If you want to start doing basic auto repairs on your vehicle, you need to make sure that you have the right tools. Here is a basic rundown of some of the tools that you are going to need in order to do effectively perform minor repairs on your vehicle.

Safety Equipment

The first thing you need to do is invest in equipment to keep yourself safe when you are working on your vehicle. You'll want to purchase work gloves that you can wear while you work. You should also purchase protective eyewear to keep your eyes safe. It can be helpful to also have a mask lying around as well sometimes, especially if you are sensitive to smells.

General Tools

There are some general tools that you will need to work on your vehicle with. These are tools that you could use around your house as well as on your vehicle. You may already own some of these tools and just didn't realize that they could be helpful for vehicle work as well. These tools include the following:

• Phillips screwdriver, various sizes
• Flat head screwdriver, various sizes
• Adjustable wrench
• Funnel
• Pliers
• Rags
• Ratchet and socket set

Auto Specific Tools

There are some auto specific tools that you are also going to need to purchase if you want to do basic auto repairs on your vehicle, including:

• Tire pressure gauge: This will allow you to check the pressure in your tires, which you should do every few months. As many air filling stations don't include a pressure gauge, this is a handy tool you'll use often.
• Multimeter: A multimeter will allow you to see the measure the voltage that your battery and alternator are producing. If your vehicle ever fails to start, you can use it to figure out if it is the battery or the alternate that is causing the problem. You can also use this tool on more advanced repairs.
• Torque wrench: Although you can use this tool for work outside of your vehicle, it is really handy to have. It can help you remove stubborn bolts that you just can't get off.
• Jack:  If you want to do work on your vehicle, there is a good chance that will need to elevate your vehicle to do further work under the car.                                                         

You should also make sure that you have your vehicle manual handy; it can let you know where the specific parts are that you want to work on. If you don't have your vehicle manual, you can generally order one from the manufacturer. Once you have these tools, you should be set to make any repairs and start looking for necessary parts from a supplier like Southwest Auto Salvage. If you'll need any special tools to replace a specific part, the supplier may have tools available as well or at least be able to tell you what you'll need.