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55 Different Types of Power Tools for Cars

Power tools for car in an open car hood.

Different types of power tools are used to work on cars. They are necessary for any mechanic’s toolbox. In the right hands, these tools deliver powerful and precise results.

Power tools for cars can measure and adjust different aspects of the car from the inside out. They can also be used to work on the outside of the car.

There are many different types of power tools for cars, each with its own specific purpose. Here are some of the most popular types:

1. Torque Wrenches

Amazon Basics 1/4-Inch Drive Click Torque Wrench - 35-200 in.-lb, 3.95-22.5 Nm

Torque wrenches are used to tighten or loosen bolts and nuts. They can be used to assemble or disassemble parts. They deliver a precise level of torque, so they are perfect for working on delicate parts.

2. Impact Drivers

WORKSITE Cordless Impact Driver Kit, 2655 In-lbs (300N.m) Max Torque, 1/4" Hex Impact Drill, Variable Speed, 2.0A Battery & 1 Hour Fast Charger, 26 Pieces Impact Drive Bits and Tool Bag

Impact drivers are used to drive screws and nails. They deliver a high level of torque, making them ideal for working with tougher materials.

3. Air Wrench

DEWALT Impact Wrench with Hog Ring, Square Drive, Heavy Duty, 1/2-Inch (DWMT70773L)

One of the most common tools is the air wrench. It uses compressed air to turn a socket on a fastener. This tool is perfect for removing lug nuts on a tire.

4. Power Drill

GardenJoy Cordless Power Drill Set: 21V Electric Drill with Fast Charger 3/8-Inch Keyless Chuck 2 Variable Speed 24+1 Torque Setting Power Tools Kit and 25pcs Drill/Driver Bits

Another type of power tool is the drill. It can be used for drilling holes in various materials, including metal and plastic. For car work, it can be used to install screws and bolts.

5. Buffing and polishing machines

ENEACRO Car Polisher, Rotary Buffer Polisher Waxer, 12 Amp 6-inch/7-inch Variable Speed 1000-3500RPM, Detachable Handle Perfect for Boat, Car Polishing and Home Appliance (12Amp)

These machines are used to buff and polish the surface of a car. They can be used to remove scratches, swirl marks, and other imperfections.

6. Air compressor

AstroAI Air Compressor Tire Inflator Portable Air Pump for Car Tires 12V DC Auto Tire Pump with Digital Pressure Gauge, 100PSI with Emergency LED Light for Car, Bicycle, Balloons and Other Inflatables

An air compressor is a necessity for any garage. It powers many different types of tools, including impact drivers and air wrenches. It can also be used to inflate tires.

7. Spray guns

BATAVIA Paint Sprayer, HVLP Electric Spray Gun, Sprays Thinned Latex,[500W/1200ml/4 Nozzles/3 Patterns] Easy-to-Go Container, Ideal for Home Interior and Exterior Walls, Ceiling, Fence, Cabinet

Spray guns are used to apply paint, primer, and other finishes to a car’s surface. They can be used for touch-ups or full paint jobs.

8. Wheel balancer

VI-CO Portable Bubble Wheel Balancer, Static Balancing Machine Tire Balancer Changer Ideal for Automobiles and Light Trucks, 1-1/2 in. to 4 in. Diameter

A wheel balancer is used to balance the wheels of a car. This ensures that the car rides smoothly and evenly. It also helps to extend the life of the tires.

9. Tire changer

EASYBERG Multifunctional Manual Hand Car Tire Spreader Portable Tire Changer for Motorcycle Gocart Trailer Bike ATV Truck 4" - 16.5"

A tire changer is used to change the tires on a car. This tool is necessary for any garage or auto shop. It can be used to change both regular and racing tires.

10. Battery charger

ABLY Car Battery Charger 12V/8A 24V/4A Automatic Smart Battery Charger/Maintainer with LCD Display Pulse Repair Charger Pack for Car, Lawn Mower, Motorcycle, Boat, SUV and More…

A battery charger is used to charge the battery of a car. This tool is essential for keeping a car’s battery in good condition. It can also be used to jump-start a dead battery.

