I found your channel because of this video. I’ve been a Subaru technician for 8 years and I decided I needed a serious change because I was so burned out doing the same thing. I took a job at Audi Atlanta and this really helped me get started with new tools I needed. Your channel has really inspired me and helped revitalize my love for working on cars. Thanks so much for what you do. You’re fucking awesome!
Over eight years of owning and wrenching on various VWs and Audis, I have learned, often the hard way, that each and every one of these tools is absolutely necessary. Bravo on this list, wish I'd seen it years ago. Gosh, by the time I sold my first VW, a MK4 wagon, that poor car was one big heap of stripped 12 point bolts, broken wire connectors, and scratched interior trim...but I learned :)
I’m an absolute sucker for shiny new toolbox tours with shiny new quality tools in them,but nothing beats nicely worn well used tools that stood up over time. There’s something special about them that makes me appreciate a quality tool even more! I absolutely loved them! 2 👍👍 from me!
You know that is funny you say that. I have a mix of tools that have had the crap beat out of them for 10+ years. I also have plenty of tools that are basically new. I generally go with the older tools. We have a history. HA
There's nothing like the pure anger at one's self when loosing one of those nicely worn broke in tools. Every time you pull out its shiny new replacement you kick yourself in the ass again, at least until the replacement is broke in. Provided the replacement tool is as good of quality or better than the original. Otherwise the anger just continues till you can finally find a proper replacement.
Yes, I have most of these tools. It makes a huge difference to have them. BMW will also have use Torx bits so it’s a must buy. Thanks for sharing this video.
In a future video, can you please demonstrate how to properly de-pin and then pin the electrical connectors using the tools? I would appreciate it. Thanks
Surprisingly I’ve found myself using many bicycle tools for working on my VW. P-handle hex and Torx wrenches in particular are excellent for tight spaces where you can’t get a ratchet or drill in. Don’t get crappy cheap ones though since they round out bolt heads too easily. Also, a cheap solution for trim removal: plastic bicycle tire levers (I recommend yellow Pedro’s levers). They can usually be had for $2-4 and they last a lifetime. Metal ones are available too if you need the extra oomph.
2024 and moving from Toyota to VW This and your roll cart tour videos are my guidelines cause i think I've only ever done brakes and oil on a jetta before. Very helpful!
Wouldn’t be caught dead working at a euro shop without the Matco sa40s 1/4 kit. Super shallow 40 piece kit torx,triple squares,hex, flat and philips. Matco is the only company that makes this kit and it’s only like 30 bucks more for this 40 piece kit compared to the like 8 piece 1/4 triple square set. Great for a lot of the timing covers on vw/Audi with limited space from the fire wall, although the small blue point 1/4 bit ratchets are a must as well. I have a few bits I cut in half to use in the little blue point ratchets for the 2.0 and 3.6 timing chain covers.
The 17 Hex socket caught me out once. I think it was for filling oil on a gearbox. Used a wheel nut and a 17mm spanner instead. Those rear brakes with a fine toothed 13mm ratcheting spanner and a skinny 15mm spanner is God sent. But the most important tool is you and your ability to make your own tools or improvise. Necessity is the mother of invention.
Having owned two 2012 Jetta TDIs for almost 3 years now, and having done 100% of the maintenance on both of them (including one that's needed a timing-belt change), I have slowly been collecting these specialized tools over the years. I wish I'd had this video 3 years ago. But, hey -- I'll bookmark it now, so that I have it to refer back to, because there are some of these tools I haven't needed yet. Thanks!
I just got my first ever Volkswagen and it’s a 2002 Volkswagen Jetta GLI with the 2.8l 24v vr6. It only has 69,000 miles, but it’s got a list of problems. I’m super super happy that I have a vr6 though. I’ve been looking for one for a year and a half. I wanted a GTI, but what I wanted more than anything was the vr6 engine. And I found one close to me with 69,000 miles so I compromised on it being a Jetta. (Plus my mom has always wanted a Jetta :) I love your video’s man!! I really appreciate how knit picky you are on having things be done the proper way!! You have a really valuable channel!! And you’re honestly what rooted my love for the vr6. Thanks for all your videos!!!
I found your site because of a used car dealer customer i have that likes to but Japanese and Audi cars. Lol so between him and his dad lol my toolbox keeps growing and growing but you forgot the most important tool for the DIYER! A subscription to your channel. You help make it less troublesome to understand the differences lets say German to English translation lol the simplicity i guess is easier to say. Also helps with your experience to help with shortcuts to speed up getting the job done faster.
I have a 2006 jetta, since I own that car I have never go to shop to do anything on it, I do it all by my self and my experience with that car motivate me towards being a Volkswagen specialist technition. People use to say Volkswagen is the most difficult cars to work on but they are not at all, they are easy. Last November I change my manual transmission in my back yard all by self, at that point I bought a few more pieces of tools to do the work, so due to fact that the diff in the transmission start to make noise so I bought a new transmission and put in. I also change my clutch to a conversion kit one that's work pretty well and even better the clutch, it run smooth, no noise nor vibration from this clutch at all. I see people say stuff like that online about the conversion clutch but they get the one i that name valeo it's work perfect. I also do my rear crankshaft seal too, it was a great experience doing all that work by my self.
Thank you for this video and tips. I just started as a European mechanic working In a shop. Been diy wrenching and backyard mechanic for a good 10 years and decided to turn my passion into a career. Will be picking up a lot of these tools. Those wheel holders are nice especially on higher end Benz the rims get heavy 😎.
6 лет назад+15
Things were a lot simpler in the old days. I've had 3 VW Polo's from 1983, 1984 and 1991 and could almost turn those cars into single parts with just a 10mm and a 13mm wrench :-)
Proper fuel injector seal kit to ensure those seals are installed correctly and then have a removal tool if any injectors are stuck in the head and you want to either replace or reseal. Also an array of different size extensions and wobble drives have saved me countless times due to lack of space. Keep the vids coming! Love the channel. Love the VR6 to. It’s been ages since I have seen one of these on UK roads.
