7 Expert-Tested Sets: Best Mechanic Tool Set 2017

When I started tackling serious automotive repairs years ago, the first challenge wasn’t the engine—it was finding a truly reliable mechanic tool set. A high-quality tool kit needs both comprehensive coverage and rugged durability. We’ve gone back and assessed the market’s enduring favorites from that crucial 2017 lineup. This comprehensive guide breaks down seven of the best mechanic tool set 2017 options still dominating garages today, focusing on real-world value, component quality, and how they handle tough jobs, ensuring you invest in a kit that lasts.

IMAGE	PRODUCT NAME	AMAZON LINK
	VEVOR Mechanics Tool Set and Socket Set, 1/4″ 3/8″ 1/2″…	View on Amazon
	YENFZIX Professional Car Tool Kit, 22 PCS	View on Amazon
	CRAFTSMAN 308 Piece Mechanics Tool Set, Socket and Wrench…	View on Amazon
	Prostormer Mechanic Tool Set, 240-Pieces Universal…	View on Amazon
	Amazon Basics Mechanic’s Socket Tool Set With Case, SAE…	View on Amazon
	DEWALT Mechanics Tool Set, 1/4″ & 3/8″ & 1/2″ Drive,…	View on Amazon
	DEWALT Mechanic Tool Set with Case, Socket Set Metric and…	View on Amazon

VEVOR Mechanics Tool Set and Socket Set, 1/4″ 3/8″ 1/2″ Drive Deep and Standard Sockets, 450 Pcs SAE and Metric Mechanic Tool Kit with Bits, Combination Wrench, Hex Wrenches, Accessories, Storage Case

If quantity and comprehensive coverage are your top priority, the VEVOR 450-piece set provides an arsenal of tools suitable for any large-scale project. This massive set is constructed from durable CR-V chrome-plated steel, meaning it resists rust and wear even under demanding shop conditions. It includes everything from standard sockets across all three common drive sizes (1/4”, 3/8”, 1/2”) to specialty bits and wrenches, offering stable and precise performance for complicated maintenance tasks. The sheer volume ensures you rarely have to stop a job because you lack the correct size.

Key features that stand out:
– Durable CR-V Build: Withstands long-term rust and wear.
– 450 Pcs Kit: Offers comprehensive coverage for almost any SAE or Metric job.
– High Torque Power: Capable of handling high torque ranges (95 to 3017 in-lb) for heavy-duty fastening.
– Lightweight PE-HD Storage Case: Keeps the massive inventory neatly organized for quick access.

Pros:
– Extremely comprehensive tool selection.
– Tools are built from high-strength CR-V steel.
– Covers all major drive sizes and both SAE and Metric systems.
– Excellent value proposition for the number of tools included.

Cons:
– The sheer size (450 pieces) can make the case quite heavy and bulky.

Best for: Professional mechanics or dedicated hobbyists who need a vast inventory of tools for complex automotive and machinery repairs.

Expert Opinion: This set is a powerhouse of components. While some specialized tools might not see daily use, having every common socket, wrench, and bit on hand makes complicated teardowns incredibly efficient.

YENFZIX Professional Car Tool Kit, 22 PCS

The YENFZIX 22 PCS set is not your typical socket kit; it’s a highly specialized professional kit designed specifically for automotive interior work, door panel removal, and dashboard maintenance. Made from high-quality stainless steel and durable ABS plastic, this kit focuses on safely prying, fastening, and accessing confined areas without scratching delicate paint or trim. It’s an essential add-on for anyone doing stereo installation, wiring, or minor cosmetic body repairs.

Key features that stand out:
– Specialized Design: Tools built for safely accessing vehicle interiors and removing trim.
– Sturdy and Durable Material: High-quality stainless steel and ABS plastic prevents bending or breakage during prying.
– Portable Carry Bag: Keeps the specialized tools organized and protected.

Pros:
– Excellent quality for delicate interior automotive work.
– Prevents damage to trim, paint, and upholstery.
– Very portable and easy to store in a vehicle.

Cons:
– It is highly specialized and does not include traditional mechanical sockets or wrenches.