11. Plasma cutter

Plasma Cutter,50 amp Plasma Cutting Equipment,Dual Voltage Metal Cutter,Portable Plasma Cutter Machine,High Frequency 50/60Hz 1/2-inch Clean Cut,110/220V Digital Display CUT50D

A plasma cutter is a tool that uses plasma to cut through metal. It is perfect for cutting through thicker pieces of metal.

12. Floor jack

BIG RED T820014S Torin Hydraulic Trolley Service/Floor Jack with Blow Mold Carrying Storage Case, 1.5 Ton (3,000 lb) Capacity, Red

A floor jack is used to lift a car off the ground. It is necessary for many different types of repairs and maintenance tasks.

13. Engine crane

HTTMT- 2 TON Red 4400lb Heavy Duty Engine Motor Hoist Cherry Picker Shop Crane Lift Portable Crane Hydraulic Picker With hooks [P/N: ET-CAR-FIX005-2T-RED]

An engine crane is used to remove and install engines. It is a powerful tool that can lift heavy engines with ease.

14. Mechanics’ creepers

BIG RED TR6453 Torin Rolling Garage/Shop Creeper: 36" Padded Mechanic Cart with 4 Casters, Red, 4-wheel

Mechanics’ creepers are used to crawl under cars. They are perfect for performing maintenance tasks and making repairs.

15. Portable generators

Champion Power Equipment 200988 4500-Watt Dual Fuel RV Ready Portable Inverter Generator, Electric Start

Portable generators are used to power tools when there is no electricity available. They are perfect for use in remote areas or during power outages.

16. Porta-Powers

Mophorn 6 Ton Porta Power Kit 1.2M (78.7 inch) Oil Hose Hydraulic Car Jack Ram Autobody Frame Repair Power Tools for Loadhandler Truck Bed Unloader Farm and Hydraulic Equipment Construction

Porta-powers are used to lift and hold parts in place while they are being worked on. They can be used with a variety of tools, including power drills and air wrenches.

17. Lifts

Pro-Lift B-004D Grey Hydraulic Bottle Jack - 4 Ton Capacity

Lifts are used to raise cars off the ground so that they can be worked on more easily. There are both hydraulic and mechanical lifts available.

18. Car ramps

BISupply Vehicle Service Ramp Set – 6.3in Car Lift 2 Ton Heavy Duty Truck Ramps for Vehicle Maintenance, 2 Pack

Car ramps are used to provide access to the underside of a car. They are perfect for performing repairs and maintenance tasks.

19. Jumpstarters

NOCO Boost Plus GB40 1000 Amp 12-Volt UltraSafe Lithium Jump Starter Box, Car Battery Booster Pack, Portable Power Bank Charger, and Jumper Cables For Up To 6-Liter Gasoline and 3-Liter Diesel Engines

Jumpstarters are used to start a car when the battery is dead. They are essential for any garage or auto shop.

20. Pressure Washers

Sun Joe SPX3000 2030 Max PSI 1.76 GPM 14.5-Amp Electric High Pressure Washer, Cleans Cars/Fences/Patios

Pressure washers are used to clean the surface of a car. They can be used to remove dirt, mud, and grime.

21. Winch

OFF ROAD BOAR 9500-lb. Load Capacity Electric Winch Kit, 12V Steel Cable Winch with Roller Fairlead, Waterproof IP67 Towing Winches with Both Wireless Handheld Remote and Corded Control

A winch is used to pull cars or other objects out of difficult situations. It is a powerful tool that can be used for many different applications.

22. Lug Wrench

EPAuto Telescoping Lug Wrench, Wheel Wrench with CR-V Sockets (17/19, 21/22mm)

A lug wrench is used to loosen and tighten lug nuts. It is for changing tires.

23. Socket Set

DEWALT Socket Set, 3/8-Inch Drive, SAE/Metric, 34-Piece (DWMT73804)

A socket set is used to remove and install screws and bolts. It is a necessary tool for many different types of repairs.

24. Paint Gun

TCP Global Professional Gravity Feed HVLP Spray Gun with a 1.4mm Fluid Tip, 1 Liter Aluminum Cup and Air Regulator

A paint gun is used to apply paint, primer, and other finishes to a car’s surface. It can be used for touch-ups or full paint jobs.