Hazet Tools makes some really good tools for German cars as well. I love Hazet and had a set in mind when I wanted to do Mercedes Repairs. Also, about the oil filter cup, I've seen so many break and broken so many that I would recommend one that either has lifetime warranty or inexpensive. I just bought an RS4 and this video really helps me out. I already know I need square drives and the plastic trim tools. My suggestion for owning tools to work on the European DSM is to have extras or doubles of your tools. The reality is that when you work on one, someone else will most likely have worked on it before incorrectly so you may end up breaking a tool to remove the over-tightened oil filter cap. Thanks for the video Charles. I enjoyed it.
Good list and selection. The XZN / triple square and Torx are really the must have tools here. Many of the others are a bit more general but hugely useful such as trim removal tools. I always assume that trim is made from unobtainium but the clips are much more sacreficial. Like the hose clip crimpers made from solid bars. This is a genius thing. Ta!!
Great video - I've collected most of these tools over the years via Amazon christmas lists... Family always wants gift ideas and collecting specialty tools (not when you need them for a job already) is good solution.
I'm in subaru land, not vw, but that "Handy Remover" is the best thing i've bought so far. So many takata airbags done in half the tools thanks to that thing.
Wheel holders are such a must have for European cars! I used to struggle so much with lug bolts and eventually I became decent with them. Then one day someone saw me struggling with wheels from a G wagon and handed me a pair of wheel holders. The difference was night and day for me and I am so much more efficient using a wheel holder than going without. I ended up buying a set with sizes to fit most cars. Also I love that you included the hose clamp pliers because I have been looking for a good pair. My coworkers use either the cable type or regular pliers and I don't like the cable ones because it's often hard to get them situated on the clamp in tight spaces and once they're on the clamp there is a possibility of them slipping off which can be painful.
just got myself a set of the bluepoint Triple Square, Stubbys and there a awesome. i made my wife a wheel holder a few year back to make it easier if she had to chance a wheel at the road side very handy just to keep in your boot
The wheel hanger is a great tip ; I've used them for years as on the ground or on a lift of any height you can easily throw out your back - and anyone who has done that or strained your back will tell you that you are essentially "out of commission" for several days (if not weeks)! My Audi S5 sports 20" ers (wheel and tire is 55lbs +) !! Always enjoy your vids HM.
You are right on the money about those hose clamp pliers. I got a decent set from Advance Auto Parts and they are very helpful. When I didn't have them I borrowed a cheap hose clamp tool with the long cable. They were very cumbersome to use. It was aggravating to grab small clamps like the hose going to the aux coolant pump for the 2.0t FSI. After doing a tire rotation I would say that the wheel hanger is a great investment too. Going to keep it in the spare tire compartment for emergencies. Changing a flat at the side of the road is a huge pain without something like this.
The last VW I had I used VagCom but I recently purchased a new VW and someone pointed me to CarPort Diagnostics and honestly I'm liking it a lot better.
I love my Hazet 197-3 magnetic bowl. Great quality and not outrageously priced like other Hazet tools. Also love my 1/4 drive Craftsman flex spinner handle for hose clamps. The only downside is if you turn it too hard the shaft will spin in the 1/4 drive connector. I might have to find a more durable one.
Hey Charles-Your videos have really helped me learn and work on my VW/Audi A3 TFSI and other cars. Thank you! I've done a total career change (at 66!) from advertising photographer to-get this-a VW dealership wrench-entry level of course but the experience I got from my DIY jobs, timing covers, tensioner update, brakes, radiator R&R, etc got me in the door! In this 15 Must Have tools video at about 4:00 minute mark you've got a socket holder with 2 rows of 13 magnets. I want one! I cant see a brand name or locate it online. Would you mind sharing who makes it and name? I picked up the HF roll away tool cart yesterday in your $1500 tool kit vid-and love it! Not too fancy for a newbie but totally what I need to start. Thanks!
"I'm going to design a highly complicated and nearly inaccessible part, involving an overly elaborate and completely unnecessary proprietary fastener." - Dr. Evil
Hey how about a overview on how to use vagcom I use it to pull codes on my wife's b5 Passat but haven't changed any setting due to fear of screwing something up
One tool often over looked and something I use on every car I put on the ramp is my trusty big black tire bar... check all the bushes and ball joints every time, also good for finding rust holes!
An old motronic doesn't make the power or have the throttle response. If your using stage 4 maf might I suggest map tuning. There are so many features and capabilities like direct fire ignition capability/wheelspin mitigation/E-85 with auto ratio sensing/Anti-lag ect...
11mm bleeder wrench and 7mm bleeder wrench for drum brakes! Also once I got one of these, I now use it 100% of the time but: VW coil removal tool. Such a time saver!
Don't go spend money on a wheel holder thing. Take a tie rod off a mk4 and cut it. Get fancy and round of the end in the grinder. I put one with the spare tires of all my vehicles and have one on my tool box. I don't use them often but on cars with spacers or missing the screw on the rotor they come on handy
Hey Charles I’m new in the heavy equipment tech field and want to brush up on my electrical base knowledge any ideas where this sort of thing is offered?
another AWESOME video, Charles, 😇 Thank you for taking the time out and producing great content, we really appreciate your effort, please do more video's, Kindest regards from the U.K 🙂
you mentioned a thin 15mm for the VW brakes, i use a small pair of Knipex cobra pliers they work great if you don't own a thin 15 like myself, never had one slip. Great videos man.
Depending on your skill level if your doing turbos all the time like we do in the northeast get a big stick of chapstick when the oil lines are stuck in the block smear chapstick around them then use a micro torch to melt it the oil lines pop right out no fighting and no needing to order more parts
Thanks, Charles, good list. I would include a VAG electrical connector removal tool for the hobbyist and DIYer. I've owned and maintained multiple VWs for around 10 years, and even though I remember how to properly remove the connectors without breaking them (mainly the coil packs); sometimes I just go a little extreme on them. This past week, I replaced a bad diverter valve on my 09 Tiguan. Since I couldn't see exactly what I was doing, I broke the tabs off the old, oil-soaked, brittle plastic connector forcing me to order the tools and replacement connector. After repinning a new connector, I plugged it back into the original DV forgetting to install the new valve. The tool made it an absolute breeze to remove the connector in the confined space! That $10 tool would have saved me days of headache waiting for parts!
