Can You Name These Unusual Garage Tools?

By: Jacqueline Samaroo
Estimated Completion Time
4 min
Can You Name These Unusual Garage Tools?
Image: Getty Images / Cultura / Guido Cavallini

About This Quiz

Do you know jack about garage tools? Whether you are a professional mechanic or avid do-it-yourselfer, here is the chance to prove you are a real car doctor!

Practically everyone knows the common, run-of-the-mill garage tools, like wrenches, pliers and screwdrivers. Many people would be hard-pressed, however, to identify some of the more unusual tools. Those extremely small screwdrivers, for example, or those specialized pliers which are bent at such strange angles that they look like they could be actual surgical equipment instead of repair shop tools. Could you name some of those tools if you saw them? If you think you could, then it's time to head on into the quiz!

Most of the unusual garage tools you come across are meant to get into the parts of a vehicle which are not readily accessible - like the deep recesses of the engine bay. Others are designed with particular vehicle parts in mind and some for particular jobs, such as dent or paint removal during bodywork. Many of them are so highly specialized that only a professional repair shop would have them and only a professional mechanic would know how to properly use them.

So, are you one of the experts or the type of weekend warrior who sees their garage as the ultimate conquest? Whichever you are, start strapping on that tool belt, because it's time to get down and dirty with this quiz!

stubby screwdriver
Youtube via ToolGuyd
Which short and handy turning tool is shown here?
bent-handle flex-head ratchet
parts washer
automotive stethoscope
stubby screwdriver
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

The long handle and shaft of regular a screwdriver help to provide good grip and sufficient turning force when tightening or loosening screws. They are not of much help, however, in tight quarters. That is why the stubby screwdriver gets so much praise from mechanics who are regularly called on to work in confined spaces inside vehicles.

Advertisement

inspection camera
Youtube via Ultimate Handyman
Which device for capturing images is shown here?
circlip pliers
drive extension bar
inspection camera
heat gun
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

This relatively new tool has become indispensable to mechanics since it reduces the time and energy spent disassembling parts for the sake of inspecting them. The flexible snake of the inspection camera can wind through tight space and pipes, sending back images for the mechanic to analyze.

Advertisement

Palm Ratchet
Youtube via Rocky X TV
Can you identify this tool which fits snugly in your hand?
tire changer
engine crane
headlamp
palm ratchet
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

The handle on a tool serves several purposes, such as providing good grip and increasing the turning force you apply. There are times, however, when the handle just simply gets in the way. A palm ratchet is the perfect tool to use for jobs in those tight spaces that a long handle just can’t handle!

Advertisement

jack stands
Youtube via Craig's DIY Car
Can you name these devices which help to keep a vehicle elevated?
stubby impact wrench
air chisel
jack stands
nut splitter
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

A jack is used to lift a portion of a vehicle off the ground – it is not meant to be used to keep the vehicle in the air. That’s what jack stands are for! Different jack stands can accommodate different maximum weights, so it is important to buy ones which can withstand the weight of the vehicles being worked on.

Advertisement

scribing tool
Youtube via Insider Carpentry
Which writing implement is shown in this picture?
deep drive sockets
scribing tool
digital caliper
flexible sockets
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

This simple tool is used to mark vehicle parts just like a pen or pencil. The marks made with its hardened steel tip are more or less permanent and will not be easily erased as the parts are handled.

Advertisement

ignition spark tester
Youtube via RockAuto Auto Parts
Do you know the name of the engine diagnostic tool shown here?
kneeling pad
needle scaler
crow’s foot wrench
ignition spark tester
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

The ignition spark tester can be used to check whether a spark plug is working or not, as well as whether it is misfiring. It is a simple and easy way to pinpoint or eliminate possible problems when working on an engine.

Advertisement

electric cutoff tool
Youtube via Harbor Freight Reviews
Can you name this device which easily slices through metal?
mechanic’s creeper
electric cutoff tool
underhood light
electric impact wrench
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

It can sometimes be a real hassle (and a waste of time and energy) trying to loosen fasteners which are rusted into place. An electric cutoff tool makes short work of cutting right through fasteners when saving them isn’t a priority.

Advertisement

parts washer
Youtube via Chris Arneson
Which cleaning aid is shown in this photo?
parts washer
ratcheting socket wrench
stubby screwdriver
air compressor
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

It’s never a good idea at the end of a job to reassemble parts which are grimy, greasy and just downright dirty. That dirt isn’t just unsightly; it can also prove to be a real hazard once the vehicle starts running again. That’s why professional repair shops invest in a parts washer and why it is a good idea for every do-it-yourself mechanic to consider getting one, too.

