Required Tools for a VW/ Audi Tech

[@EXOVCDS]

WHAT HE SAID!!!!

[@flatratemaster]

I forgot a bunch, gonna have to do a part 2:(

[@billyp.7889]

Looking forward to part two; how has your warranty issues been with VIM? Do you get the warranted direct through VIM or do you have a tool truck guy, that sells them?

[@flatratemaster]

I can't say I have had to warranty anything from them yet, but 2 of my tool dealers sell VIM so I doubt it would be an issue for me!

[@FBobby]

Definitely do more of these. This stuff is INVALUABLE to new techs. It will save them a TON of money on buying tools they might not end up needing.

[@flatratemaster]

That is the hope:) Thanks I will keep doing them!

[@truckerpeterose]

I took your advice and bought a few sets of VIM triple squares and torx sets off Amazon. Super cheap but really great quality. I removed rear axles of two different 50 year old Beatles and swore I was gonna strip them before I finished one axle. I was pleasantly surprised that they held up without even leaving a mark. These VIM tools are no joke. Thanks for the heads up.

[@LEGOCAMARO]

Don’t forget the 14mm,16mm triple square with the security hole for drain plugs on the transmission, the suspension strut housing socket. Hazet seem to have the perfect tools for working on euro trash they are made in Germany

[@HardKnocksForge]

I've heard that matco makes the same ratchet as the flex head ez red you have and that they are much better than the ez reds. A big yes to more of these videos for specific manufacturers. Your videos are awesome, easy to understand, and you can tell in the videos that your opinions are from years of experience and that's what the young/new guys need.

[@flatratemaster]

I will check with my matco dealer:) Thanks I will keep them coming!

[@EdwardVanVino]

08:20 these are great great great great great tools, but get these! chuckled. I really do appreciate people that are straight up with recommendations, good job.

[@bigg4454]

Those types of vehicles rarely cross my path (thank goodness), but no question that's great stuff to know! I do have some of those items. Thanks a heap as always! You da man!

[@flatratemaster]

Thanks :)

[@PaulC1980]

I've only moved to vw from a long career on Japanese cars, I've never seen such vast problems, lots more tools required now, this is a good video 👍

[@priveprive5315]

Vag cars sucks 👍

[@Lovely_planet]

@@priveprive5315 eh, idk bout thaat but lol

[@bigg4454]

Oh, and thanks for the VIM tip too! They some stuff there! I need some long Torx bits to go with my standard ones!

[@flatratemaster]

They are great and soo affordable!

[@paulkhoury3160]

Technically, you can buy used Snap-On from ebay or pawnshops. The nice thing about Snap-on triple squares is if you strip them out, Snap-on replaces the bit for free (which is a 2 minute replacement on the truck). I've had mixed luck with VIM. If you apply a shitload of torque, especially with a breaker bar, you'll end up with a broken bit (I speak from experience).

[@rbaker1423]

Great topic series. Looking forward to seeing the ones for the other makes.

[@flatratemaster]

Thank you! I will keep them coming!

[@dyllman98]

Got my stuff off of amazon..Hex,torx,tripple square and have done so much with my mk4 must have tools. Removed a head, more then a hand full of axles..oil pans. Long ball end hex makes doing oilpans a breeze!

[@virtisconsole12]

Great video - and yes more of these.. I'd add that stubby trip squares are very much needed, especially with the rear wheel bearings to get those lower M12 bolts out. And the VIM 1/4" drive and hex bit with the flex head, makes doing the upper timing cover easy to snag in there to remove those t30s or 10mm - the problem with the flex head is that the locking bit seems to always come loose or break, I've probably replaced it 3x in a year, now I just leave that side unlocked

[@gordonfreeman5434]

Germans love the torx and hex!! And some Mercedes with their 9mm hex (not too common) for their brake sliders, those are fun. And actually some Hyundais use the 3x Squares head bolts (2011-2014 Sonatas are one of them). Good video thanks!!

[@flatratemaster]

Yes they do! I have not run into the heads on a Sonata yet, but good to know!

