Can You Ace This Auto Shop Tools Quiz?

By: Chelsea
Estimated Completion Time
3 min
Can You Ace This Auto Shop Tools Quiz?
Image: Shutterstock

About This Quiz

Do you remember the way it felt when you got your first car? The moment you realized that the world was your oyster and a million possibilities were only a tank of gas away? From that moment on a multitude of memories were made — from late-night food runs to solitary car-dancing parties with all your guilty pleasure songs blasting out the windows, life was never the same again. With so many memories and so much freedom attached to our cars, it’s no wonder that we treat them as we would our children, and these children deserve the right kind of care. However, with the average car containing over 30,000 unique parts, it can be difficult to know which tools will keep your baby running smooth. Whether it was a simple tire change or a more extensive fix, almost everyone has touched some of these auto tools at least once in their life.

You may think you’re an expert in auto shop, but when push comes to shove, how many auto shop tools do you really think you could name?

From wrenches to ratchets and air compressors, this quiz has got them all. Did you know there are over two dozen different kinds of wrenches out there? Don’t fret though — we won’t quiz you on all of them. You might stumble over a few sockets, and if you’re not familiar with your everyday hammer we suggest you make a quick google search.

The more you know about the tools you use to fix cars, the easier it is to repair them, soup-up that engine so it’s roaring like a lion, or simply get an older car back into working condition. Whether you own and run your own car shop, make minor repairs and upgrades on your pride and joy, or simply take an interest in cars in general, understanding the individual parts of a car and the tools it takes to fix them is essential. Most people don’t know all these auto shop tools, the real question is — do you? Sure, you don’t need to be a gearhead to pass this quiz, but it might require you to have changed a tire at least once in your life.

With over one billion cars in use around the world today they give us the independence to do whatever we wish, go wherever our heart desires. But that gorgeous hunk of metal might just let you down if you’re unable to help them when the going gets tough. So, what are you afraid of? Rub some motor oil on those hands and get to work! These auto parts aren’t going to name themselves! Most people can’t get all of these questions right, but we dare you to prove us wrong!

Ratchet
n/a
Which tool is shown here?
Ratchet
Jacks
Safety glasses
Pry bar
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

A ratchet is a tool used by every mechanic out there. Use a socket in conjunction with the ratchet head and take off any nut or bolt. A ratcheting head clicks and locks position to allow the user to keep turning bolts without taking the tool off the car, making the job more efficient.

Air Compressor
n/a
Which tool is shown here?
Oil pump can
Oil drip pan
Air compressor
Headlamp
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

An air compressor can be used for many shop tasks. Whether you are using the compressor to power your pneumatic tools or simply inflating your car tire pressure, the compressor is vital to shop life. A compressor essentially uses electricity to take air and pressurize it in a metal cylinder, harnessing its energy.

Sockets
Shutterstock
Which tool is shown here?
Wrench set
Sockets
Flashlight
Jumper cables
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

Use a set of sockets to remove nuts and bolts that hold the car together. Accompanied with the proper ratchet, the sockets are used every day by the mechanic. Sockets come in a variety of sizes.

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Jump Starter
Shutterstock
Which tool is shown here?
Jump starter
Impact wrench
Vacuum bleeder
Pliers
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

Never leave home without your jump starter! With a battery pack to power the unit, a jump starter can keep you from getting stranded. Be careful not to strain your back when picking it up - these babies can be a little heavy!

Impact Wrench
Shutterstock
Which tool is shown here?
Impact wrench
Tire pressure gauge
Crowbar
Jacks
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

Need to remove a lug nut on your wheel? Have a rusty bolt that won’t break free? The impact wrench is the tool for you! Using this tool makes breaking loose nuts and bolts a breeze.

Hammer
n/a
Which tool is shown here?
Hammer
Laser thermometer
Under hood light bar
Jack stand
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

The hammer is a time-tested tool, allowing the user to whack things to break them loose or put them back into place. With many different varieties (ball-peen, dead-blow), the hammer is great when brute force is the best option.