Another really good VW/Audi tool to have is a spark plug puller!! I just recently bought a 99 VW Beetle 5 speed and had to do a tune up and had to go buy one to remove the spark plugs
18 mm all sorts offsets, straight hex bihex and triplesquares from tiny to jumbo size vag loves their offsets and triples quares (had to order a new set to cover jumbo sizes)
That last tool is smart as hell.... especially if you don’t have the Phillips head holding the rotors! My car is missing all four so when I remove a tire it’s such a pain in the ass to sit down with the tire on your legs guiding it on and trying to get the first stud started!
Super glue, epoxy, & strong (thin) tape to repair those interior panels/pieces that will break their clips when you remove them...also a good flashlight and magnetic pick up tool
Luke Timms - Amen to that. Not so long ago. Some colleagues drafted me to help on a timing belt, filters, water pump, a few seals, etc. the all shebang on one of their clients diesel... They swear to me all the tools where there so no problem. Well the fact is that I only carried one thing in my pocket, an ext pickup magnetic tool. Guess what, it was useful. ;-)
one of the best things i was given was a flashlight that had a magnet around the lens and the head extended . Items that fall into those dark hard to reach places got a lot easier to get
No. If you open the interior panel with a plastic tool as shown, the forces get split between tool and panel and it won't break. Use a metal thing and all the force goes to the interior piece = CRACK
One VERY necessary tool that’s used at vw/Audi dealerships is a knuckle spreader. You put it in a 1/2 inch ratchet and it basically spreads the knuckle so you don’t need to use a pry bar and hammer to spread the knuckle
Hell yea! I've got most of the tools already, it's the cheep or hand made stuff that I think is the best. I modified a lock pick set my self but I also use dead feeler gages and grind the pattern out on them. I'm off to the salvage yard today to rummage through and find a wheel tool, I have an old stud out of a motorcycle engine that works but isn't cool enough for me.
I like and had an Audi, but my best tool is to buy a Ford or Toyota. When i first took a bolt of the tire, i freaked, I thought i broke something on my Audi. 😅 Then realized this was normal. Hence the beginning of a weird repair relationship with that car. Then went to Volvo then thought i was in bizzaro land with costs. Then went to Ford and Toyota... been happy ever since.😄 Great video for warning future Audi/VW DIY owner/mechanics on the perils of having one of these cars. Great fun cars though. 👍
The DIY pin removal tool is an awesome idea, I have access to all the OEM tools at work but for home use a cheap substitute made out of old wiper blades sounds just right!
Oh yeah they do. Luckily most are 90 or 180 which is pretty easy to mark or eyeball. But a torque angle gauge is a good tool to have. Or a torque wrench that measures angle. That’s what I have.
Wobble Extensions, Magnetic Spark plug Socket, and Locking Extensions & Locking Swivel (If they're not Wobble type) (I find the Wobble extensions help a TON with clearing things on my 2005 B6 Audi A4 3.0 Quattro), Inspection Mirror (Helps alot in tight spaces to make sure things are properly seated or to find those hidden fasteners), Also Ball Joint Separators I personally prefer the Jaw/ scissor style with the bolt that opens the Jaw as it helps to prevent damage to ball joints if you're removing suspension components for clearance or to service something else Vs. a pickle fork which tends to damage the ball joints in most cases (This to me would be a highly needed tool as the Control arm bushings tend to take a crap a lot on the B6 platform vehicles at least from what I've noticed), and most importantly a good service manual to reference to for those DIY and independent's that don't have access to Alldata, Mitchell on demand or other similar or factory service programs. Charles - HumbleMechanic had pretty much nabbed some of the more important ones I was going to mention, love tool lists like this!
Good shouts! I've given up on inspection mirrors now though because I always ruin them welding an exhaust the lazy way (in the car) so these days I use the force and it works well for me so far... a good imagination and clean hands helps 👌🏻
Triple squares are an absolute MUST. I say this because almost nobody carries these. They're almost always a tool truck or online deal. If you buy a German car, buy a set.
Tools I've used a fair amount are the coil pack puller, the pins for holding tensioners and the pin to set a manual transmission in the "home" position. I have to maintain 3 VWs so for me these are essential, others' mileage may vary.
Excellent Video. One tool I have struggled with is a spanner for the threaded Union between the turbo and oil pipe feed on a 1.9tdi BLS Engine. I have ground down a 14mm but that didn't work. Any ideas? Thanks.
Awesome video my guy!!!!! I stopped using the filter cup with the hole for 3/8 in it because some crazy techs/diyers put those filters on so tight (almost impact tight) that the socket part would crack, split or break off right away. Even with a socket on it. I felt the hole made it it's weak point.
thanks a lot! But what about special key for brake piston? i have this one! werry comfortable to use changing brake pads. Now i am going to buy candle key.
I wish this video came out 7 years ago. Lol I had to take so many trips to the auto parts store in between fixing things because I didn't have any of these. But I think a swear jar is #1
Also Stripped screw&bolt set comes in handy when previous owners strip the hell out of the torx bolts and a pic tool for electrical connections come in handy epecially when aged and brittle vcd is a givin too especially these days since everything is cpu related kinda hard to do a throttle body adaptation with out it surely saves$$ in the long run...
Awesome video. Thanks! Quick specific question: what bit(s) do I need for replacing the starter on a 2018 Passat? I'm having trouble finding any documentation on it.
Audi TT I had came with a plastic wheel holder. The weight of the wheel and tire would bend it and the wheel could/would fall off. The metal wheel holders are awesome.
For the oetiker clamps I have found the ratchet style clamp tool for PEX oetiker clamps works amazing. It uses compound leverage to take what can be a PITA and make it a much easier job. It has become one of the most commonly borrowed/stolen tool, well after the 10mm socket...
