Planning to Open an Auto Repair Shop? Don’t Miss This Checklist!

  • Margherita
  • Novembre 11, 2025
Auto Repair Shop

Essential auto repair tools guide for new shop owners to boost efficiency, avoid mistakes, and ensure smooth, profitable operations.

Basic manual tools (Auto Repair Shop required)

These tools are indispensable for any technician; they are essential and of good quality.

Tool Name

Recommended Configuration

Usage Description

Socket Wrench Set

Metric + Imperial sets

For loosening and tightening various bolts; most commonly used.

Ratchet Wrench

3/8″ and 1/2″ drive sizes

Improves efficiency when removing or installing fasteners.

Combination Wrench Set (Open-End / Box-End)

Standard size set

Ideal for working in narrow spaces such as engine bays.

Screwdriver Set

Phillips / Flathead / Extended Length

For removing interior panels and electronic components.

Pliers Set

Needle-nose / Cutting / Adjustable

For gripping, cutting, and removing clips or small parts.

Rubber Mallet / Hammer

Basic models

Used to adjust parts and assist with tapping or disassembly.

Recommended principles:

• These types of tools are used daily, so don’t buy the really cheap ones. If they break down after a few days, it will severely impact efficiency.

Pneumatic/electric tools (improving Auto Repair Shop work efficiency)

As vehicle structures become more complex, electric and pneumatic tools are critical to efficiency.

Tool Name

Recommended Configuration

Utilizzo

Pneumatic Torque Wrench / Electric Impact Wrench

Prefer brushless motor

Fast removal of nuts; essential for tire service workstations.

Air Compressor

50L+ tank, 1500W+ power

Provides air power; the “heart” of the workshop.

Electric Ratchet Wrench

Common 3/8″ drive

Quickly removes bolts in narrow or hard-to-reach spaces.

Heat Gun

Adjustable temperature

Used for interior disassembly and heat-shrink tubing in electrical repairs.

Note: The air compressor must be larger. Choose a power rating of 7.5kW or higher, and an air tank capacity of over 100L.

Because if your factory loses gas, all work will stop.

Lifting and testing equipment (the core configuration of the repair shop)

Equipment Name

Function Description

Recommendation for Beginners

Vehicle Lift

Lifts the vehicle for undercarriage and maintenance work

Two-post lift is the most common; choose a model with ≥4T load capacity

OBD2 Diagnostic Scanner

Reads fault codes and performs system diagnostics

Ensure it supports European, American, and Japanese vehicle brands

Tester per batterie

Checks battery health status

Especially useful for winter maintenance

Brake Fluid Exchange Machine (e.g., AST612)

Replaces brake fluid without introducing air

Automatic pressurization provides higher efficiency

The diagnostic instrument is a device that can instantly enhance your professionalism:

When the user sees that you can read fault codes → he knows your professionalism.

Engine and fuel system maintenance equipment (key to increasing business revenue)

Equipment

Function

Why It’s Important

Fuel Injector Cleaning & Testing Machine (e.g., CT500 / CT600 Series)

Cleans fuel injectors and tests spray atomization

Many vehicles with poor acceleration or high fuel consumption have injector issues; about 80% of these problems are related to injector blockage.

Intake System / Throttle Body Cleaning Equipment

Removes carbon deposits

A common maintenance service with stable profit margins.

DPF Cleaning Machine for Diesel Vehicles

Cleans and restores the Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF)

Essential high-value service for diesel and commercial vehicle workshops.

This type of equipment isn’t essential for starting a business, but it will determine whether you can:

  1. Secure higher-priced repair projects
  2. Develop long-term maintenance clients
  3. Increase profits

Workshop auxiliary equipment (to improve work efficiency and experience)

Equipment / Tool

Descrizione

Workbench + Tool Cart

Organize tools efficiently, improve workflow

LED Work Light

Illuminate chassis and engine bay

Oil Drain Pan / Oil Extractor

Make routine maintenance cleaner and easier

Industrial Vacuum Cleaner

Interior cleaning and maintaining a tidy workspace

Summary: The difference between “able to repair” and “easy to repair” lies in the tools.

Running an auto repair shop isn’t about who knows cars better—it’s about who is more professional, efficient, and consistent in service.

And all of this depends on whether your tool setup is well-organized. Therefore, if you’re just starting your shop, it’s recommended to first:

  1. Have a complete set of basic hand tools
  2. Ensure air compressors and torque tools are in place
  3. Prioritize investing in lifts and diagnostic equipment
  4. Gradually add value-added equipment like fuel injector cleaners and DPF machines later

This approach makes starting your shop more stable and cost-effective.

Related blog： 4 Possible Reasons for the Car Battery Indicator Light Turning On

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