Auto Mechanics inspect, maintain, troubleshoot, diagnose, and repair mechanical, electronic, and electrical parts of automobiles, vans, trucks, and buses.

JOB DUTIES 

Auto Mechanics may:

Examine vehicles and discuss the nature and extent of damage or malfunction with customers

Plan work procedures using charts and manuals

Use diagnostic computers to check electronic computer components

Raise vehicles using a hydraulic jack or hoist

Remove units such as engine, transmission, and differential

Disassemble units and inspect parts for wear

Repair, overhaul or replace parts, such as pistons, rods, valves, bearings, distributors, shock absorbers, exhaust systems, alternators, and master cylinders

Rewire ignition systems, lights, and instrument panels

Reline and adjust brakes

Align front ends and repair steering systems and linkages

Replace and adjust headlights

Install and repair accessories, such as radios/cassettes/compact disc players, heaters, mirrors, windshield wipers, and ignition system components

Automobile Mechanics may perform general duties or specialize in a single skill. In small shops, Mechanics are usually qualified to do many kinds of repairs. Large shops and those that specialize in a particular kind of repair work might employ specialists. Some might specialize in air conditioning, brakes, front end, automatic transmission, engine tune-up, radiator, engine repair, or fuel-injection and electrical systems. Advancements in the technology of the motor vehicle, along with environmental issues require that Automobile Mechanics become skilled in areas such as telematics, wireless technologies, hybrid engines and power-trains and alternative fuel vehicles.

  Click here to view a brief video on Auto Mechanics.

Tools, equipment, and materials used by Auto Mechanics may include:

The Mechanic may also use testing equipment, such as:

OCCUPATIONAL SPECIALTIES

Auto Mechanics may specialize in these areas:

Automobile Service-Station Mechanics, for example, perform a variety of repairs and services on the vehicles of the station's customers.

620.261-010 AUTOMOBILE MECHANICS inspect, maintain, troubleshoot, diagnose, and repair mechanical and electrical parts of automobiles, trucks, and buses.

625.281-022 FUEL-INJECTION SERVICERS rebuild, test, and calibrate fuel injection units used on diesel engines, tractors, and other power plants.

825.281-022 AUTOMOTIVE ELECTRICIANS repair and overhaul electrical systems, including starters, generators, computer components and door controls, in automobiles, buses, and trucks.

620.261-034 AUTOMOTIVE-COOLING-SYSTEM DIAGNOSTIC TECHNICIANS inspect and test automotive cooling systems to determine malfunctions and estimate the cost of repairs.

620.281-010 AIR-CONDITIONING MECHANIC

620.281-026 BRAKE REPAIRER

620.281-034 CARBURETOR MECHANIC

620.281-038 FRONT-END MECHANIC

620.281-062 TRANSMISSION MECHANIC

620.281-066 TUNE-UP MECHANIC

620.381-010 AUTOMOBILE-RADIATOR MECHANIC

620.261-030 AUTO.-SERVICE-STATION MECHANIC

In addition to learning about these specialties, you may also find it helpful to explore the following Career Exploration scripts:

WORKING CONDITIONS AND REQUIREMENTS  

Auto Mechanics usually work by themselves. Auto Mechanics usually work indoors, but may go out on service calls to make emergency repairs on cars that have broken down on the road.

Automobile Mechanics usually work in automobile dealerships, independent garages, fleet maintenance shops, and government installations. They often work in garages with modern facilities with heating and ventilation systems.

The Mechanics often work in cramped or awkward positions, employing sight, sound, or touch to gauge, adjust, and align parts and tune engines. Mechanical equipment is available to lift heavy objects. Lighter objects are lifted manually.

Most states have strictly enforced laws to minimize employment hazards. Carbon monoxide poisoning, infection from cuts and burns, allergies to cleaning fluids, and muscular strains from lifting heavy parts are potential dangers. The work is sometimes dirty, since vehicles may be greasy and oily and in some seasons covered with water, snow or mud.  

Most Mechanics work between 40 and 48 hours a week, but they may work longer hours during busy periods. The summer period, when customers prepare for vacation trips, is usually the busiest season for automobile mechanics.

Mechanics are usually required to furnish their own tools. Some employers do, however, pay part or all of the costs for uniforms and laundering. Over a period of time, a Mechanic may spend from $2,000 to $10,000 for a complete set of tools.

Union membership varies throughout the United States, but there may be some affiliation with a union by Mechanics working for large bus or trucking companies. Union members must pay dues.

You Should Prefer:

• Activities dealing with the mechanical and electrical repair of things

• Activities involving the use of machines, processes, or methods

• Activities which bring satisfaction from working on or fixing things

You Should Be Able To:

• See detail in objects or drawings

• Recognize slight differences in shapes or shadings

• Look at drawings/pictures and see how they would look as solid objects

• Rate information using personal judgment

• Rate information using standards that can be measured or checked

• Work within precise limits or standards of accuracy

• Perform a variety of duties which may change often

Math Problem You Should Be Able to Solve:

If the tooth of the driving gear were pushing on the tooth of the driven gear with a force of 100 ft. lbs., how many ft./lbs. of torque would be applied to the driven gear shaft if the driven gear pitch circle diameter is 1 ft.?

