your job in automotive service

industrial arts

1. What does an auto mechanic do? An auto mechanic performs repairs and diagnostic tests on vehicles such as cars, vans and small trucks. Some will perform maintenance on heavy vehicles, while others specialize in off-road vehicles or parts such as engines, tires and brakes. Other responsibilities include: Performing routine vehicle maintenance, including part lubrication and fluid changes Checking each vehicle’s computer and electronic system and repair or update if necessary Rotating or changing tires Providing accurate price quotes for work, including the cost of parts and labor Keeping comprehensive records on the work completed for each customer Making sure all tools and equipment are functional and in good condition

2. Auto mechanic requirements To become a successful auto mechanic, you need several practical skills along with a certain amount of education and specialized training.

3. Education The minimum requirement to work as an auto mechanic is a high school diploma or equivalent. Although you will spend most of your time working on vehicles, you should also have a basic knowledge of reading, writing and mathematics to succeed in your job.

4. Training An internship offers you the chance to fully experience the working environment of an auto mechanic. You typically begin an internship while in high school or a vocational school. Most are unpaid, although candidates with some prior experience may also find a paid internship. Whether or not you serve an internship, most businesses will require you to spend at least two years as an apprentice before you can begin working on your own. Some apprentices are hired straight into a training program, while others work their way up. Companies that hire apprentices often prefer one year of experience or training, although this is not always required. After working as an apprentice for two years, you can begin taking qualification exams. If you work at a car dealership, your employer will usually provide you with specialized training for that manufacturer’s vehicles. This may prove useful as you build your resume and develop more specialized skills as an auto mechanic.

5. Skills To succeed as an auto mechanic, you need both practical and relational skills. These include: Excellent manual dexterity: Along with good hand-eye coordination, you should be comfortable working with small parts like screws and bolts. This requires you to have fine motor skills and full use of your hands. You must move your fingers with precision, assemble objects and work with tools. Steady hands are also a necessity. Good physical condition. You will often need to crouch, stretch, lie down and lift moderately heavy objects as part of your work. This is why you need to be in good health and have unrestricted mobility. Diagnostic and problem-solving skills: You will need to know how to use diagnostic tools to determine what’s wrong with a vehicle. While the solution to a vehicle problem can be simple, you may sometimes need to use problem-solving skills to accurately determine the cause of an issue and the most effective way to fix it.

6. Proficiency with tools and equipment: Auto mechanics work with a wide range of tools, which could include computerized diagnostic equipment. Knowing your tools means knowing which one to correctly use for the work you’re doing. Having this knowledge and proficiency enables you to do your work with speed and confidence. Customer service skills: While most of your work will be with vehicles, you will still need to interact with customers. With good customer service skills, you can help ease customers by communicating vital information such as what type of car maintenance is required and how long repairs may take. Good communication skills: Many of your customers will not have a deep understanding of car mechanics. You will need to accurately and communicate what kind of problem you need to fix and how you plan to fix it. Your ability to communicate will also help you write reports, answer the telephone, respond to email and text messages and perform any other necessary office tasks.