[ofrzeta]

> a solid investment in tools and equipment

That's true. You need a lot of special tools for modern cars. When you acquired the required tools you'd best stick to that manufacturer with future car purchases or you'll have to buy the whole set again for your new brand.

[squirtle24]

For situations like this I find www.automotivespecialtytool.net to be particularly useful. It's a peer-to-peer car tool rental community. So if you have a rarely used, very specific tool you can rent it out to others; similarly if you need such a tool you can just rent it without having to buy it.

[nbar1]

This is untrue. Yes there are specialized tools, even some per manufacturer, but in reality 95% of the jobs people will be doing can be done with a standard mechanics toolset.

[fl7305]

Ehh, for VW at least some jobs are a lot easier with VW tools.

[Pawka]

Same with bicycle repair. Each major brand has own proprietary toolset.