Here are the best mechanic tool sets.
Our top pick, the DEWALT 204-Piece Mechanic Tool Kit and Socket Set , includes laser etching numbers for easy identification, a directional lever that allows for one-handed use, and a heavy-duty molded case.
As the name suggests, mechanic tool sets include various tools needed for repairs on cars, motorcycles, and other standard engines, including lawnmowers and chainsaws. We researched dozens of mechanic tool sets, judging them on durability, usefulness, and overall value.
What to Look For
Best Overall: DEWALT DWMT72165 Mechanic Tool Kit and Socket Set
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What We Like
72-tooth ratchet for superior control
Extensive selection of sockets
What We Don't Like
Somewhat expensive
What do buyers say? 90% of 2,400+ Amazon reviewers rated this product 5 stars.
The DEWALT DWMT72165 Mechanic Tool Kit and Socket Set includes 204 pieces with a greater focus on sockets and ratchets than many other kits. This makes it a great choice for anyone looking to quickly establish a complete mechanic tool set, or for people who work on parts or projects with a large number of nuts and bolts of different sizes. The sockets in the tool set include virtually any common size you may need and are clearly marked so you can easily find what you need when you need it. The kit includes 1/4-inch, 3/8-inch, and 1/2-inch SAE and metric sockets and ratchets, extensions, universal joints, torx bits, hex bits, combination wrenches and hex keys, so whatever you need, chances are you'll find it here.
The standout part of this set is the primary ratchet that will work with any of the sockets included in the set. The ratchet has a 72-tooth gearing system that gives you precise control over the amount of torque you apply. The body of the ratchet is slim for difficult-to-reach places and is designed for one-hand operation with quick socket changes. The sockets have knurled rings around the edges to reduce the chance of annoying slips as you work.
Pieces in Set: 204 | Measurement System: Metric and SAE | Sockets Hard-Marked with Size: Yes | Includes Extension Bar: Yes
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Best Budget: Hi-Spec 67-Piece Auto Mechanics Tool Set
Amazon
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What We Like
Good to keep in car for emergency repairs
Includes all the basics
What We Don't Like
Does not include both SAE and metric
You won’t get professional quality, but if you just want a starter mechanic tool kit for occasional repairs on your car, motorcycle, lawnmower, or for general home maintenance, use, a low-cost tool set is a perfect way to get the basics at a price that won’t break your budget.
The Hi-Spec 67-Piece Auto Mechanic Tool Set focuses on all the commonly used tools needed for auto repair, including a ratchet handle, a large selection of sockets, screwdrivers, pliers, voltage tester, wrench, hex keys, and earthing lead. It’s perfect to keep in your car for emergencies while on the road or in the garage for when you are working on your car at your leisure.
If you have a large collection of tools already, this set is also a good option for a smaller, more mobile tool set. Instead of reaching for tools from all corners of your workspace, this one keeps everything in a sturdy case for you to keep at your side as you work. Choose from SAE or metric options.
Pieces in Set: 67 | Measurement System: SAE | Sockets Hard-Marked with Size: Yes | Includes Extension Bar: Yes
Best Mixed Tool: Crescent CTK170CMP2 170-Piece General Purpose Tool Set
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What We Like
72-tooth ratchet for superior control
Includes screwdrivers and pliers
What We Don't Like
Can be tough to remove tools from case
One tool set to do it all is the dream of many professionals and DIY enthusiasts alike. While it may just be a dream, the Crescent CTK170CMP2 certainly gets close by offering 170 assorted tools you can use on virtually any project, and in both common SAE and metric sizes. With ratchets, sockets, wrenches, pliers, screwdrivers, and more, this is the best choice if you only want one tool set to store.
One of the best features of this set is the storage case. The inside compartments make it easy to organize the tools so each one has a proper, easy-to-reach spot. When closed, the convenient handle also means you can carry this set with you wherever you need on projects that require moving around.
Pieces in Set: 170 | Measurement System: Metric and SAE | Sockets Hard-Marked with Size: Yes | Includes Extension Bar: Yes
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Best Starter Set: Stanley STMT73795 Mechanic Tool Set
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What We Like
Sturdy construction
Includes basics such as tape measure, screwdrivers, utility knife
What We Don't Like
Can be hard to remove tools from case
A good starter mechanic tool set should offer you plenty of variety and flexibility to tackle any number of projects. Since small parts come in both SAE and metric measurements, it doesn't hurt to have an assortment of both types of tools as well. The Stanley STMT73795 Mechanic Tool Set offers 210 separate metric and SAE tools and sockets/drivers that will be enough for most screws, nuts, and bolts you may encounter.
