in the power tools market, so it’s no surprise that we included not just one Craftsman product on this list. Yet another quality Craftsman tool set, this one comes with a wide assortment of 165 different tools. Compared to the previous Craftsman tool set we mentioned, this one only has around 1/3 of the total number of tools. However, it only has 1/4 of that previous tool set’s price!

This kit comes with 92 socket heads of varying sizes, allowing you to find the right one for your specific application. It even comes with extension bars to increase torque when necessary. Apart from that, it also has a set of Allen keys, a universal screwdriver, and wrenches among other essential tools.

Another major difference with this one is that all of the tools are stored in sturdy, compact, and lightweight storage. We mentioned the 450-pc. Craftsman tool set weighing roughly 45 pounds which is pretty heavy and hard to move around. This, on the other hand, only weighs around 14 pounds which is great for easy portability.

However, one thing you want to take note of is that the case doesn’t grip the tools firmly enough to keep them in place. Therefore, you have to properly open the case to prevent them from falling off.

Bottom Line:

If you’re really amazed by the quality of the products manufactured by Craftsman but don’t want to spend more than $300 for a mechanic tool set, then we highly recommend this product for you. Overall, we believe it’s a great starter kit that has a decent assortment of all the essential tools you could ever need.

14. STANLEY STMT73795 Mixed Tool Set

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Key Specifications:

• Estimated Price: $115
• 210 Pieces
• Chrome vanadium construction
• ANSI specifications
• 19.6 lbs

Another excellent quality tool set from Stanley, the STMT73795 mixed tool set comes with 210 different tools, just 9 more than the previous Stanley tool set we mentioned. It’s understandably more expensive, but the price difference isn’t that high to be fair.

Similarly, all of the tools in this toolkit boast of chrome vanadium forged body for that extra durability, torque, and toughness. It comes with the usual socket wrenches, a handful of universal screwdriver sets, sockets, a pair of pliers, a 16-ft tape measure, and a utility knife among others.

Apart from the tools’ durable and solid construction, each of them has a chrome finish to add resistance against rust and corrosion. Tools aside, the STMT73795 toolkit comes in a rugged yet durable storage casing that comes with separate components for each of the tools. This allows you to properly organize your tools and find the ones you need with ease.

Bottom Line:

All in all, the STMT73795 tool set from Stanley is a really solid choice as far as durability and reliability go. Its solid case keeps all of the tools in place. Add to that a strong chrome vanadium construction, and you got a mechanic tool set that can serve you for a very long time.

15. BEESTAND 205 Piece Mechanic Tool Set

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Key Specifications:

• Estimated Price: $90
• 205 Pieces
• Sturdy Foldable Case
• 21 lbs

A solid contender for a budget mechanic tool set, this one from BEESTAND comes with all of the basic tools you need for DIY repairs and maintenance. This set basically removes the guesswork out of choosing which tools to use while repairing your vehicle. Of course, it doesn’t have the more advanced tools you’ll find in more expensive options, but for a starter or a DIYer, you don’t really need such tools anyway.

Included in the set are your typical tools including hex wrenches, socket wrenches, sockets, pliers, screwdrivers, and a handful of other hand tools. Moreover, all of the tools are encased in a sturdy plastic case to allow easy portability and storage.

Since all of the tools are made of high-quality steel material, you can expect them to be really strong and durable. Besides, in case you encounter some problems with your tools, the brand’s 60-day money-back guarantee has got you covered.

Bottom Line:

For a starter tool set, this one is really a solid option you’d want to consider. There can a few downsides to it, such as the tools not properly secured to the storage when opening, but for a tool set this cheap, it’s a minor hiccup that you can simply ignore.

16. GreatNeck GN205 205 Piece Tool Set

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Key Specifications:

• Estimated Price: $65
• 205 Pieces
• 3 Drawer storage case
• 9.9 lbs

If you’re a DIYer who just wants a basic set of mechanic tools, then this one from Great Neck Saw is something we’d surely recommend. It’s designed to be a home mechanic set that’s targeted for vehicle owners who just want the right set of tools for their car.