Thanks for the great videos and tips! Wheel holder came with Touareg? Sure enough, ran down to my garage and it was right there the whole time. I purchased a set of those not even knowing that was hiding in the back of the treg. Still happy I have a set as using two does make it a little easier. Thanks for the tips, really is a great tool and keeps you form scratching the inner barrel by accident.
Hey Charles, great video and yeah you definitely hit everything I can think of for must haves for VAG maintenance. I'll share one that I think is a must have for B8 platforms for rear wheel bearings, if you have ever tried to remove those two lower M12 recessed triple square knuckle bolts that hold the bearing to the knuckle then you know what I'm talking about. That aluminum shaft that houses the control arm bolt to the wishbone is right in the way of this job. I found that that a very short M12 triple square bit with a 10mm hex end works great to get a 10mm box wrench on. But, I found that this tool from Snap-On is a must to get a ratchet on that bit, a Standard Torque Adapter (part # FRDHM10) 3/8 drive to 12pt 2" in length - I'm not partial to Snap-On, although I do have much from them as well as other tool truck tools - but I've not seen this torque adapter from any other manufacture. There is no way to get a ratchet on those two lower bolts without that adapter - it will save you a lot of time without having to remove any of the suspension components, so a stubby M12 triple square bit and that torque adapter I'd put in your tool box as well
I know this is old, but I have to comment on the thin wrench for the rear brake caliper. A while ago we bought a piece of exercise equipment that needed to be assembled and packaged with the hardware was this odd looking cheap “multi tool” that was basically a screwdriver, but instead of a proper handle it had a half dollar coin sized round piece of metal on the end with indents for three different wrench sizes. Half way through assembling the elliptical I realized that this “thick coin screwdriver wrench” thing might fit that stupid rear caliper pin perfectly...... and not only did it work, but the size and shape of the thing makes it better to use on that job than a proper wrench.
Hey sir nice post. I don't work on cars except my own but I can relate to what your saying. I not to long ago worked on a Husqvarna demo Saw and they built them with only torx screws
just bought a '10 vw cc vr6. it drives really well and it's quick. the interior is awesome. but whenever i start the car and drive, nothing bad happens. i love it. it's perfect. how do i fix this issue?
you give away so much info it's crazy so how many old air cooled bugs do you have that was my first shop i worked at was only air cooled no water boxes
Any video of you taking apart the center console on the Tiguan? I’m trying to replace my electric parking brake switch just need the help on which tools would be useful. Thank you (:
If you're looking for thin wrench, get a cone wrench. They're a bicycle specific tool, very thin, but I've used them lots and they work great. Try to go for a park tool cone wrench if possible, they're more pricey but they're the best bike tools you can buy.
Remember there was not way to include them all in this video. Post up what else you think you need for VW and Audi repair!
I had a question about this 1998 Volkswagen golf gti that's been giving me trouble
Definitely needed some of these tools today, removing the strut on my mk5 gti
HumbleMechanic hey I have a question. What do you think about the 2003 Audi RS6's?
awesome cars but mad expensive to maintain
Thank you for the reply. I plan on getting one, but they dont seem to sell near me often.
#1. Patience.
TRUTH!
#2. Money.
...#2... fuck you. never OWN A VW. period!!!
Bull Shat....#1: NEVER own a VW. truth.
lmao. triggered
I found your channel because of this video. I’ve been a Subaru technician for 8 years and I decided I needed a serious change because I was so burned out doing the same thing. I took a job at Audi Atlanta and this really helped me get started with new tools I needed. Your channel has really inspired me and helped revitalize my love for working on cars. Thanks so much for what you do. You’re fucking awesome!
Bro be honest... us VW/Audi guys cool as a fan. When have you seen a jaded, bitter, VAG tech? Most of those are at GM, and Nissan.
@@LynxStarAutoas a VAG fan (own two GTIs) working for GM… help
Over eight years of owning and wrenching on various VWs and Audis, I have learned, often the hard way, that each and every one of these tools is absolutely necessary. Bravo on this list, wish I'd seen it years ago. Gosh, by the time I sold my first VW, a MK4 wagon, that poor car was one big heap of stripped 12 point bolts, broken wire connectors, and scratched interior trim...but I learned :)
I'm I'm the rust belt. Stripped and broken fasteners are the norm. Broken connectors too
I’m an absolute sucker for shiny new toolbox tours with shiny new quality tools in them,but nothing beats nicely worn well used tools that stood up over time. There’s something special about them that makes me appreciate a quality tool even more! I absolutely loved them! 2 👍👍 from me!
You know that is funny you say that. I have a mix of tools that have had the crap beat out of them for 10+ years. I also have plenty of tools that are basically new. I generally go with the older tools. We have a history. HA
Oh hell ya... but now I'm a maintenance tech in a food factory, all my tool MUST look new. Embarrassing to show off clean shinny tools.
There's nothing like the pure anger at one's self when loosing one of those nicely worn broke in tools. Every time you pull out its shiny new replacement you kick yourself in the ass again, at least until the replacement is broke in. Provided the replacement tool is as good of quality or better than the original. Otherwise the anger just continues till you can finally find a proper replacement.
Also, a 30mm 12point for the wheel axle nuts :-)
Just did Headgasket, water pump, Tb, tensioner on my 1.8. I got a set of Alan's and tripple squares and they made the job go so smoothly!
Yes, I have most of these tools. It makes a huge difference to have them. BMW will also have use Torx bits so it’s a must buy. Thanks for sharing this video.
In a future video, can you please demonstrate how to properly de-pin and then pin the electrical connectors using the tools? I would appreciate it. Thanks
I think I have at some point. Let me look into it.
ruclips.net/video/lrs8-KtJGus/видео.html
Jon Wayne thanks i really appreciate it.
There are several on RUclips. It just takes a little practice. I found that after 2 or 3 I was an expert.
@@gregorythoman8281 that's what he said.
