12 Essential Tools Every Car Owner Should Have

Every driver's nightmare is breaking down on the side of a dark highway. It's not only inconvenient but can also be dangerous.

But that's why you subscribe to roadside assistance, right? Well, if you're ever stuck in a dead zone with no cell service, like I've been (several times), the tools in your trunk can become your best friends. How do you know which tools to carry?

We've carefully selected tools that can help you in real-world scenarios instead of just specialized equipment for gear heads. This collection results from mechanic confessions and hard-earned wisdom from years of roadside mishaps.

We also considered the most common roadside emergencies that drivers face. So whether you're a seasoned driver or someone who barely knows how to check their oil, here are 12 tools that belong in every car's trunk.

Spare Tire and Jack

Every car should have a reliable spare tire and jack. When you get a flat on the road, a good spare tire is your lifeline, allowing you to swap out a damaged tire quickly and safely. Newer cars often come with a compact spare tire — usually called a donut — for temporary use.

A good jack is the other side of the tire change coin. Without one, you can't lift your vehicle secretly. Most cars come with a scissor jack, but investing in a hydraulic floor jack can make tire changes much easier and safer.

Tire Pressure Gauge

Proper tire pressure is important for your safety and can improve fuel efficiency and your tire's lifespan. With a quality tire pressure gauge, you can maintain the correct air pressure recommended by your vehicle's manufacturer.

Digital gauges are more precise than analog versions. They are also easier to read.

Remember to check your tire pressure monthly and before long trips, as everyday driving and temperature changes can cause pressure fluctuations.

Jumper Cables

Everyone experiences dead batteries at one point, and a good set of jumper cables can be a real lifesaver. Invest in heavy-duty cables at least 10 feet long with sturdy, well-insulated clamps.

Knowing the proper connection sequence is critical. Always connect positive to positive and negative to ground correctly to avoid electrical damage or sparks. Consider upgrading to heavy-gauge cables if you live in cold regions or own an older vehicle.

Flashlight with Extra Batteries

Nobody goes out of their way for it, but sometimes, car trouble strikes at night, and that's where a reliable flashlight comes in. LED flashlights are ideal; they're bright, energy-efficient, and have long-lasting batteries.

A flashlight with multiple light modes and a durable, water-resistant design is best. Certain drivers prefer headlamps for hands-free illumination during roadside repairs. Whatever your preference is, always keep extra batteries in your emergency kit or glove compartment.

Basic Toolkit

A solid basic toolkit is your first port of call for minor car repairs and adjustments. Include a set of flathead and Philips head screwdrivers in various sizes to handle different fasteners. You also need pliers, particularly needle-nose and adjustable pliers. They help you grip, twist, and remove stubborn components.

An adjustable wrench in your toolkit helps you tighten or loosen nuts and bolts of different sizes. Compact, magnetic-tipped tools can save you from dropping screws in hard-to-reach places.

Socket and Ratchet Set

A quality socket and ratchet set can be helpful when performing more precise automotive repairs. Different-sized sockets allow you to work on various nuts and bolts, while the ratchet mechanism lets you tighten or loosen fasteners quickly without removing the tool from the bolt.

Since cars use both measurement systems, a set with metric and standard sizes makes a lot of sense.

Deep well sockets are handy for reaching recessed bolts, and a universal joint can help you access tight or awkward spaces in your engine compartment.

Tire Inflator/Air Compressor

We've talked about a tire pressure gauge, but what happens when you have low tire pressure? A portable air compressor or tire inflator is a great tool to maintain proper tire pressure.

Compact models that plug into your car's 12V outlet are convenient for roadside emergencies and regular maintenance. You can also get advanced models with digital pressure displays and automatic shut-off features when the desired pressure is reached.

First Aid Kit

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says 44% of people don't have a first aid kit, while 48% don't have any supplies for an emergency. A well-stocked first aid kit is handy during unexpected roadside emergencies or minor accidents.

Your car's first aid kit should include bandages, pain relievers, medical tape, gauze, and scissors. Customize your kit based on your family's needs and typical driving conditions. Items like a CPR face shield, blanket, and disposable gloves also deserve a place in your kit.

Check and refresh the contents annually, replacing used supplies and expired medications.

Reflective Warning Triangles/Roadside Flares

You must be visible when your vehicle breaks down to avoid injuries to yourself and other road users. Reflective warning triangles and roadside flares can help prevent accidents by alerting other drivers to your presence.

Modern triangles are lightweight, collapsible, and highly reflective, making them visible hundreds of feet away. They're especially crucial on highways, tight areas, and dark roads. Position these markers strategically — typically 50 feet behind your vehicle — to give approaching drivers ample time to slow down and change lanes.

Fire Extinguisher

A fire extinguisher in your car can prevent disasters before they get out of hand. Don't just get any extinguisher; invest in an ABC-rated extinguisher designed for automotive use. These can handle fires involving ordinary materials, flammable liquids, and electrical equipment.

The extinguisher should be in an easily accessible location, preferably near the driver's seat. Remember, a fire extinguisher is for small, containable fires — if the fire is large or spreading quickly, it's time to evacuate and call professionals who can handle it.

Emergency Blanket

An emergency blanket might seem simple, but it can be a lifesaver in different scenarios. Also known as space blankets, these lightweight, compact mylar covers provide crucial warmth if you're stranded in cold weather.

They reflect body heat and are windproof, effectively preventing hypothermia. Some emergency blankets are waterproof and can be used for shelter or ground cover. They're compact and lightweight, occupying minimal space in your emergency kit.

OBD-II Scanner

An OnBoard Diagnostics (OBD-II) scanner is like a car health checkup tool. It plugs into your vehicle's diagnostic port and reads error codes that trigger the check engine light.

Newer models can pair with smartphone apps, offering better information about your car's problems and performance. They help you understand whether a situation requires immediate professional attention or is a minor concern. An OBD-II scanner is a must-have for those who want to stay ahead of maintenance.