Whether you’re a budding car enthusiast or a seasoned expert looking to refresh your toolbox, Makita has you covered with a wide range of tools suited for various uses. For home mechanics, you’ll want to pick up tools like the 4‑1/2″ Paddle Switch Angle Grinder with AC/DC Switch, the 18V LXT® Lithium‑Ion Brushless Cordless 4‑Speed 1/2″ Sq. Drive Impact Wrench Kit, and the 18V LXT® Lithium‑Ion Cordless L.E.D. Flashlight/Spotlight. Makita is the perfect combination of reliability, power, and versatility. 

The 6 best Makita tools for car enthusiasts

1. 18V LXT® Lithium‑Ion Brushless Cordless 4‑Speed 1/2″ Sq. Drive Impact Wrench Kit

What we love	Something to consider
– Brushless motor with 430 ft. lbs. of Nut-Busting Torque – Full speed mode reduces trigger pull – Built-in LED light  – Weighs only 4 pounds	– Some users cite that the socket is difficult to remove

Makita’s Lithium-Ion Brushless Cordless Drive Impact Wrench Kit is a must-have for your toolbox. It has a friction ring anvil to control fastening, making it ideal for the automotive trade. This wrench combines speed control and unmatched run time to avoid downtime due to charging. It’s run by Makita’s dependable brushless motor and delivers up to 240 lbs of max torque. Fastening control is all yours with the 4-speed power switch, with 3 reverse and 3 forward modes for increased efficiency.

Key features

• Optimized battery with 50% more run time per charge
• 3 forward speeds and 3 reverse speeds for better control
• Extreme Protection Technology (XPT™) provides improved water and dust resistance
• Compact and ergonomic design

2. The 7″ Polisher

What we love	Something to consider
– Rubber loop for delicate jobs – Wire mesh intake cover to prevent debris from getting in the motor -Constant speed control	– This powerful tool is better suited for professionals, as there’s a learning curve

Makita’s 7” Polisher makes car detailing a breeze. This model combines power, speed control, and durability features to effectively polish clear coats, finishes, and more. It has a variable speed dial for precise control, and the constant-speed mode maintains a stable speed even while under load. This 9237C model also has a rubber loop to add comfort and protection for the most delicate work surfaces. 

Key features

• Durable and supports multiple applications
• Improved cord guard for increased flexibility 
• Lock-on button
• Constant speed setting to lessen fatigue

3. The 4‑1/2″ Paddle Switch Angle Grinder, with AC/DC Switch

What we love	Something to consider
– Weighs 4.5 pounds to reduce fatigue – Can be used for grinding, cutting, and polishing – Operates up to 11,000 RPM – Push button spindle lock for convenience	– Lifespan isn’t as great as other Makita tools

If you’re looking for an angle grinder, the 4-½” Paddle Switch Angle Grinder from Makita is perfect. It combines 7.5 AMP power with motor-protection features for long-lasting performance. It supports various durability features like protective zig-zag varnish, engineered to seal the armature from debris and dust.

This grinder also includes a labyrinth design, which protects the motor and bearings from debris and dust. Its ease of use is second to none and includes an extra-large paddle switch to maximize comfort during operation. The AC/DC switch can also be used as an alternative power source. 

Key features

• Lock on/off for easy operation
• Compact design for increased comfort
• AC/DC switch for alternative power source
• Metal gear housing boosts durability

4. 12V max CXT® Lithium‑Ion Cordless Inflator Kit (2.0Ah)

What we love	Something to consider
– Up to 120 PSI capability – Auto-stop functionality prevents overfill – High visibility display – LED light illuminates any work area	– If you already have Makita 18V tools, this one is not compatible with that charging system

Every car enthusiast needs a quality inflator, and the Lithium-Ion Cordless Inflator Kit is one you can rely on every time. This 12V Lithium-Ion model has a digital screen with a backlight, an auto-stop function, and an LED light for optimal visibility. It is also compatible with the 12V max CXT 4.0Ah battery (sold separately). Users can enjoy power engineered with a Battery Protection Circuit to protect against overloading, overheating, and over-discharging. This inflator tops up cars and trick tires with speed and efficiency. 

Key features

• Ergonomic handle for increased comfort
• Long battery life with battery charge indicator
• Auto-stop functionality
• Up to 120 PSO
• Inflates car tires and light truck tires

5. 18V LXT® Lithium‑Ion Cordless 3/8″ / 1/4″ Sq. Drive Ratchet

What we love	Something to consider
– Battery has a fast charging time – Star Protection Computer Controls™ protects against overheating and overloading – Can be used manually  – Great for overhead jobs and tight spaces	– Should be used for light-duty projects, not professional jobs

The 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Cordless Drive Ratchet is one of Makita’s most versatile tools. It supports interchangeable 3/8” and 1/4” anvils and can loosen and remove nuts with up to 35 ft. lbs. of max torque from bolts. Like many Makita tools, it has a variable speed dial and up to 800 RPMs of power for various applications. 

This ratchet has an electric brake to increase productivity and safety. Its ergonomic design and light weight also reduce operator fatigue. It’s low-profile and works well in tight spaces. This model also has a built-in LED light for increased visibility while working. 

Key features

• Electric brake for boosted productivity 
• Only 2.7 pounds
• Low-profile design
• Variable speed dial

6. 18V LXT® Lithium‑Ion Cordless L.E.D. Flashlight / Spotlight

What we love	Something to consider
– 4 Modes of operation – Between 7-8.5 hours of illumination, depending on the mode – Only 3.5 pounds with the battery – Soft rubber grip provides maximum comfort	– Higher price than similar products on the market

The Lithium-Ion Cordless L.E.D. Flashlight/Spotlight is a must at every workstation that needs to be adequately lit, and this model delivers bright illumination, convenience, and versatility. It has four supported modes: floodlight, spotlight, spot/flood, and strobe, with lumens ranging between 600 and 1250. Because it’s an 18V LXT® Battery, it charges quickly and produces up to 7 hours of continuous illumination in spotlight mode. It’s the perfect companion for any job. 

Key features

• 3-year limited warranty
• Metal hang hook is durable and convenient for storing
• 90-degree pivot head
• Up to 700 yards of illumination in spot mode

Bottom line

Makita supports various solution-type tools, such as cordless, dust management, outdoor tooling, and automotive. Known for its top-notch batteries, Makita is a go-to for many tradespeople looking for powerful tools. If you’re a mechanic or a car enthusiast, some of the best tools from Makita include the drive impact wrench, the 7” polisher, the drive ratchet, and the paddle switch angle grinder. Choose the tools thousands already trust, and enjoy getting back to tinkering. 

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