As a new Dealership Audi Tech this was so helpful
AWESOME!
A second elbow would be handy to change the oil filter
With my 6'6" frame, I had my head on the ground about 2 feet away and somehow snaked my arm through a crossmember to access the filter
Agreed. I had to use 2 10” extensions and a filter cap for the ratchet.
Surprisingly I’ve found myself using many bicycle tools for working on my VW. P-handle hex and Torx wrenches in particular are excellent for tight spaces where you can’t get a ratchet or drill in. Don’t get crappy cheap ones though since they round out bolt heads too easily.
Also, a cheap solution for trim removal: plastic bicycle tire levers (I recommend yellow Pedro’s levers). They can usually be had for $2-4 and they last a lifetime. Metal ones are available too if you need the extra oomph.
VCDS, a set of Torx screwdrivers and a couple of plastic trim removers are my always-on-board tools I tend to need most often.
I keep those things in the car.
2024 and moving from Toyota to VW
This and your roll cart tour videos are my guidelines cause i think I've only ever done brakes and oil on a jetta before.
Very helpful!
Wouldn’t be caught dead working at a euro shop without the Matco sa40s 1/4 kit. Super shallow 40 piece kit torx,triple squares,hex, flat and philips. Matco is the only company that makes this kit and it’s only like 30 bucks more for this 40 piece kit compared to the like 8 piece 1/4 triple square set. Great for a lot of the timing covers on vw/Audi with limited space from the fire wall, although the small blue point 1/4 bit ratchets are a must as well. I have a few bits I cut in half to use in the little blue point ratchets for the 2.0 and 3.6 timing chain covers.
The 17 Hex socket caught me out once. I think it was for filling oil on a gearbox. Used a wheel nut and a 17mm spanner instead. Those rear brakes with a fine toothed 13mm ratcheting spanner and a skinny 15mm spanner is God sent. But the most important tool is you and your ability to make your own tools or improvise. Necessity is the mother of invention.
Having owned two 2012 Jetta TDIs for almost 3 years now, and having done 100% of the maintenance on both of them (including one that's needed a timing-belt change), I have slowly been collecting these specialized tools over the years. I wish I'd had this video 3 years ago. But, hey -- I'll bookmark it now, so that I have it to refer back to, because there are some of these tools I haven't needed yet. Thanks!
I just got my first ever Volkswagen and it’s a 2002 Volkswagen Jetta GLI with the 2.8l 24v vr6. It only has 69,000 miles, but it’s got a list of problems. I’m super super happy that I have a vr6 though. I’ve been looking for one for a year and a half. I wanted a GTI, but what I wanted more than anything was the vr6 engine. And I found one close to me with 69,000 miles so I compromised on it being a Jetta. (Plus my mom has always wanted a Jetta :) I love your video’s man!! I really appreciate how knit picky you are on having things be done the proper way!! You have a really valuable channel!! And you’re honestly what rooted my love for the vr6. Thanks for all your videos!!!
Thanks so much and congrats on the new car
I found your site because of a used car dealer customer i have that likes to but Japanese and Audi cars. Lol so between him and his dad lol my toolbox keeps growing and growing but you forgot the most important tool for the DIYER! A subscription to your channel.
You help make it less troublesome to understand the differences lets say German to English translation lol the simplicity i guess is easier to say.
Also helps with your experience to help with shortcuts to speed up getting the job done faster.
I have a 2006 jetta, since I own that car I have never go to shop to do anything on it, I do it all by my self and my experience with that car motivate me towards being a Volkswagen specialist technition. People use to say Volkswagen is the most difficult cars to work on but they are not at all, they are easy. Last November I change my manual transmission in my back yard all by self, at that point I bought a few more pieces of tools to do the work, so due to fact that the diff in the transmission start to make noise so I bought a new transmission and put in. I also change my clutch to a conversion kit one that's work pretty well and even better the clutch, it run smooth, no noise nor vibration from this clutch at all. I see people say stuff like that online about the conversion clutch but they get the one i that name valeo it's work perfect. I also do my rear crankshaft seal too, it was a great experience doing all that work by my self.
Thank you for this video and tips. I just started as a European mechanic working In a shop. Been diy wrenching and backyard mechanic for a good 10 years and decided to turn my passion into a career. Will be picking up a lot of these tools. Those wheel holders are nice especially on higher end Benz the rims get heavy 😎.
Things were a lot simpler in the old days. I've had 3 VW Polo's from 1983, 1984 and 1991 and could almost turn those cars into single parts with just a 10mm and a 13mm wrench :-)
Hondas were like this until 2000'
Proper fuel injector seal kit to ensure those seals are installed correctly and then have a removal tool if any injectors are stuck in the head and you want to either replace or reseal. Also an array of different size extensions and wobble drives have saved me countless times due to lack of space. Keep the vids coming! Love the channel. Love the VR6 to. It’s been ages since I have seen one of these on UK roads.
Whos got 500$ for the gdi injector tool i managed to make my own worked fine with no prob
For those that own a Passat, the "wheel holder" comes in the wheel tool kit.
I have a B5 and mine didn't. May have to go to pick n pull and see if I can find one. Thanks for the tip
Hazet Tools makes some really good tools for German cars as well. I love Hazet and had a set in mind when I wanted to do Mercedes Repairs. Also, about the oil filter cup, I've seen so many break and broken so many that I would recommend one that either has lifetime warranty or inexpensive. I just bought an RS4 and this video really helps me out. I already know I need square drives and the plastic trim tools. My suggestion for owning tools to work on the European DSM is to have extras or doubles of your tools. The reality is that when you work on one, someone else will most likely have worked on it before incorrectly so you may end up breaking a tool to remove the over-tightened oil filter cap. Thanks for the video Charles. I enjoyed it.
Good list and selection. The XZN / triple square and Torx are really the must have tools here. Many of the others are a bit more general but hugely useful such as trim removal tools. I always assume that trim is made from unobtainium but the clips are much more sacreficial. Like the hose clip crimpers made from solid bars. This is a genius thing. Ta!!
