Whether it’s doing simple home repairs or performing maintenance on your car, having the right tools nicely organized and within reach when you need them can make a world of difference to how easy, fast and efficient your job will be.
Mechanic tool sets are specially designed to cater to the needs of both professional and DIY home mechanics alike, and this is what makes them versatile and functional. However, the wide variety of products makes it harder to choose the best mechanic tool set for your needs.
Because you know what? It is very easy to get carried away and buy an awesome 300-piece tool set which you can proudly boast about to your friends. But what’s the point of doing so if you are never going to use all of its contents and on top of that you will have to spend a small fortune to get it.
Finding the tools you need according to the budget you have should not be difficult. With that in mind, let’s have a look at some great mechanics tool sets you will want to pay attention to.
Top Mechanics Tool Set Reviews & Buying Guide
Crescent 170 Pc. General Purpose Tool Set
If you are new to doing repairs for your home and car and you don’t want to limit yourself as to the variety of tools that may come handy when the need arises, Crescent CTK170CMP2 tool set is the perfect all-in-one choice.
Not only is it fully equipped with 170 pieces and hand tools necessary for most mechanical, industrial and consumer tasks, but it comes at a very affordable price as compared to other similar products. The good combination of quality and cheap price is what makes this a popular mechanics tool set with a high number of reviews.
This CTK170CMP2 model is a better version of their best seller CTK170CMP. The improvements include a sturdy compact blow molding case for easy transport and dual-material screwdrivers with vapor-blasted tips.
Curious about how complete and functional this case is? Let’s get a closer look. One thing we liked when we opened the case was that the tools were not falling out of place but stayed seated quite well with only one exception, the half-inch ratchet which is a bit heavy and it fell out. The foam insert on the top also helps the tools to stay in place.
The set comes with nice shaped smooth finish ratchets that feel sturdy and super durable. The combination wrenches (metric and SAE) are good for small spaces and they provide leverage and a good grip but they may not be suitable for applying large amounts of torque.
The screwdrivers are wide for lots of leverage and they are well finished, but beware: due to their round shape, they tend to get slippery when your hands are oily. Looking for more? This case also includes short and deep sockets, 2 extensions, an adapter, 2 pliers, an adjustable wrench, a magnetic driver with 44 bits as well as 26 hex keys.
Overall, users are very pleased with the quality and functionality of this box and find that it is a good value for the money. However, a couple of tools such as the adjustable wrench and the needle-nose pliers did not meet up their expectations.
Important Specs:
- Model number: CTK170CMP2
- All tools meet new specifications of ANSI and ASME
- Available in a 30 and 84-piece version
- Resistant to corrosion
- Lifetime warranty
DEWALT Mechanics Tools Kit and Socket Set
Losing tools and sockets is not the best way to keep your DIY mechanic passion alive. To prevent this from happening, forget all about these cheaply made tool cases and invest in a solidly made durable case.DEWALT has you covered.
Their DWMT72165 mechanic’s tool kit comes with a rugged case that features good quality metal latches on the ends and the sides. It is large and keeps the tools in place, so the risk of losing them is substantially minimized. On the downside, it weighs approximately 40 pounds, which is heavy.
This 204 piece set is a comprehensive all-around set that contains everything a DIY auto repair or home repair enthusiast would ever need. This makes it the best value for the money especially since it comes with all Dewalt high-quality tools that would cost a lot more if you had to buy them separately.
How about having a look on the inside? One thing that a lot of companies brag about when they have a big kit is that they offer a lot of these screwdriver bits. Fortunately, this is not the case with this DEWALT kit.
This substantial set comes with a ton of handy tools including standard and metric Allen wrenches, combination wrenches, adapters, 1/4″, 3/8″ and 1/2″ ratchets as well as a large variety of extensions for the ratchets.
Quite intriguing is also the large selection of shallow and deep sockets (SAE and metric) without any significant skips. Made of quality polished steel, they are precision machined and built to last (62 in number).
A quick tip: to prevent ratchet drives from getting stuck in the long run and becoming unusable, open all of the ratchets and apply a coating of grease after cleaning them out.
Finally, some sockets tend to fall out if you open the case abruptly but this is not such a deal-breaker anyway.
Important Specs:
- Model number: DWMT72165
- Available in 118 and 156 piece sets
- Limited lifetime warranty
CRAFTSMAN Mechanics Tool Set – 298 Pc.
When it comes to Craftsman tools, there is no need for introductions. The iconic brand has a 90-year history in the field of mechanic tools and is especially beloved by homeowners and DIY enthusiasts who find in Craftsman a great combination of quality and price.
Craftsman’s tool sets have always been popular and today you can find a wider variety of products to match your specific needs and budget.
