The automotive equipment business grows and remains constant even during economic strains. This is because the average person doesn't have the time or skills necessary to repair a vehicle. Whether it's an automotive paint shop, a repair shop, tire shop or home-based repair business, the right auto equipment is important.

The type of automotive business you run determines the amount of automotive equipment necessary to successfully run your business. A small home-based repair shop will need the typical tools like wrenches and screwdrivers. A large repair shop will need diagnostic computer programs, car lifts, tire alignment machines and other larger equipment for auto repair and maintenance. Using automotive tools and equipment is necessary in the following types of auto businesses:

1. Specialty repair shops that focus on specific makes and models. Certain automobiles, such as BMWs, require skilled mechanics and specialized equipment to work on the foreign vehicles.

2. Custom car shops need car equipment for modified suspension, shaving door handles and tailgates, and working with custom rims and tires.

3. Home-based repair shops need simpler tools for regular maintenance and repairs.

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Find websites that give automotive tools info

When ordering tools for certain models, it's helpful to find websites that give you information beyond the typical product description and price. Websites that tell you what to use the tool for are beneficial, since some uses may be unknown to you.

I recommend: Technic Tool Supply offers a listing of BMW tools, with notes on how to use the tools. Pelican Parts is another site that lists special tools for foreign cars, but also tells you the purpose of the tools.

Find automobile tools and advice aimed at the small repair shop owner

A small repair shop owner who has general knowledge of auto mechanics doesn't need the fancy equipment of a large dealership or repair service chain. A small repair shop can be based out of a garage, workshop, small leased space or even just someone's driveway. By using the right tools for auto repairs, you save time and money. Finding common diagnostic codes online is also helpful when diagnosing problems and figuring out which tools to use for repair.

I recommend: Automotive Tool Express offers tools and vehicle equipment with the small shop in mind. Automoting.com has message boards and forums that offer advice on using diagnostic codes and discuss common auto repairs.

Use an automotive tool guide when offering custom services

If your auto shop offers custom services, using an automotive tool guide can help you make sure you have all the needed tools on hand for projects. Certain projects need actual kits before you can start working, but having the tools on hand means you can start work while waiting for the kit to arrive.

I recommend: DIY Network offers a variety of how-to manuals for custom car work, including shaving door handles. JC Whitney has a variety of custom suspension tools for offering custom suspension work.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  If working in a large repair shop, a computer that diagnosis car problems is a necessity. Many times when a dash warning light appears, the mechanic can plug the car into the diagnostic system and automatically see the problem.

Automotive tools encompass everything from basic wrenches to expensive diagnostic equipment. Your business may need just simple automobile tools to do oil changes or you may provide extensive services to your customers with a full service garage. Find the niche that works for your customers needs and then purchase the automotive equipment to get the job done.

Decide what services you want to offer your customers. You can provide tire service, quick oil change and lubes, air conditioning maintenance or all of the above. Purchase auto equipment that meets these needs. Look at the following when deciding which car equipment you need:

1. Choose auto equipment for a single service garage.

2. Purchase automotive tools and equipment for your full service garage.

3. Select the correct automotive equipment to diagnose your customer's car trouble.

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Offer a single service with car equipment for that job

If there are no quick lubes in your area, you may want to start a car garage for oil changes only. Offer service in a guaranteed period or offer to pick up and return customers cars from local work places. Another good niche business is checking and servicing air conditioners if you live in warm climates. Find just the car equipment you need for this type of business.

I recommend: Chain Auto offers automotive tools for oil changes. They offer a full line of oil wrenches and pliers. Fill out their form, email them or call for a quote on the car tools you need. Hechinger offers oil change car tools and their products usually ship in 3 to 5 days.

Buy car tools for your full service garage

Full service garages need autopart equipment that covers everything that may happen to a person's car from minor oil leaks to a complete engine overhaul. Your customers will expect you to fix anything or perform routine car maintenance.

I recommend: USA Tools Inc. offers a complete line of automotive equipment and tools. Order online or call for more information about any tool you find in their online store. Parts America offers a full line of tools from body repair to brake tools to jacks, ramps and stands. Look at their line up and compare prices.

Install diagnostic vehicle equipment to detect malfunctions

Many times your customers will not know what is wrong with their car. Diagnose and repair 'that thumping noise' with the correct automotive tool. Guide yourself through this procedure with diagnostic car equipment that tells you exactly what is wrong with the car.

I recommend: TOOLRAGE offers a complete list of diagnostic car tools. Check for cylinder leaks, exhaust, ignitions and other tests to determine what repair work is necessary. Tool Desk offers testers for batteries, starters and alternators. Look at all of the test equipment and purchase the one you need.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Automotive tools and equipment are very expensive. Make sure you insure your tools for lost, stolen or manufacturer's defect or have them covered under your business insurance plan.

Those who work in the automotive industry are always busy, working to fix and maintain vehicles with a variety of car tools. Automotive equipment can range from simple hand-held tools, up to sophisticated diagnostic equipment. For most maintenance work, hand tools can be used with little training. But those who work with computerized diagnostic equipment will need training to test car engines.