Great video - I've collected most of these tools over the years via Amazon christmas lists... Family always wants gift ideas and collecting specialty tools (not when you need them for a job already) is good solution.
I'm in subaru land, not vw, but that "Handy Remover" is the best thing i've bought so far. So many takata airbags done in half the tools thanks to that thing.
Wheel holders are such a must have for European cars! I used to struggle so much with lug bolts and eventually I became decent with them. Then one day someone saw me struggling with wheels from a G wagon and handed me a pair of wheel holders. The difference was night and day for me and I am so much more efficient using a wheel holder than going without. I ended up buying a set with sizes to fit most cars. Also I love that you included the hose clamp pliers because I have been looking for a good pair. My coworkers use either the cable type or regular pliers and I don't like the cable ones because it's often hard to get them situated on the clamp in tight spaces and once they're on the clamp there is a possibility of them slipping off which can be painful.
Mercedes tech here and I gotta say almost all the same basics except those female torx seems like you need a complete set these days
just got myself a set of the bluepoint Triple Square, Stubbys and there a awesome. i made my wife a wheel holder a few year back to make it easier if she had to chance a wheel at the road side very handy just to keep in your boot
Nice. I really need to buy a set of super short triple squares
The wheel hanger is a great tip ; I've used them for years as on the ground or on a lift of any height you can easily throw out your back - and anyone who has done that or strained your back will tell you that you are essentially "out of commission" for several days (if not weeks)! My Audi S5 sports 20" ers (wheel and tire is 55lbs +) !!
Always enjoy your vids HM.
You are right on the money about those hose clamp pliers. I got a decent set from Advance Auto Parts and they are very helpful. When I didn't have them I borrowed a cheap hose clamp tool with the long cable. They were very cumbersome to use. It was aggravating to grab small clamps like the hose going to the aux coolant pump for the 2.0t FSI.
After doing a tire rotation I would say that the wheel hanger is a great investment too. Going to keep it in the spare tire compartment for emergencies. Changing a flat at the side of the road is a huge pain without something like this.
9:19 Go to your local bike shop and pick up a 15mm cone wrench - No grinding needed. Park Tool makes a nice one :)
What i have found works well for rear brake calipers is a 15mm bike pedal spanner as its thin enough to fit behind the caliper
That’s a great idea
The last VW I had I used VagCom but I recently purchased a new VW and someone pointed me to CarPort Diagnostics and honestly I'm liking it a lot better.
I love my Hazet 197-3 magnetic bowl. Great quality and not outrageously priced like other Hazet tools.
Also love my 1/4 drive Craftsman flex spinner handle for hose clamps. The only downside is if you turn it too hard the shaft will spin in the 1/4 drive connector. I might have to find a more durable one.
Hey Charles-Your videos have really helped me learn and work on my VW/Audi A3 TFSI and other cars. Thank you! I've done a total career change (at 66!) from advertising photographer to-get this-a VW dealership wrench-entry level of course but the experience I got from my DIY jobs, timing covers, tensioner update, brakes, radiator R&R, etc got me in the door! In this 15 Must Have tools video at about 4:00 minute mark you've got a socket holder with 2 rows of 13 magnets. I want one! I cant see a brand name or locate it online. Would you mind sharing who makes it and name? I picked up the HF roll away tool cart yesterday in your $1500 tool kit vid-and love it! Not too fancy for a newbie but totally what I need to start. Thanks!
"I'm going to design a highly complicated and nearly inaccessible part, involving an overly elaborate and completely unnecessary proprietary fastener."
- Dr. Evil
Hey how about a overview on how to use vagcom
I use it to pull codes on my wife's b5 Passat but haven't changed any setting due to fear of screwing something up
One tool often over looked and something I use on every car I put on the ramp is my trusty big black tire bar... check all the bushes and ball joints every time, also good for finding rust holes!
Yes on VCDS and on low-profile torx -- I splurged on the Schwaben set.
for Allen I grabbed a 1/4 and 1/2 set and skipped 3/8. Served me well so far
Glad you like those VIM triple squares. Just got them off Amazon. All my VIM bits have been great.
Yep. They are awesome for the price.
I got my head bolt tool from VIM, for the price i couldnt beat it
Vcds is the most important with my car it’s saved me so much money over the years being able to diagnose it and recode it myself.
TRUTH!
100% agree. Vcds/vagcom is a must have.
Or elsawin
An old motronic doesn't make the power or have the throttle response. If your using stage 4 maf might I suggest map tuning. There are so many features and capabilities like direct fire ignition capability/wheelspin mitigation/E-85 with auto ratio sensing/Anti-lag ect...
Vcds is good I preferred vas but that may just be rose coloured glasses more than anything else Odis is shit unless you’re doing a lot of diagnostics
11mm bleeder wrench and 7mm bleeder wrench for drum brakes!
Also once I got one of these, I now use it 100% of the time but: VW coil removal tool. Such a time saver!
Just refreshed a ‘95 Passat VR6. Triple Squares and that stupid spark plug wire remover were what I needed most.
Just get mk4 plug wires the pullers are integrated.
Don't go spend money on a wheel holder thing.
Take a tie rod off a mk4 and cut it. Get fancy and round of the end in the grinder.
I put one with the spare tires of all my vehicles and have one on my tool box. I don't use them often but on cars with spacers or missing the screw on the rotor they come on handy
Hey Charles I’m new in the heavy equipment tech field and want to brush up on my electrical base knowledge any ideas where this sort of thing is offered?
another AWESOME video, Charles, 😇 Thank you for taking the time out and producing great content, we really appreciate your effort, please do more video's, Kindest regards from the U.K 🙂
This video is exactly what people need. Well definitely for me
1/4" wobbly Allen head, was great for the valve cover and egr on mk4 diesels
Awesome video! Just picked up a MK4 GLI and this is exactly what I was looking for!
Thanks for this info! As a new VW tech this tool list will be something for me to work on acquiring.