[@notkevinfinnerty4959]

Also the VIM stubby hexes in 1/4 and 3/8 are great; but the 1/4" drive stubby triple squares are ridiculously good; so useful in tight spots. I use them with my extra long snap-on 1/4" drive ratchet. Lethal combination for triple square fasteners. The set includes 4mm-12mm.

[@flatratemaster]

I have the shorty VIM set of triple squares now, love them. I have the Snap On shorty hex so no real need to try the VIM set, but thanks

[@georgecroney6168]

Literally the first car I ever worked on used triple squares, so I bought an impact set from 'sealey' like £20 and I know they're cheap so I'm weary when I use a small one to carefully crack the nut but I've not had an issue and I've worked on some nasty golfs. I might be lucky but there's nothing wrong with them so far

[@asmautollc]

This is a GREAT video. Just snagged the Vim HBR5 micro off of Amazon for ~$16. Haven't upgraded to the Vim long hex & torx bits yet, but they remain on the list!

[@flatratemaster]

Thank you!

[@asmautollc]

Don't know if you've come across these: Titan Tools 12624 Socket and Bit Conversion Kit - 4 Piece www.amazon.com/dp/B002VM7PBM/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_YIO4yb3R5ZACT Turn ratcheting wrenches into socket and bit drivers. I don't own reversible ratcheting wrenches (yet), but look like they could come in handy. I'll try them out & report back.

[@robb8402]

Triple squares I got a set from Mac a short set and long set 89$ never had an issue but the ball allen set is snap on all the way

[@billbeckett1021]

Definitely onto something here. I do collision repair and have the Mac triple square set. They have saved my but on many ocasions.

[@flatratemaster]

Thank you!

[@ronrichard141]

Thanks for sharing your knowledge, skills and tips.

[@flatratemaster]

Thanks for watching!

[@Ken-wu6hr]

Hell I've Been Doing this For 30 Years. ASE Master Tech L1. I Enjoy Your Video's. I like seeing what other guys do. I Don't work on Euro Trash. Except a good Customers 2 Jags. Unless I'm Dead

[@flatratemaster]

Thank you!

[@altonbarbee8864]

Thanks flat rate master! After your video i ordered some neiko long triple squares from amazon.

[@brianbowman5402]

You mentioned the timing belt tools. For the TDI (and maybe others), you also need a low profile puller like the cta2762.

[@flatratemaster]

Yes you do, also needed for v6 and v8 tbelt changes too

[@andresolmostito3409]

great video , better to be prepared at the moment you work on this VW/AUDI cars

[@techguylos213]

@ 1:51 i lost eye contact with him so i felt it was biased toward matco. but putting Irwin on map i felt Matco was his personal preference. I like Strap on n Crapco myself. nice review. the xzn drive is a must

[@Juarally]

Volvo also use tripple square on flywheel bolts and mercedes also use it on some models as well as porsche use it on newer models. Good Video

[@flatratemaster]

Porsche, I know about as they are part of the VAG group, but good to know on Volvo and MB

[@Juarally]

Flatrate Master Volvo use it on their 5 cylinder engines with M66 gearbox, Mercedes star using it on cylinder head bolts on newer models as well on some suspension components on S Class also Lamborghini on the later models use it on some parts of engine and gearbox. Keep the good videos coming, Must watch for younger techs starting out

[@Toolaholic7]

A 12 point 30mm axle nut socket as well,VW/Audi loves using 12 point axle nuts.I had to replace a transmission in a 2001 Beetle once and a 1 3/16 socket once.Yes,it was one with the automatic transmission.Justin Dow does not recommend that Ez Red driver at all,his broke at least 5 times and calls it a not to buy.

[@flatratemaster]

Yes they do! I have had less issues with mine than he has, IDK why

[@devoncoolman88]

Head bolt socket is a ribe socket. Vw 2.0's use them as well.

[@flatratemaster]

Yep!

[@DOYLECLEVERLOBE1]

Nice video, and yeah definitely go though tools for different makes.

[@flatratemaster]

I don't have 2 boxes and a cart for looks:)

[@DOYLECLEVERLOBE1]

LOL!