Automotive tools and equipment education and training can be achieved in a variety of ways. For simple knowledge about autopart equipment, tech manuals and user guides can provide plenty of information. A more comprehensive approach to training can come from:

1. Vocational training programs that teach you how to use diagnostic tools.

2. Online videos and articles that take a how-to approach to learning basic repair.

3. Workshops and seminars that teach specific skills for working with automotive equipment.

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Use online resources to learn how to work with auto equipment

Online resources are a great way to get familiar with specific automotive tools. Through articles or videos, these training materials can provide information on proper use, getting the most out of the tool's features, and any safety issues you should be aware of.

I recommend: DenLors Tools provides a host of tech articles that can help you learn how to properly use some common automotive tools for maintenance and repairs. Turbo Training offers self-guided instruction for many types of automotive tools.

Attend vocational training to learn how to maintain and repair car equipment

If you want to learn how to use all types of tools for car maintenance and repair, vocational training is the best option. Most two-year programs include instruction on the latest automotive tool technology and hands-on training.

I recommend: The Universal Technical Institute offers vocational training in automotive repair, including diesel repair. The Lincoln Technical Institute gives students the option of earning a certificate or two-year degree in automotive repair.

Sign up for seminars to learn more about automobile tools

Another easy and quick way to educate yourself about automotive tools is to attend a seminar. Many seminars are specific to one tool or a common group of tools. These seminars are good for training beginners, as well as those who are already familiar with many diagnostic tools.

I recommend: Alliance of Automotive Service Providers - Minnesota (AASP-MN) has regularly scheduled events throughout the year for auto repair and body shop repair technicians to learn about the latest tools. Automotive Technical Support Training Services provides seminars and workshops for hands-on learning with the latest tools of the trade.

Get auto equipment certification and training from the ASE

The National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) sets the industry standard for professionalism among mechanics. To earn certification from the ASE, a mechanic must have two years of hands-on work experience and pass at least one exam. It offers different types of certifications depending on a mechanic's specialty, including auto, truck, school bus and transit repair.

I recommend: The ASE outlines the different types of work and school experience that count towards certification, and points mechanics to the right paperwork for documenting that time. The organization also offers a variety of test preparation materials for people who plan on taking the exam. Bergwall has a number of online test preparation courses that are geared to helping students ace a variety of ASE exams.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  If you want to work in a specialty field, such as diesel engines or auto racing, make sure to check out automotive tool guides and classes that will train you to learn about the tools specific to that field.

Gone are the days when mechanics were limited to hand tools—now even the smallest shops are making forays into the realm of technology. With so many cars run by electronics, mechanics need to stay current with the latest advances in both cars and equipment. Many engine problems that used to take hours to diagnose can now be discovered by computerized equipment in a matter of minutes. While these tools speed up the time it takes to identify and complete repairs, mechanics still use the old standbys such as jacks and tire changers. Whether the tool requires brute force or high-tech savvy, knowing some automotive tools and equipment basics will make you feel more at home around a garage.

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Pin plate system

The pin plate system assists in mounting wheels to a tire balancer. By offering a variety of sizes and choices, the system allows mechanics to easily secure the wheel when they are balancing tires.

I recommend: Hennessy Industries explains the benefits of using the pin plate system and has a video showing how it is used.

Car jack

Many mechanical and autobody repairs require the mechanic to get underneath the car. Larger shops may use car lifts for most repairs, but all shops should have access to car jacks for smaller jobs. Jacks are used to lift a specific part of the car into the air so repair work can be done.

I recommend: For a video on how to use car jacks, check out videojug.com.

Engine scan tool

Although larger shops can invest in sophisticated engine scanning equipment, you can purchase less expensive hand-held versions of these diagnostic tools. A scan tool can pinpoint basic engine problems and read engine trouble codes. They are invaluable for diagnosing why the 'Check Engine' light is coming on.

I recommend: OBD Diagnostics describes an engine scan tool and tells how they work. The site also has links to additional information about the scan tool and its computerized programs.

Brake lathes

Brake lathes come in a variety of models and prices. For vehicles that require their rotors to be machined, brake lathes are invaluable, because they can correct the problem with the rotors still installed.

I recommend: Babcox discusses brake lathes and suggests what features to look for when you're purchasing them. Kwik-Way suggests reasons why brake lathes are a valuable addition to your shop equipment.

Tire changers

When cars get flat tires or tire treads become so worn that a vehicle can no longer pass inspection, it's time for new tires. Tire changers can help make the process easier. Tire changers are also invaluable for shops that put on custom wheels.

I recommend: Greg Smith Equipment Sales compares the different features of tire changers. Equipment and Tool Institute offers extensive information on the requirements for tire changers and their labeling.

Auto repair manuals

Mechanics can get auto repair manuals for different vehicle makes and models. These manuals show exploded views of parts and detailed diagrams of all the engine or body parts on the vehicle. They also provide manufacturer specifications for repairs and tune ups.

I recommend: The mechanics at 2CarPros.com tell you where you can buy auto repair manuals, detail the costs, and explain why these manuals are important.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Many shops require their technicians to purchase and maintain their own hand tools. This can not only save shop owners money, but it means the technicians are more familiar and comfortable with the tools they're using.