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Automotive Mechanics

(D.O.T.  620.261-010, -012, -030, -034, .281-010, -026, -034, -038,
-062, -066, -070, .381-010, -022, .684-018, -022; 706.381-046;
806.361-026, .684-038; 807.664, .684-022; 825.381-014)

Nature of the Work

Automotive mechanics, often called automotive service technicians,
repair and service automobiles and occasionally light trucks, such
as vans and pickups, with gasoline engines.  (Mechanics who work on
diesel-powered trucks, buses, and equipment are discussed in the
Handbook statement on diesel mechanics.  Motorcycle mechanics who
repair and service motorcycles, motorscooters, mopeds, and
occasionally small all-terrain vehicles are discussed in the
Handbook statement on motorcycle, boat, and small-engine
mechanics.)

   Anyone whose car or light truck has broken down knows the importance
of the mechanic's job.  The ability to diagnose the source of the
problem quickly and accurately, one of the mechanic's most valuable
skills, requires good reasoning ability and a thorough knowledge of
automobiles.  In fact, many mechanics consider diagnosing hard to
find troubles one of their most challenging and satisfying duties.

   When mechanical or electrical troubles occur, mechanics first get a
description of the symptoms from the owner or, if they work in a
dealership or large shop, the repair service estimator who wrote the
repair order.  The mechanic may have to test drive the vehicle or
use a variety of testing equipment, such as engine analyzers, spark
plug testers, or compression gauges to locate the problem.  Once the
cause of the problem is found, mechanics make adjustments or
repairs.  If a part is damaged or worn beyond repair, or cannot be
fixed at a reasonable cost, it is replaced, usually after
consultation with the vehicle owner.

   During routine service, mechanics inspect, lubricate, and adjust
engines and other components, repairing or replacing parts before
they cause breakdowns.  They usually follow a checklist to be sure
they examine all important parts, such as belts, hoses, steering
systems, spark plugs, brake and fuel systems, wheel bearings, and
other potentially troublesome items.

   Mechanics use a variety of tools in their work.  They use power
tools such as pneumatic wrenches to remove bolts quickly; machine
tools such as lathes and grinding machines to rebuild brakes and
other parts; welding and flame-cutting equipment to remove and
repair exhaust systems and other parts; jacks and hoists to lift
cars and engines; and a growing variety of electronic service
equipment, such as infrared engine analyzers and computerized
diagnostic devices.  They also use many common handtools such as
screwdrivers, pliers, and wrenches to work on small parts and get at
hard-to-reach places.

   Automotive mechanics in larger shops have increasingly become
specialized.  For example, automatic transmission mechanics work on
gear trains, couplings, hydraulic pumps, and other parts of
automatic transmissions.  Because these are complex mechanisms and
include electronic parts, their repair requires considerable
experience and training, including a knowledge of hydraulics.
Tune-up mechanics adjust the ignition timing and valves, and adjust
or replace spark plugs and other parts to ensure efficient engine
performance.  They often use electronic test equipment to help them
adjust and locate malfunctions in fuel, ignition, and emissions
control systems.

   Automotive air-conditioning mechanics install and repair
air-conditioners and service components such as compressors and
condensers.  Front-end mechanics align and balance wheels and repair
steering mechanisms and suspension systems.  They frequently use
special alignment equipment and wheel-balancing machines.  Brake
repairers adjust brakes, replace brake linings and pads, repair
hydraulic cylinders, turn discs and drums, and make other repairs on
brake systems.  Some mechanics specialize in both brake and
front-end work.

   Automotive-radiator mechanics clean radiators with caustic
solutions, locate and solder leaks, and install new radiator cores
or complete replacement radiators.  They also may repair heaters and
air-conditioners, and solder leaks in gasoline tanks.

   The ability to diagnose mechanical and electrical problems quickly
is one of the mechanic's most valuable skills.

Working Conditions

Most automotive mechanics work a standard 40-hour week, but some
self-employed mechanics work longer hours.  Generally, mechanics
work indoors.  Most repair shops are well ventilated and lighted,
but some are drafty and noisy.  Mechanics frequently work with dirty
and greasy parts, and in awkward positions.  They often must lift
heavy parts and tools.  Minor cuts, burns, and bruises are common,
but serious accidents are avoided when the shop is kept clean and
orderly and safety practices are observed.

Employment

Automotive mechanics held about 739,000 jobs in 1992.  The majority
worked for retail and wholesale automotive dealers, independent
automotive repair shops, and gasoline service stations.  Others were
employed at automotive service facilities at department, automotive,
and home supply stores, or maintained the automobile fleets of
taxicab and automobile leasing companies, Federal, State, and local
governments, and other organizations.  Motor vehicle manufacturers
employed some mechanics to test, adjust, and repair cars at the end
of assembly lines.  Over 25 percent of automotive mechanics were
self-employed.

Training, Other Qualifications, and Advancement

Automotive technology is rapidly increasing in sophistication, and
most training authorities strongly recommend that persons seeking
trainee automotive mechanic jobs complete a formal training program
after graduating from high school.  However, some automotive
mechanics still learn the trade solely by assisting and working with
experienced mechanics.

