Automobile Mechanics

Career summary

Automobile mechanics may also be called service, automobile or automotive technicians.

#4/4/19

Auto mechanics examine belts, hoses, plugs, brakes, and fuel systems. They may install or repair accessories, such as heaters and windshield wipers. They inspect and lubricate engines and parts. They tune engines to use less fuel.

Auto mechanics talk to owners to find out what problems the car is having. They examine cars and try to eliminate simple things that could cause the problem. Sometimes they test drive cars to observe their performance. They use a variety of testing equipment, such as hand-held diagnostic computers and compression gauges.

Once the problem is identified, mechanics make adjustments or repairs. Sometimes they replace or rebuild damaged parts. For large repairs, mechanics estimate the cost and get the customer's approval before doing any work.

Auto mechanics use a variety of tools, including:

• Power tools
• Machine tools
• Welding and flame-cutting equipment
• Jacks and hoists
• Common hand tools
• Electronic equipment

Automobile mechanics are also called service technicians. Those in small shops must know about all areas of car repair. Those who work in large shops may specialize in one or more areas, such as:

Automatic transmission

Automatic transmission technicians work on gear trains, hydraulic pumps, and other parts of a transmission.

Bio-diesel

Bio-diesel technicians may remove old fuel tanks to install new fuel systems. They convert cars that use regular gasoline to use bio-diesel, ethanol, methane, or other fuels.

Tune-up

Tune-up technicians adjust timing and valves, and adjust or replace spark plugs and fuel systems.

Front-end

Front-end mechanics align and balance wheels and repair steering and suspension systems.

Brake repair

Brake repairers adjust brakes and replace brake linings and pads. They also service regenerative braking systems in hybrid vehicles.

Related careers

This career is part of the Transportation, Distribution, and Logistics cluster of careers.

Related careers include:

• Aircraft Mechanics
• Automotive Electronics Installers
• Building Maintenance Workers
• Bus and Truck Mechanics
• Electric Motor Repairers
• Farm Equipment Mechanics
• Heavy Equipment Mechanics
• Industrial Electronics Repairers
• Industrial Machinery Mechanics
• Machinists
• Mechanic and Repairer Helpers
• Motorboat Mechanics
• Motorcycle Mechanics
• Small Engine Mechanics

Military careers

• Automotive and Heavy Equipment Mechanics

Job duties

Task list

The following list of tasks is specific to automobile mechanics.

• Inspect and lubricate engines and parts during routine service. Tune engines to use less fuel.
• Follow checklist of potential trouble spots. This includes belts, hoses, spark plugs, brakes, and fuel systems.
• Review work orders and discuss work with supervisors. Plan work procedures, using manuals and charts.
• May install or repair accessories, such as heaters, wipers, and stereo systems.
• Get descriptions of cars' symptoms from customers or service estimators.
• Examine cars, using a systematic approach to diagnose problems. May also test drive cars.
• Estimate repair costs and obtain customer approval to make repairs.
• Adjust, repair, rebuild, or replace inefficient, damaged, or poorly working parts or units.
• Use power tools, machine tools, and hand tools. Use jacks, hoists, and welding and flame-cutting equipment.
• Use electronic service equipment to test and diagnose parts and cars.
• May specialize in one or more areas. This includes alternative fuel engines, transmissions, tune-ups, brakes, or front-ends.
• Service alternative fuel vehicles. Fuels may include ethanol, methane, or bio-diesel.
• Service engines, brakes, and batteries in hybrid vehicles.
• Convert gasoline engines to alternative fuels.
• Install new or more efficient systems on cars to use less gas.
• Inspect natural gas fuel systems for damage.

Common work activities

Automobile mechanics perform the following tasks. These tasks are common to many careers.

