25 Gadgets for Mechanics, Gift Ideas for the Gear-Head in Your Life
What could you buy your handy DIYer that would make them giggle like a schoolgirl? You want to gift them something that’s ahead of its time and ultimately makes their life easier. Here you will find all sorts of innovative tools, aids, and gadgets that any mechanic would love to get their hands on. So, what are the Best Gadgets for Mechanics?
The best gadgets for mechanics should be a tool, device, or mechanism that improves work efficiency making their job easier. It should encompass cutting edge technology that’s tried and tested, safe, multipurpose, and durable enough to handle constant usage.
25 Gadgets for Mechanics:
- FLEXiT Auto Flexible Flashlight ($29.99)
- FLEXiT Flexible Flashlights 2.0 ($29.99) and 4.0 ($39.99)
- FLEXiT Solar Flexible Rechargeable Flashlight ($49.99)
- FLEXiT Headlamp 2.5 ($39.99)
- FLEXiT Headlamp PRO 6.5 ($59.99)
- Garage Parking Sensor ($29.99)
- Tough Skin ($7.99)
- ILLUMiDOME ($19.99)
- Light Mine Professional ($24.99) and Magnetic Light Mine ($6.99)
- B.A.M.F.F. Tactical Flashlights (6 options $29.99 - $99.99)
- Mobile Task Light ($49.99)
- TRiLIGHT Motion activated ceiling light ($129.99)
- TRiLIGHT ShopLight ($129.99)
- MPI - Multi-Point Illumination ($249.99)
- Carpenter Pencil ($3.99)
- Reusable/Washable Cotton Face Mask ($4.99)
- EZ Utility Jug 3 gal ($54.99) and 5 gal ($69.99)
In this article we cover the following:
- Demanding needs of being a mechanic
- A plethora of products that are ideal for mechanics
- Specific Gadget details, pricing, features, and usage of each tool.
The Nature of Working as a Mechanic
A mechanic's gadgets should accommodate the three most common demands of the job:
- Darkness. Mechanics working under vehicles usually find themselves in very low lit areas whether it be their garage or outside. Mechanics need a very concise directional light source to illuminate specifically what they are working on. We offer the perfect combination of lighting solutions that dramatically increase their ability to see and troubleshoot any project they are working on.
- Tight spaces. When a mechanic is working on a vehicle it’s a very compact intimate workspace. Having limited space around them poses unique opportunities for mechanic’s devices that are compact, magnetic, have multiple settings and are easily moveable. The ideal gadgets will have sensors, be flexible and can adapt to the space.
- Handsfree. Mechanics need their hands to work and not hold things. They are busy wrenching, twisting, grinding, and crafting and yet they also need to point light in a very specific direction. In these scenarios, we can offer the best hands-free light options that are adjustable, as well as some other products that free up their hands.
Here are 25 Gadgets that help match all of the needs listed above.
FLEXiT Flexible Flashlight Series
All of the flashlights in the FLEXiT series have a flexible neck that molds to almost any surface, keeping your hands free to use any of the tools at your disposal. Aside from the base battery compartment, the body of this product is flexible and moldable.
You can mount it on a nearby structure, including the hood or simply set it on the ground. Furthermore, this light offers either a focused spot light or it provides 360 degrees of illumination just by changing its shape. You can hang it anywhere that’s thin enough for this product to stretch around, lighting up the whole area. To truly see how these amazing flexible flashlights bend into the exact shape you need, watch this fun video:
FLEXiT Auto Flexible Flashlight ($29.99)
If you end up in an emergency situation, this light has 3 red hazard led lights on the back. It blinks three times in a pattern, altering nearby emergency services and drivers to use caution upon approaching you and your vehicle.
You can also cycle through the multiple lighting modes. The feature that takes this light to the next level is that it’s magnetic, so you can hook it onto any steel surface vehicle. When your mechanic pal is tired of having to hold a flashlight, then the FLEXiT Auto Light should be at the top of your list.
Pros
- Comes with four light modes, including an emergency mode
- Uses powerful magnets to hold onto the side of your vehicle
- Includes multiple lights on all sides to provide all-around illumination
- Keeps your hands free for other tools
- Physically mimics road hazard cones to signal other drivers to use caution
- 10 LED lights offering 200 lumens on front and 3 additional red LED’s on back
FLEXiT Flexible Flashlights 2.0 ($29.99) and 4.0 ($39.99)
The FLEXiT 2.0 and 4.0 are both part of a line of flexible flashlights that have a magnetic base leading up to a panel of LEDS made out of flexible material. This Shape-Loc material lets you fold these compact lights around a variety of surfaces.
