I work on cars about every 2 weeks. When you dont have that 1 tool that you really need... well thats a bitch. When i have decent money coming in I usually pick up some tools here and there to add to my collection so when the time comes, its there and i dont have to stop what im doing to drive to the store to buy one.

 

You must have meant standar. There will still be thoes certain bolts that need standard, or an aftermarket part you are putting on will call for a standard size. What Zdirver said is correct..who wants to stop in the middle of the project to go hunt down a socket.

A 110 Peice mechanic set is what was used to replace the bottom end in my car. Granted other miscellaneous tools were needed but that set covered 90% of it.

 

vice grips, an impact wrench is a life saver too.

 

If you are starting with nothing and need a good starter kit go with a nice little 150 piece / $150 tool kit and a screwdriver and wrench set.

Everything below can be yours for about $200.

Over time you can just add to this set with things like a box and specialty tools.

 

Oh yeah, I almost forgot one of the best clamps and rounded nut and stud removal tools there is.

 

Definitely the extension magnet, sucks to drop bolts and can't reach them.
The people here covered the most important ones.....

My collection grows each month.
Newest edition is the flexible screwdriver/socket thingy.....

 

To add to the good advice given here already, pick up a good set of feeler gauges and a dial caliper. You always need to check clearances and gaps and it helps to have that stuff to do it.

 

People have pretty much named the major things you'll need. To add though, I can't stress enough how important it is to buy good tools the first time. Snap-on, Craftsman, Matco, etc. are all top-notch tool suppliers. You might be able to get by buying some generic screw drivers or a hammer but when it comes to sockets, torque wrenches, etc., don't be a tight wad.

I'd also suggest picking up a tub of Gojo, some shop towels, some kitty litter (for soaking up oil), and if you can swing it, a crawler.

 

No I ment METRIC.. its a Japanese import.. they use the METRIC system NOT STANDARD ,I did mechanic work for 7-8 yrs in shops.. and I cant say I seen 1 Asian car run standard,and if you order ann aftermarket part and the bolt or nut is standard then somethings noit right...

Shit they even use metric size on the thread,

Maybe when you use your standard on your import.. maybe its cause you dont have the right tools.. so use what closly fits

 

Hey thanks for all the replies. I am sorry for being so broad on my topic but I am just getting into working on a car myself and I have had no one to teach me or tell me anything. Once again thanks for all the help.