Reading Example You Should Be Able to Read and Comprehend:

A sun gear assembly is installed on the output shaft. One end has helical teeth that are meshed with the pinion gears. This is the sun gear proper. The sun gear assembly is not splined to the transmission output shaft but is free to turn.

Writing Example You Should Be Able to Produce:

Write an estimate for a customer who would like to know the value of a 1985 6000 LE with a v6, automatic transmission, power steering, power brakes, power door locks, cruise control, and aluminum wheels.

Thinking Skill You Should Be Able to Demonstrate:

Should be able to demonstrate excellent analytical skills and be detail oriented in assessing, repairing, and maintaining automobiles.

The State of Michigan requires a license for this occupation.  Click here for "Michigan Licensed Occupations," see Automotive Mechanic for specific licensing information.

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EDUCATION AND PREPARATION OPPORTUNITIES

NOTE: On-The-Job Training provided by the employer, a High School Diploma with specific Vocational Education Classes or a Certificate (program of up to one year of study beyond high school), an Associate Degree (two years of study beyond high school) or an Apprenticeship (usually three to four years of training beyond high school) may qualify a person for this occupation.

The following education and preparation opportunities are helpful in preparing for occupations in the Career Exploration script:  

***SCHOOL SUBJECTS***

0300 AUTOMOTIVE , 0500 BUILDING TRADES , 0700 CAREERS , 0900 COMMUNICATIONS , 1000 COMPUTERS , 1200 ELECTRONICS , 2200 MATH , 2300 METALS , 2900 SCIENCE , 3100 STUDY & WORK OPTIONS , 3200 TECHNICAL DRAWING , 3300 TECHNOLOGY

***VOCATIONAL EDUCATION PROGRAMS***

036 HEATING/AIR/REFRIGERATION MECHANICS

Approved vocational education programs in Heating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Mechanics prepare students to install, repair, and maintain the operating condition of heating, air conditioning, and refrigeration systems. Included is instruction in the theory and application of principles involved in conditioning of air; cooling, heating, filtering, and controlling humidity; the operating characteristics of various units and parts; blueprint reading; the use of technical reference manuals; the diagnosis of malfunctions; the overhaul, repair, and adjustment of units and parts such as pumps, compressors, valves, springs, and connections; and the repair of electric and pneumatic control systems.

Courses in other trade and industrial programs may be required for completion of this program.

043 AUTOMOTIVE MECHANICS

Approved vocational education programs in Automotive Mechanics prepare students to repair and maintain all types of automobiles. Instruction includes diagnosing problems and repairing engines, fuel systems, electrical systems, cooling systems, and brake systems. Instruction also includes adjusting and repairing individual components such as radiators, transmissions and carburetors.

Courses in other trade and industrial programs may be required for completion of this program.

High school students should consult their guidance office for more information about the specific requirements of this program at their school or area vocational education center.

***POSTSECONDARY PROGRAMS***

016 AUTOMOTIVE TECHNOLOGY

Programs in Automotive Technology provide opportunities to gain the knowledge and skills necessary for employment repairing and maintaining cars, trucks, and buses. Individuals who teach Automotive Technology at the secondary school level must have a Michigan Teaching Certificate.

Courses will vary from school to school but may include:

Search for a College and/or Instructional Program  

***APPRENTICESHIP OPPORTUNITIES***

005 AUTO MECHANIC

Some people enter occupations within this Career Exploration script through an apprenticeship program. An apprenticeship program is a formal program that takes 3 - 5 years to complete with most of the time spent on the job.

WHAT IS LEARNED ON THE JOB

WHAT IS LEARNED IN THE CLASSROOM

***MILITARY TRAINING PROGRAMS***

Please check the Military web site at http://www.myfuture.com.

  AUTOMOTIVE AND HEAVY EQUIPMENT MECHANICS

Keeping automotive and heavy equipment in good working condition is vital to the success of military missions. Automotive and heavy equipment mechanics maintain and repair vehicles such as jeeps, cars, trucks, tanks, self-propelled missile launchers, and other combat vehicles. They also repair bulldozers, power shovels, and other construction equipment.

What They Do

Automotive and heavy equipment mechanics in the military perform some or all of the following duties:

• Troubleshoot problems in vehicle engines, electrical systems, steering, brakes, and suspensions

• Tune and repair engines

• Replace or repair damaged body parts, hydraulic arms or shovels, and grader blades

• Establish and follow schedules for maintaining vehicles

Training Provided

Job training consists of classroom instruction. Training length varies depending on specialty. Course content typically includes:

·                  Engine repair and tune-up

·                  Troubleshooting mechanical and electrical problems

·                   Repairing and replacing body panels, fenders, and radiators

Further training occurs on the job and through advanced courses. The Army, Navy, and Marine Corps offer certified apprenticeship programs for some specialties in this occupation.

Special Requirements

Although some women are automotive and heavy equipment mechanics, some specialties in this occupation are open only to men.

Work Environment

Automotive and heavy equipment mechanics usually work inside large repair garages. They work outdoors when making emergency repairs in the field.

