What are some of the most commonly used tools I need to get to work on my car

 

What is the extent of what you are looking for? Basic maintenance or extensive work? Are you starting from scratch?

 

Metric sockets, allen wrenches and metric wrenches. Phillips screwdrivers. Good lift jack and jack stands. C clamp for doing brake jobs. cross style lug wrench. Oil drain pan.

I dunno, that's about the basics - I'd add having same spare fluids should they need a top off. Spare bulbs.

 

Thanks chicagorandy. And field85 i pretty much want to work on everything other then engine block, transmission, and carburetor. Things like oil changes, transmission fluid flush, spark plugs, radiator flush, brake jobs, coils and so forth. Trying to figure out what tools are needed the most to start a collection

 

A shop light with long cord is handy.

 

No worries there.

A Chilton or Haynes manual to start. Neither is going to detail transmission rebuilds for example, but they will get you by on the very basic stuff.

I'm not sure if Escapes are the combination of metric and Imperial fasteners that plague so many domestic vehicles--maybe someone could advise on that.

 

Added to what has been mentioned. Also get a set of torx bits. It has been a while but I believe the are need for the headlights, I may be wrong as I may be confusing it with the 01 Camry. I would suggest an air compressor and some air tools if you can swing it. They will make jobs a lot easier. You can also get AllData for a computer manual, using an old laptop in the garage has been nice or you can print off for specific jobs. For a decent tool starter set Sears has a good 200pc craftsman set in a nice plastic case that you can also keep in the cargo area.