25. Screwdriver Set

STREBITO Precision Screwdriver Set 191-Piece Multi-Bit Screwdriver 1/4 Inch Nut Driver Home Improvement Tool Electronic Repair Kit for Computer, iPhone, Laptop, PC, Cell Phone, PS4, Xbox, Nintendo

A screwdriver set is used to remove and install screws and bolts. Electric versions provide speed and reliability.

26. Electric Chisel

VEVOR Electric Chisel 350W Electric Wood Chisel 25000 rpm Wood Carving Machine with 5 Blades 220V Carving Tool(Host +Chisel + Shaft)

An electric chisel is used to remove paint, primer, and other finishes from a car’s surface. It can be used for touch-ups or full paint jobs.

27. Hammer

Amazon Basics Emergency Seat Belt Cutter and Window Hammer Tool, Car Accessories, 2 Pack

A hammer is used to drive nails and screws into a car’s surface. For cars, an electric hammer can be accurate and powerful.

28. Sawzall

WORKSITE Reciprocating Saw, 20V Cordless Reciprocating Saw w/2.0Ah Battery & 1-Hour Fast Charger, 0-3000 SPM Variable Speed Trigger, 6 Saw Blades for Wood/Metal/PVC Pipe Cutting

A sawzall is used to cut through metal, plastic, and wood. With cars, it is used to cut through the metal frame.

29. Tire Iron

23" Universal Extended Lug Wrench, XERGUR 4 Way Tire Iron Nut Wrench Set with Storage Bag and Standard Sockets (17mm/19mm,21mm/23mm) for Heavy Duty Cross Wrench, Wheel Wrench

A tire iron is used to remove and install tires. Garages need a reliable tire iron to change tires quickly and easily.

30. Jigsaw

SORAKO Jigsaw, 5.0Amp Jig Saw Tool with 6 Variable Speeds, 4 Orbital Sets, Bevel Cutting: ±45°, Max Cutting Depth 60mm for Wood, 800-3000SPM, Corded Jigsaw with 2PCS Blades & Scale Ruler

A jigsaw is used to cut through metal, plastic, and wood. It is a versatile tool that can be used for many different applications

31. Polisher

BLACK+DECKER 6-inch Random Orbit Waxer/Polisher (WP900)

A polisher is used to polish the surface of a car. It can be used to remove scratches, swirl marks, and other imperfections.

32. Cordless Drills

Cordless Drill Driver Kit 12.6V, Power Drill with 2 Batteries and Charger,34PCS, 18+1 Torque Setting, 3/8" Keyless Chuck 30Nm Max, Electric Screwdriver with 2-Speed, LED Light for DIY Project

Cordless drills are used to drill holes in a car. They are perfect for use in tight spaces.

33. Air Hammers

Ingersoll Rand Model 123MAX Short Barrel Air Hammer, Quick Change Retainer, Anti Vibration Power Tool, Comfort Grip, Lightweight, Gray

An air hammer is used to break loose bolts and screws. It is a powerful tool that can be used for many different applications.

34. Air Ratchet

Ingersoll Rand 105-D2 1/4-Inch Air Ratchet, 1/4" Drive

An air ratchet is used to loosen and tighten bolts. It is a useful tool for many different types of repairs.

35. Shop Vacuum

Stanley SL18910P-3 Wet/Dry, 3 Gallon, 3 Horsepower, Portable Car Vacuum, 3.0 HP AC, Black+Yellow

A shop vacuum is used to clean up debris and particles. It is perfect for use in a garage or auto shop.

36. Brake Lathe

DC 12V 24W DIY Tool CNC Metal Motorized Mini Lathe Machine 20000rev/min

A brake lathe is used to resurface brake drums and discs. This helps them to work better and extends their usage. It is a very important tool in any automotive workshop.

37. Coolant System Tester

JIFETOR Radiator Coolant Pressure Tester Vacuum Refill Tool Kit, 28PCS Automotive Cooling System Leak Test and Pneumatic Purge Fill Set with Testing Adapter Caps Universal for Airlift Car Auto Truck

A coolant system tester is used to test the coolant levels in a car. It is important to keep the coolant levels in a car topped off, as this can prevent the engine from overheating.

A coolant system tester can be used to test the levels of coolant in a car’s radiator, as well as the levels of antifreeze in the engine.