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Pliers
Shutterstock
Which tool is shown here?
Car jack
Pliers
Flexible funnel
Wrench set
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

Used to grab items with a force greater than your hands can apply, pliers are made in many varieties. Whether you are using needle-nose, vise-grip, or channel-lock pliers, these handheld tools make sure you have the right grip.

Machinist Vise
n/a
Which tool is shown here?
Machinist vise
Hacksaw
Sockets
Flashlight
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

A machinist vise is a great tool for firmly gripping material or parts when modifying or fixing things. The metal jaws are expandable to fit different sizes of material.

Laser Thermometer
n/a
Which tool is shown here?
Finger ratchet
Spark plug pliers
Torque wrench
Laser thermometer
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

Not sure what that new burning smell is when you drive? A laser thermometer can help identify the troubled area by measuring the temperature of a given engine component. Every auto shop has one to help in diagnosing the internal problems a car may have.

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Torx Wrench Set
Shutterstock
Which tool is shown here?
Pliers
Hammer
Torx wrench set
Oil drip pan
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

Torx is a newer edition to the head of a bolt or screw. Featuring a star shaped head, the Torx wrench set is handy to have around. Some vehicles, like Saab, have many Torx head bolts that require a Torx wrench to work on them.

Cordless Drill
Shutterstock
Which tool is shown here?
Multimeter
Machinist vise
Cordless drill
Torx wrench set
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

A cordless drill is a great way to make holes in material. Usually powered by a lithium ion battery, the drill can fit into tight places and improves efficiency over the traditional hand drill or screwdriver.

Rethreading Set
YouTube
Which tool is shown here?
Rethreading set
Pliers
Headlamp
Auto ramp
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

Ever strip out an old rusty bolt and wonder what to do next? The rethreading set is the tool for you! Composed of hardened steel, the rethreading set is able to make new threads from the existing, damaged material. A must-have tool for the serious mechanic.

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Multimeter
Shutterstock
Which tool is shown here?
Shop gloves
Safety glasses
Multimeter
Tape measure
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

A multimeter measures AC/DC voltage, AC/DC current, resistance, as well as capacitance. This is a must have tool for any auto mechanic trying to diagnose an alternator or battery issue.

Jack Stand
Shutterstock
Which tool is shown here?
Jack stand
Auto ramp
Wrench
Torque wrench
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

To get under a car or truck safely, a jack stand is a great tool. Cinder blocks are not going to provide you with the structural support of a jack stand. Stands are made of steel and can adjust to different heights to accommodate a multitude of vehicles.

Magnet Pickup Tool
Shutterstock
Which tool is shown here?
Safety glasses
Crescent wrench
Magnetic pickup tool
Under hood light bar
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

Ever drop a bolt that was just out of reach? Then the magnetic pickup tool is for you. With an extension bar, the tool can help pick up small magnetic objects in tight spaces. The magnetic head is great for grabbing nuts and bolts that your fingers can’t reach.

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Heat Gun
Shutterstock
Which tool is shown here?
Flexible funnel
Heat gun
Flexible magnet pickup
Tire pressure gauge
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

A heat gun is great for fitting metal tubing together or stripping off undesired decals. Powered by electricity, the heat gun can be used by auto mechanics anywhere.

Jack
Shutterstock
Which tool is shown here?
Hacksaw
Sockets
Tape measure
Jack
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

Every auto mechanic has a jack. Generally hydraulic powered, the jack is used for getting a car off of the ground so someone can service it from underneath. Jacks come in many different load capacities, so make sure you have the right one for your application!

Wrench Set
Shutterstock
Which tool is shown here?
Flashlight
Safety glasses
Wrench Set
Jumper cable
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

Good for working on any nuts and bolts of an automobile, the wrench set is a must-have for any mechanic. Wrenches typically come in both metric and standard sizes, to accommodate a multitude of vehicles.

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Wire Terminal Set
Shutterstock
Which tool is shown here?
Screw pitch gauge
Tire pressure gauge
Wire terminal set
Auto ramp
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

A wire terminal set can help the auto mechanic take a braided, copper wire and make the connection point at the end. The terminal can be shaped in a ring, spade, locking spade, or a tube bullet.

