Having the essential tools for the job is a must, but that can also come at a high price tag. (Below) in this article, you’ll see a quick explanation of three reasons why mechanics tools are so expensive, and a helpful list with pictures of basic mechanics tools to get you started, conveniently available online.
3 Reasons Why Mechanics Tools Are So Expensive
1. Business Plan
Most mechanics tool brand companies do not have a physical store; instead, they use a tool truck franchise program. These tool trucks usually will visit most, if not all, of the auto repair shops in the area. And they will replace any damaged tool that the mechanics may have or offer new deals even if you don’t have your wallet on you; how convenient, right?
In other words, no other tool company will visit you at the door after you’ve purchased tools from them to follow up on what other tools you may need or replace. Even if you’re not a mechanic, you’ve probably seen tool trucks like Snap-On or Mac-Tools, to name a few, driving around town and visiting auto repair shops.
Moreover, if you add the cost to maintain these tool trucks, such as fuel, new tires, tune-up, and insurance, it will bring the mechanics’ tool prices up.
2. Build Quality
Build quality is also a factor in why mechanics tools are so expensive; here’s why. There are well-known components used in tools called Chromium and Vanadium steel. Chromium and Vanadium steel are very expensive and have higher strength and hardness than carbon steel, making them ideal for giving a high-quality finish to the tools.
The more chromium and vanadium the tool has, the more expensive, durable, and high-quality it will be. Because of these reasons, the price will also follow. And rest assured that these tools with high chromium and vanadium steel levels will last for generations. Contrary to unbranded or low-cost, tools that will rust or start to flake faster when made with low-quality components.
3. Trusted Brand Name
One brand of tool that stands out from the crowd is Snap-On. Snap-On is a world-renowned brand with a vast trusted reputation, among others. And you are paying in part for the name, signifying the exclusivity of owning this world-renowned brand of tools.
If you still wonder why Snap-On tools are so expensive, in part is because Snap-On also manufactures most of its tools in the USA. So, the price and quality are also high. However, mechanics are still willing to pay premium prices for better quality tools, especially if made in the USA.
19 Basic Mechanics Tools to Get You Started
Starting your first day in the shop with the essential tools is a must. Here are 19 basic tools list will help you get started and provide you with an idea of what basic tools you’ll need from day one, including:
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How Much Do Mechanics Spend on Tools?
On average, mechanics typically spend between $5,000 and $10,000 to configure an essential toolbox. Some mechanics opt to purchase large toolboxes with all the add-ons in the $10,000 to $60,000 range.
Is it Worth Buying Expensive Tools?
The three main benefits of buying expensive tools if you are a mechanic, contractor, or handyman are efficiency, customer satisfaction, and tax deduction.
1. Efficiency
The first advantage of using expensive tools is that it makes your job more enjoyable, easier, and faster. Completing the job faster not only will your customer be happy, but you will also save time and time is money. Therefore, being able to reduce the time of a job will increase your profits.
Keep in mind that efficiency, quality of work, and speed in completing the job results in customer satisfaction.
2. Customer Satisfaction
Customer satisfaction is tied to all benefits. For example, if you have a five-hour job ahead of you and you have a tool that can save you twenty percent time, you’ve saved an hour.
If you invest in a tool that can save you twenty percent of the time, you make more profit, and, over time, the expensive tool will pay for itself. Therefore, the more specialized tools you get, the more efficient you will be.
3. Tax Deductible
Another advantage of buying expensive tools is that they are tax-deductible. However, suppose you are not yet clearing expenses, which means you are not bringing home profits at the end of the year. In that case, it doesn’t make sense to start your career or business with expensive tools. I recommend that you focus on building your business and buying only the essential tools to get it up and running.
Work on building your customer base, and once the profit is there, reinvest in your business. Invest in expensive tools only if you have the revenue to cover the expenses. Once you get it, keep upgrading your tools because efficiency is the key to getting the most out of it.
How You Can Save Money on Tools
First, to save money on tools, think about whether you will use them daily or a few times a year. If you need to use the tool a few times a year, I recommend buying a low-cost tool. However, if it is a tool that you will use daily, then don’t buy low-cost tools and go for a high-quality tool instead.
There are many brands of tools to choose from, and if you are on a budget and just starting with your tools, try to stay right in the middle, i.e., don’t go high on prices and don’t go for very low-quality tools.
After you start generating an excellent income to cover expenses, As I mentioned earlier, then go for high-quality brand name tools. Also, another suggestion is that try to buy your tools on sets; because tools companies usually will have a long weekend special sale on toolsets.
Are Low-Cost Tools Worth It?
It’s worth buying low-cost tools only if you’re going to use them a few times a year. For example, if you’re a do-it-yourself enthusiast at home and you like to change the oil and spark plugs in your car, you’ll do well to use low-cost tools.
However, suppose you are planning to become a technician, and you have the budget to buy high-quality tools from day one. In that case, purchasing low-cost tools is not going to be worth it. Again, it’s not going to be worth it because, as a technician, your goal is to generate income as quickly as possible.
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