A woman driver is not a taboo anymore. Even in Arabic countries, women start acquiring driving licenses. Of course, driving is one thing and knowing how to take care of your car is something else.
As a woman, you may not have given much thought to car maintenance and repair. But knowing how to use essential car tools can come in handy in a variety of situations. From changing a flat tire to jump-starting a dead battery, being knowledgeable about car tools can give you the confidence to handle whatever comes your way.
If you consider yourself an independent woman that can handle any situation in her life, you should know also how to use these 10 essential car tools.
1. Lug wrenches – the most useful tool for changing a flat tire
Getting a flat tire is one of the most unpleasant situations that can happen on the road. Using lug wrenches you can the lug nuts and remove the flat tire.
There are more wrenches types that are very useful to remove bolts or nuts in other car parts. These tools are very flexible and easy to work with.
2. A jumper cables – use when your car runs out of battery
Jumper cables are an essential tool for cars that run start-stop engines and require pumping their own fuel into the engine. All you need is another car with a working battery that can use to take power from and jumper-start your vehicle. While it may seem like common sense that all vehicles have jumper cables, be sure that you have one before you take a long ride.
3. Battery booster – you never know when you will need it
It’s good to have a battery booster in your car because you never know when you need to boost your car battery. Battery Booster is used for similar occasions like jumper cables. This is another way to jump-start your vehicle if it ran out of battery in the middle of nowhere.
4. Car battery tester – use it to avoid surprises
Before taking a long ride be sure the car battery is full. You can check it by using the car battery taster. A fully charged battery should be at least 12.6 volts. If it’s lower than that the battery starts losing the ability to hold a charge. If this is the case, charge the battery before you start your trip.
5. Oil dripping pan – helps to change the car oil
Changing a car oil is easier than you think. An oil-dripping pan is used to avoid spilling the oil while you are changing it. Usually, this is a task of your automobile mechanic, but to be honest, you might need to do it by yourself if there is an unexpected leakage. That’s why It’s a good idea always to have one in your car.
6. Plier sets – the size matters
There are many types of plier sets available on the market, each designed for a specific purpose. Before you use them in car maintenance make sure that you have the right size pliers for the job. Using too small of pliers can damage the car’s paint while using too large of pliers can damage the car’s metal.
7. Flashlight – light in the tunnel
If there is one thing you will use the most when working on your car, it’s a flashlight. This handy tool is essential when it’s time to check if everything is right with your car. If a part or mechanism in your car needs some attention, you may not be able to see very well and could have a hard time finding the right parts.
8. Finger ratchet – easily remove bolts and screws
Finger ratchets are a great tool to have on hand, as they can make the removal and installation of bolts and screws much easier. The tool is also used in changing a flat tire. Using the finger ratchet you can easily lose all of the nuts and then you can remove the tire and put on the spare.
9. Utility knifes – use them carefully
Utility knives are an essential tool for anyone who spends a lot of time in their car. From opening boxes to cutting seat belts, utility knives can make your life a lot easier. And with so many different types of utility knives on the market, it’s easy to find one that’s perfect for your needs.
10. First aid kits – keep them updated
Many people underestimate the meaning of first aid kits, but you never know when you need something from there. The kit has to have everything you need to treat minor cuts, insect bites, and burns. You should always keep it updated and add something essential like ice packs, Neosporin or vaseline, tape or gauze, pain relievers, and thermometers when you run off them.
My name is Rebecca McCarthy and I am an American girl with British heritage residing in the beautiful city of Nashville, Tennessee. I have always had a keen interest in cars, particularly brand new ones that showcase the latest technology and design features. I am also passionate about travelling and experiencing new cultures, as well as enjoying hot summer days with friends and family.