The base is made out of a non-marring material meaning it won't leave any damaging marks where you temporarily attach it magnetically.
Each light has up to 70 hours of runtime, making them perfect for long-term usage. The 2.0 FLEXiT tends to be more budget friendly, and the 4.0 at 400 lumens is really more desirable for those for auto repairs, and general garage work. Specifically by folding the light inward, you can amplify its effects.
If you’re working outside (or the person that you’re gifting this to works outside), then you’ll love the outdoor weather resistance. It’s made to withstand wind, rain, and snow, so it can be used throughout the year. It’s also shockproof, which is a huge bonus for most mechanics.
4.0 Pros
- Can be wrapped around or connected to almost any surface
- Focusing lamp with 400 lumens and flexible head can create multiple lighting scenarios
- Weatherproof which comes in hand in all kinds of side of the road repairs
- Made to last up to 70 hours before needing to be recharged
- 12 LED lights with night mode, iplus 1 center CREE spot light, 4 additional Red LED’s
Watch the FLEXiT beat a traditional flashlight in every way here:
FLEXiT Solar Flexible Rechargeable Flashlight ($49.99)
Another version of the FLEXiT Light lineup is the FLEXiT Solar. Much as the name insinuates, this flashlight is primarily powered by a solar panel.
It uses a built-in lithium-ion battery pack that charges up as long as it’s out in the sunlight. However, you can also enjoy recharged batteries by using the provided USB cable.
Surprisingly this Solar light can provide a whopping 500 lumens and comes with four different light modes. You’ll be able to select how much light comes out, directly resulting in energy savings if preferred.
It also includes an emergency light mode that blinks red multiple times to alert anyone who’s in the area.
The water-resistant case that surrounds this light is made to withstand all sorts of unpredictable weather. Even if it’s being used indoors, moisture caused by spills and humidity won’t damage the unit.
Pros
- Comes with four adjustable light modes
- Puts out a powerful 500 lumens at the highest mode
- Concentrated light to illuminate anything you’re working on
- Always charging when it’s under direct sunlight
This video shows all the features of the powerful FLEXiT Solar Flashlight:
FLEXiT Headlamp 2.5 ($39.99)
Next up on the list is the high-quality FLEXiT Headlamp 2.5. This unique headlight is unlike any other that you’ve seen. Rather than only providing a concentrated beam of light on the area in front of you, this light illuminates everything from edge to edge. That's because this one of a kind headlamp that features both spot and flood lighting. You’ll be able to see everything in your line of sight with this 250 lumen headlamp.
At only 5.8 ounces, this headlamp is perfect for an ultra-lightweight kit. Whether you’re gifting it to a mechanic or using it for backpacking, it’s an all-around useful tool that everyone should have. The adjustable band makes it a one-size-fits-all, which is exactly what you need when buying apparel for someone else.
Pros
- Comes with an adjustable band to fit any head size
- Only weighs 5.8 ounces for a lightweight kit
- Brightens up everything within 180 degrees of the light
Seeing is believing, so see for yourself with this video about the FLEXIT Headlamp:
FLEXiT Headlamp PRO 6.5 ($59.99)
If you liked the FLEXiT Headlamp 2.5, then you will love the PRO 6.5! It features the same basic, low profile / comfortable design, but takes it to the limit with premium technology and power.
Weighing in at only 5.8oz, the ultra-thin and lightweight FLEXIT Headlamp PRO combines comfort & ergonomics, with performance & usability. It features a modern design which has never been seen on other headlamps. This design solves “tunnel vision” caused by traditional headlamps by utilizing side mounted flood lights that create 240° “HALO style” lighting. These side mounted lighting panels are C.O.B. LEDs and they can fill an entire room with even lighting. Combine that with the power of the adjustable, center mounted, CREE spotlight, and the user can see well into the distance while also lighting the entire immediate area. The total system emits a blinding 650 lumens.
The FLEXIT Headlamp PRO features multiple lighting modes, which are all individually controlled with their own button, and can be used independently or simultaneously. The flood and spot modes are controlled with a tap of the “temple buttons” uniquely located at the temple of the wearers head. This premium headlamp also features front and rear red LEDs for “night vision” and a very innovative hazard mode.
The hazard mode enables the rear facing red light, and side mounted flood lights, to blink while the focal spotlight remains solid on high power. This ensures that the user is seen from all angles, but still allows the user to adequately illuminate the task at hand. This safety feature is perfect for identifying a lost hiker, illuminating a runner or biker, or alerting oncoming traffic during roadside repair.