Best for: Auto body technicians, car audio installers, or DIYers focused on interior customization and trim removal.

Expert Opinion: Every mechanic or serious DIYer needs a separate trim removal kit. Attempting to use screwdrivers or metal pry bars risks costly damage. This small kit fulfills that niche perfectly.

CRAFTSMAN 308 Piece Mechanics Tool Set, Socket and Wrench Set (CMMT45939)

CRAFTSMAN has long been a trusted name in garages, and their 308-piece set maintains that reputation for quality and innovation. This comprehensive set provides a full assortment of sockets, ratchets, wrenches, and specialty bits. The standout feature is the low profile ratchet, which boasts a head up to 25% thinner than previous models, making access in extremely tight engine bays much easier. The 72-tooth ratchet mechanism also ensures fast work with just a 5-degree arc swing, crucial when space is limited.

Key features that stand out:
– Low Profile Ratchet: Allows for improved access in confined and tight engine spaces.
– 72-Tooth Ratchet: Provides fine articulation and high speed when turning fasteners.
– Organization Trays: Tools are packed into specific plastic trays for excellent organization and storage.
– Corrosion Resistance: Features a Full Polish Chrome Finish for long-term durability.

Pros:
– Superior access due to the low-profile ratchet design.
– Excellent component organization simplifies tool location.
– High piece count covers most automotive and household needs.
– Renowned CRAFTSMAN quality and reliability.

Cons:
– While durable, the individual organization trays can be slightly cumbersome when removing tools frequently.

Best for: Experienced mechanics and demanding DIYers who prioritize premium ratchet design and quick access in difficult areas.

Expert Opinion: The inclusion of genuinely low-profile ratchets sets this CRAFTSMAN kit apart. For jobs under the dash or deep in a transmission tunnel, that thinner head design is invaluable.

Prostormer Mechanic Tool Set, 240-Pieces Universal Household Auto Repair Tool Kit with Heavy Duty Aluminium Tool Box

The Prostormer 240-piece kit is built for the user who needs quality tools combined with superior portability and storage. Unlike many kits that use standard plastic cases, this set includes a heavy-duty Aluminium tool box which offers better protection and durability against dents and drops. The tools themselves—including sockets, combination wrenches, and pliers—are made of high-quality steel with a chrome vanadium polish, ensuring maximum torque and corrosion resistance across both SAE and metric sizes.

Key features that stand out:
– Heavy Duty Aluminium Tool Box: Provides superior durability and organized storage compared to standard plastic cases.
– High Quality CR-V Steel: Ensures tools resist corrosion and offer high torque capacity.
– Complete Varieties: Includes a wide range of sockets (1/4″, 3/8″ & 1/2″ drives), adjustable wrenches, and specialty bits.

Pros:
– Exceptional storage solution with the durable aluminum case.
– Comprehensive selection suitable for mechanical and household repairs.
– High-quality finish on all chrome vanadium tools.
– Makes a great gift due to the premium packaging.

Cons:
– The aluminum box, while sturdy, can be heavier than basic plastic counterparts.

Best for: Homeowners and hobbyists who need a robust, portable kit for use in the garage, workshop, and vehicle, prioritizing case durability.

Expert Opinion: The Prostormer set delivers impressive tool quality wrapped in a superior carrying case. If your tool kit travels frequently or needs extra protection in a demanding environment, the aluminum box is a massive benefit.

Amazon Basics Mechanic’s Socket Tool Set With Case, SAE and Metric Sizes, 201-Piece

For the budget-conscious shopper who still demands decent quality, the 201-piece Amazon Basics set offers tremendous value. This kit is built around the most popular drive sizes (1/4, 3/8, and 1/2 inch) and includes both Metric and SAE sockets, hex keys, and bits. The key benefit is the construction: it features a chrome-vanadium steel forged body for necessary strength and durability, finished with a polished chrome for anti-corrosion protection. It’s a fantastic starter set for anyone building their first serious tool collection.

