Having a hard time finding a decent gift for the car guy or girl in your life? You're not alone. It can be tough to nail down something decent, and affordable, to give the DIY wrench turner. I've done a little homework to come up with some great gift ideas, all for under $100, that won't be the run-of-the-mill stuff they're expecting.
1. LED Work Light
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It's one of my favorite gifts, I am constantly suggesting it when somebody asks what they can get their home mechanic. Too many car lovers are working without adequate lighting. Old school lights can go dead if dropped or knocked. An LED work light will stay bright no matter what you throw at it, and they're much safer than most older work lights. Even if your car person already has a work light, a new LED light will be an appreciated addition to their tool box.
2. Torque Wrench
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Too many home mechanics are working on their cars and trucks blind. They may be able to see, but what they don't know is that they are overtightening their nuts and bolts creating dangerous situations. An overtightened nut can become fatigued and fail, which can cause a breakdown or a serious accident. A good dial-type torque wrench can turn a problematic repair into a proper one. No mechanic should be working without a torque wrench. It's a great gift that will be appreciated.
3. Cable Operated Hose Clamp Pliers
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This gift is more for the seasoned car guy who seems to have everything in his tool box already. Chances are he doesn't have this. It's a special pair of pliers used for installing and removing spring-type hose clamps. It's cable operated so you can really get into some tight spaces and still have the strength to compress one of those big steel clamps. If you've ever seen somebody trying over and over to stuff their Channel-Locks between the radiator and frame you understand why this tool could make a great gift.
4. Flare Wrench Set
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Flare wrenches are must-have tools if you're working with brake or fuel lines. A standard open end wrench can easily strip a hydraulic or fuel fitting. Unfortunately many home mechanics find this out the hard way. A good set of flare wrenches can save some serious time, money and frustration by doing it right the first time. Save a loved one some damage by giving this very useful car gift.
5. Stubby Ratchet
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Tight spaces are a mechanic's worst enemy. But with the right tools in your box you won't be slowed down by a close fit. If your gearhead loved one doesn't have one of these stubby ratchet wrenches in his or her arsenal, you'll be saving time and knuckle skin by giving this great gift.