• Get information needed to do the job
• Operate vehicles or mechanized equipment
• Update and use job-related knowledge
• Make decisions and solve problems
• Identify objects, actions, and events
• Repair and maintain mechanical equipment
• Handle and move objects
• Inspect equipment, structures, or materials
• Perform activities that use the whole body
• Communicate with supervisors, peers, or subordinates
• Use computers
• Control machines and processes
• Organize, plan, and prioritize work
• Analyze data or information
• Monitor events, materials, and surroundings
• Repair and maintain electronic equipment
• Evaluate information against standards
• Judge the value of objects, services, or people
• Explain the meaning of information to others
• Process information
• Establish and maintain relationships
• Document and record information
• Estimate sizes, quantities, time, cost, or materials needed
• Resolve conflicts and negotiate with others
• Communicate with people outside the organization
• Teach others

Work requirements

Working conditions

In a typical work setting, automobile mechanics:

Interpersonal relationships

• Are responsible for the work done by other workers.
• Are responsible for the safety of customers and coworkers.
• Have a medium level of social contact. They work mostly with tools and cars but also interact frequently with customers.
• Communicate daily by telephone and in person.
• May work as part of a team of technicians and mechanics.
• Are sometimes placed in conflict situations where customers may be unpleasant or rude.

Physical work conditions

• May work indoors or outdoors, but more commonly work indoors.
• Are often exposed to hazardous situations, conditions, and equipment that result in cuts, bruises, or minor burns.
• Work inside enclosed vehicles, such as trucks, cars, and vans. Often work in cramped work spaces underneath vehicles that require getting into awkward positions.
• Regularly wear protective gear, such as goggles or earplugs.
• Are exposed to contaminants, such as antifreeze and chemical degreasers, on a daily basis.
• Are exposed to sounds and noise levels that are distracting and uncomfortable on a daily basis.
• Are sometimes exposed to inadequate lighting conditions.
• May sometimes work in cold or hot temperatures, depending on the work locale.
• May work near others, such as when sharing the same space in a garage.

Work performance

• Must be sure that all details are done and their work is exact. Errors could cause serious injury to themselves or other workers.
• Make decisions that strongly impact clients and their company's reputation on regular basis. They rarely consult a supervisor before deciding the correct repairs.
• Must meet strict daily and weekly deadlines. Customers want their vehicles returned as quickly as possible.
• Determine some of their daily tasks and goals on their own, but often consult a superior first.
• May repeat the same physical activities.

Hours/travel

• Usually work a standard 40-hour week.
• May work evenings and weekends if employed in a shop with extended hours.

Physical demands

Automobile mechanics frequently:

• Use their hands to handle, control, or feel objects, tools, or controls.
• Stand for long periods of time.
• Bend or twist their body.
• Repeat the same movements.
• Walk or run for long periods of time.

It is important for automobile mechanics to be able to:

• Hold the arm and hand in one position or hold the hand steady while moving the arm.
• Use fingers to grasp, move, or assemble very small objects.
• Make quick, precise adjustments to machine controls.
• Use one or two hands to grasp, move, or assemble objects.
• See details of objects that are less than a few feet away.
• Move two or more limbs together (for example, two arms, two legs, or one leg and one arm) while remaining in place.
• Bend, stretch, twist, or reach out.
• Hear sounds and recognize the difference between them.
• Use stomach and lower back muscles to support the body for long periods without getting tired.
• See differences between colors, shades, and brightness.
• Focus on one source of sound and ignore others.
• Understand the speech of another person.
• React quickly using hands, fingers, or feet.

It is not as important, but still necessary, for automobile mechanics to be able to:

• Speak clearly so listeners can understand.
• Determine the distance between objects.
• See details of objects that are more than a few feet away.
• Use muscles to lift, push, pull, or carry heavy objects.
• Choose quickly and correctly among various movements when responding to different signals.
• Coordinate movement of several parts of the body, such as arms and legs, while the body is moving.
• Determine from which direction a sound came.
• Be physically active for long periods without getting tired or out of breath.
• Use muscles for extended periods without getting tired.
• Make fast, repeated movements of fingers, hands, and wrists.
• Adjust body movements or equipment controls to keep pace with speed changes of moving objects.
• Move arms and legs quickly.
• Keep or regain the body's balance or stay upright when in an unstable position.
• See objects in very bright or glaring light.

