Hello Car Owners, Here is the List of Most Commonly Needed Ring Wrenches
Having basic car tools is not only important for mechanics but also for daily car owners. In emergency situations or when performing light maintenance at home, the right tools can save time, costs, and prevent more serious damage. Some light maintenance tasks that can be done independently, such as changing spark plugs, replacing the car battery, or changing tires, require several wrenches.
With precise sizes and strong grip, car wrenches can reduce the risk of stripped or damaged bolts, especially in the engine and suspension areas. Let's discuss further about the wrenches needed by friends to help maintain their cars.
What is a Wrench?
A wrench is a hand tool that has two different sides on one rod, namely the ring side (closed) and the open side. This combination makes it flexible to use for various bolt and nut conditions.
Functions and General Uses on Vehicle Components
The function of a wrench on a car is very diverse, ranging from opening engine bolts, battery mounts, to light suspension components. The ring side is used for bolts that require stronger torque, while the open side makes access easier in tight spaces.
Most Commonly Used Car Wrench Sizes
1. 8 mm Wrench
Usage:
- Small bolts in the car interior
- Small sensor mounts
- Certain plastic components and trims
- Generally used on light-sized bolts
2. 10 mm Wrench
Usage:
- Bolts for rear and front lamp covers
- Battery clamp bolts
- Small brackets in the engine compartment
This size is among the most commonly used in daily cars.
Read Also: Types of Car Lights and Their Functions
3. 12 mm Wrench
Usage:
- Bolts for air filters
- Engine cover bolts
- Radiator or wiper water reservoir mounts
4. 14 mm Wrench
Usage:
- Bolts for alternators
- Light engine mount bolts
- Light suspension components
5. 17 mm Wrench
Usage:
- Bolts for brake calipers
- Suspension and shock absorber bolts
- Wheel mount bolts (on certain cars)
6. 19 mm Wrench
Usage:
- Large bolts on the car's suspension
- Main suspension bolts
- Wheel bolts on older cars or light commercial vehicles
Other Important Tools
In addition to car wrenches, there are several other tools that car owners should also have:
- Car wheel wrench – for changing tires in emergencies
- Spark plug wrench – makes checking and replacing spark plugs easier
- Adjustable wrench – flexible for various sizes of nuts and bolts
Understanding the sizes and functions of car wrenches will greatly assist friends in performing light maintenance as well as facing emergency situations on the road. By preparing the most commonly used wrench sizes, car maintenance becomes more practical, safe, and efficient. The right tools are the first step to keeping the car's performance optimal every day.