It features the usual assortment of tools including hex key wrenches, sockets, screwdrivers, ratchets, and a few more. Since this is not designed for professional use, as is the case with the other budget-friendly options in our list, it serves best as an emergency tool kit in the event of unexpected issues with your vehicle.

Aside from that, the GN205 tool set’s storage case is designed to contain 3 separate drawers for quicker and easier tool organization. You can arrange each tool in its own separate compartment, and you only need to open the drawer that contains the tools you need.

Also, since the entire toolkit weighs only around 9 pounds, you can easily carry it with you anytime you want.

Bottom Line:

While the GreatNeck tool set might not be the cheapest option we have on our list, we still believe that it’s the best mechanic tool set for home use. So as long as you’re only doing DIY repairs on your own car, then this tool set is more than enough.

17. Performance Tool W1538 94 Piece Tool Set

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Key Specifications:

• Estimated Price: $35
• 94 Pieces
• SAE/Metric accessories
• 4.5 lbs

Though not as popular as the other big names on this list, this 94-piece tool set from the Performance Tool Store is regarded as a favorite among DIYers and even some mechanics. It’s because aside from its relatively cheap price, all of the tools included in this toolkit are designed to be strong and durable.

In the set, you can find the usual common tools and accessories such as screwdrivers, pliers, sockets, hex key wrenches, assorted hex bits, and more. All of them are arranged in a sturdy and durable storage case that’s also fairly easy to carry around.

Even though it’s quite cheap, the tools in this set are all made of high-quality steel to ensure their durability and longevity. Of course, due to having only basic tools, this tool set suffers from the usual limitations that other budget-friendly options have – and that’s the inability to tackle more complicated jobs.

Bottom Line:

For car owners who want to invest in a starter kit for their DIY repairs and maintenance, then we would highly recommend this tool set. It’s a bit more expensive than the tool set from Hi-Spec which we tackled above. However, it does have a higher variety of tools that can easily make up for that price gap.

18. AmazonBasics 145 Piece Mechanics Set

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Key Specifications:

• Estimated Price: $70
• 145 Pieces
• Chrome vanadium construction
• 13.1 lbs

AmazonBasics might seem like the most unlikely candidate in this list, but the reviews people gave this tool set say otherwise. It’s hardly surprising, really. After all, AmazonBasics has proven time and time again that it can deliver high-quality products on time. This 145-piece mechanic tool set is no exception.

While it’s certainly not the most solid option for professionals out there, this particular tool set is decent enough for both starters and DIYers. It’s more than just your average tool set, considering that all of the tools included are all made from chrome vanadium for excellent durability, strength, and torque.

Also, the wide assortment of tools in this set is more than enough to let you take on a wide variety of projects such as minor fixes and simple assemblies. Since the tools are made of strong materials, you can expect them not to break under pressure.

As if that’s not enough, AmazonBasics also made sure that the tools come in a beautiful case that’s designed to be pretty solid and sturdy. It comes in a polished chrome finish to make it look more appealing while providing it a high level of corrosion resistance. All in all, we’d recommend this decent tool set to anyone who trusts the level of quality that AmazonBasics offer.

Bottom Line:

Then again, AmazonBasics surely did a great job on this one. Not only is this tool set very affordable for DIYers and starters, but the fact that all of the tools are designed with durability in mind makes it a really great value for your money.

19. DESOON 128 Piece Mechanic Tool Set

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Key Specifications:

• Estimated Price: $50
• 128 Pieces
• High-quality steel construction
• Durable carrying case
• 9 lbs

This tool set from DESOON is complete with all the essential tools you need for repairs and maintenance including screwdrivers, sockets, wrenches, ratchets, and more. All of these tools are made of high-quality steel for superior durability then finished with high-polish chrome for corrosion resistance.