Skills and abilities

Automobile mechanics need to:

Communicate

• Understand spoken information.
• Listen to others and ask questions.
• Speak clearly so listeners can understand.
• Understand written information.
• Read and understand work-related materials.

Reason and problem solve

• Use reasoning to discover answers to problems.
• Combine several pieces of information and draw conclusions.
• Notice when something is wrong or is likely to go wrong.
• Analyze ideas and use logic to determine their strengths and weaknesses.
• Follow guidelines to arrange objects or actions in a certain order.
• Judge the costs and benefits of a possible action.
• Concentrate and not be distracted while performing a task.
• Recognize the nature of a problem.
• Understand new information or materials by studying and working with them.
• Develop rules that group items in various ways.

Manage oneself, people, time, and things

• Manage the time of self and others.

Work with things

• Repair machines or systems.
• Determine the causes of technical problems and find solutions for them.
• Watch gauges, dials, and output to make sure a machine is working properly.
• Operate and control equipment.
• Maintain equipment on a routine basis. Determine when and what kind of maintenance is needed.
• Inspect and evaluate the quality of products.
• Determine the tools and equipment needed to do a job.

Perceive and visualize

• Imagine how something will look if it is moved around or its parts are rearranged.
• Identify a pattern (a figure, object, word, or sound) that is hidden in distracting material.
• Quickly and accurately compare letters, numbers, objects, pictures, or patterns.

Education and training

Educational programs

The programs of study listed below will help you prepare for the occupation or career cluster you are exploring.

Programs of study directly related to this occupation

• Automotive Technology

Other programs of study to consider

• Automotive Engineering Technology
• Boat Maintenance and Repair
• Diesel Technology
• Entrepreneurial and Small Business Operations
• Motorcycle Repair
• Small Engine Repair

Training

To work as an automobile mechanic, you typically need to:

• have a high school diploma or equivalent;
• complete a formal training program; and
• complete short-term, on-the-job training.

Education after high school

Many automobile mechanics learn their skills through formal training programs. Professional-technical schools and two-year colleges offer these programs. Most auto mechanic programs combine classroom instruction and hands-on practice. Training lasts six months to two years.

Some automobile manufacturers and dealers provide training programs at professional-technical or two-year schools. In this type of training program, you study in the classroom and work in the dealer's shop. Every six to eight weeks you rotate between work and study. Some dealers help pay for tuition or the purchase of tools.

On-the-job training

Many automobile mechanics receive on-the-job training. An experienced mechanic trains you in basic tasks. You begin by working as a helper. During training, you learn to:

• lubricate parts;
• change oil; and
• provide routine service and repair.

On-the-job training usually lasts up to one month.

Military training

The military trains people to become automotive and heavy equipment mechanics. Training lasts from eight to 29 weeks, depending on your specialty. Further training occurs on the job.

Washington apprenticeships

For further information on apprenticeships in Washington, contact:

Washington State Department of Labor and Industries
Apprenticeship Program 
PO Box 44530
Olympia, WA 98504-4530
360.902.5320

#Apprenticeship info still ok, 2/7/18 cj.

Helpful high school courses

You should take a general high school curriculum that meets the state's graduation requirements. You will be required to take both math and science classes to graduate.

Helpful electives to take in high school that prepare you for this career include:

• Auto Collision Technology
• Auto Repair Technology
• Diesel Mechanics and Repair
• Introduction to Mechanics
• Motorcycle Mechanics and Repair

Many automobile mechanics are self-employed. If you want to run your own business some day, you should consider taking these courses as well:

• Accounting
• Entrepreneurship
• Introduction to Business

The courses listed above are meant to help you create your high school plan. If you have not already done so, talk to a school counselor or parent about the courses you are considering taking.

