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

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

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.

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

Tool Name	Recommended Configuration	Usage
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.

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
Battery Tester	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.

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:

Equipment / Tool	Description
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

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:

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

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