Since all of the tools were able to meet ANSI specifications, this means that they can be used for both domestic and industrial jobs. However, considering that this tool set is more of a starter kit, it is fairly limited in its functions. Specifically, you can’t take on more complicated tasks since it doesn’t include those advanced tools that you need for such tasks.

Storage-case, the tools are encased in a durable blow-molded casing to ensure their protection. Besides, the design itself looks premium enough and also offers a decent level of dirt resistance, thanks to its black color.

Bottom Line:

With 128 different tool pieces, the DEESON tool set can provide you with all the essential tools you need for your DIY repairs and maintenance. Also, considering that it’s a budget option, it might as well be the best starter kit you could go for.

Choosing the Best Mechanic Tool Set (Buying Guide)

Before we get into the nitty-gritty of how you can pick the right tool set, let’s first talk about why you would need one in the first place. Basically, you will need a mechanic tool set for the following reasons:

It allows you to keep all your tools in one place

One of the best things about mechanic tool sets is that they allow you to organize all of your tools in a single case. Though the quality and durability of a tool set’s casing vary, we can’t deny the fact that it can help with your efficiency considering that you can quickly access your tools whenever you need them. Besides, smaller tool sets have the added benefit of portability, allowing you to carry them with you anytime you want.

It makes expanding your tool collection a lot easier

If you already have an existing collection of mechanic tools, then upgrading to a mechanic tool set is often a necessary option. In fact, there are several kits designed to ease the expansion by simply containing a wider variety of sockets and other tools that have varying sizes.

It’s more affordable when you’re planning to buy your first automotive tools

As someone who has experience repairing vehicles, we can never stress enough the importance of buying a mechanic tool set when you’re first starting out. Mechanic tools can be expensive when you’re starting, especially if you buy them one at a time. Meanwhile, a mechanic tool set can contain all of those essential tools you needed at a more affordable price.

It also takes away the hassle of deciding which tool size to pick since all of the size options are already included in the tool set.

It allows you to save money on repairs

If you’re more of a DIY person, then purchasing your own mechanic tool set can really help you save a lot of cash. Oftentimes, inexperienced vehicle owners tend to take their car to a nearby repair shop just to have even a minor issue fixed. However, by doing repairs on your own using your own assortment of tools, you can potentially save hundreds, even thousands, of dollars on car repairs and maintenance alone.

Of course, we still recommend taking your car to a repair shop in the event of serious damage; but for minor fixes, repairing them on your own is the way to go.

You can learn and even practice a new skill

Perhaps the best thing about buying a mechanic tool set is that you can learn a new skill and practice it. Once you tried doing basic repairs on your car, you will develop a tendency to learn more ways to do those repairs quickly and efficiently. This actually ties in to the previous reason which involves money saving.

Now that we tackled the reasons why investing in a mechanic tool set is worthwhile, let’s now have a look at the most important factors you should consider when buying one. They’re as follows:

Automotive Mechanic Tool Selection

Possibly the most obvious of all, you want to make sure that the tool set you choose has a wide selection and variety of tools. All of the tool sets we included in our list come with their own number of tools, but all of them surely contain all of the basic tools you need for your repairs and maintenance.

However, the more expensive ones also contain more advanced tools intended for professional use. So if you’re a professional mechanic, investing extra will sometimes be necessary just to get your hands on those tools. On the other hand, if you’re a DIYer, then a tool set with a fewer tool selection can be more than enough.

You can also choose to upgrade anytime you want. Just make sure that the upgrade kit you pick contains tools that aren’t present in your current one.

To give you a more detailed guide, here’s a list of the most important tools that your preferred tool set should have:

Sockets

Any mechanic tool set wouldn’t be called a tool set at all if it doesn’t include a number of deep and standard sockets in various sizes. Ideally, you want to pick a tool set with sockets available in both metric and SAE measurements. Metric sizes are normally used by foreign vehicles while domestic vehicles tend to go with both metric and SAE.