Advertisement

oil drip pan
Youtube via Bud's Odd Jobs
What is the name of this container for collecting greasy liquids?
spark plug pliers
oil drip pan
hydraulic floor jack
carpenter pencil
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

Quite a few of jobs which get done in a garage result in dripping oils which can create a slippery and dangerous mess on the garage floor. A large drip pan can collect dripping oil for easy disposal while leaving the work area much cleaner and safer.

Advertisement

crow’s foot wrench
Youtube via Shane Conley
Which tool named for a bird’s body part is shown in this photo?
headlamp
tire inflator with gauge
crow’s foot wrench
flexible sockets
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

This specialized wrench is very useful for tightening and loosening fasteners which are on ends of pipes and tubes. It is a cross between a regular wrench and a box-end wrench, with its small opening being just enough to slip around the tube while providing a secure grip on the fastener.

Advertisement

circlip pliers
Youtube via Blake'sTools
Which tools for gripping and pulling is this?
needle scaler
circlip pliers
automotive stethoscope
air compressor
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

The design of circlip pliers depends on whether they are meant to be used on internal or external circlips. They also differ in terms of the length and the diameter of their tips, so the mechanic can choose specific circlip pliers to match the size of specific circlips.

Advertisement

deep drive sockets
Youtube via Catus Maximus
Which ratchet attachments are shown in this image?
deep drive sockets
carpenter pencil
heat gun
retractable air hose reel
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

Sockets typically come in two lengths: standard and deep, each of which works best for particular jobs. For example, deep drive sockets are very handy when a mechanic is working on a vehicle’s exhaust system and needs to loosen an exhaust clamp from around an exhaust pipe.

Advertisement

tire changer
youtube via Ratchets And Wrenches
Can you identify this item used to replace a wheel’s covering?
air chisel
palm ratchet
tire changer
transmission jack
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

Tire changers vary as to the type of wheel-and-tire assembly they can manage. Some are suited for the wheels of standard-sized cars, while others are meant to work specifically with wheels from motorcycles, trucks or heavy-duty vehicles.

Advertisement

mechanic’s creeper
Youtube via I Like To Make Stuff
Can you name this device used when sliding under vehicles?
drive extension bar
mechanic’s creeper
ratcheting socket wrench
electric impact wrench
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

The creeper makes it easy to roll under a vehicle and then back out again. Some models are convertible and can easily be transformed into a roll-around seat for working on low areas such as wheels.

Advertisement

kneeling pad
Youtube via FIX IT Home Improvement Channel
Can you name this device which helps to prevent joint stress and strain?
stubby impact wrench
ignition spark tester
kneeling pad
flexible magnet pickup tool
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

Working in a garage means you have to be prepared for plenty of standing, crawling, bending and kneeling while you work. Items such as a creeper, rubber floor mat and kneeling pad help to ensure you aren’t left suffering from aches and pains at the end of the day.

Advertisement

bent-handle flex-head ratchet
Youtube via Vicos
What is this specialized tool for reaching fasteners called?
jack stands
bent-handle flex-head ratchet
nut splitter
inspection camera
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

Its bent handle and flexible head allows this ratchet to get to even the most obscured nuts and bolts. It is not the type of tool the ordinary do-it-yourselfer will have in their toolbox but repair shops find plenty of good use for it.

Advertisement

headlamp
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zzMdl6z6yjY
What is the name of the light source shown in this photo?
headlamp
electric cutoff tool
spark plug pliers
engine crane
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

A headlamp directs light to the exact spot you are looking at and working on. Plus, unlike a flashlight, a headlamp offers the convenience of having both hands free to work and it will not get in the way like a hanging light tends to do.

Advertisement

retractable air hose reel
Youtube via Vicos
Do you know what this handy piece of equipment is called?
retractable air hose reel
hydraulic shop press
hydraulic floor jack
underhood light
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

An air hose has to be long so that it can be pulled to any area of the garage where compressed air is needed. A retractable reel mounted on a wall or on the ceiling helps to keep the hose out of the way when it is not in use and automatically pulls the hose back when you are done using it.

