Auto Mechanics maintain and repair automobiles, trucks and other vehicles.
With an average of 276 million cars on the road in the United States, there is a growing need for skilled mechanics who can properly inspect and fix vehicle problems so they can safely operate on the road. As a result, the automotive industry is an excellent career choice for people who love working with their hands and are mechanically inclined.
Mechanics perform routine maintenance and repairs on all types of motor vehicles, such as trucks and buses, as well as other large machinery such as heavy-duty equipment. These tasks include engine and transmission repair, air conditioning maintenance, braking system repair, tire replacement, and more.
A mechanic’s job is physically demanding and requires exposure to extreme temperatures, lifting heavy parts and staying in uncomfortable positions for long periods of time. They may also be exposed to toxic chemicals and fumes from paints, lubricants, and other related products.
Auto mechanics are required to have a strong knowledge of how cars work and to stay up to date on all the latest technology. As a result, their education and training should be extensive, including apprenticeships or additional post-secondary schooling in certain areas, such as heating and air conditioning, brakes, and engine repair.
An auto mechanic’s duties also involve a lot of computer work, especially when they are repairing and servicing electronic systems on the vehicles. For example, many car dealerships and independent workshops now provide sophisticated diagnostic computers to their mechanics so they can identify the source of an engine or electrical problem.
These computers can also be used to check the health of the vehicle’s engine or transmission. This information can help to identify problems that might be causing a vehicle’s performance to degrade over time and make necessary adjustments so the machine continues to operate effectively.
The mechanic’s duties also require a high level of attention to detail and accuracy, as they must be able to read and understand vehicle manuals. They must also be able to recognize and follow complex vehicle wiring diagrams, as well as identify potential hazards and take appropriate action when needed.
Technicians can earn a certification by passing a series of tests from the ASE (Automotive Service Excellence) organization. These certifications are based on various topics, such as brakes, steering, and suspension; and must be renewed every five years.
Mechanics who earn these certifications are considered to be master technicians in their specific fields, and are often promoted or hired after earning them.
The ASE test series is one of the most respected in the industry. It is the best way to demonstrate your expertise in the field and a way for you to differentiate yourself from other mechanics.
Auto Mechanics Are In High Demand
According to , the auto mechanic industry is growing faster than any other sector of the economy and is projected to grow at an average annual rate of 5% through 2026. This makes auto mechanics a good choice for job security, as cars will continue to be a popular form of transportation into the future and a need for specialized skill sets in the field is likely.