[@gsnovato_autotech]

I have the VIM short triple square set. Great set it gets used daily also got a shallow set from matco that can be used with a wrench or a 1/4” drive

[@beemertekm3276]

i just bought the matco bit set comes in handy doing airbag recalls

[@flatratemaster]

Great set, I use it daily for all sorts of things! another tech bought it a couple weeks ago and now uses it too!

[@johngibson3594]

Great vid for helping know what is needed for a brand

[@flatratemaster]

Thank you!

[@rstar88105]

a basic tool a lot of VW guys have is a timing belt tensioner pin bent to use as a pick tool to pull out wheel bolt caps.

[@flatratemaster]

Or a seat spring:) I use a internal snap ring pliers, tip from Thomasexovcds

[@kristopherhill2740]

great videos as always love your stuff. one thing is Mercedes and bmw are both triple square fans. also the 1/4 ones are great for Mercedes and Audi alignments.

[@flatratemaster]

Good to know! Thanks

[@daverush9675]

If you have a Cornwell dealer they have everything you need to work on Audi and Volkswagen I beat the crap out of the stuff and it's half the price of Snap-on with more variety and they will order stuff from ATS and other aftermarket vendors.

[@flatratemaster]

No Cornwell dealer, I use mostly VIM for VW tools, very little Snap On, FYI Cornwell triple squares etc are rebranded VIM

[@chinakmeru]

Great job buddy. Thanks.

[@audi_kid]

Great video I'm a 6yr Audi dealer tech 👌🏼

[@flatratemaster]

Thank you!

[@anthonygm85]

Just got a vw desal job with multiple codes and heavy mods to it, I had to to buy triple squares and triangle sockets also working with very limited information on testing other them ohm checking and visual check from the service manuals I have access to. Gonna be the last vw I work on probley

[@jamesbarratt593]

I am offering friendly advise. Up till this week I thought TORX was used on Volks 2.0fsi and found that it isn't torx but something real close. It's called RIBE. Really check RIBE out and try to fit them in volkswagen bolts. They fit perfectly, and much better than torx.

[@flatratemaster]

I will get a set then! Thanks for the tip!

[@jamesbarratt593]

I got my set of ribe a couple days ago and then checked it with the exhaust camshaft adhuster tty bolt. M10 needed a tap in with a hammer whereas the size below I just wasn't happy with. This is the same as using torx. So if truth be told, and from process of elimination, Polydrive is next to try. This bolt requires angle tightening 60 degrees and after rounding the last because I mist have not fit the torx t50 in tight enough, and with the bolt head hidden inside the adjuster leaving myself having to take the camshaft out and welding a nut to it; i have to find the answer. Ribe certainly look a tighter approach than torx though.

[@jamesbarratt593]

store.snapon.com/Polydrive-Head-Bolts-mm-1-2-quot--Bit-Socket-Driver-VW-Audi-10-Polydrive-Head-Bolt-P671821.aspx

[@jamesbarratt593]

On amazon after reading a comment below thus, i searched the site and found the exact tool. Labelled precisely for the adjuster www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B01LEXSMCY/ref=mp_s_a_1_fkmr0_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1491799557&sr=8-2-fkmr0&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_QL65&keywords=vim+tools+polydrive

[@snap-onman5088]

great series,you know your stuff

[@flatratemaster]

Thank you!

[@poonbandit9924]

Blue point master hex/torx comes with etorx as well excellent set it’s what I got when I first started by the recommendation of my boss, I’ve only added a few things to it in 8 years

[@dylankinch2735]

good vid frm. your sound quality is great now. whatever u did it worked. keep it up my friend. the channell is growing well for u. ill continue to support u

[@flatratemaster]

Thank you very much!

[@ClaytonBridges]

Id love to see a Toyota one personally. I mean, I dont think there would be too much specialty stuff.

[@flatratemaster]

some Special tools, but nowhere as much!

[@harveysmith100]

10mm 12mm 14mm

[@neondiamondsaquaberry17]

Harvey Smith pretty much this

[@mohammedsayfulahmed8651]

Great advice buddy, keep up your fantastic work

[@therookiefisherman5234]

Yes loved it. I like to learn a bot flat rate!!

[@justinyoungstown]

Just grabbed some stuff off Amazon. Went from independent to VW dealership.

