Most car owners want to learn how to fix and maintain common problems themselves. Some folks choose to have a mechanic do all the work for them. But, if you’re one of the few that like to do some DIY maintenance work, this blog post is for you!
I am going to share with you some essential workshop gadgets that you need for servicing and repairs. They don’t cost a fortune to buy, and they are a godsend when it comes to car maintenance. Without further ado, let me share with you the gadgets you need to buy:
Socket Set
Cars use bolts of different sizes to fix various parts together. One of the most used tools in your collection will be your socket set. I recommend getting one that comes in both imperial and metric sizes. That way, you can work on cars that get made from any country, and built during any era!
Make sure your socket set comes with adjustable ratchet drivers. You can even get some that can work at 90-degree angles, believe it or not!
Your socket set should also include an extension bar. For example, the maintenance guide at whocanfixmycar.com mentions you’ll need it for replacing batteries. They are also useful for accessing bolts hidden in the depths of your engine.
OBD2 Reader
All cars built after the mid-1990s contain a computer: the ECU. It manages various aspects of your vehicle, such as the fuel injection system. When something goes wrong, it will detect the fault and record a “fault code.”
Did you know you can find out which fault codes your ECU recorded using an OBD2 reader? It’s a gadget that you can use with a laptop computer. These days, you can even buy Bluetooth models that work with smartphone apps like Torque!
Some readers will display other information like battery charge status and engine temperature. The latter is useful if your car hasn’t got a coolant temperature gauge on the dashboard. Check out www.machinemart.co.uk for details on what else they can do for you.
Car-Specific Diagnostic Software
You might not know it, but it’s possible to buy aftermarket software that “talks” to your car. Software like OPCOM for Vauxhall and Opel and VAG-COM for Volkswagen is a must.
They let you adjust all kinds of features to do with your car. For example, you could enable speed-sensitive door locking. You can even enable the daytime running lights feature on your car!
Let’s say you upgrade some parts of your car’s interior, such as the inclusion of heated seats. You can use the software to “enable” that feature in your car.
Inflatable Jacks
Most people use the scissor jacks that come with their cars. Others may use trolley jacks that garages often have. But, there’s an easier way to lift your car using an innovative gadget. I am, of course, talking about inflatable jacks!
The way they work is simple. You place the “bag” underneath the part of the car you wish to lift. You inflate it with a compressor and then support the car with an axle stand. I hope you’ve enjoyed reading today’s blog post. See you soon!
