Automotive mechanics inspect, service, and repair gasoline-powered engines in cars, buses, and trucks. They diagnose problems and then make the necessary repairs. Automotive mechanics also inspect cars brought in for servicing and try to prevent future breakdowns.
After locating the problem in a vehicle, the mechanic often needs to replace or repair a faulty part. This may involve working on an engine, transmission, or clutch. It may require fixing the brakes or steering system. Mechanics may also repair damage to the body of a car or truck, but most of this work is clone by auto body repairers.
Some automotive mechanics specialize in a particular kind of repair, such as electrical or transmission problems. They usually work in special service shops. Mechanics who work in service stations often do several different kinds of repair. However, if a car requires complicated repair work, the all-around mechanic usually sends it to a specialist.
The ability to make a quick and accurate diagnosis is one of the mechanic's most valuable skills. This requires analytical ability as well as a thorough knowledge of a car's mechanical and electronic operations. With the increasing complexity of car engines, mechanics now use a variety of electronic equipment, such as infrared engine analyzers and computerized diagnostic devices, to assist them in their diagnosis. Many mechanics consider diagnosing hard-to-find troubles one of their most challenging and satisfying duties.
Currently, about 775,000 people work as automobile mechanics. Most mechanics work for automobile dealers, automobile repair shops, and gasoline service stations. Many others are employed by federal, state, and local government agencies; taxicab and automobile leasing companies; and other organizations that repair their own automobiles. Some mechanics are also employed by automobile manufacturers to make final adjustments and repairs at the end of the assembly line. Other mechanics work for large department stores that have facilities for servicing automobiles.
Education and Training
Most employers prefer to hire applicants who are high school graduates. High school courses in metal work, mechanical drawing, science, mathematics, and automobile maintenance are helpful. Today's cars often require highly trained mechanics to service them. This training is offered by vocational schools and community colleges. It usually includes training in electronics and the use of computerized diagnostic equipment.
Some mechanics train on the job as apprentices in a 4-year training program that combines practical work with classroom instruction. Others begin as gas station attendants and watch mechanics work. They are then given simple repairs and work up to more difficult jobs. In 3 or 4 years they become qualified mechanics.
Getting the Job
School placement offices and apprenticeship programs can give you employment information and leads on job openings. You can also apply directly to employers. Make sure to check the want ads in local newspapers for job openings.
Employment Outlook
Experienced mechanics in a large shop may advance to supervisory positions, such as repair shop supervisor or service manager. Mechanics who like to work with customers may become service advisers, who take clients' orders for repairs and write up job orders for mechanics. Many mechanics open their own repair shops or service stations.
The employment outlook for automobile mechanics is expected to be good. There is high turnover in this field, so many openings will occur each year to replace experienced mechanics who retire or change jobs. Automotive technology is becoming increasingly complex, so the outlook will be best for mechanics who have received formal training.
Working Conditions
Most mechanics work between 40 and 48 hours a week, but many work even longer during busy periods. Mechanics who are paid by the hour frequently receive overtime rates for hours over 40 a week.
Generally, a mechanic works indoors. Modern automobile shops have good ventilation, lighting, and heat, but older shops may not have these advantages.
Mechanics frequently work with dirty, greasy parts and in awkward positions. Sometimes they must lift heavy objects. Minor cuts and bruises are common, but serious accidents usually are avoided by observing safety practices.
Earnings and Benefits
Salary depends mainly on the location of the shop and the mechanic's experience. Currently, automotive mechanics earn between $17,300 and $35,000 a year. Many master mechanics who work for dealers receive commissions and earn from $70,000 to $100,000 a year. Apprentices begin at about 60 percent of the standard wage and receive up to 90 percent at the end of training.
Mechanics often receive higher wages for overtime work. Their benefits often include paid holidays and vacations. They may also receive life, health, and accident insurance. Some employers supply uniforms.
Nature of the Work
Because bicycling has become popular as a form of exercise and recreation as well as a means of transportation, specialized mechanics have been increasingly in demand to repair and maintain bicycles. Most bicycle mechanics work for bicycle shops or for the bicycle departments in large sporting goods or department stores. After determining what repairs or service a bike needs, mechanics give estimates and order any necessary parts that are not kept in stock. Mechanics may also teach bike owners to do some basic maintenance themselves.
Maintenance work includes cleaning, lubricating, and making minor adjustments to bicycle parts such as the chain and hub bearings. Tune-ups help ensure that the vehicle will ride smoothly and that there will be no serious problems If a bike does break down, mechanics may have to machine the frame or replace or repair major parts such as wheels or brakes. Mechanics may upgrade a bicycle by adding special tires, pedals, or other features. They may also customize a bike to fit the size of the rider. Some mechanics specialize in servicing racing bicycles. These mechanics are usually employed by large bicycle shops or by racing teams.
Education and Training
No formal training is required, but good mechanical and communication skills are necessary. On-the-job training is usually provided, and some bicycle manufacturers offer free bicycle repair courses for employees of stores that carry their products. Some vocational schools and high school shop classes teach bicycle repairing.
Getting the Job
Apply directly to bicycle shops or to the bicycle departments of large stores. If you own a bicycle, start with the bike shop you patronize.
Employment Outlook
Bicycle mechanics may become sales representatives for bicycle manufacturers. They may also move up to shop or department managers, or they may open their own shops.
Employment prospects are excellent because bicycling is expected to continue to increase in popularity and because cyclists are expected to be more selective in seeking competent mechanics. The demand for bicycle mechanics is expected to be excellent.
Working Conditions
Mechanics generally work in the back room of a shop, using a wide variety of spare parts and tools such as air hoses and racks for mounting bicycles. They may use electronic monitoring equipment as well. The job usually calls for weekend work. The demand for mechanics is somewhat seasonal because many customers use their bicycles only in warm weather. Many mechanics work part-time or summers only.
Earnings and Benefits
Earnings vary, but the general range is $12,500 to $18,700 annually. Benefits for mechanics who work for department stores and bicycle companies include paid holidays and vacations, medical insurance, and pension plans.