38. Ignition System Tester

Car Spark Tester, Spark Plug Adjustable Ignition Coil Tester System Coil Tester Engine Repairing Tool

An ignition system tester is used to test the ignition system in a car. It is a necessary tool for diagnosing problems with the car’s engine. There are many different types of ignition system testers, but they all do the same job: testing the igniter, spark plugs, and distributor.

39. Wheel Alignment Machine

Plum Garden 14.5" Car Steering Wheel Holder Stand Tool Steering Wheel Alignment System Tool

A wheel alignment machine is used to align the wheels of a car. Wheel alignment means the car drives smoothly, tires wear evenly, and keeps drivers safe on the road. There are many different types of wheel alignment machines, but all work in basically the same way.

The first type of machine is a three-wheel alignment machine. This machine uses three sensors to measure the angles of the wheels. It can be used for both front and rear wheel alignment.

The second type of machine is a four-wheel alignment machine. This machine uses four sensors to measure the angles of the wheels. It is more accurate than a three-wheel alignment machine, but it can be more expensive.

The third type of machine is a computerized wheel alignment machine. This machine uses sensors and computers to measure the angles of the wheels. It is the most accurate type of machine

40. Brake Bleeder Kit

Thorstone Brake Bleeder Kit with Hand Held Vacuum Pump Tester | 16pcs Brake Clutch Bleeder Tool with Adapters for Car Kitchen Uses | One-Man Brake Bleeding System Apply to Bike, Motorcycle, Car, Truck

A brake bleeder kit is used to bleed the brakes of a car. This is done for many different reasons, but the most common reason is to remove air from the brake line.

This can be done manually or with a machine, but it is usually best to do it with a machine. The kit consists of a master cylinder, which contains the fluid that will be used to bleed the brakes, and a brake bleeder valve.

The brake bleeder valve is attached to the brake line and is used to release the fluid from the master cylinder.

41. Circuit Tester

Sigmaprobe Test Light Automotive - 5-12-30 Volt Circuit Fuse Trailer Wiring Continuity Tester with Digital LED Display for Car Electric Automotive Motorcycle

A circuit tester is used to test electrical circuits. It is a necessary tool for diagnosing problems with a car’s electrical system. A circuit tester has two metal probes that are inserted into the open ends of a connector.

When the tester is turned on, it will create a circuit through the probes. If there is current flowing through the circuit, the tester will light up or make a sound. A circuit tester can also be used to test for voltage.

By touching the probes to different points in a circuit, you can determine if there is voltage present. If there is no voltage, the circuit is open and needs to be repaired.

42. Computer Diagnostic Tool

2022 Newest Elite LAUNCH CRP123 OBD2 Scanner Engine/ABS/SRS/Transmission Car Diagnostic Tool, ABS Code Reader, SRS Scan Tool, Lifetime Free Update Scan Tool

A computer diagnostic tool is used to diagnose problems with a car’s computer system.  This type of tool is used to test the computer for faults and to repair any that are found.

43. Engine Stand

BIG RED T26801 Torin Steel Rotating Engine Stand with 360 Degree Rotating Head and Folding Frame: 3/4 Ton (1,500 lb) Capacity, Red

An engine stand is used to support an engine while it is being worked on. It is a necessary tool for auto mechanics to give them the best view of their engine.

44. Fuel Pressure Gauge

MEASUREMAN 1-1/2" Dial Size, Glycerin Filled Fuel Pressure Gauge, 304 Stainless Steel case, 0-15Psi, 3-2-3%, 1/8"NPT Back Mount

A fuel pressure gauge is used to measure the pressure of the fuel in a car’s engine. It is a useful tool for diagnosing problems with the car’s engine.

45. Jack Stands

Amazon Basics Steel Jack Auto Stands, 3 Ton Capacity, 1 Pair

Jack stands are used to support a car while it is being worked on. They are an essential tool for auto mechanics to keep the car stable while they work.

46. Oil Pressure Gauge

Auto Meter 3421 Sport-Comp Mechanical Oil Pressure Gauge Regular, 2-5/8" (66.7mm)

An oil pressure gauge is used to measure the pressure of the oil in a car’s engine. It is a useful tool for diagnosing problems with the car’s engine.