Powered by a 3350mAh rechargeable 18650 lithium-ion battery, the FLEXiT Headlamp PRO has the battery capacity to support all of these features and power. Additionally, most rechargeable headlamps and flashlights offer a sealed battery with USB charging. The FLEXiT Headlamp PRO gives the user the ability to either, charge the battery via USB, or swap it out for a fully charged backup battery. This is invaluable in power out / emergency situations, or long excursions where charging batteries is not an option.
Hands-free lighting is a must in many situations, and the evolutionary design of the FLEXIT Headlamp PRO increases overall usability, function, and comfort, no matter what the condition. Use the FLEXIT Headlamp PRO when camping, hiking, running, or biking. Mechanics and tradesmen will also appreciate the benefits of the low-profile design and “Halo” lighting to ensure all low-light tasks are well lit.
Pros
- Extremely comfortable
- A flood light that will light an entire garage bay
- A spot light that will pinpoint light into a dark engine bay
- 360° degree flashing hazard with constant spot for roadside repairs
- Rechargeable and swappable high capacity lithium-ion battery.
Garage Parking Sensor ($29.99)
Have you ever bumped into the edge of your garage? The tennis ball trick works sometimes, but why dangle a tacky ball in your garage when you don’t have to? Luckily, the Garage Parking Sensor tells you how close you are to the wall, preventing unwanted dings and accidents. You can set it and forget it.
The way this parking sensor works is it has an adjustable sensor that tells the system when you’re getting close. You can set the distance to meet your demands, so don’t worry about abiding by any preset distances. Once you set the sensor, it uses the traffic light system to let you know when to slow down and it turns red and beeps to alert you to stop.
Mount the sensor, test the distance and slowly drive into the garage. Mechanics who are always working on their cars will love this simple, effective tool. Now you can move large objects around the shop and have another set of electronic eyes to let you know when you’re getting close to something. You’ll no longer have to deal with such issues with this sensor.
Pros
- Easy red, yellow, and green traffic light communication
- Set it up, test the distance, and set it to your preferences
- Doesn’t take up any floor space
Tough Skin ($7.99)
Tough Skin takes protective gloves to the next level. If you’ve ever used heavy-duty gloves, then you know how cumbersome they can be. They’re bulky and they get in the way, both of which aren’t good for mechanics. Fortunately, Tough Skin is thin, lightweight, and it keeps your fingers free of invasive glove material.
These hand protectors are designed to reduce vibrations caused by using various power tools. They’re also perfect for heavy equipment since they prevent sliding and scrapes. These lightweight gloves act as a second skin, so you can use them for mechanic projects, yard work, fishing, and more.
You won’t have to deal with factory odors, nor do you have to worry about a gross sweat smell building up. They’re not the same material as traditional gloves and the surface is porous enough to wick moisture away. All you have to do is slide your hand up through the larger hole on the bottom, and then slide your fingers into their finger holes giving you that added layer of palm protection.
Pros
- Designed to be lightweight and versatile
- Reduces blisters, friction, vibrations, and more
- Easy to wear since they fit almost any hand size
ILLUMiDOME ($19.99)
The ILLUMiDOME mini waterproof lantern is a lamp that illuminates everything within the dome’s reach. It’s super lightweight and easy to install anywhere you need to brighten. Furthermore, it has an adjustable strap on top that allows you to hang it. Mechanics can hang it under the hood to see the engine bay or set it under the vehicle to brighten up the whole underside.
These dome lights are waterproof enough to float on water, and they won’t sink because they’re filled with air. On top of that, they only use one watt of energy, making them as efficient as it gets. There are four modes, with the highest mode putting out just over 200 lumens. You’ll have no problem seeing everything around.
This dome light comes with a limited one-year manufacturer warranty. It also has three AA batteries that come included with the package for 100 hours of runtime before they need to be replaced.
Pros
- Comes with multiple lighting modes that only consume one watt
- Illuminates everything within a small area with 220 lumens
- Floats on water/waterproof
Light Mine Professional ($24.99) and Magnetic Light Mine ($6.99)
Light Mines aren’t the most popular light on the market, but they’re definitely worth checking out. The Light Mine Professional boasts 250 lumens, four light modes, a tough exterior shell. The multiple magnets surrounding its spherical shape allow it to attach it to any metal surface at any lighting angle. It’s perfect for working on vehicles and other garage projects.