All the tools are forged from high-strength steel and are ergonomically designed for a comfortable grip. Many of the tools are also designed for quick use. The ratchets can easily switch different sockets and extensions, and reverse direction with a simple thumb flick. Everything is contained in a durable, easy-to-carry case.
Pieces in Set: 210 | Measurement System: Metric and SAE | Sockets Hard-Marked with Size: Yes | Includes Extension Bar: Yes
Best Small Set: Stanley STMT71653 Drive Socket Set
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What We Like
Sturdy construction
Includes all the basics for home automotive repairs
What We Don't Like
Can be tough to remove tools from the case
Size markings on sockets are very small
A small mechanic tool kit makes it easier to keep track of the most important or common tools you use regularly. For something small and manageable, the Stanley STMT71653 Drive Socket Set focuses on quality over quantity. With 145 pieces, the set offers some of the most common tools you will need for typical projects around the home and garage. Each tool is made from high-quality steel and finished using nickel or black chrome. It's an excellent kit if you only occasionally do simple repairs, or want a second kit you can carry with you in the trunk of your car.
The ratchets of the set include Stanley’s Max-Drive design, which increases the amount of torque you can deliver while tightening nuts and fasteners. The design also helps the tool last longer, since it minimizes the amount of contact between the ratchet and the socket while still delivering more torque than other common ratchets.
Pieces in Set: 145 | Measurement System: Metric and SAE | Sockets Hard-Marked with Size: Yes | Includes Extension Bar: Yes
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Best Multi-Purpose: GreatNeck GNSTK119 119-Piece Home/Mechanic Tool Set
Lowe's
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What We Like
Includes the basics for both automotive and household repairs
Reasonable price
What We Don't Like
Individual tools tend to fall out of position within the case
If you don’t need a professional assortment of tools designed merely for auto repair, a home mechanic set is a more affordable option. Home/mechanic sets are specially designed for common home and garage projects that require tools for working on engines and electrical systems, as well as general household repairs. The GreatNeck GNSTK119 119-Piece Tool Set includes 30 sockets (SAE and metric), a 3/8-inch drive ratchet, a spark plug socket, a 3-inch extension bar, 39 bits with holder, and 24 hex keys, in addition to more general-use tools including wrenches, pliers, a hammer, a torpedo level, a tape measure, and four screwdrivers.
A set like this is a great emergency tool kit to have on hand when unexpected problems come up, and the storage box is small enough to stash in your garage, a corner of the service porch, or even in a closet. The plastic storage case is sturdy and well organized, so you'll easily be able to find what you want when you need it.
Pieces in Set: 119 | Measurement System: Metric and SAE | Sockets Hard-Marked with Size: Yes | Includes Extension Bar: Yes
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Best Large Set: Craftsman 450-Piece Mechanic Tool Set
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What We Like
Extremely comprehensive
Three-drawer case
What We Don't Like
Expensive
Some duplication of sockets and other tools
When quantity is important, the more tools a set includes, the better, but that doesn't mean you should skimp on quality. Craftsman’s 450-piece tool set offers one of the most complete and extensive kits available on the market, and it's excellent quality to boot. This is the kind of tool set you should buy if you want to cover all your bases or be prepared for random, unexpected projects that can come up around your home or in your car.
While 191 sockets, 16 combination wrenches, 40 hex keys, and 187 bits might seem like overkill, it can be smart to have an extensive collection of tools in both SAE and metric sizes. There are plenty of other tools, as well, including ratchets, extension bars, handles, and adapters. And the entire kit packs neatly into an included four-tier organizer box with a handle for easy transport.
Usually, smaller tool kits will leave something out that inevitably becomes important right when you least expect it. Having a large collection of tools like this minimizes the chances of this happening while allowing you to tackle more specialized projects.
Pieces in Set: 450 | Measurement System: Metric and SAE | Sockets Hard-Marked with Size: Yes | Includes Extension Bar: Yes