USEFUL/REQUIRED TOOLS:
I assume you have a basic tool kit with sockets, screwdrivers, and whatnot.
With that in mind, this is a list of more specialized tools that fall in to one of
two categories: 1) Tools that I highly suggest you have because they make the
job much easier/safer/efficient, and 2) Tools that might not be part of a
"standard" tool kit that you will realize halfway through a job that you need.
Situation #2 is the WORST, as we have likely all experienced not having a
random weird sized socket or a very unique tool once our car is half taken
apart.
"Required" Tools:
-
LP 5.2L Oil Filter Removal: Tekton 1-1/4" Socket
-
Fluid Draining (All Models): XZN/Triple Square Metric Bit Set
-
Spark Plug Socket (All Models) 5/8" Magnetic Swivel Socket
-
Security Fastener Removal Neiko Security Bit Set
"Useful" Tools:
-
Ignition Coil Removal: VW Tool #T40039
-
Brake Caliper Spreader: Lang Brake Caliper Tool
-
Brake Bleeding: MityVac Brake Bleeder
-
Pre-Oil Change Cleaner: Seafoam SF-16
-
Injector/Fuel System Cleaner: Seafoam SF-16
-
Tire Pressure Gauge: TEKTON Digital Tire Gauge
-
Wheel Stud Pilot Pins: VW/Audi Stud Pilot Pin
-
Tire Inflator: Kensun D1002 Inflator
NOTE: First off, I should mention that even though one of the lists is titled
"Useful" and not "Required," I
highly suggest you grab those too. They are
almost required... Just not required to complete your task.
For example, you don't NEED a caliper spreader tool like I noted, however,
using a screwdriver or another style of tool might damage your caliper or
rotor. You don't NEED wheel stud pilot pins, but trying to put your wheels
back on the hub without them means you are likely going to be whacking the
wheel into the caliper and rotor, causing damage to all three. You don't NEED
a brake bleeding kit, but using the kit allows you to evacuate air much more
effectively, by yourself, instead of having to rely on a person pressing the
brake pedal up and down.
Second off, I have listed specific tools for a reason— they are what I use...
and I use them because they are, often times, the "best" without needing to
spend a load of money on a brand like SnapOn. For example, the spark plug
socket is a special design that not only has a swivel to it, but is magnetic (as
in it doesn't use a rubber gasket to "hold" the plug) and also have a unique
socket design that never rounds out the edges of the plug. If you've ever had
a rubber spark plug socket gasket "detach" from the socket while your plug is
in the block, you know how low-key terrifying it is. Similarly, I use that style
caliper spreader because it is designed to apply equal pressure on both pads,
across all pistons at once. These are all "best practices" for the car.
We are already saving a LOAD of money doing this stuff ourselves. It's
smartest to invest in the correct tool for the job and not have to worry.
