
Basic Tools for Car Repair: What to Own First
Build a useful home car repair kit with basic hand tools, a safe lifting setup, and the right protection. Learn what to buy first and what can wait.
We sort socket sets and wrench sets by drive size, sizes covered and the jobs you do at home. Start with a set, a brand or the car job in front of you.

Build a useful home car repair kit with basic hand tools, a safe lifting setup, and the right protection. Learn what to buy first and what can wait.

Compare the best 1/2 drive socket set picks for hand tools, impact work, deep fasteners and mixed SAE and metric jobs. Choose by drive type and socket range.

Compare the best 1/4 drive socket set options for hand tools and impact work. Find the right mix of sizes, socket depths, accessories and storage for your jobs.

Compare the best combination wrench sets by size range, storage and design. Find a metric and SAE set for home repairs, car work or a larger toolbox.

Compare the best impact socket sets by drive size, socket range, deep and shallow options, and included tools to find a kit that fits your garage work.

Compare the best professional socket sets by drive sizes, socket types, and included tools. Find a set that fits your work and storage needs.

Compare the best ratcheting wrench sets for tight spaces, mixed SAE and metric work, and organized storage. Find the right head style and size range.

Compare GEARWRENCH, TEKTON, Craftsman and DeWalt socket sets by what each set includes, from focused socket kits to broader mechanics tool sets.

Compare socket sets for homeowners by drive sizes, included tools and storage. Find a practical kit for home repairs, car jobs and occasional DIY work.