Advertisement

Heat Gun
Youtube via Ralph Van Pelt
Do you recognize this tool which generates high temperatures?
oil drip pan
scribing tool
stubby screwdriver
heat gun
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

The heat gun has several applications in the garage, including helping out with paint removal when bodywork is being done on a vehicle. Needless to say, the heat generated by this tool means safety equipment, such as goggles and gloves, must be worn.

Advertisement

hydraulic floor jack
Youtube via 805ROADKING
What is this device for elevating a vehicle called?
electric impact wrench
bent-handle flex-head ratchet
crow’s foot wrench
hydraulic floor jack
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

The hydraulic floor jack is the ideal piece of equipment for elevating a vehicle when mechanical work needs to be done on it. Once the vehicle is raised sufficiently, however, jack stands should be used to keep it raised. Hydraulic floor jacks can be bought in a low-profile version for vehicles which sit low to the ground.

Advertisement

engine crane
Youtube via WorkshopAddict
Which piece of equipment for heavy lifting is shown in this picture?
engine crane
mechanic’s creeper
tire inflator with gauge
hydraulic shop press
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

Sometimes it is necessary to take the engine completely out of a vehicle in order to work on it. At those times, most repair shops will rely on their engine crane to safely lift the engine and move it, often to an engine stand where it can be worked on.

Advertisement

ratcheting socket wrench
Youtube via HumbleMechanic
Can you name this versatile tool?
flexible magnet pickup tool
ratcheting socket wrench
spark plug pliers
deep drive sockets
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

The ratcheting socket wrench fits into spaces where the handle of an ordinary wrench would not have enough room to turn. The socket fits snugly over nuts and bolts and the ratcheting action means that the wrench will only turn the fastener in one direction.

Advertisement

stubby impact wrench
Youtube via WorkshopAddict
Do you know the name of this stumpy-looking power tool?
tire changer
air compressor
parts washer
stubby impact wrench
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

When a regular-sized impact wrench is too big to fit into tight spaces, then you will need to reach for a stubby impact wrench. Its compact size lets you work in confined areas without sacrificing the power you need to get the job done.

Advertisement

air chisel
Youtube via Green Power Farm
Can you identify the power tool in this photo?
air chisel
digital caliper
kneeling pad
crow’s foot wrench
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

The air chisel or air hammer is powered by compressed air and can deliver much greater force than a manual hammer and chisel would. It can be used to remove tarnish from metal; split bolts which are rusted in place; and cut through sheet metal, among many other applications.

Advertisement

Underhoodlight
Youtube via Workshop Addict
What is the name of this item which provides illumination?
underhood light
needle scaler
flexible sockets
hose clamp pliers
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

An underhood light is a good way to illuminate the entire engine bay or undercarriage of a vehicle. The light is most often rechargeable and uses LED bulbs. It can typically be clamped on or attached magnetically.

Advertisement

carpenter pencil
Youtube via A Concord Carpenter / ToolBoxBuzz
What is the name of the special writing tool shown here?
circlip pliers
oil drip pan
carpenter pencil
ignition spark tester
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

The carpenter pencil is a simple and practical tool to have for making markings, jotting down parts numbers or anything else you would use an ordinary pencil to do. Its shape makes it easy to grip and means it won’t roll away like a round pencil would.

Advertisement

needle scaler
Youtube via ChuckE2009
Can you identify this item which is named for its pointy projections?
hydraulic shop press
transmission jack
needle scaler
jack stands
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

A needle scaler makes very short work of stripping rust or paint from the body of a vehicle. It also works very well at removing built-up gunk from the vehicle’s undercarriage.

Advertisement

nut splitter
Youtube via MatthewMCRepair
Which handy device is shown in this image?
engine crane
nut splitter
deep drive sockets
retractable air hose reel
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

Mechanics very often come across nuts which are so corroded or cross-threaded around a bolt that the only way forward is to reach for a nut splitter tool. It is the perfect way to deal with a stubborn, stuck nut while ensuring that the bolt and its threading remain intact.

Advertisement

digital caliper
Youtube via vancouver33333
Which easy-to-read measuring device is shown in this picture?
digital caliper
transmission jack
drive extension bar
electric cutoff tool
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

A digital caliper allows the mechanic to take very precise measurements which is often a key factor when conducting work on an engine. Working with exact measurements helps to ensure optimum performance once repair work is complete and the vehicle is delivered back to the client.

