About the Role
An auto mechanic is someone who works with various types of transportation vehicles, such as automobiles or trucks. An auto mechanic may perform general repairs or maintenance or vehicles. However, others may have a specialty. Some specialties for auto mechanics include engines, brakes, tires or automobile technology or computers.
Auto mechanics have a variety of responsibilities. Examples of tasks for auto mechanics include:
Using power tools and heavy machinery to repair vehicles
Examining and diagnosing a variety of issues
Troubleshooting vehicle systems
Working with vehicle computers and software
Restoring and maintaining vehicles
Updating maintenance and repair records
Inspecting and testing vehicles
Auto mechanics may work in different settings, such as auto body shops, garages or car dealerships. Their responsibilities may vary based on where they work. For example, some mechanics may have more specialized roles at bigger dealerships, whereas other mechanics may complete many tasks when they work at smaller repair shops.
Requirements
Earn a High School or GED Diploma: Although formal education isn't always required, many employers seek applicants who have a basic high school education and can demonstrate proficiency in reading, writing, and math.
Complete Hands-On Experience: Becoming an auto mechanic typically requires some sort of experiential learning. This could include hands-on auto mechanic classes in high school, courses in vocational school, or internships or apprenticeships. The required amount of training varies among states and companies.
Obtain Certification: Certain auto mechanic jobs may require specialty certification. For instance, employers may require you to earn an Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) certification in a relevant area.
Interact with customers to obtain information about the problems they're experiencing with their cars.
Examine various systems within cars to diagnose problems. Service technicians run computerized diagnostic tests to help them identify components that might be malfunctioning.
Remove parts that are worn or not operating properly and replace them with new or used parts.
Perform routine maintenance like oil, filter, and belt changes according to schedules established by various car manufacturers.
Explain repairs to customers and provide estimates for unanticipated repairs.
Pitch optional repairs or preventative maintenance to customers to generate additional revenue for the shop, although this depends upon the employer.
Keep detailed records of all work performed.
Analytical abilities: These can help you conduct tests and inspections and to diagnose the causes of elusive car troubles.
Mechanical skills: Knowledge of engine components and systems and how they interact with each other is important. Technicians must be able to take apart major parts for repairs and be able to put them back together properly.
People skills: You'll be involved in customer service and customer relations.
An eye for detail: Not only will this help with hands-on work, but it can be beneficial in other aspects of the job, such as recordkeeping and maintaining inventory.
Coordination: Some work can require a great deal of manual dexterity and fine motor skills. Other work demands strength and agility.
Leadership skills: You might be called upon to supervise or teach others.
About the Company