Awesome
you mentioned a thin 15mm for the VW brakes, i use a small pair of Knipex cobra pliers they work great if you don't own a thin 15 like myself, never had one slip. Great videos man.
Depending on your skill level if your doing turbos all the time like we do in the northeast get a big stick of chapstick when the oil lines are stuck in the block smear chapstick around them then use a micro torch to melt it the oil lines pop right out no fighting and no needing to order more parts
Thanks, Charles, good list. I would include a VAG electrical connector removal tool for the hobbyist and DIYer. I've owned and maintained multiple VWs for around 10 years, and even though I remember how to properly remove the connectors without breaking them (mainly the coil packs); sometimes I just go a little extreme on them. This past week, I replaced a bad diverter valve on my 09 Tiguan. Since I couldn't see exactly what I was doing, I broke the tabs off the old, oil-soaked, brittle plastic connector forcing me to order the tools and replacement connector. After repinning a new connector, I plugged it back into the original DV forgetting to install the new valve. The tool made it an absolute breeze to remove the connector in the confined space! That $10 tool would have saved me days of headache waiting for parts!
What is this?
Another really good VW/Audi tool to have is a spark plug puller!! I just recently bought a 99 VW Beetle 5 speed and had to do a tune up and had to go buy one to remove the spark plugs
Get one of them magnets from H. F that extend like an old antenna it's got a green handle
18 mm all sorts offsets, straight hex bihex and triplesquares from tiny to jumbo size vag loves their offsets and triples quares (had to order a new set to cover jumbo sizes)
That last tool is smart as hell.... especially if you don’t have the Phillips head holding the rotors! My car is missing all four so when I remove a tire it’s such a pain in the ass to sit down with the tire on your legs guiding it on and trying to get the first stud started!
Super glue, epoxy, & strong (thin) tape to repair those interior panels/pieces that will break their clips when you remove them...also a good flashlight and magnetic pick up tool
An extending magnetic pick up tool was the best £1 purchase I have ever made.
Luke Timms - Amen to that. Not so long ago. Some colleagues drafted me to help on a timing belt, filters, water pump, a few seals, etc. the all shebang on one of their clients diesel... They swear to me all the tools where there so no problem. Well the fact is that I only carried one thing in my pocket, an ext pickup magnetic tool. Guess what, it was useful. ;-)
one of the best things i was given was a flashlight that had a magnet around the lens and the head extended . Items that fall into those dark hard to reach places got a lot easier to get
No. If you open the interior panel with a plastic tool as shown, the forces get split between tool and panel and it won't break. Use a metal thing and all the force goes to the interior piece = CRACK
One VERY necessary tool that’s used at vw/Audi dealerships is a knuckle spreader. You put it in a 1/2 inch ratchet and it basically spreads the knuckle so you don’t need to use a pry bar and hammer to spread the knuckle
Hell yea! I've got most of the tools already, it's the cheep or hand made stuff that I think is the best. I modified a lock pick set my self but I also use dead feeler gages and grind the pattern out on them. I'm off to the salvage yard today to rummage through and find a wheel tool, I have an old stud out of a motorcycle engine that works but isn't cool enough for me.
I like and had an Audi, but my best tool is to buy a Ford or Toyota. When i first took a bolt of the tire, i freaked, I thought i broke something on my Audi. 😅 Then realized this was normal. Hence the beginning of a weird repair relationship with that car. Then went to Volvo then thought i was in bizzaro land with costs. Then went to Ford and Toyota... been happy ever since.😄 Great video for warning future Audi/VW DIY owner/mechanics on the perils of having one of these cars. Great fun cars though. 👍
Great minds think alike!
I have a 13 Q5 and have owned it for less than a year. Its had more problems within it than my 290k miles Celica has had oil changes :)
Awesome content, Year’s can be saved by taking this advice seriously!!!
And a vaccum gauge. But this was a quality video, and i thank you for making it. Oh you forgot the best tool ever! The pocket screwdriver.
The DIY pin removal tool is an awesome idea, I have access to all the OEM tools at work but for home use a cheap substitute made out of old wiper blades sounds just right!
You'll nee a tool to measure torque angle. VW/Audi love their torque to yield bolts!
Oh yeah they do. Luckily most are 90 or 180 which is pretty easy to mark or eyeball. But a torque angle gauge is a good tool to have. Or a torque wrench that measures angle. That’s what I have.
Try a chalk marker. Cheap, and easy to see
@@HumbleMechanic hey which torque wrench do you recommend for a DYI'r
I'm going have to have a list of this. You just gave me a shopping list for Parts-A-Rama this year.
Wobble Extensions, Magnetic Spark plug Socket, and Locking Extensions & Locking Swivel (If they're not Wobble type) (I find the Wobble extensions help a TON with clearing things on my 2005 B6 Audi A4 3.0 Quattro), Inspection Mirror (Helps alot in tight spaces to make sure things are properly seated or to find those hidden fasteners), Also Ball Joint Separators I personally prefer the Jaw/ scissor style with the bolt that opens the Jaw as it helps to prevent damage to ball joints if you're removing suspension components for clearance or to service something else Vs. a pickle fork which tends to damage the ball joints in most cases (This to me would be a highly needed tool as the Control arm bushings tend to take a crap a lot on the B6 platform vehicles at least from what I've noticed), and most importantly a good service manual to reference to for those DIY and independent's that don't have access to Alldata, Mitchell on demand or other similar or factory service programs. Charles - HumbleMechanic had pretty much nabbed some of the more important ones I was going to mention, love tool lists like this!
Good shouts! I've given up on inspection mirrors now though because I always ruin them welding an exhaust the lazy way (in the car) so these days I use the force and it works well for me so far... a good imagination and clean hands helps 👌🏻
Interesting that after buying an Audi I purchased damn near every tool he mentioned. Did not know about the wheel positioned. Next on my list.
AWESOME! Thank you!