The craftsman CMMT12039 mechanics tool set comes with 298 pieces that are plenty enough for anyone looking to build a good selection of tools. It includes 24 combination wrenches, 1/4″, 3/8″ and 1/2″ ratchets, 6 extensions, 166 sockets (deep, shallow and spark plug), universal joints and additional adapters.
It also comes with Torx bits and hex bits which you may or may not find useful as well as Allen wrenches. When it comes to the sockets, they are chrome for corrosion resistance and come with large markings for quick identification.
These are long-lasting tools and the best part of it is that even if they bend or break they are fully replaceable free of charge since they come with a full lifetime warranty. You don’t need a receipt either for replacement, just the damaged tool.
However, if you need a portable solution for your tools, this may not be the right set since it doesn’t come with a plastic case. The set contains 4 plastic trays (22″ x 11″) that you can slide into the drawers of a tool cart. The tray inserts keep everything nicely organized when in storage.
Overall, the tools are well made and solid but as this is a large tool set, you may want to double-check whether you already have some of the tools included in the set.
Important Specs:
- Model number: CMMT12039
- Unit of measurement: Standard and metric
- Meets ASME specifications
- Full lifetime warranty
Kobalt 227-Piece Mechanic’s Tool Set
Isn’t it disappointing when halfway through a job, you find that you don’t have a particular socket or wrench? Having the right tools and keeping them organized in a handy box to prevent losing them may be all you will ever need in your DIY life.
Undoubtedly, this Kobalt 227 pc. set comes with a great assortment of quality handy tools at a very competitive price. It includes 117 of the most commonly used sockets, 30 combination wrenches, 3 ratchets, a magnetic screwdriver with interchangeable bits, 4 extensions, 40 hex keys, Allen keys, and other tools.
Made of chrome steel with professional-grade polish finish, these tools ensure durability and strength. The two spark plug sockets with a hex are good for tight space access while the magnetic screwdriver feels like a quality piece and has a nice grip and handle to it.
However, the ratchets are a bit bulky and heavy and may not be suitable for getting in tighter spaces, but for some basic automotive services, they may do the job well.
Just the tools on their own are well worth the price of this set but Kobalt has also included a compact tool box that is good for transport and tool storage. However, in the past, there were many negative reviews from people who found that the box is somewhat flimsy and the trays fall off easily.
Since then, Kobalt has restructured the box with durable metal clasps and reinforced joints. The top handle has also been improved for better grip and larger detents have been added to the drawers for smoother use.
Remember: there are 3 drawers in total, and the 3rd one comes empty so you can use it as you wish, either to carry some additional tools or to better organize the ones that come packaged in plastic bags such as the Allen keys or wrenches. The drawers also come out fully.
Best of all, the tools are held in place and do not fall out even if you move the lid up and down, no sockets falling everywhere anymore!
Important Specs:
- Model number: 81239
- Metric and SAE tools
- Meet ASME specifications
- Comes with a warranty
Stanley STMT71653 145-Piece Mechanics Tool Set
Stanley mechanics tool set is a very popular set for good reason. Think of the large selection of strong durable tools, the low price and the solid narrow case that keeps everything secure inside. This is why it is so enthusiastically reviewed by users and recommended as a great gift for the newly DIYer.
Finding a product that will keep your tools secure and prevent them from falling as soon as you open the case is not always easy. This Stanley model has one of the best cases we have seen in terms of holding everything tight (sometimes too tight), secure locking and easy storage.
Its narrow size and the sturdy handle makes it suitable to store behind the bench seat of your truck while the easy release switch makes operation easy.
This is a great set for small jobs around the house or road emergencies. Curious to see what it contains? Let’s see: 1/4, 3/8, and 1/2 inch pear head ratchets, metric and SAE sockets, extension bars, combination wrenches, hex keys, a spark plug socket, a bit holder, 30 drive bits, nut bits, and a spinner handle.
When it comes to the sockets, they are solid and well-made. They lock in well to the wrenches and can easily be removed when releasing the button. On the downside, the size markings are difficult to read so you can use a bit of your improvising skill here, a paint marker may help. They also feature chrome finish for protection against corrosion.
Besides, the ratchet gearing works fine but to function smoothly and prevent it from locking up, you can use some grease as we have previously recommended. All tools are fully polished, which makes it easy to remove grime. The wrenches come with a matte finish.
Important Specs:
- Model Number: STMT71653
- Meets ANSI specifications
- Available to various sizes according to the number of tools included
- Full lifetime warranty
Harbor Freight Mechanics Tool Set – 301 Piece
If you need a good range of basic mechanic tools for use on the go, this Harbor Freight is a great start-up tool set to keep in your truck, garage or home. Based on the number of useful tools you get, the convenience and the durability of the case, its price is also unbeatable. And you can always add some tools to your selection if you find it necessary.
