starter tool list

[greenking49]

i know that a starter list of tools for my first bmw is dependent on car situtation.
but if you where to make up a minimum list would would it be?
if you list wrenches or a ratchet please list the most commonly used sized.
and recommend brands. they do not need to be the best but not looking to buy trash.

i am US based
Thank you for you responses

 

[t-tony]

Where are you located? UK?
It makes difference on what different people would recommend. If, you're in the UK, and close enough to me (Lincoln) I would happily show you.

Tony.

 

[greenking49]

Thanks Tony but I am US based

 

[the Nefyn cat]

Buying individual spanners and sockets will cost more than buying a decent set off the shelf. I've been using Metrinch tools for many years now, they cost quite a bit more than cheap stuff, but I've never had one slip yet. Which is worth considering once you've had a few knuckles scraped off your fingers.

 

[colb]

In the US you should find decent tools at your local motor spares chains, decent metric socket set to start then decent open end and ring or ratchet spanners again in metric sizes, common on the Zed are 10 - 17mm. A set of Hex keys and a set of Allen keys and a decent set of Pliers normal and long nose together with some locking Molegrips and a set of flat and Cross head screwdrivers will certainly get you going. As to a decent Diagnostic Scanner which you will need sooner or later the Creator 310+ is a good choice available on ebay. You will need a round 20pin to 16pin obd cable changer to use it, again available on ebay. A low profile jack and a pair of axle stands will set you up for lifting the car. A Torque wrench would be a good addition if you are just starting out with your mechanic endeavours.

 

[t-tony]

Also remember that for European vehicles, “crosshead screws” are Pozidrive and not Phillips . Using the wrong driver will damage the screws and render them useless.

Tony.

 

[Pond]

Torx head bits. Cars are full of torx bolts and screws.
A decent combination socket set (1/4", 3/8" and 1/2" drives are all useful). I like Facom and Teng but not sure of US brands.
A good heavy trolley jack (at least 2 tonnes), as the cheaper lighter ones tend to twist.
A 1/2" torque wrench is a must IMO aswell if you plan on removing the wheels. If planning other mechanical works then a smaller 3/8" torque wrench is also desirable as they have lower settings.
And a good quality set of trim removal tools. Not cheap ones, as they are useless. Ask me how I know!

I have a garage FULL of tools and I always seem to need something else that I don't have, so the list can be endless TBH.

 

[Trevor /chedder]

Don't forget a breaker bar and blow torch.

 

[Althulas]

Add a set of Irvine bolt removers very useful on corroded fasteners https://amzn.eu/d/8npcgyZ there are other makes out there. I’ve a few sets of uspro/Bergan impact sockets,, hex and torx sets plus plier set, plastic trim removal tools which are far better than the eBay specials from china. Overall decent quality apart from the small chisel set a bit soft. Have a look on YouTube as well for some tool brand reviews. Has taken a few years building up collection. Started with a decent sized Macallister socket set which included some spanner’s and has served me well and has not let me down excep the 1/4 inch ratchet needs replacing but probably asked too much of it, plus a pro ratchet spanner set from Halfords, pro range from them are well made and have life time guarantee if not miss used and a cheapo plier set. As others posted torque wrenches as you can.

 

[Nodzed]

Lots of 10mm sockets