We also recommend choosing a tool set that doesn’t skip on the socket sizes or at least have a very skips in between. If you plan to use your tool set for heavy torque applications, then it should have 6-point sockets in it.

Wrenches

Just like sockets, a tool set can’t be considered a tool set without a range of wrenches included. The wider the range of wrench sizes, the better as it will allow you to tackle a wider range of tasks. Always keep in mind that wrenches are necessary for a variety of projects such as working on areas that sockets aren’t able to fit and more.

Ratchets

Ratchets are another must-have in a good tool set as they are necessary to use all those sockets. However, your choice of a ratchet will depend on your working area. We recommend going for lighter ratchets if you have very tight spaces. Also, the more teeth a ratchet has, the easier it can get the job done. The 80-100 tooth range seems to be the most popular option in the market right now.

Screwdrivers

Screwdrivers tend to be a common addition in a lot of mechanic tool sets. However, you might come across some that don’t even have a single screwdriver in them. Depending on your needs and preferences, you might want to go for a tool set that contains various screwdrivers such as the magnetic and slotted variants.

Pliers

Similar to screwdrivers, pliers aren’t always present in a mechanic tool set. However, there certainly are countless situations where pliers come in handy. But then again, you want to consider whether you actually need a set of pliers for your repair and maintenance needs.

Number of Tools or Pieces In a Tool Set

Aside from the variety of tools included in the tool set, you also want to consider the total number of tools or pieces it has. Most kits advertise around 200 tools included, but you should also keep in mind that each socket, screwdriver bit, and hex key counts as an individual piece. This means that you’re not actually getting 200 individual tools but 200 individual pieces.

Therefore, it’s best to check if a certain tool set has all the tools you need. Just because it has more than 300 pieces doesn’t mean that it includes all of the tools you could possibly need. Also, it’s worth noting that the more pieces a tool set contains, the more expensive it can get.

Lastly, also keep your skill level in mind. A set with less than a hundred tools is ideal if you’re a beginner, but if you’re more experienced, we recommend picking a set with more than a hundred.

Mechanic Tool Set Storage

You want to make sure that the storage case which holds all of the tools in a tool set is durable after all workshops and garages are not always friendly to fragile objects. Ideally, you want the case to be strong and durable enough to withstand impact without scattering all of the tools inside. You don’t want to pay for high-end tools only to end up with a poor quality case so we made sure that the items on our list include premium cases. Also, it’s best to consider a tool set with a case that has compartments for each of the tools. There are even some that have separate drawers for even better tool organization.

Knowing Your Skill Level With Automotive Mechanics and Tools

There’s a difference between a mechanic tool set for a professional and a DIYer car guru. The reason why we labeled several tool sets on our list as starter kits is simply because they have all of the basic essential tools that newbies can use. At this skill level, you’ll only need the basic tools to tackle minor fixes and repairs since at this point, you don’t have enough experience to take on the more complicated issues or repairs.

However, if you’re a professional mechanic, you already know that the best option would be those tools that contain several hundred tool pieces, or the so-called upgrade kits. These sets contain more advanced tools that you will need to take on more complicated jobs as a professional.

ANSI/ASME Tool Specifications

Both the ANSI (American National Standards Institute) and ASME (American Society of Mechanical Engineers) are non-profit organizations that hand over certifications to tools that are able to meet, even exceed, the standards they set. Therefore, if a tool set has a certification from one or both of them, then you can expect that it has a higher quality than your average toolkit.

Mechanic Tool Set Warranty

Warranty is a factor that often gets overlooked when it comes to buying mechanic tool sets. However, what most people don’t know is that warranties can really be a huge help, especially if we’re talking about those that last a lifetime.

As much as possible, you want to check if a product comes with a warranty or not. This information is often included in its details or can be found on the manufacturer’s website itself.