   Automotive mechanic training programs are offered in high schools,
community colleges, and public and private vocational and technical
schools, but postsecondary programs generally provide more thorough
career preparation than high school programs.  High school programs,
while an asset, vary greatly in quality.  Some offer only an
introduction to automotive technology and service for the future
consumer or hobbyist, while others aim to equip graduates with
enough skills to get a job as a mechanic's helper or trainee
mechanic after graduation.

   Postsecondary automotive mechanic training programs vary greatly in
format, but generally provide intensive career preparation through a
combination of classroom instruction and hands-on practice.  Some
trade and technical school programs concentrate the training to only
6 months or a year, depending on how many hours the student must
attend each week.  Community college programs normally spread the
training out over 2 years, supplement the automotive training with
instruction in English, basic mathematics, and other subjects, and
award an associate degree.

   The various automobile manufacturers and their participating dealers
sponsor 2-year associate degree programs at about 117 community
colleges across the Nation.  The manufacturers provide service
equipment and late model cars on which students practice new skills,
and insure that the programs teach the latest automotive technology.
Curriculums are updated frequently to reflect changing technology
and equipment.  Students in these programs typically spend alternate
6- to 12-week periods attending classes full time and working full
time in the service departments of sponsoring dealers.  Because
students spend time gaining valuable work experience, these programs
may take as long as 4 years to complete, instead of the normal 2
years required to earn an associate degree in automotive service
technology.  However, they offer students the opportunity to earn
money while going to school and promise a job upon graduation.
Also, some sponsoring dealers provide students with financial
assistance for tuition or the purchase of tools.

   The National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation (NATEF), an
affiliate of the National Institute for Automotive Service
Excellence (ASE), certifies automobile mechanic training programs
offered by high schools and postsecondary trade schools, technical
institutes, and community colleges.  While NATEF certification is
voluntary, and many institutions have not sought it, certification
does signify that the program meets uniform standards for
instructional facilities, equipment, staff credentials, and
curriculum.  In early 1993, over 650 high school and postsecondary
automotive mechanic training programs had been certified by NATEF.

   Knowledge of electronics is increasingly desirable for automotive
mechanics because electronics is being used in a growing variety of
automotive components.  Engine controls and dashboard instruments
were among the first components to use electronics, but now
electronics are being used in brakes, transmissions, steering
systems, and a variety of other components.  In the past, problems
involving electrical systems or electronics were usually handled by
a specialist, but electronics are becoming so commonplace that most
automotive mechanics must be familiar with at least the basic
principles of electronics in order to recognize when an electronic
malfunction may be responsible for a problem.  In addition,
automotive mechanics frequently must be able to test and replace
electronic components.

   For trainee mechanic jobs, employers look for people with good
reading and basic mathematics skills who can study technical manuals
to keep abreast of new technology.  People who have a desire to
learn new service and repair procedures and specifications are
excellent candidates for trainee mechanic jobs.  Trainees also must
possess mechanical aptitude and knowledge of how automobiles work.
Most employers regard the successful completion of a vocational
training program in automotive mechanics at a postsecondary
institution as the best preparation for trainee positions.
Experience working on motor vehicles in the Armed Forces or as a
hobby is also valuable.  Completion of high school is required by a
growing number of employers.  Courses in automotive repair,
electronics, physics, chemistry, English, and mathematics can
provide a good basic educational background for a career as an
automotive mechanic.

   Beginners usually start as trainee mechanics, helpers, lubrication
workers, or gasoline service station attendants and gradually
acquire and practice their skills by working with experienced
mechanics.  Although a beginner can perform many routine service
tasks and make simple repairs after a few months' experience, it
usually takes 1 to 2 years of experience to acquire adequate
proficiency to become a journey service mechanic and quickly perform
the more difficult types of routine service and repairs.  However,
graduates of the better postsecondary mechanic training programs are
often able to earn promotion to the journey level after only a few
months on the job.  An additional 1 to 2 years are usually required
to become thoroughly experienced and familiar with all types of
repairs.  Difficult specialties, such as transmission repair,
require another year or two of training and experience.  In
contrast, automotive radiator mechanics and brake specialists, who
do not need an all-round knowledge of automotive repair, may learn
their jobs in considerably less time.

   In the past, many persons have become automotive mechanics through
3- or 4-year formal apprenticeship programs.  However, as formal
automotive training programs have increased in popularity, the
number of employers willing to make such a long-term apprenticeship
commitment has greatly declined.

   Mechanics usually buy their handtools, and beginners are expected to
accumulate tools as they gain experience.  Many experienced
mechanics have thousands of dollars invested in tools.  Employers
furnish power tools, engine analyzers, and other test equipment.

   Employers increasingly send experienced automotive mechanics to
factory training centers to learn to repair new models or to receive
special training in the repair of components such as electronic fuel
injection or air-conditioners.  Motor vehicle dealers may also send
promising beginners to factory-sponsored mechanic training programs.
Factory representatives come to many shops to conduct short training
sessions.