Triple squares are an absolute MUST. I say this because almost nobody carries these. They're almost always a tool truck or online deal. If you buy a German car, buy a set.
they have them at auto parts stores but not the sockets, just the bits (where you have to put a socket on top)
Tools I've used a fair amount are the coil pack puller, the pins for holding tensioners and the pin to set a manual transmission in the "home" position. I have to maintain 3 VWs so for me these are essential, others' mileage may vary.
Excellent Video. One tool I have struggled with is a spanner for the threaded Union between the turbo and oil pipe feed on a 1.9tdi BLS Engine. I have ground down a 14mm but that didn't work. Any ideas?
Thanks.
thank you thank you thank you for the the wheel holder alignment tool advice. Why does that not come with the regular tire change equipment?
I got one in my old 86 jetta came with and my later year passat came with a plastic one go figure!
Awesome video my guy!!!!! I stopped using the filter cup with the hole for 3/8 in it because some crazy techs/diyers put those filters on so tight (almost impact tight) that the socket part would crack, split or break off right away. Even with a socket on it. I felt the hole made it it's weak point.
thanks a lot! But what about special key for brake piston? i have this one! werry comfortable to use changing brake pads. Now i am going to buy candle key.
Thanks for the video. I start at a VW dealership soon and now I can narrow down what I need if I dont have it already.
I wish this video came out 7 years ago. Lol I had to take so many trips to the auto parts store in between fixing things because I didn't have any of these. But I think a swear jar is #1
Oh dang. Sorry? Lol
Nice! The very last tool presented its really appealing
Also Stripped screw&bolt set comes in handy when previous owners strip the hell out of the torx bolts and a pic tool for electrical connections come in handy epecially when aged and brittle vcd is a givin too especially these days since everything is cpu related kinda hard to do a throttle body adaptation with out it surely saves$$ in the long run...
Thank you Charles for another fantastic video!!! One day...I’ll buy you a beer buddy! 👍
I’ll take that deal. But first round is on me.
HumbleMechanic The second, and third is on ME then buddy!!!
Awesome video. Thanks! Quick specific question: what bit(s) do I need for replacing the starter on a 2018 Passat? I'm having trouble finding any documentation on it.
Well done!! Very informative. Back into VDubs after 15yrs with a Mk4 Tdi . Thanks!
Audi TT I had came with a plastic wheel holder. The weight of the wheel and tire would bend it and the wheel could/would fall off. The metal wheel holders are awesome.
I use the plastic in a pinch but the metal is way better
For the oetiker clamps I have found the ratchet style clamp tool for PEX oetiker clamps works amazing. It uses compound leverage to take what can be a PITA and make it a much easier job. It has become one of the most commonly borrowed/stolen tool, well after the 10mm socket...
Thanks for the great videos and tips! Wheel holder came with Touareg? Sure enough, ran down to my garage and it was right there the whole time. I purchased a set of those not even knowing that was hiding in the back of the treg. Still happy I have a set as using two does make it a little easier. Thanks for the tips, really is a great tool and keeps you form scratching the inner barrel by accident.
LOL Glad you found it. :) I think 2 is a must while wrenching... Well I guess 4 is better
For my mk2 golf. Extra wobbly 3/8 extensions. 7mm socket flex screwdriver. Electrician screwdriver and pick set and lots of wd40
Hey Charles, great video and yeah you definitely hit everything I can think of for must haves for VAG maintenance. I'll share one that I think is a must have for B8 platforms for rear wheel bearings, if you have ever tried to remove those two lower M12 recessed triple square knuckle bolts that hold the bearing to the knuckle then you know what I'm talking about. That aluminum shaft that houses the control arm bolt to the wishbone is right in the way of this job. I found that that a very short M12 triple square bit with a 10mm hex end works great to get a 10mm box wrench on. But, I found that this tool from Snap-On is a must to get a ratchet on that bit, a Standard Torque Adapter (part # FRDHM10) 3/8 drive to 12pt 2" in length - I'm not partial to Snap-On, although I do have much from them as well as other tool truck tools - but I've not seen this torque adapter from any other manufacture. There is no way to get a ratchet on those two lower bolts without that adapter - it will save you a lot of time without having to remove any of the suspension components, so a stubby M12 triple square bit and that torque adapter I'd put in your tool box as well
Thanks 4 the vid. Learned much the hard way but video helpful none the less...
I know this is old, but I have to comment on the thin wrench for the rear brake caliper.
A while ago we bought a piece of exercise equipment that needed to be assembled and packaged with the hardware was this odd looking cheap “multi tool” that was basically a screwdriver, but instead of a proper handle it had a half dollar coin sized round piece of metal on the end with indents for three different wrench sizes. Half way through assembling the elliptical I realized that this “thick coin screwdriver wrench” thing might fit that stupid rear caliper pin perfectly...... and not only did it work, but the size and shape of the thing makes it better to use on that job than a proper wrench.
Hey sir nice post. I don't work on cars except my own but I can relate to what your saying. I not to long ago worked on a Husqvarna demo Saw and they built them with only torx screws
I should have looked to see if I already left a comment lol
Forgot the special Long Torx specialty Male bit for Head Bolts.
Those bit ratchets are great for the mk6 microswitch recalls
just bought a '10 vw cc vr6. it drives really well and it's quick. the interior is awesome. but whenever i start the car and drive, nothing bad happens. i love it. it's perfect. how do i fix this issue?
you give away so much info it's crazy so how many old air cooled bugs do you have that was my first shop i worked at was only air cooled no water boxes
Hey sir great post. I don't know how I got through life without socket bit sets now that I have them I'm looking for more as I use them more and more
Thank you for taking the time out of your day to make these videos. Super helpful.
Any video of you taking apart the center console on the Tiguan? I’m trying to replace my electric parking brake switch just need the help on which tools would be useful. Thank you (:
Typically most interior trim is t20 torx maybe a 10mm and 13mm. Of course a trim tool
If you're looking for thin wrench, get a cone wrench. They're a bicycle specific tool, very thin, but I've used them lots and they work great. Try to go for a park tool cone wrench if possible, they're more pricey but they're the best bike tools you can buy.
Awesome I’ll check it out