Skip to main content

Cheap tools or expensive premium tools?

OK so I get the argument. I got the best tools, snap on, Mac tools etc with a lifetime guarantee! The other guy, your mate says  “Look at these tools I just bought really cheap, why pay the price you paid when you can have them for a fraction of the price”.

In my experience after 25 years in the motor trade I have come to a conclusion. But before I reveal, I have to say at the start of my time as a mechanic,I was snap on tools all the way. Unfortunately now after paying a stupid amount for tools it doesn’t matter. What good is a tool you
Left on the bulkhead under the bonnet costing £60, or a tool that cost you £6. I know the answer. It’s no good. But the £6 one is easily replaceable.

What’s more is that in my time in the trade I have found the quality to be almost as good as some premium tools. Not to say it’s the same. To conclude if you are totally obsessed with your tools and you put them away after every use definitely consider the premium tool. But if you’re the busy mechanic or enthusiast I would simply consider the cheaper tool.

Even with the fact you have paid more for your tools and you have a lifetime guarantee won’t always put you in the best position. I have a had premium tools replaced only to find after a few uses it has broken again and failed.

In my total opinion now after the experience I have had I would purchase the cheaper tool but find a quality cheap tool brand such as Halfords professional tools that  I find good quality at a reasonable price. And the most important think to consider here is, if it breaks on a Sunday you can more than likely get it replaced the same day just by dropping in to your local Halfords. And not having to wait days/weeks or much longer if your tool dealer no longer calls. 

Comments

Popular posts from this blog

How to Change a Ford Focus Diesel Fuel Filter – Step by Step Guide

Keeping your Ford Focus diesel in top condition means staying on top of regular maintenance – and one of the most important service items is the fuel filter . Over time, your fuel filter collects dirt and debris from the fuel tank , and if it becomes clogged, you may notice poor performance, reduced fuel economy, or even engine starting issues. In this guide (and in the video below), I’ll show you exactly how to replace the fuel filter on a Ford Focus diesel with a clear, step-by-step process. Why Change Your Fuel Filter? A clean fuel filter ensures your engine gets the right amount of clean diesel fuel , helping it run smoothly and efficiently. Changing it regularly can: Improve fuel efficiency Prevent hard starting problems Protect your fuel injectors Reduce the risk of costly engine repairs Tools & Parts You’ll Need Replacement diesel fuel filter (make sure it’s the correct one for your Focus) Basic hand tools Gloves and safety glasses A container for any excess fuel ...

Ford Transit Radiator Replacement | Easy Step-by-Step DIY Guide. 2014 to 2020

 Learn how to replace the radiator on your Ford Transit with this clear, step-by-step guide. Perfect for DIY enthusiasts and mechanics, this video covers everything from removing the old radiator to installing the new one, along with essential tips to avoid common mistakes. Whether you’re fixing overheating issues or upgrading your cooling system , this tutorial will help you get the job done quickly and safely. Suitable for Ford Transit models 2014–2020 .

Skoda 1.6 tdi timing tensioner failure Part one

This week was interesting. Having replaced this belt a couple of years ago on a Skoda Octavia 1.6 Diesel,the customer came in with a terrible noise. So it was time to investigate. As you can see from the pictures upon stripping it down I was horrified by what I saw. As you can clearly see the bearing as totally failed. It was surprising to know this car was actually running. Totally amazed that it was running.  You can see that the heat from the faulty bearing has over heated melting the plastic on the tensioner. Here you can see it after removal. The obvious thing to do now was replace the timing belt kit using the correct Volkswagen  locking tools to see how it runs. OK so I will put you out of suspense. The car runs but makes a terrible noise. So unfortunately for the customer the Skoda will be stripped for further investigation. I have no doubt there will be internal damage but I expected this anyway.  I will follow up with thi...