On the other hand, the Magnetic Light Mine offers 12 lumens with a see-through red shell. It has a runtime of 10 hours, which is ideal if you’re using it for short projects. It also has a weather-resistant body, a sliding power switch, and three batteries included to get it running right out of the box.
Both light mines use 12 rare earth magnets, powerful LED lights, and several hours of runtime to keep them operational. Any mechanic who’s had to work in dark, tight spaces will be able to appreciate this high-end versatile light.
Pros
- A budget-friendly price point for a high-quality light
- Quickly attached to any metal surface with 12 magnets
- Uses a simple sliding power switch for an instant on/off
B.A.M.F.F. Tactical Flashlights (6 options $29.99 - $99.99)
Tactical lights are a favorite of mechanics around the world, especially if they're small enough to be an EDC (or everyday carry). Getting a light that’s too bulky can hinder your performance, which is why the B.A.M.F.F. is such a sought after flashlight.
It comes with two LEDs; One of them is the primary narrow light that shoots out into the distance, whereas the other is a wide light that illuminates the area surrounding you. Providing you the best of both worlds.
The outer shell of this flashlight is made with Aircraft grade aluminum to keep your light protected from damaging drops and still light weight. There’s a membrane button on the back of the light that allows you to turn it on and off quickly. No need for replacing the bulb since it lasts for tens of thousands of hours.
Depending on which model you use, the light is either powered by AAA batteries, AA batteries, or a rechargeable lithium-ion 18650 battery. As the model gets bigger, so do the lumens put out by the flashlight.
Pros
- Comes in multiple models that have different lumen levels
- Dual LED design for flood and spot lighting
- Includes a protective coating to prevent shock damage
- Long-lasting LED light bulbs
Mobile Task Light ($49.99)
Portable lights are always useful for mechanics, but sometimes they need to brighten up an entire room or garage. The Mobile Task Light is among the brightest and most durable flood lights on the market. It comes with a powerful 1200 lumens, shattering the lumen count set by any other light above.
To use this light, all you have to do is set it on or hang it through one of the holes or it’s aluminum frame. They’re big enough for garage hooks, allowing you to get the perfect angle when you’re working with the light. Despite the fact that it’s bigger than most other lights on the list, it’s actually quite lightweight and portable.
The sliding hinge on the back of the Mobile Task Light allows you to angle it in any direction. Place it on its metal legs and turn to the lamp at the task at hand. This hands-free lighting option is one of the best that you’ll find for mechanics and other people who work with their hands.
Pros
- Uses 1200 lumens for an ultra-bright light
- Angle it or hang it in any direction
- Lightweight and portable to bring wherever you go
Here is a great video that shows off all the Mobile Task Lights features:
TRiLIGHT Motion Activated Ceiling Light ($129.99)
Hands-free flashlights are convenient, but nothing beats a ceiling light with directional lighting. You can install the TRiLIGHT in any light socket around the garage (or anywhere else). Rather than having to rewire the ceiling, you can use pre-existing sockets. These lamps are made with three wings that fan out in any direction to brighten it up.
This lighting system only consumes 24 watts per hour, which is far less than the average bulb and 5x brighter. Furthermore, you’ll have three different blade lights (as mentioned above), which means you’ll be able to illuminate far bigger areas than you would any stationary ceiling light.
The TRiLIGHT puts out 4,000 lumens, which is more than enough to brighten up your entire garage. Rotate and face the blades strategically to illuminate the dark corners or set them flat to keep the whole room at an even level of brightness.
Pros
- Only costs 24 watts per hour while producing 4,000 lumens
- Uses powerful LED lights on an adjustable wing system
- Doesn’t require rewiring, as long as you have a normal light bulb socket
TRiLIGHT ShopLight ($129.99)
Much like the TRiLIGHT garage ceiling light, the TRiLIGHT ShopLight uses three fan-like lightbulb panels that you can adjust to face different angles. It’s heavy-duty and long-lasting, providing countless hours of brightness while you work.
The primary difference between the two TRiLIGHTs is that this one has a handle and power cord and can sit on the ground or hang from something similar to an old school metal drop light and the TRiLIGHT above is a stationary light fixture that screws into a light socket.
Another significant difference is that this one has 3,000 lumens instead of 4,000. However, since it’s a floodlight, it’s still enough to brighten up your whole garage. Day or night, you’ll be able to see everything that you’re working on. It can be adjusted to the perfect angle as well.