Hose Clamp Pliers
Shutterstock
Which tool is shown here?
Dead blow hammer
Chisel
Hose clamp pliers
Pry bar
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

Hose clamp pliers are great for fixing cooling, heating, fuel or screen-washer lines. The pliers have a special tip that allows the user to grip, cut or mend different fluid lines on a car or truck.

Tire Pressure Gauge
n/a
Which tool is shown here?
Tire pressure gauge
Allen wrench
Inspection mirror
Air blow gun
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

Did you know one of the most common reasons for a flat tire is improper tire pressure? A tire pressure gauge is a good remedy for this situation. By taking an accurate measurement, the gauge can help you get your tires to the proper PSI.

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Tire Inflator
Shutterstock
Which tool is shown here?
Allen wrench
Wrench set
Extendable magnet
Tire Inflator
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

Proper tire pressure is a must for road safety. A tire inflator is the best tool to make sure you have solid PSI for the road ahead. If you see a saggy tire, make sure to grab a tire inflator!

Pry Bars
Shutterstock
Which tool is shown here?
Tire pressure gauge
Oil
Flexible funnel
Pry bar
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

The pry bar comes in many different sizes. Large pry bars are great for trucks or semis, while small pry bars can be useful in smaller cars or hard-to-reach places. Use this tool to pry things apart or for rough body work.

Metal Cutting Circular Saw
Shutterstock
Which tool is shown here?
Pry bar
Hex wrench
Chisel
Metal cutting circular saw
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

This saw is hand-held for convenience and adaptability, but be careful when using it! The cost for one of these tools is typically $100-$300.

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Ramps
Shutterstock
Which tool is shown here?
Ramp
Combination wrench
Hex wrench
Tire pump
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

If you are looking to do a quick oil change, ramps are a great tool to get under the vehicle in a hassle-free manner. Just drive up - carefully - and drain that oil!

Angle Grinder
Shutterstock
Which tool is shown here?
Hammer
Pocket screwdriver
Inspection mirror
Angle grinder
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

Disc grinder and side grinder are other names for the angle grinder. What does this tool do? It grinds, polishes and can even cut materials!

Leather Apron
Shutterstock
Which tool is shown here?
Pry bar
Needle nose pliers
Leather apron
Wire stripper
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

Tired of getting covered in grease and grime? A leather apron is a great way to protect those clothes from all the mess of an auto shop. Some even come with pockets to store tools while you are on the job.

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Scissors
Shutterstock
Which tool is shown here?
Safety glasses
Scissors
Service manual
Inspection mirror
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

Scissors come in handy in many places and situations, so it makes sense they'd be used in an auto shop. For auto work, make sure to have a pair of heavy duty, strong scissors.

Electrical Tape
Shutterstock
Which tool is shown here?
Electrical Tape
Tubing wrench
Digital multi-meter
Remote starter switch
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

What's different about electrical tape, compared with other types of tape? It insulates and withstands abrasions with its tough vinyl outer layer.

Oil Filter Wrench
n/a
Which tool is shown here?
Oil filter wrench
Needle nose pliers
Pocket knife
Putty knife
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

Ever have trouble removing that old oil filter? An oil filter wrench is a great way to break it loose, to make way for the new one. This tool has a long handle and a metal ring that tightens when pressure is applied.

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Breaker Bar
YouTube
Which tool is shown here?
Breaker bar
Pry bar
Digital multi-meter
Flexible funnel
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

Why is it called a breaker bar? It's used to break up tight fasteners, and it has a long bar for a handle.

Hex Wrench Set
Shutterstock
Which tool is shown here?
Flexible pick up
Hex wrench set
Feeler gauge
Pry bar
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

Did you know that Allen wrench and hex key are just other names for a hex wrench? Sets include keys, or wrenches, in sizes usually ranging from 1.5 to 10 millimeters.

Safety Glasses
n/a
Which tool is shown here?
Hex wrench
Torque wrench
Safety glasses
Tubing wrench
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

Safety glasses are highly recommended in the auto repair industry; they protect your eyes from dust, fluids and other debris. Who doesn't want to protect their eyesight?