Physical Demands

Automotive and heavy equipment mechanics may have to lift heavy parts and tools. They sometimes have to work in cramped positions. Normal color vision is required for some specialties to work with color-coded wiring and to read diagrams.

Helpful Attributes

Helpful school subjects include auto mechanics and industrial arts. Helpful attributes include:

• Preference for physical work

• Interest in troubleshooting and repairing mechanical problems

• Interest in automotive engines and how they work

Civilian Counterparts

Civilian automotive and heavy equipment mechanics may work for service stations, auto and construction equipment dealers, farm equipment companies, and state highway agencies. They perform duties similar to military automotive and heavy equipment mechanics. They may also be called garage mechanics, transmission mechanics, radiator mechanics, or construction equipment mechanics.

Opportunities

After job training, mechanics begin repairing equipment under the direction of a supervisor. In time, they have the opportunity to supervise other workers and possibly manage repair shops, motor pools, or maintenance units.  

E-Learning Courses and Programs

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OPPORTUNITIES FOR EXPERIENCE AND METHODS OF ENTRY  

Many gas stations, small repair shops, and car dealers hire part-time Mechanics. Practical experience in auto repair may be gained from military service, an apprenticeship, or working on cars as a hobby. Secondary vocational education programs in auto mechanics, mechanics cluster, transportation services and technology, and heating/air/refrigeration mechanics, as well as postsecondary programs in auto technology may offer co-op or work experience opportunities.

School-to-Work opportunities include:

informal apprenticeships

mentorships

job shadowing experiences

touring a local Auto Mechanic employer

internships

volunteer work with a Auto Mechanic employer

community service work with an agency

The most common method of entry is direct application to auto dealerships, service stations, independent repair shops, bus companies, and other employers. Employers, local unions, and Michigan Works! full-service branch offices have information on apprenticeship opportunities. Openings may be found through school placement offices and newspaper want ads. In addition, you should access and search the Internet's on-line employment services sites such as:

You should enter an electronic resume on these on-line services.

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EARNINGS AND ADVANCEMENT  

Mechanics in repair shops may be paid a percentage of labor charges for repairs they make or a flat rate minimum. Skilled Mechanics usually earn between 2 to 3 times as much as inexperienced helpers and trainees.

Nationally, Automotive Mechanics in mid-2009 averaged about $42,500 per year, with most earning from $37,700 to $48,100. The median yearly earnings of "all" workers in the U.S. were $37,544 in 2008.

In the Great Lakes States Region (Michigan), the average annual earnings of Automotive Mechanics in mid 2009 were:

Transportation maintenance workers and automotive mechanics employed by the State of Michigan in mid 2009 earned between $34,264 and $48,212 per year, depending on experience and level of responsibility. Supervisors earned between $38,503 and $52,618 per year.

The 2007 graduates of high school vocational education programs in Michigan who worked in jobs related to this occupation earned a beginning average of $19,635 per year in 2008.

Depending on their employer, Auto Mechanics may receive 1 and 1/2 or 2 times their basic rate for overtime.

Mechanics may receive paid vacations and holidays, life, dental, and health insurance, uniforms, and retirement plans. Benefits are usually paid for, at least in part, by the employer.

Capable Mechanics advance to become supervisors and service managers. Many open their own automotive service stations, specialty repair shops, or parts stores. Some operate new or used car dealerships along with service and repair operations.

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EMPLOYMENT AND OUTLOOK  

Nationally, there were about 772,700 Auto Mechanics employed in 2006. Employment is expected to grow faster than the average for all occupations through the year 2016. About 16.1% of them were self-employed. The industry distribution for Auto Mechanic looked like this:

To find employers, click Employer/Business Locator.

There are a growing number of vehicle registrations and an aging fleet. These factors will mean more work for Auto Mechanics because of the increasing number of cars and the growing number of older cars on the road.

There are about 25,375 Auto Mechanics employed in Michigan. Most worked in wholesale and retail trade industry. Some Auto Mechanics were self-employed.

Employment of Auto Mechanics is expected to increase faster than the average for all occupations through the year 2016. An average of 790 openings is expected annually, with 280 due to growth and 510 to replacement of those who retire or leave the labor force for other reasons. Additional openings will occur as workers change jobs or occupations. In late 2009, there were 43 apprentices in training for this occupation. The employment of Auto Mechanics is expected to be affected by at least two factors. The first factor is the attempt by auto manufacturers in recent years to eliminate the need for some auto maintenance work and to increase the service schedules for other maintenance work.

The second factor is the complexity of the more fuel-efficient car models. These models have computerized engine controls, anti-lock brake systems, electronic instrument panels, power-boosting turbochargers and/or new transmission and suspension systems. Opportunities will be best for Auto Mechanics who have good electrical and electronics backgrounds and who have factory-supplied training from auto manufacturers or an associate degree in automotive technology.

MICHIGAN 'S EMPLOYMENT OUTLOOK TO 2016

SOURCES OF ADDITIONAL INFORMATION  

Copyright © 2009 Michigan Department of Energy, Labor & Economic Growth