Starting from the outside, the hard case looks compact and durable with metal lock latches and sturdy non-plastic hinges. On the inside, it looks pretty organized with 3 fully removable trays that keep everything secure and easy to find.
With an approximate weight of 50 pounds, this is not the lightest case you will find but with 301 pieces plus the box and the trays, this comes to no surprise.
There are plenty of tools to be happy about in this set including 158 sockets and 48-bit sockets (SAE and metric), 24 screwdrivers, 10 combination wrenches, 42 hex keys, 3 pliers, ratchets, universal joint adapters, breaker bars, and extensions.
Users love how strong and quality the chrome steel sockets and ratchets are for the price. The labeling on the sockets is highly visible and there are even some extra-large sockets available that you can’t often find in other tool sets.
Besides, the handles of the screwdrivers are a bit small and may not be suitable for heavy-duty use. Users have not encountered any breakage issues and they are overall very pleased with the quality of this set. The only small complaint is it does not come with ¼ extensions, but for a few dollars, the problem solved.
Important Specs:
- Model number: SKU 45951
- Brand: Pittsburgh
- Lifetime warranty
268-Piece Husky Mechanics Tool Set
In the world of hand tools, Husky has been known for good value. Over the years, they have improved the quality of their products but somehow managed to keep their prices affordable and be appealing to both DIYers and professionals alike.
If you are looking to start a tool collection without paying a ton of money, this Husky Mechanics Tool Set is the perfect option as it includes a lot of handy tools and sockets that are beyond the basic ones. Over time, you may need to supplement the rest, though.
So, let’s get into it! That’s why we are here, right? There are 72 tooth quick-release ratchets (3 in number), 168 sockets including 1/4, 3/8, and ½ inch drive sockets (metric and SAE), 30 wrenches (combination and ignition), 40 hex keys, and 77 accessories.
The sockets are specially designed to prevent the fasteners from rounding for easy placement and no slippage. They also feature large laser-etched markings which makes the size easy to see. There are markings on the box, too.
Moreover, the ratchets are solid, easy to adjust and suitable for tighter spaces. The chrome vanadium steel finish offers anti-corrosion protection and it is easy to wipe clean.
Last but not least, the molded case is heavy-duty, sturdy and easy to carry as it features a handle on the top and two built-in handles on the sides. Inside, it is nicely organized and the tools stay in place. It has two latches for easy release and the 2 drawers easily slide in and out. They can also be fully pulled out if you don’t need to carry the whole box to the workplace.
Important Specs:
- Model number: H268MTS
- Metric and SAE sizes
- Lifetime warranty
Craftsman 230-Piece Mechanics Tool Set
With 230 Craftsman tools and a rugged solid case, the price of this set seems almost too good to be true. Additional bonus? Craftsman’s lifetime warranty. All these make it a great start-up kit for DIY repairs or car and bike maintenance. It’s popular as a gift, too.
This is a fairly inclusive kit. It contains 3 quick-release ratchets, 116 sockets, 6 combination wrenches (metric and inch), 2 extension bars, 40 Hex keys, 1 screwdriver, 50 screwdriver bits, and 12 nut driver bits.
These are solid tools with corrosion-resistant protection. The sockets are marked clearly for easy identification and the ratchets are durable and quality made for applying a good amount of torque when loosening nuts and bolts. Also, some of the screwdriver bits can fit JIS screws without damaging them.
The Allen keys are useful but they come in plastic bags and there is no other space to store them, which makes things inconvenient when digging through the bag to find the key you need. A couple of things could also be improved. For example, there are limited extensions, but for $10, you get this sorted.
Moreover, there are no angle universal joints and the screwdriver may be too bulky for tight areas. A word of caution: open the box the right way, otherwise the wrenches and sockets will fall out all over. Apart from this, the case is durable and very convenient to carry.
Important Specs:
- Model number: 50230
- Measurement system: Metric and SAE
- Lifetime warranty
GEARWRENCH 243 Pc. Mechanics Tool Set
Gearwrench tools have a great reputation and this Gearwrench set is an excellent choice both for the professional who needs an addition to their snap-on mechanic tools and the DIYer.
It comes with quality tools that hold up well and minimal skip of socket sizes. One of the best things about it is that it covers many different sizes (from a 4mm to a very large 1 1/2 inch). The sockets are easily readable and the sizes are easy to find, too. There is also some additional space in case you want to add a few bits of your own.
Here is what the kit includes:84 tooth ratchets (3 in number), metric and SAE standard sockets (1/4, 3/8″ and 1/2″), deep sockets (1/4″ and 3/8″), spark plug sockets and 12 point combination wrenches (23 in number). Also, 11 extensions, 3 Universal joints, 4 adapters, nut driver bits, and other accessories, no pliers included.
The wrenches and the sockets (6 and 12 points) are specially designed to minimize fastener rounding. They are made from alloy steel and they come with chrome finish for quality and durability. The ratchets are teardrop, well-built and sufficient. For European cars, the 19 mm combination wrench is a useful addition.