[@Fedwrench]

good job!!! sage advice from the Master!!

[@jameswatkins7278]

I hope you are still considering more manufacture specific tool videos Ford GM Chrysler Toyota Nissan Honda Kia Hyundai Thanks for all the cool videos !

[@mrbobthebuilderss]

Great video and I found it very helpful for a new tech. I am starting out as a tech and going to be working on a bunch of GM stuff. I there are any special tools required I would love to see a video on that.

[@flatratemaster]

Thank you!

[@jcsuperstars1100]

BMW uses triple square on E70 X5 front wheel bearings. Possibly on more new F chassis bearing/hubs as well. We do a hand full of E70 wheel bearings. Be careful if you do one, the new hub as different tread pitch (same diameter) than the old, and the new bolts are torx. Go figure.

[@ClaytonBridges]

I am glad I work at a Toyota dealer

[@andybub45]

Lol ill bet yall arent that busy other than recalls, tsbs, and maintenance .

[@WaxedClassics]

funny you mention VIM, The only way I could do the brakes on my 04 a4 was with a stubby 7mm or 8mm stubby hex socket.. have them both still!! Think I bought them on ebay for 5$ each.

[@nicke2307]

this video pretty much spells it out. mercedes uses pretty much the same tools as well. also one thing to probably add is to have a scanner like ross tech or theres a cheap one out there now called obd eleven. even to do simple maintenance like rear brakes you need a scan tool to release the parking brake.

[@flatratemaster]

I forgot several tools, I guess I will need to do a part 2:)

[@nicke2307]

Flatrate Master actually I have a question for you. I have heard from not just you but from several other sources that snapon ball hex sockets are bar none the best. is it the material that makes them better? do they not round easily?

[@flatratemaster]

They are the best I have used, I have only broken 1 and use them all the time, I have standard ball and long ball, they do not round and grab very well! Most of the other brands will break at the necked down part with little effort, Snap Ons just keep going! HTH

[@nicke2307]

Flatrate Master dammit, now I have an itch to buy more tools.... lol

[@thebestmen100]

Thanks. For the advices .

[@frugalprepper]

I like this kind of stuff.

[@flatratemaster]

Thanks!

[@bobcuomo5122]

great video keep them coming .....thanks

[@flatratemaster]

Thanks for watching!

[@robertapplegate6046]

keep it going buddy !!! i lot og good info on tools !!!

[@flatratemaster]

Thank you, I will!

[@unencumbered]

A very good video...well done. I would add one tool that I've used many times. The 1.8T engines often (always) need valve cover and cam chain tensioner gaskets. There is a cheap and simple tool that allows you to 'unload' tensioner in order to replace the gasket once the valve cover has been removed, It's a must have. Keep up the good work and I'm looking forward to more videos about manufacturer specific tools.

[@flatratemaster]

Yep! forgot several other tools, expect a part 2 coming soon! FYI I own 2:)

[@unencumbered]

Flatrate Master I had no doubt:) enjoy the weekend...hope you don't work Saturdays!

[@flatratemaster]

Nope, Monday through Friday, hope you have a great weekend too!

[@guzforce]

Thank you for the great video!

[@HaroRider03088]

Can you do the same for Honda/Acura? Probably not as involved as VW/Audi but I would like your input.

[@flatratemaster]

I will be, doing most makes in that series including Honda/Acura

[@neondiamondsaquaberry17]

Honda Acura is going to be basic tools that actually make sense , you won’t need many of these special tools

[@herbsgotaZX]

10 mm 12 mm 14 mm 17mm 19mm 24mm 36mm that's it (get 10 10mm sockets cause they evaporate)

[@Pistonstrokes]

triple square... also used in toyotas, found in their cylinder head bolts...

[@wizkid01]

Don't forget 7mm hex for front brake caliper slide pins

[@Friebe1000]

Also BMW uses triple squares on a few things

[@flatratemaster]

Good to know!

[@cardude5323]

Flatrate Master and mercedes. just dont rear suspension work. those things are used everywhere

[@olivercastillo7216]

I just got fired from my first job at an independent shop after only a month. The owner said that he needed someone with more experience, which he hired a guy that looks like he's been working on cars longer than I've been alive! One of my auto tech teachers referred me to a VW dealership as a lube tech so I might need some of these tools. Would you say that the triple squares would be needed at a lube tech level?