Mechanic Tool Set Customer Reviews

Customer reviews are often one of the few things that buyers tend to look at first when buying a product. Through these reviews, you’ll be able to assess whether a product is worth buying or just a complete waste of money.

When it comes to mechanic tool sets, we really recommend checking out customer reviews of each of the products on their respective Amazon pages. You’ll want to go for a product that has a lot of positive reviews as much as possible.

Through these reviews, you can also learn what a tool set’s upsides and downsides are. For example, you could come across a review saying that while a tool set is pretty good in terms of performance, the issue is that it’s quite heavy. Some will have a mix of pros and cons while also only lean more on either the pros or the cons of a tool set.

In your case, you want to weigh your options properly. Is the downside pointed out mostly in the reviews negligible? Do people share the same thoughts regarding a product’s strong features? Or is it even worth the cost? These are just a few of the information you can learn when checking out customer reviews. Moreover, you can even come across information that wasn’t even included in a product’s list of features.

Budget For Your Mechanic Tool Set

The last thing you’d want to consider is, of course, your budget. Do you want to go for the basic tools from a starter kit, or do you want the more advanced tools from the higher-end sets? Do you want tools that will serve you for a long time, or are you planning to upgrade your kit sometime soon?

These questions can be really vital if you want to consider how much budget you should spend on a mechanic tool kit. As mentioned earlier, the more tools a tool set has, the more expensive it will be. As such, you want to assess whether you really need those extra tools, or are you just fine with the basic yet essential ones.

Best Mechanic Tool Set Brands

There are several brands of mechanic tool sets on the market and it is important to know which brands are regarded as the most trusted. To help you decide, here’s a list of the most reputable brands out there:

1. Dewalt

Dewalt is one of the leading names when it comes to tools. Their range of products isn’t just limited to mechanic tools but also tools for manufacturing, construction, woodworking, and more. Most of the products that Dewalt offers are valued for their durability and quality, like the DWMT72165 tool set is a perfect example of Dewalt’s high quality.

2. Kobalt

As far as we are concerned the first two on this list are interchangeable, Kobalt and Dewalt are always neck and neck when it comes to high-quality tools. In fact, around the labor force you may notice they each have a respective following that may garnish a small rivalry from time to time, but there is no mistaking Kobalt is a big name in the hardware world and they have easily carved out a place near the number one spot.

3. Stanley Tools

Stanley Hand Tools is a brand that has been in the market for a longer time than the previously mentioned brands. It’s a brand that belongs to Stanley Black & Decker Inc. which is regarded as one of the most successful Fortune 500 companies in the Us.

Founded back in 1834, the brand surely has a long history of providing high-quality tools that were proven to stand the test of time. However, what truly makes this brand stand out from the rest is its exceptional customer support.

4. Craftsman

Just like Stanley, Craftsman is also another brand that belongs to Stanley Black & Decker Inc. Compared to Stanley Hand Tools, Craftsman focuses more on creating a wide range of tools that are designed for handymen, DIYers, and mechanics. This ensures that the tool set products manufactured by this brand are all designed with mechanics in mind.

Like most high-end tool sets on the market, the ones created by Craftsman are also made of chrome vanadium. However, the only difference is that these tools are surprisingly lightweight.

5. WORKPRO

The term “Made in China” might discourage you from even considering this brand, especially since that term was associated with poor quality back then. However, WORKPRO is one of those Chinese companies that managed to prove to their target consumers that they can compete with other well-known brands in terms of the overall quality of their products.

As a company that’s been in operation for almost a century now, WORKPRO was able to create a reputation in making highly reliable and long-lasting tools. If you’re a DIYer who needs a reliable mechanic tool set, then this brand is one of the few you should definitely consider.

6. Crescent

Crescent is one of the largest manufacturers of tools around the world. It has a long history of manufacturing high-quality tools, and it even claims to be one of the early pioneers for the adjustable wrench that was introduced more than a century ago. Of course, none would even dare dispute that claim considering that people can really see the craftsmanship and quality of work they’ve poured into their products.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions About Mechanic Tool Sets)

Is it necessary to buy a mechanic tool set with lots of tool pieces?