Overall, the tools are well made and durable with a nice finish and good heft to them. The blow mold box looks solid and the drawers are easy to pull out. However, some users have complained that the side flaps (which are meant to lock the drawers in place) open easily when carrying and the drawers slide out.
Important Specs:
- Model number: 80972
- Toolbox dimensions: 19 x 13 x 12 inches
- Meets ASME specifications
- Limited lifetime warranty
What To Look For In A Mechanic Tool Set – Buying Guide
Type Of Use
Determining whether you need a tool box for professional use or DIY use is important and it can save you a lot of money, too. Most professionals go for snap-on mechanic tool sets, proto or mac as their first choice. However, for automotive maintenance and home repairs, nothing can beat the great combination of quality durable tools and affordable prices of brands such as Craftsman, Dewalt, Husky, Kobalt or Stanley.
Sockets
Any serious tool set would be insufficient without a wide range of deep and standard sockets in different sizes, both metric and SAE. The switch over to metric fasteners happened in the late ’70s, so metric is the only thing you will need when working on modern cars. However, for older cars, inch sockets are needed.
Also, check that you don’t have any skips on the socket sizes or at least have a minimal amount of skips and that the markings on the sockets are easily readable.
6 point sockets are suitable for heavy torque applications because they have thicker walls to absorb the torque and they are less likely to slip off a fastener. For light-duty repairs, 12 point sockets work fine.
Chrome sockets are meant to be used with hand tools as they have thinner walls but for use with electric tools, you will need those thicker impact sockets.
Ratchets
Ratchets are another important part of a good mechanics tool set. For work in tight spaces, avoid bulky or very heavy ratchets and go for extra teeth such as the 80 tooth ratchets that will help you get the job done easier.
Starting from 24 teeth and going up to 100, there are many options to consider, but given the popularity of 80-100 tooth models, you may want to up your tool case.
Remember that long ratchets give you more leverage to crack loose the fastener. If they get loose, you just need to replace them.
Wrenches
Designed to tighten and loosen items such as nuts and bolts, wrenches are basic tools that make your job easier. Finding the right type and size of the wrench will help you deal with specific projects safely and effectively.
The type and number of wrenches included in the mechanic tool sets vary. In many cases, those larger kits contain a lot of Allen wrenches which you may not need. One more thing is to check whether the wrenches come in imperial and metric measurements. For newer American cars and European vehicles, you need metric tools.
Whether it is for applying more torque to loosen stuck fasteners or working in areas where sockets can’t go in, choosing the right wrench for the job is important.
Screwdrivers
Most sets contain at least one screwdriver but if you often use these tools, you may want to go for a set that contains a variety of screwdrivers and their bits.
The most commonly used screwdrivers today are Philips head with a wide number of applications in every field. Slotted screwdrivers will always be a staple and Allen keys are mainly used in bike repairs and furniture assembling such as IKEA.
Torx keys are used in commercial fields such as appliance manufacturing. Magnetic screwdrivers are also becoming increasingly popular for hard to reach areas.
Breaker Bars
For removing bolts you can never remove with a ratchet alone, breaker bars provide a lot of leverage to make impossible jobs possible. Also known as power bars, they are essential for automotive tasks.
Pliers
A set of pliers always comes handy. However, not all sets come with pliers so if you need them for your job, find a model that includes the type of pliers that best matches your work. Also, read users’ reviews about the specific product because not all pliers included in these kits are quality made and functional.
Number of Tools and Accessories
Some sets contain more than 300 pieces but if you are someone who is starting right now and you only need a basic set for some very simple home repairs, you may not need to buy one of those larger kits.
In any case, you will want to find whether the number of available tools and other accessories matches your needs and budget.
Storage Case
For portability and safe transport when on the go, you will want to find a set that comes with a heavy-duty durable case that keeps all the tools in place and is not super heavy. Go for a compact design with a sturdy handle and good quality latches and hinges that won’t break after a few uses.
Also, check users’ reviews about how durable, nicely organized and well made the tool box is. Remember that some models do not come with a full case but only with some drawers.
If you need additional space to add your favorite tools, find a model that provides this option.
Price
If you had to buy tools independently, you would find that they cost a lot more than buying them in a set. Plus, most sets come in a tool case that helps you easily detect if a tool is missing.
Warranty
Your tools are all you have to get the job done and therefore you will want them to last for long. Many sets come with a lifetime warranty that allows you to replace a broken or damaged tool no questions asked.
However, you will have to check whether the same type of warranty applies whether you are buying online or from a hardware store.
The Bottom Line
Whether you are a beginner or a more experienced user, choosing the right mechanic tool set for your needs can give you plenty of leverage to complete any type of job easily and efficiently.