[@LuisSanchez-lc9wb]

Thanka for the video. Ive been subscribed since you first started. U migjt have had maybe like 8 videls when i found u... Btw i'm in tech school. I graduate feb 16th. But i start at a VW dealership this monday is orientation then im there thursday for 3 hours and saturday for 11 hours. Part time while im in school. This video helpes put me to ease. I have torx. And some hex and e torx. I just did rotors and pads on 07 jetta and needed a 14mm trip sqaure. Was in a rush paid 18$ for one when i cpuld get a set for that price online. Any advice on becoming a better tech when im just starting. I watch tons of youtube. I watch you, Eric O, Eric the car guy, Scanner danner, i just discovered EXO from one of your videos and hes awesome. Also humble mechanic, and one of my favorites frank m tech. Sorry for the long post. Just a young tech looking to become better day by day. I know this foesnt happen over night. But withon a year i want to be 10 times better and smarter than i am now

[@chryslertechnician3439]

Do more of these

[@Tuckerjay2]

Did you ever make a video for Kia? I can’t seem to find any of the videos. I’m new to the automotive side. Thank you Jason Eads

[@garrettarney2903]

I feel like if he does one for like gm it’ll be like a 9 part video lol

[@madeinusareviews6234]

You know, I didnt like you at first but... to be honest I watch your video when I need advice. Just wanted to say thanks. The videos you upload help people , Thank you man

[@flatratemaster]

Thanks

[@jammmjeeezy]

Keep on with the videos 🤙🤙🤙

[@flatratemaster]

Will do!

[@greygoosemafia]

I like this ep series

[@flatratemaster]

Cool!

[@robbiesantos7677]

that specialty tool is for a 2.8 (VR6)

[@normansmith7806]

I don't do Euro. but a great video !

[@flatratemaster]

:)

[@mrarby9780]

would be nice to get links to all these tools

[@iInspireSuccess]

Are these good for the brakes?

[@moparmania86]

When do you use torx plus and 5 point torx? Also you didn't mention stubby torx. I have a Mac set of them that work pretty good. I find use for triple squares mostly to hammer into a axle drain plug when they are stripped. I use a lot of tools in ways like that. Working on 15-20 year old rusted pieces of crap you find a lot of ways to use tools... Haha

[@flatratemaster]

Torx plus, GM uses it on something, I don't remember what, and Subaru cam covers use them as well. 5 point Torx, I know are used in MB door hinges or something, but I have not even used my set yet so I am not sure:( For stubby torx the bit drivers work as my stubby but recently bought a set of stubby torx from VIM so I am sure they will get used!

[@daveoneal5544]

Flatrate Master newer BMW and Mercedes I'm seeing more of the 5 points torx being used

[@flatratemaster]

Thanks!

[@BlindBatG34]

Does anyone other than Snap-On make torx/hex/tripple-square sockets and bits in the USA?

[@flatratemaster]

Sk makes Torx and Hex, not sure about triple square, everyone else i believe rebrands from taiwan, aka VIM or other sources. Vim is a really great option even though made in Taiwan

[@matthewpercival6346]

Hey. Great video as i work on a lot of VW audi in the u.k. i have noticed you seem to keep your milwaukee batteries on charge even when they are charges. does this do any damage to them?

[@flatratemaster]

Smart chargers so when fully charged they just maintain them at full charge.

[@flatratemaster]

It is a smart charger so it will not overcharge them and cause failures per Milwaukee

[@matthewpercival6346]

I have a rapid charger so I don't leave them on constantly.

[@vintagebikewurx3730]

If the charger isn't smart enough to maintain the battery perfectly it's under engineered and not worth the purchase price. The technology is here right? I think it's odd that question even needs to be asked (and it does) before purchasing rechargeable devices.

[@phillipdewitt4454]

Mercedes had a bunch of triple square fasteners.

[@justinbrown3607]

Could you make a video for GM ?