Key features that stand out:
– 201-Piece Starter Kit: Provides all common socket sizes and fastening tools required for basic repairs.
– Chrome-Vanadium Steel: Offers excellent strength and torque resistance at a competitive price point.
– Anti-Corrosion Finish: Full polished-chrome finish protects tools against rust.

Pros:
– Extremely high value for the number of pieces included.
– Reliable chrome-vanadium construction is durable enough for most DIY tasks.
– Highly effective for tackling multiple fastener types (nuts and bolts).

Cons:
– The ratchet action and case quality might not meet the demanding standards of daily professional use.

Best for: New mechanics, DIY homeowners, or students needing a large, affordable, and functional starter set.

Expert Opinion: Don’t let the “Basics” name fool you; this is a highly functional kit that uses respectable CR-V material. It’s the perfect set to keep in the trunk for roadside emergencies or to start a home garage.

DEWALT Mechanics Tool Set, 1/4″ & 3/8″ & 1/2″ Drive, SAE/Metric, 205-piece (DWMT81534)

DEWALT is synonymous with job site toughness, and this 205-piece mechanic set brings that durability to your garage. This set is engineered for precision performance utilizing sockets with DirectTorque Technology. This patented design helps prevent the rounding of fasteners, maintaining better grip and tool longevity. The ratchets feature a 72-tooth count with a tight 5-degree arc swing, allowing users to work efficiently in tight engine compartments. The robust case, complete with metal latches, ensures the tools stay safe even in tough working conditions.

Key features that stand out:
– DirectTorque Technology: Design prevents the corners of fasteners from rounding, improving grip.
– 72-Tooth Ratchet: Ideal for working in tight confines with minimal handle movement.
– Durable Case with Metal Latches: Built to withstand the rigors of job site transport and use.
– Anti-Slip Driver Handle: Maximizes comfort and control during long hours of work.

Pros:
– Superior fastener grip and protection against rounding.
– High-quality construction backed by the DEWALT name.
– Excellent ergonomics with the anti-slip handles.
– Very durable case designed for long-term survival.

Cons:
– It tends to be priced slightly higher than competing 200-piece sets.

Best for: Professional tradesmen and mechanics who need guaranteed durability, excellent ratchet quality, and anti-rounding features for daily use.

Expert Opinion: The focus on the 72-tooth ratchet and DirectTorque sockets elevates this set from standard DIY fare. It’s designed to save you time and prevent costly damage to bolts, making it a reliable shop investment.

DEWALT Mechanic Tool Set with Case, Socket Set Metric and Standard Full, 1/4″ & 3/8″ Drive, Hex Keys and Specialty Tools, 108-Piece (DWMT73801)

If the 205-piece DEWALT set is too large, this 108-piece kit provides the same high quality in a more streamlined, portable package. Focused primarily on the most common 1/4″ and 3/8″ drive sizes, this kit is excellent for routine maintenance and smaller tasks. Like its larger sibling, it features DirectTorque Technology sockets and 72-tooth ratchets for maximum control and efficiency. The full-polish chrome finish guarantees corrosion resistance, making it ideal for both shop and mobile use.

Key features that stand out:
– Streamlined 108-Piece Set: Perfect balance of essential tools without excessive weight or bulk.
– DirectTorque Technology: Protects fasteners from stripping and rounding.
– 72-Tooth Ratchet: Allows for precise work in small spaces.
– Full-Polish Chrome Finish: Highly resistant to rust and easy to clean.

Pros:
– High portability due to the lower piece count.
– Maintains the premium features (DirectTorque, 72-tooth ratchet) of the larger DEWALT sets.
– Exceptional build quality for a compact kit.

Cons:
– Lacks 1/2-inch drive components, limiting its use for heavy-duty suspension or axle work.

Best for: Mobile technicians, track day enthusiasts, or those who need a high-quality, compact set for quick maintenance and small engine repairs.

Expert Opinion: This is the ideal “grab-and-go” kit. It covers 90% of routine jobs with professional-grade quality. It’s perfect if you already own a separate 1/2″ breaker bar and large socket set.

Short Insights: Comparing the Best Mechanic Tool Set 2017 Options

When assessing these durable mechanics tool sets, a few key differentiators stand out, moving beyond simple piece count.