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Headlamp
n/a
Which tool is shown here?
Headlamp
Spark tester
Wire splitter
Hacksaw
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

A headlamp is a great tool, sometimes a necessity, in more situations than fixing cars. Many come with an adjustable strap and different light settings - even infrared light!

Screwdrivers
Shutterstock
Which tool is shown here?
Oil drip pan
Wrench set
Screwdriver
Auto ramp
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

Every car mechanic uses screwdrivers. Whether it is a flathead or a Phillips, the proper screwdriver helps to get the job done right. Made in multiple sizes and lengths, screwdrivers are a must-have in the shop.

Spark Plugs
n/a
Which auto part is shown here?
Tire pressure gauge
High torque pneumatic wrench
Safety glasses
Spark plug
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

Every firing piston needs a spark plug to make it fire. Changing your spark plugs on a routine basis will ensure your car or truck runs top-notch for years to come.

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Wire Terminal Crimper
n/a
Which tool is shown here?
Car jack
Jack stand
Pliers
Wire terminal crimper
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

Need to do some electrical work? A wire terminal crimper is the tool you need to make clean, proper electrical connections. Made in a multitude of gauges, the terminal crimper allows the user to crimp an electrical line and make solid electrical connections.

Underhood Light Bar
Shutterstock
Which tool is shown here?
Tire ramp
Under hood light bar
Jumper cables
Flexible funnel
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

Ever feel like it is a little dark when looking inside the engine bay? With an under hood light bar, that darkness can’t hold you back anymore! Made with high power LED lights, the light bar makes those tough to reach places a little easier by showing you the proper path.

Torque Wrench
n/a
Which tool is shown here?
Socket set
Torque wrench
Wire stripper
Flexible pick up tool
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

What's a torque wrench for? Pull this wrench out when you want to prevent over-tightening, which will be often if you stand with the stats. Most handymen and women over-tighten while doing home projects and auto work.

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Funnel
n/a
Which tool is shown here?
Chisel
Service manual
Funnel
Spark tester
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

Not all funnels are created equal! They come in different types, including the following: flexible, multi-purpose, plastic and quick fill.

Mechanical Gloves
Shutterstock
Which tool is shown here?
Oil can
Flexible funnel
Mechanic's gloves
Tire ramps
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

These heavy-duty gloves are a good idea to wear during auto repairs. What's so special about them? They are made of nylon, which keeps the hands dry and cool, and have a protecting layer of latex on the outside.

Assorted Fuses
n/a
Which auto part is shown here?
Remote starter switch
Tire pressure gauge
Assorted fuses
Oil dripping pan
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

It's a good idea to keep a few extra of these in your car, since it's not uncommon for them to blow. Don't worry though, a blown fuse in a car will sometimes just cause a minor issue.

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Wrecking Bar
Shutterstock
Which tool is shown here?
Wrecking bar
Inspection mirror
Hammer
Retaining pliers
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

True to its name, this tool is a long bar that is used to wreck things. Perfect for home improvement projects, fixer-uppers and letting out stress!

Rolling Tool Chest
YouTube
Which tool is shown here?
Rolling tool chest
Allen wrench
Putty knife
Air blow gun
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

A nifty feature of this tool, the part that really saves your back, is the... set of wheels! The beauty of the rolling tool chest is that it stores what you need and can be by your side quickly and with ease when you need it.

Oil Dripping Pan
n/a
Which tool is shown here?
Leather apron
Hearing protectors
Pliers
Oil drip pan
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

Every mechanic has an oil drip pan. Coming in many different sizes, the oil drip pan catches the used oil to make sure the shop stays clean. With its convenient pour spout, the drip pan allows the user to dispose of the used fluids with ease.

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Welder
Shutterstock
Which tool is shown here?
Air blow gun
Chisel
Tubing cutter
Welder
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

If you're going to weld, remember to wear a safety mask and gloves. As exciting as this art looks, it takes much skill and can be dangerous.

Digital Caliper
Shutterstock
Which tool is shown here?
Compression gauge
Micrometer
Digital caliper
Torque wrench
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

Ever wonder what is the exact size bolt you need? A digital caliper can take the finest of measurements, so that finding the right parts is a lot easier. A digital caliper has a battery-powered screen that aids the user in determining the right measurement.

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