Master the Basics with Sockets & Ratchets | MotorWeek Your Drive
In the latest episode of MotorWeek’s “Your Drive,” host Logan McCombs dives into the essential tools every car owner should have: sockets and ratchets. Knowing which tools are right for the job can save you time and frustration while tackling automotive tasks—whether you’re a DIY enthusiast or just maintaining your vehicle.
Logan breaks down the characteristics that make a good set of sockets and ratchets indispensable. He explains how regular sockets, usually made from chrome vanadium steel, provide a secure grip with either six or twelve points of contact. For high-torque applications, six-point sockets are ideal, while twelve-point sockets offer versatility but might risk rounding off fasteners.
He also highlights the importance of impact sockets—tougher, black-hued tools made from molybdenum steel that absorb impact rather than break under pressure. Understanding these basics will empower you to make informed choices when purchasing tools.
Ratchets are just as crucial, and Logan emphasizes the significance of tooth count in determining precision and ease of use in tight spaces. With a 90-tooth ratchet needing only four degrees of swing to engage, it offers a compact solution for intricate jobs.
Whether you’re fixing up a car in your garage or just getting familiar with the tools, this episode is filled with practical insights that will make your automotive maintenance tasks easier.
For more car care tips, check out the “Your Drive” segment on our MotorWeek website, and don’t forget to catch our full episodes on local PBS stations or download the free MotorWeek app to stay updated on the latest automotive news!
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Join us as we explore the tools that can make car maintenance accessible and straightforward, ensuring you’re always equipped with the right tools for the right job!
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Video “Sockets & Ratchets | MotorWeek Your Drive” was uploaded on 11/29/2025 to Youtube Channel MotorWeek