4 answers
Shaun
Student
1
Question
Updated
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What does it take to be an automotive technician?
I have come to the thought that maybe being an automotive technician would be beneficial since I believe cars are cool and a good investment. So, my question is what exact talents would it take for be to acquire such job as a automotive technician.
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4 answers
Daniel Adjaklo
Electrician
1
Answer
Accra, Greater Accra Region, Ghana
Updated
Daniel’s Answer
You must be a hard working and be able to solve problems
Teklemuz Ayenew Tesfay
Electrical Engineer, Software Developer, and Career Mentor
520
Answers
Ethiopia
Updated
Teklemuz Ayenew’s Answer
Becoming an automotive technician is an exciting journey that combines hands-on experience with technical know-how. Start by getting involved through volunteering, internships, or enrolling in a technical college. Pursuing certifications like ASE can really set you apart. It’s important to learn how to use tools like OBD-II scanners and to understand wiring diagrams. Good communication skills and attention to detail are also key.
To move ahead quickly, keep a repair journal and watch helpful YouTube channels like ChrisFix or EricTheCarGuy. Joining online communities like Reddit’s r/MechanicAdvice can offer great support. Resources such as AutoZone Repair Guides, ALLDATA, and iATN are also valuable. Build your toolset over time and think about specializing in areas like diagnostics, hybrid vehicles, or automotive electronics. Being dependable, curious, and hardworking will help you thrive in this rewarding career.
To move ahead quickly, keep a repair journal and watch helpful YouTube channels like ChrisFix or EricTheCarGuy. Joining online communities like Reddit’s r/MechanicAdvice can offer great support. Resources such as AutoZone Repair Guides, ALLDATA, and iATN are also valuable. Build your toolset over time and think about specializing in areas like diagnostics, hybrid vehicles, or automotive electronics. Being dependable, curious, and hardworking will help you thrive in this rewarding career.
Neil Maude
Business Leader
22
Answers
Leeds, England, United Kingdom
Updated
Neil’s Answer
Hi Shaun
I come from a line of mechanics and - although I work in IT - I've not strayed much and have a degree in self-driving car tech.
Thesedays, cars is more and more "computers on wheels".
Routine repair is, well, routine following of a work instruction to replace X part following a method to remove / replace etc.
More complex work will mean diagnostics - again, this is often technology driven ... for example, many cars run a diagnostic program with a connection back to the factory (either with a direct connection in the shop, or over the air).
However, the real skill comes in when the automatic diagnostics aren't conclusive enough and you have to become a detective.
You'll need good tech skills / IT, a "feel" for the tools (which comes with time served experience) and also a strong work ethic (no hiding this, technicians are judged by speed and meeting the time allowed for the specific job).
For a bit of fun around seeing if this is for you, why not check out some of the many YouTube channels where people fix broken cars - Matt Armstrong's content is always good for a laugh, as well as often insightful.
Good luck, follow your passion!
Neil
I come from a line of mechanics and - although I work in IT - I've not strayed much and have a degree in self-driving car tech.
Thesedays, cars is more and more "computers on wheels".
Routine repair is, well, routine following of a work instruction to replace X part following a method to remove / replace etc.
More complex work will mean diagnostics - again, this is often technology driven ... for example, many cars run a diagnostic program with a connection back to the factory (either with a direct connection in the shop, or over the air).
However, the real skill comes in when the automatic diagnostics aren't conclusive enough and you have to become a detective.
You'll need good tech skills / IT, a "feel" for the tools (which comes with time served experience) and also a strong work ethic (no hiding this, technicians are judged by speed and meeting the time allowed for the specific job).
For a bit of fun around seeing if this is for you, why not check out some of the many YouTube channels where people fix broken cars - Matt Armstrong's content is always good for a laugh, as well as often insightful.
Good luck, follow your passion!
Neil
Dear Neil,
Thank you so much for your thoughtful and detailed response to my question about what it takes to be an automotive technician. I really appreciate the time you took to share your knowledge and expertise. Your insights have given me a much clearer understanding of the path forward, and I’m excited to explore it further.
Thanks again for your help!
Best regards,
Shaun
Shaun
a b
Software Development
29
Answers
Portland, Oregon
Updated
a’s Answer
Shaun -
There are a lot of TV programs that show repair and rebuild of automobiles. I love watching them. There's 2 different paths: Bolt-on / swap out, and fabrication. You'll probably choose one of those two paths, depending on how much creativity you need.
Being good at wiring, measuring voltage, and other related diagnostics is excellent. Most of the newer cars self-diagnose, so you have to be comfortable with cross-referencing codes, doing research on the internet, and making or following a plan for testing or replacing individual parts.
Get comfortable with hand-tools, and all the various fasteners and metal types.
A lot of mechanic positions require certifications, so plan to be trained, but don't wait for the training - learn all you can as early as you can.
Practice identifying various components on engines and suspension across many different types of cars. You'll find they're in different places, and often shaped differently, but you'll train your eye to identify starter, alternator, water pump, a/c compressor, coil pack, and the various styles of suspension.
Very best wishes!
Blaine - Oregon USA
There are a lot of TV programs that show repair and rebuild of automobiles. I love watching them. There's 2 different paths: Bolt-on / swap out, and fabrication. You'll probably choose one of those two paths, depending on how much creativity you need.
Being good at wiring, measuring voltage, and other related diagnostics is excellent. Most of the newer cars self-diagnose, so you have to be comfortable with cross-referencing codes, doing research on the internet, and making or following a plan for testing or replacing individual parts.
Get comfortable with hand-tools, and all the various fasteners and metal types.
A lot of mechanic positions require certifications, so plan to be trained, but don't wait for the training - learn all you can as early as you can.
Practice identifying various components on engines and suspension across many different types of cars. You'll find they're in different places, and often shaped differently, but you'll train your eye to identify starter, alternator, water pump, a/c compressor, coil pack, and the various styles of suspension.
Very best wishes!
Blaine - Oregon USA