   Voluntary certification by ASE is widely recognized as a standard of
achievement for automotive mechanics.  Mechanics are certified in
one or more of eight different service areas, such as electrical
systems, engine repair, brake systems, suspension and steering, and
heating and air conditioning.  Master automotive mechanics are
certified in all eight areas.  For certification in each area,
mechanics must have at least 2 years of experience and pass a
written examination; completion of an automotive mechanic program in
high school, vocational or trade school, or community or junior
college may be substituted for 1 year of experience.  Certified
mechanics must retake the examination at least every 5 years.

   Experienced mechanics who have leadership ability may advance to
shop supervisor or service manager.  Mechanics who work well with
customers may become automotive repair service estimators.  Some
with sufficient funds open independent repair shops.

Job Outlook

Job opportunities in automotive mechanics are expected to be
plentiful for persons who complete automotive training programs in
high school, vocational and technical schools, or community
colleges.  Persons whose programs include some basic electronics
should have the best opportunities.  Persons without formal mechanic
training are likely to face competition for entry level jobs.
Mechanic careers are attractive to many because they afford the
opportunity for good pay and the satisfaction of skilled work with
one's hands.

   Employment of automotive mechanics is expected to increase about as
fast as the average for all occupations through the year 2005.
Growth in mechanic employment in automobile dealerships, independent
automotive repair shops, specialty car care chains, and other
establishments will be offset somewhat by declining employment in
gasoline service stations, because fewer stations offer repair
services.

   Nevertheless, the number of mechanics is expected to increase
because expansion of the driving age population will increase the
number of motor vehicles on the road.  The growing complexity of
automotive technology, such as the use of electronic and emissions
control equipment, increasingly necessitates that cars be serviced
by skilled workers, contributing to growth in demand for highly
trained mechanics.  In addition, if the average age of automobiles
in operation continues to be high, a significant proportion of
consumers' vehicle operating expenditures will be spent on service
and repairs, and less on purchasing vehicles.  However, improvements
in the reliability of automobiles, together with less frequent
requirements for routine service, are expected to result in
continued declines in the service and repair needs of cars.

   More job openings are expected for automotive mechanics than for
most other occupations because replacement needs, the main source of
job openings, will be substantial, due in large part to the size of
the occupation.  Replacements will be needed as experienced workers
transfer to other occupations or retire or stop working for other
reasons.

   Most persons who enter the occupation may expect steady work because
changes in economic conditions have little effect on the automotive
repair business.  During a downturn, however, some employers may be
more reluctant to hire inexperienced workers.

Earnings

Median weekly earnings of automotive mechanics who were wage and
salary workers were $408 in 1992.  The middle 50 percent earned
between $320 and $523 a week.  The lowest paid 10 percent earned
less than $230 a week, and the top 10 percent earned more than $746
a week.

   Many experienced mechanics employed by automotive dealers and
independent repair shops receive a commission related to the labor
cost charged to the customer.  Under this method, weekly earnings
depend on the amount of work completed by the mechanic.  Employers
frequently guarantee commissioned mechanics a minimum weekly salary.

   Some mechanics are members of labor unions.  The unions include the
International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers; the
International Union, United Automobile, Aerospace and Agricultural
Implement Workers of America; the Sheet Metal Workers' International
Association; and the International Brotherhood of Teamsters.

Related Occupations

Other workers who repair and service motor vehicles include diesel
truck and bus mechanics, motorcycle mechanics, and automotive body
repairers, painters, customizers, and repair service estimators.

Sources of Additional Information

   For more details about work opportunities, contact local automotive
dealers and repair shops, or the local office of the State
employment service.  The State employment service also may have
information about training programs.

   A list of certified automotive mechanic training programs may be
obtained from:

   National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation, 13505 Dulles
Technology Dr., Herndon, VA 22071-3415.

   Information on automobile manufacturer sponsored 2-year associate
degree programs in automotive service technology may be obtained
from:

   ASSET Program, Training Department, Ford Parts and Service Division,
Ford Motor Company, Room 109, 3000 Schaefer Rd., Dearborn, MI 48121.

   Chrysler Dealer Apprenticeship Program, National C.A.P.
Coordinator, SIMS 423-21-06, 26001 Lawrence Ave., Center Line, MI
48015.

   General Motors Automotive Service Educational Program, National
College Coordinator, General Motors Service Technology Group, 30501
Van Dyke Ave., Warren, MI 48090, or by calling 1-800-828-6860.

   Information on how to become a certified automotive mechanic is
available from:

   ASE, 13505 Dulles Technology Dr., Herndon, VA 22071-3415.

   For general information about the work of automotive mechanics,
write to:

   Automotive Service Association, Inc., P.O.  Box 929, Bedford, TX
76095-0929.

   Automotive Service Industry Association, 25 Northwest Point, Elk
Grove Village, IL 60007-1035.

   American Automobile Manufacturers Association, 7430 Second Ave.,
Suite 300, Detroit, MI 48202.