[@flatratemaster]

I am working on it, long process and easy to forget some tools so taking more time than I would like

[@davecross9972]

Hammer & torch

[@westtexas501]

Coming from an independent shop point of view how long did it take you to obtain all those specialty tools ?

[@flatratemaster]

I have only worked on Euro for 5-6 years,before that mostly domestic and some asian, so in that time span. I work at an indy shop too!

[@westtexas501]

Flatrate Master Thanks for the Answer man I Barley have 2 yrs in the field Goin on 3 and man it feels like I'm never gonna finish buying tools lol , I'm digging your videos very informative. keep up the good work.

[@flatratemaster]

Thank you, you never stop buying tools:)20 some years in and still buying tools!

[@wendellgreenidge3362]

Is some of cornwell stuff made by v.i.m????

[@flatratemaster]

+Wendell Greenidge yes

[@soldierkiller29]

toyota 2gr engines use triple square head bolts.

[@flatratemaster]

+soldierkiller29 lol, we found that out 2 weeks ago😁

[@christianjulian4800]

Damn good videos!

[@jamesleejr1626]

Keep it up

[@betmon5986]

Dude u r tha shit ,love ur vids

[@therookiefisherman5234]

I am surprised you had very little Sonic.

[@flatratemaster]

+Leonardo I Candelario Jr i own 0 Sonic tools nothing against them,just have no experience with them

[@vijayantgovender2045]

Please do it is helpful

[@flatratemaster]

Will do!

[@Ferkle871]

Can you do one on jeep wranglers

[@kylesonsalla7620]

My Matco ball end hex's are junk. Constantly snapping ends off, even using the torque wrench.

[@flatratemaster]

+Kyle Sonsalla the only ones I can recommend is the snap one ,expensive but worth it

[@jamesleejr1626]

More videos

[@arnoldramos39]

Thank God for playback speed

[@Toyotas_n__Tools]

how about required tools for working on Toyotas

[@flatratemaster]

I will these kind of videos take time and thought, easy to forget tools needed

[@Toyotas_n__Tools]

I and many more will be looking forward to it, you cant rush perfection =)

[@Toyotas_n__Tools]

Also Wera makes a hex socket with a detent for locking into the bolt heads. You can find them on amazon for under $100 for the set up to 17 or 19mm

[@georgecroney6168]

@@Toyotas_n__Tools wera are more marketing than anything in my opinion, their screwdrivers are decent, not exceptional but that xxl set for like 30 or 40 $ is great to start but they fob you off with like 5 flathead you're never gonna use. Hex+ is great but any professional just uses an impact, ratchets, sockets, bit sets, totally pointless to buy. If you're an elctrician, plumber etc and use a bag full of tools they're great but for automotive they're honestly crap. I've got loads of their stuff and it's an exciting brand when you find out about them but once you've had the tools for a while you quickly realise they're nothing special. None of what they make is heavy duty either

[@Friebe1000]

Can you tell us the part number for the 2.slow plug wire puller? ive damaged several on my own vw over the years and my snapon guy says he cant find that tool

[@flatratemaster]

www.amazon.com/CTA-Tools-3055-Spark-Cable/dp/B006Z58XM6/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1491088391&sr=8-1&keywords=volkswagen+spark+plug+wire+tool

[@Aaabbbdddccc]

Какой набор брать в итоге ?

[@mikenewcomb9930]

Great sound FRM, couldn't hear shit on your other videos.Thanks

[@flatratemaster]

Thank you!

[@mr.heineken5770]

How about Sonic and Tekton brands? Are they any good? Been using them for a while and they perform very well.

[@flatratemaster]

I have no experience with Sonic and limited experience with Tekton

[@brentdykstra4292]

They are still putting 2.slow engine in the new cars.

[@seanryan7896]

Mercedes use tripple squares all over their suspension. Horrible

[@RJ-lk5pj]

I have a lot of those items- paid under @$50 for all them. You’re ignorant if you paid all that money to brag about the name brand of tools you have. You’ll live in perpetual debt if you take this mechanics advice about buying outrageously priced tool.

[@flatratemaster]

Most of the tools i talk about were made by VIM tools and they are very affordable with most well under 50 bucks