Advertisement

flexible magnet pickup tool
Youtube via Catus Maximus
Can you name this device which grabs metallic items?
inspection camera
palm ratchet
flexible magnet pickup tool
tire changer
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

There are many hidden and inaccessible recesses under the hood of a vehicle. Trying to retrieve nuts or bolts which fall into one of these areas can be an extremely frustrating task. This is when a flexible magnet pickup tool becomes indispensable in a garage shop. It can bend and wind its way into narrow, unseen areas to retrieve lost items.

Advertisement

electric impact wrench
Youtube via Real Tool Reviews
Can you identify the power tool shown in this photo?
stubby screwdriver
electric impact wrench
retractable air hose reel
scribing tool
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

Impact wrenches are designed to deliver strong bursts of torque (turning force) to quickly and effortlessly loosen or tighten fasteners. Electric impact wrenches might not give you quite as much torque as the air-powered versions, but they save you time since you can simply plug them in and get to work.

Advertisement

automotive stethoscope
Youtube via Igor Kononenko
What is the name of the listening device shown here?
bent-handle flex-head ratchet
stubby impact wrench
air chisel
automotive stethoscope
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

The automotive stethoscope amplifies internal sounds in very much the same way as a stethoscope used by doctors. It is a very important diagnostic tool especially when trying to pinpoint the source of engine trouble.

Advertisement

air compressor
Youtube via Campbell Hausfeld
Which high-pressure device is shown in this image?
digital caliper
carpenter pencil
air compressor
kneeling pad
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

Many repair shop tools are powered by compressed air even though there are often electric options available. That is because air-powered or pneumatic tools are generally more powerful than their electric counterparts.

Advertisement

drive extension bar
Youtube via Peter von Panda
Can you name this tool which gives a ratchet extra reach?
oil drip pan
drive extension bar
electric cutoff tool
tire inflator with gauge
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

The drive extension bar fits onto a ratchet just as a socket would. Once the bar is in place, a socket can be attached to its other end. This extended assembly can now be used to reach fasteners which are located in awkward, hard-to-reach places.

Advertisement

flexible sockets
Youtube via ChrisCas - Tool Aficionado
Do you know what these swiveling attachments are called?
flexible sockets
circlip pliers
hose clamp pliers
scribing tool
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

Flexible sockets are jointed to allow them to reach fasteners which are located in tight spaces and are otherwise inaccessible. They come in a wide range of sizes just like ordinary sockets and can be bought for impact wrenches, as well.

Advertisement

tire inflator with gauge
Youtube via ChuckE2009
What is this device for checking air pressure called?
headlamp
hose clamp pliers
underhood light
tire inflator with gauge
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

A tire inflator with a gauge helps to ensure that each tire on a vehicle is pumped up to the required air pressure. Tires which have too much or too little air will wear unevenly; make the vehicle harder to maneuver; and reduce gas mileage. They will also put you at greater risk of developing a flat tire.

Advertisement

spark plug pliers
Youtube via Neponset River
Do you recognize this tool which is usually referred to in pairs?
spark plug pliers
flexible magnet pickup tool
heat gun
hydraulic floor jack
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

Using the incorrect tool or your hand to grasp and twist spark plug boots and wires often does more harm than good. A pair of spark plug pliers is specially designed, typically with offset or angled jaws, to reach in and get the get done safely.

Advertisement

hose clamp pliers
Youtube via Auto Repair Tips
Do you know the name of the handy grasping device shown here?
hose clamp pliers
mechanic’s creeper
jack stands
palm ratchet
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

The clamps used to hold hoses in places sometimes have a screw or nut and bolt to loosen and fasten them. Some hose clamps, however, are made with a spring action which requires a special tool, the hose clamp pliers, to open them. The hose clamp pliers is designed to squeeze the clamp open and keep it open until it is positioned where you need it.

Advertisement

hydraulic shop press
Youtube via Chris Stiebel
Which piece of heavy duty shaping equipment is this?
hydraulic shop press
automotive stethoscope
nut splitter
parts washer
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

Hydraulic shop presses typically feature a simple, easy-to-use design along with sufficient power to handle many of the toughest repair shop jobs. Some shops also use a smaller, desk-mounted, manual press known as an arbor press.

Advertisement

transmission jack
Youtube via JohnVH Life
What is the name of the lifting device shown in this image?
inspection camera
ignition spark tester
ratcheting socket wrench
transmission jack
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

A transmission jack is used to remove or replace the heavy transmission of a vehicle. It is usually rated by its maximum weight capacity, often ranging from 600 to 4,000 pounds.

Advertisement

You Got:
/40
Getty Images / Cultura / Guido Cavallini