47. Voltmeter

ePathChina 2" 52MM 12V 8~16V Universal LED Electrical Car Voltmeter Voltage Gauge Meter

A voltmeter is used to measure the voltage of an electrical circuit. It is used to test the functionality of a car’s electrical system. The voltmeter works by measuring the difference in electrical potential between two points.

48. Oxygen Sensor Tester

EDIAG YA201 2022 Enhanced obd2 Scanner,Check Engine Fault Code Reader Full OBDII Functions 10 Modes,Mode 6,O2 Sensor Test, Battery Test, EOBD OBDII CAN Diagnostic Scan Tool for All 1996 & Newer Cars

This is a great tool for testing the oxygen sensors on your vehicle. It can help you determine if they are working properly and if they need to be replaced.

49. Sandblaster

Sand Blaster Gun Kit, Rust and Paint Remover, Pool Cleaning Sandblasting Equipment. Sandblaster Kit AS118 Black

A sandblaster is used to remove paint and other surface contaminants from a car. The device uses a high-pressure stream of sand to blast the paint and other debris off the car. A sandblaster can also be used to etch designs into a car’s surface.

50. Corded Drills

Corded drills lies on the ground.

A corded drill literally has an electric cord and is plugged into a socket. These are durable and powerful tools. The drawback of a corded drill is that you cannot move around easily with it, especially if you are working on rather smaller areas in the car.

51. Saws and Grinders

Worker grinding part of car using grinder.

Depending on the amount of work you do on your car, you may need a saw or grinder in your garage. However, as these are powerful and quite specialized tools, they are not likely to be found in the average garage and are used routinely in cars.

They can also be used in the process of restoring parts of a car, or even a whole car. A saw may be used to cut away body parts, like doors, or to make major changes to a car.

Grinders or orbital sanders are a powerful tool to be used to scrape away stubborn things like rust on sections of a car or to smooth rough surfaces, especially if you are considering respraying your car.

You can also use a rotary brush for fast cleaning of sections of the car, or as an option for polishing. You can also use a soft-bristled attachment to remove some rust and paint.

52. Electric Carjacks

Electric carjacks with yellow cord on white isolated background.

There are many times when you will need to jack your car up to work underneath, or simply to change a wheel. In this case, you can use the jack the car comes equipped with, which is likely to be a scissor jack or a bottle jack. All of these require some degree of manual effort.

You could also use a trolley jack, which is bigger than either a scissor or bottle jack and would be a feature in your garage. The lever on a trolley jack requires less manual effort because the lever is longer.

An alternative to a manually-operated jack, no matter how efficient, is an electric jack. These require no manual effort and work much quicker than other jacks. Before buying an electric jack, you must foid out how much your car weighs and make sure the jack is capable of raising that weight easily.

53. Power Lifts

Van with power lifts used for transporting man on wheelchair.

Sometimes, it isn’t actually the car you need to raise, but a part of the car to be able to load something like a scooter or wheelchair.

In this case, you will need to have your car fitted with a power lift, which is a very alternative and unusual power tool to use with your car.

54. Pressure Regulator

Pressure regulator on blur background.

The pressure of the air needs a pressure regulator, which is essentially a valve that sets the pressure in the compressed air system. It filters the air out and contains lubricants that make air tools last longer.

55. Blowgun

Blowgun on white isolated background.

Another, rather unusual power tool, is a blowgun, which can be used for drying or cleaning equipment or parts of the engine or car.

FAQs

Why should I use power tools for a car?

The power tools allow you to fasten bolts and the like tighter and more convincingly. They also mean you can undo fasteners that have been tightened with a lot of force.

You can also work more quickly if you are using power tools and keep from exhausting yourself.

Do I need a set of screwdrivers if I have a cordless driver?

A cordless screwdriver comes with a body and a set of different heads that fit into the socket. This means that a set of screwdrivers is not necessary.

It can be an addition to your toolbox, in the case of your cordless screwdriver running out of battery power.

How can I use a power washer?

A power washer forces water through a nozzle at high pressure, so that it can dislodge dirt and grease that has become ingrained in the engine. You direct the spray of the water at the affected parts of the car.

If it is the engine, then you will need to work the nozzle around the parts of the engine.

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