To be fair, you probably don’t need a lot of tools in your mechanic tool set. If you’re a starter or a DIYer, you’ll only need the basic essential tools to tackle several applications. There’s really no universal answer when it comes to the number of tools that your tool set should have.

However, what you want to make sure is that it has an adjustable wrench, screwdrivers, a ratchet, and a few sockets. These tools are the only ones you need when you’re just planning to do basic DIY stuff. On the other hand, if you’re a professional mechanic, you’ll most likely need more. Also, a tool set with more advanced tools can come in handy since they are designed for tougher and more complicated tasks.

In most cases, these tool sets can contain at least a hundred pieces of tools.

Is it okay if I just assemble my own set of tools?

Absolutely. It’s fairly easy to assemble your own set of mechanic tools. Doing so will allow you to customize your toolkit and get just the right number of tools you need. The downside, however, is that this can most likely cost you more than buying a ready-made kit.

The reason for this is that some tools are more expensive when bought individually. Apart from that, collecting all of your needed tools to add to your set can take some time. For this, you want to weigh your option between customization and value.

Why are some tools too expensive?

Aside from the branding, some mechanic tool sets are too expensive due to two main reasons: first is that they have more tools with an even wider selection, and second is that they’re likely made of higher-quality material.

Most cheaper tool sets have tools that are made of high-quality steel. Meanwhile, more expensive tool sets have tools that are made of chrome vanadium alloy. Although high-quality steel is durable enough to last you a long time, chrome vanadium alloy proves to be the better choice in terms of overall strength and durability.

Also, tools in cheaper tool sets are designed only for basic tasks, unlike the more expensive ones that are specifically designed for complicated repairs and maintenance.

How can I determine the quality of tools in a mechanic tool set?

As of now, there are no concrete standards that will allow you to determine the quality of tools that are included in a mechanic tool set. However, there are a few areas you can check to help you determine if the tools are of good quality or not.

One of them is the ANSI/ASME certification which, as we mentioned earlier, certifies that the tools were able to pass the standards they set. Another is the brand itself. Ideally, you’d want to check for tool sets that were created by well-known companies that have a solid reputation for making quality products. The last one is customer reviews.

Tips for Maintaining Your Mechanic Tool Set

Your mechanic tool set is an investment, even if you only bought the cheapest on this list. As such, you have to make sure you can maintain it properly so that your tools will last for an even longer time.

For that, here are some maintenance and care tips you can follow:

1. Make sure to organize your tools properly in their storage. Proper tool organization allows you to keep your tools protected from various elements such as rust and corrosion. Luckily, most mechanic tool sets have their own compartments inside to allow easier tool organization, but if your tool set doesn’t have it, it’s best to invest in an extra toolbox for storage.

2. Apply aluminum wax to maintain the durability and appearance of your tools. Apart from making them look brand new at all times, doing this can also help keep dust away.

3. Inspect your tools after each use. Though most manufacturers create high-quality and durable tools, they can still be prone to damage after continuous use. The best solution to prevent them from getting damaged quickly is to check them for potential damage after use. You’d want to pay special attention to tools that have plastic or rubber parts.

Final Thoughts

Ultimately, your choice of a mechanic tool set will depend on your needs and preference. We can’t really pinpoint the best mechanic tool set to a single product since each of the products we reviewed has its own applications as well as pros and cons.

Hopefully, we’re able to help you decide which mechanic tool set to buy for your repair and maintenance needs. If you think we might have missed a certain product, feel free to leave a comment below so we can check.

Feel free to leave a comment below on whether or not you think we missed a product that you think should be on our list! Also, lets us know of any experiences you may already have with any of the tool sets listed, your experiences may help other readers make a purchase decision! Thanks for reading!