The aluminum heads on this light are designed to take a beating. Drag it around the shop floor, pick it up and set it down; You won’t have any issues dealing with breakages or chips along with the aluminum wings. They’re as tough as you’ll find anywhere on the market.
Pros
- Comes with three adjustable wings that put out 3,000 lumens
- 360-degree illumination wherever you go, whenever you need it
- Over 50,000 hours of life in each LED bulb
- Only consumes 24 watts per hour
MPI - Multi-Point Illumination ($249.99)
The MPI (Multi-Point Illumination) full garage lighting system is one of the most unique lights you’ll find anywhere. It combines for a total of five lights, allowing you to brighten up an entire room evenly. No more blaring lights on one part of the room while the rest is covered in shadows. These lights work together to give your garage a total of 7500 lumens out of just one light socket.
There’s a main hub light that screws into a standard light bulb socket. Off of it comes four additional lights, each with its own built-in cable management system creating a finished look for every custom install. You can choose wherever you want the extra lights to go, as long as they’re within 9.5 feet from the hub.
Much like many other LED lights on this list, the MPI system lasts well over 50,000 hours. That’s right, You won’t have to buy new bulbs every year like you have to with most traditional light systems. On that note, they only consume 60 watts per hour. It’s hard to beat such a low number with high lumens!
Pros
- Comes with five lights: 1 main light with 4 light pods
- Perfect for long jobs (50,000 hours per bulb)
- Customize the setup to the perfect angle for your work
Carpenter Pencil ($3.99)
Everyone knows that pencils are a huge part of carpentry. Whether they’re writing blueprints, marking for cuts, or trying to figure out what to do next, a carpenter pencil is as important as any other tool in this industry. The Carpenter Pencil by SKTR Concepts takes the traditional carpenter’s pencil to the next level.
It constantly offers new graphite to write with, which means you’ll never have to sharpen it.. Most traditional Carpenter pencils require you to sharpen them on the fly which can be time consuming and potentially dangerous. With this one, you only need to push down on the end and release to reveal more graphite just as you would a standard mechanical pencil. It’s as simple as it gets, and since the graphite is more dense, it’ll last even longer.
Another great benefit of this pencil is that you never have to worry about it shrinking down to a little pencil nub. Carpenter pencils are known for this, they shorten as they’re sharpened. Which makes them even more difficult to write with. Verse this mechanical carpenters pencil always stays the same workable length which really comes in handy and helps your overall efficiency.
Pros
- Comes with plenty of long-lasting, bold graphite
- Made with a heavy-duty body to prevent damage
- Designed with a gripped surface
Reusable/Washable Cotton Face Mask ($4.99)
Masks have become part of everyday life. Whether they’re here for a short time or a long time, there’s no doubt that mechanics will always have a need to use them. The Reusable/Washable Cotton Face Mask can be used to keep out dust and debris, both of which can be a serious problem as a mechanic.
These black masks (ideal for a mechanic's dirty hands) feature the B.A.M.F.F. brand which is fun, bold and a little in your face! Safety PPE can become tiresome and monotonous after enough repetition, why not mix it up with something interesting?
These masks are made out of 100% cotton and they’re all-black which should mix well with grease, oil, and other shop-type debris. They’re also very durable, so you won’t have to worry about tears in the fabric or loose stitches ruining the mask. The bands on the side are elastic to allow for a one size fits many situation.
When you’re done using it for the day, it can be washed by hand or in a laundry machine. The fabric is also tough enough to go through the dryer as well.
Pros
- Perfect for everyday usage
- Easy to wash, wear, and adjust
- Made out of breathable, comfortable, durable cotton
EZ Utility Jug 3 gal ($54.99) and 5 gal ($69.99)
This high-quality product has an aluminum cap and an adjustable tube so you can use it without it cracking. There are multiple handles that allow you to get the perfect pouring angle.
There’s an O-ring on the top of the cap, which is used to prevent spills. You can store whatever liquids you need, including oil, gasoline, and water (check your State’s specific requirements).
This all-purpose, durable jug is a perfect gift for mechanics.
Pros
- Comes with a durable cap
- Choose between 3 to 5-gallon containers
- Optional hose bender pour spout ($19.99)
- Optional EZ floor mount ($19.99)
Conclusion
Finding a gift for a mechanic doesn’t have to be challenging. Even if you don’t know a lot about the industry, these suggestions will brighten up their day.
Everything listed above is affordable, long-lasting, and designed for the rugged job of a mechanic.
Whether you’re choosing magnetic lights, drop lights, jugs, masks, or anything in between, these are the best gifts for any mechanic.