You should also check with a teacher or counselor to see if work-based learning opportunities are available in your school and community. These might include field trips, job shadowing, internships, and actual work experience. The goal of these activities is to help you connect your school experiences with real-life work.

Join some groups, try some hobbies, or volunteer with an organization that interests you. By participating in activities you can have fun, make new friends, and learn about yourself. Maybe one of them will help direct you to a future career. Here are examples of activities and groups that may be available in your high school or community.

Things to know

Most employers prefer applicants who have completed a formal training program. Experience working on motor vehicles in the military or as a hobby may also be helpful. Employers also look for applicants with strong reading, math, and computer skills. These skills allow mechanics to read and understand technical manuals and to keep up with new technology. Employers also look for mechanics who can diagnose problems quickly and correctly.

Some employers look for mechanics who have gained experience by working as an entry-level technician at another garage for one or two years.

Employers also look for applicants who are dependable and motivated, have problem-solving skills, and a good attendance record at previous jobs or during high school. Three to four years of experience is usually necessary to be considered a journey-level worker. Applicants should have a current vehicle operator's license, a good driving record, and be in good physical condition. Some shops require mechanics to be certified. The National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence conducts certification tests for automobile mechanics twice a year. Some employers may also require workers to pass a physical examination, criminal background check, driving history investigation, and a drug screening test.

#Background check & driving history investigation required by Intercity Transit mechanics per 1/2012 job announcement, cj.

Tips

Have diagnostic skills; it's predicted that diagnosing problems will take up the most repair time. Knowledge of all aspects of automotive theory is important. Reading comprehension, math, and problem-solving skills are important. Find an experienced mechanic to be your mentor. An internship at a local car repair shop or dealership is a good way to develop skills and gain hands-on experience.

#Last sentence in tips based on article in the Olympian, 9/22/03. CJ, 2004 update.

Costs to workers

Automobile mechanics often have to provide their own tools. The cost to supply all basic hand tools is about $2,000 to $6,330, depending on brand and quality. A complete set may cost $11,000 or more. You will need to purchase new tools as they wear out or break. Many workers have to purchase both standard and metric tools, which makes the costs even higher. Some workers are required to join a union and pay an initiation fee and monthly dues.

#Tool cost for beginning still seems ok - Walla Walla CC list basic first yr tools as $600-$1,300 and 2nd yr tools as $800-$1,500. General search on high quality brand tools shows that even a single deep socket wrench set can easily run $200 or more. 2/14/12 cj. WWCC still listing same tool cost ranges as noted here, so left as is, 2/6/14 cj. WWCC now listing 1st yr as $1,277-$4,772 and 2nd yr as $491-$1,561 so raised upper end of cost range 2/7/18 cj.

Licensing/certification

Many employers require automobile mechanics to be certified. Mechanics can be certified in one or more of eight different service areas. These areas include electrical systems, engine repair, brake systems, suspension and steering, heating and air conditioning, automatic transmission/transaxle, manual transmission/transaxle, and engine performance. Master automotive mechanics are certified in all eight areas. For certification in an area, mechanics must:

• pass a written examination, and
• have at least 2 years of experience.

Completion of an automotive mechanic program in high school, vocational trade school, or community or junior college may be substituted for up to one year of experience. For more information, contact:

National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE)
https://www.ase.com/ 

Job listings

Listed below are links to job categories from the National Labor Exchange that relate to this career. Once you get a list of jobs, you can view information about individual jobs and find out how to apply. If your job search finds too many openings, or if you wish to search for jobs outside of Washington, you will need to refine your search.

• Automotive Master Mechanics 
• Automotive Specialty Technicians 

To get a listing of current jobs from the WorkSource system, go to the WorkSource website .