For sheer volume and cost efficiency, the VEVOR 450-piece set offers an unparalleled number of sockets and wrenches, making it a great choice for stocking a brand-new shop. However, if portability is crucial, the DEWALT 108-piece set or the YENFZIX 22-piece specialty kit are the easiest to transport.

The quality of the ratchet mechanism dramatically impacts work speed. Both the CRAFTSMAN and the two DEWALT sets boast a professional-grade 72-tooth ratchet with a tight 5-degree arc swing, which is a significant functional upgrade over generic ratchets when working in tight spaces like an engine compartment.

The storage solution is also key. While most utilize sturdy plastic, the Prostormer 240-piece kit uniquely features a heavy-duty aluminum toolbox, offering a clear advantage for users whose tools see frequent rough handling or travel extensively.

Finally, for the price-to-performance ratio, the Amazon Basics 201-piece set is difficult to beat. While not having the specialized anti-rounding technology of DEWALT, its chrome-vanadium construction provides robust utility for the average DIYer.

Final Verdict

Choosing the right tool set depends entirely on your repair frequency and the environment you work in.

If you’re a professional mechanic or run a demanding home shop where every tool size matters, the VEVOR 450-piece set offers the most comprehensive inventory, while the CRAFTSMAN 308-piece set provides superior ratchet quality and organization.

For the advanced DIYer who prioritizes durability and component protection, the DEWALT 205-piece set with DirectTorque Technology is the clear winner, protecting your investment in both tools and fasteners.

For budget-conscious beginners or household tasks, the Amazon Basics 201-piece set provides the most essential functionality without breaking the bank.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Best Mechanic Tool Set 2017

What are the most important factors when judging the Best Mechanic Tool Set 2017?

The three most important factors are material quality, ratchet design, and tool coverage. Look for tools made from Chrome Vanadium (CR-V) steel for durability and corrosion resistance. Ratchets should ideally have a high tooth count (72 or more) for better access in confined areas. Finally, ensure the kit includes both SAE (standard) and Metric sizes in 1/4″, 3/8″, and 1/2″ drives to cover various projects.

Is a 72-tooth ratchet really necessary for home mechanics?

While a lower tooth count (like 36 or 45) will work, a 72-tooth ratchet requires a much smaller arc swing (typically 5 degrees) to engage the next tooth. This is incredibly helpful for home mechanics when working in tight spots under the hood or chassis, significantly reducing frustration and saving time. Both DEWALT and CRAFTSMAN offer this professional feature in their 2017 sets.

What is the difference between CR-V (Chrome Vanadium) and Chrome Molybdenum tools?

Chrome Vanadium (CR-V) steel is standard for most high-quality hand tools, including sockets and wrenches, providing great hardness and resistance to abrasion. Chrome Molybdenum (Cr-Mo) is a stronger, impact-resistant alloy typically reserved for impact sockets and tools designed for high-torque applications with power tools. Most general mechanics tool sets rely on CR-V steel, which is perfectly adequate for manual use.

Why do some kits have a focus on “low profile” ratchets?

A low-profile ratchet, such as those found in the CRAFTSMAN 308-piece set, has a thinner head design. This is essential for reaching fasteners located deep within narrow machine parts or highly congested areas where a standard ratchet head would simply be too thick to fit onto the bolt.

Do I need a set with 1/2-inch drive sockets?

The 1/2-inch drive is crucial for high-torque applications. If you plan to work on suspension components, axle nuts, or large engine bolts, you will absolutely need 1/2-inch drive sockets and ratchets. Smaller kits, like the DEWALT 108-piece set, often skip the 1/2-inch drive to maintain portability, assuming the user already has heavier tools separately.

Are the specialized kits, like the YENFZIX 22-piece set, worth the investment?

Yes, absolutely. Specialized kits like the YENFZIX set contain essential car trim tools and pry bars made of non-marring plastic and specialized shapes. Using the correct tools prevents expensive damage to interior trim, paint, and delicate plastic fasteners, which is a common mistake when relying only on traditional metal screwdrivers.