Wages

Mechanics are paid using one of several options. Some are paid a "flat rate." This means they are paid for a set number of hours for a particular repair. For example, they might be given one hour of pay to complete an oil change. If mechanics take longer than an hour to complete the task, they are not paid extra. However, if they complete the job in less than an hour, they are still paid for a full hour of work. Other mechanics are paid a set hourly wage regardless of the type of repairs they do. A few are paid a flat rate plus a commission based on the labor cost charged to customers.

Wages vary depending on the employer and the area of the country. Wages also vary according to the level of skill and experience of the mechanic. 

Benefits vary by employer. Many full-time auto mechanics receive benefits. These may include paid vacation, sick leave, and health insurance. Those who are self-employed must provide their own insurance.

Employment and outlook

Washington outlook

The table below provides information about the number of workers in this career in various regions. It also provides information about the expected growth rate and future job openings.

National employment

About 15% of auto mechanics are self-employed.

Major employers:

• Auto repair shops
• Auto dealerships
• Auto supply stores

National outlook

Demand for this occupation will show little to no change over the next few years. The number of cars and trucks on the road is increasing and better designs allow vehicles to be driven for more years leading to increased work for auto mechanics.

However, new technologies are making cars more reliable and less likely to need repair. Most job openings will be at automobile dealerships and independent repair shops..

Job prospects are best for people with formal training and certifications, however, there will be strong competition for entry-level positions.

Other resources

Association of Diesel Specialists 
7250 Heritage Village Plaza, Suite 201
Gainesville, VA 20155
816.285.0810

AutoCare Association 
7101 Wisconsin Avenue, Suite 1300
Bethesda, MD 20814
301.654.6664

AutoCare Careers 

Automotive Service Association 
8209 Mid Cities Boulevard
North Richland Hills, TX 76182
817.514.2900

Automotive Technician Career Information 

Engineer Girl! 
National Academy of Engineering

National Automobile Dealers Association 
8400 Westpark Drive
Tysons, VA 22102
800.252.6232
703.821.7000

National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) 
1503 Edwards Ferry Rd., NE, Suite 401
Leesburg, VA 20176
703.669.6600

SAE International 
400 Commonwealth Drive
Warrendale, PA 15096

References

Career cluster

• Transportation, Distribution, and Logistics

Career path

• Realistic (Technical)

O*Net  occupations

• Automotive Master Mechanics (49-3023.01) 
• Automotive Specialty Technicians (49-3023.02) 

O*Net job zone 

• Job Zone 3 - Medium preparation needed. Previous work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is required for these occupations.

DOT occupations

• Air-conditioning Mechanic (620.281-010) 
• Automatic-window-seat-and-top-lift Repairer (825.381-014) 
• Automobile Mechanic (620.261-010) 
• Automobile-mechanic Apprentice (620.261-012) 
• Automobile-radiator Mechanic (620.381-010) 
• Automobile-service-station Mechanic (620.261-030) 
• Automotive-cooling-system Diagnostic Technician (620.261-034) 
• Brake Adjuster (620.684-018) 
• Brake Repairer (620.281-026) 
• Brake-drum-lathe Operator (620.682-010) 
• Carburetor Mechanic (620.281-034) 
• Clutch Rebuilder (620.684-022) 
• Floor Service Worker, Spring (807.684-022) 
• Front-end Mechanic (620.281-038) 
• Fuel-injection Servicer (625.281-022) 
• Muffler Installer (807.664-010) 
• New-car Get-ready Mechanic (806.361-026) 
• Repairer, Heavy (620.381-022) 
• Spring Repairer, Hand (619.380-018) 
• Squeak, Rattle, and Leak Repairer (620.364-010) 
• Transmission Mechanic (620.281-062) 
• Tune-up Mechanic (620.281-066) 
• Vehicle-fuel-systems Converter (620.281-070) 
• Wheelwright (706.381-046) 

Strong Interest Inventory

• Automobile Mechanic

Holland occupational clusters

• Realistic/Investigative/Conventional
• Realistic/Investigative/Enterprising

COPSystem

• Technology Skilled