How did you become a mechanic - General Discussions


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Auto Repair Home>> Automotive World>> General Discussions

citymechanic
New User

May 13, 2017, 1:01 PM

Post #1 of 3 (1396 views)

How did you become a mechanic	Sign In

Hello everyone,

My name is Sam. I have always had a passion for cars and trucks. I have decided that I would like to pursue my passion and make it my job. But before I go running into a new career I was hoping that a few mechanics could answer some questions I have?

1 - How did you get your start?

2 - How long have you been a mechanic and what do you work on?

3 - What do you do in a typical day?

4 - What type of training have you received?

5 - How many people work in your shop? Does each person specialize in a field?

6 - If you had to do it over again would you? Why or Why not?

7 - Is there anything that I should know but have not asked already?

Thank you, your help is very much appreciated.

Hammer Time
Ultimate Carjunky / Moderator
Hammer Time profile image

May 13, 2017, 2:48 PM

Post #2 of 3 (1388 views)

Re: How did you become a mechanic	Sign In

1 - How did you get your start?
I have been intrigued by cars since I was about10 years old and started taking things apart back then.

2 - How long have you been a mechanic and what do you work on?
Just retired after 53 years in the business

3 - What do you do in a typical day?
Whatever comes through the door that I am qualified to do. For me all makes of passenger cars and light trucks.

4 - What type of training have you received?
The training is something that you will be doing for the rest of your career. It never stops as cars never stop changing and advancing. New systems always being introduced.

5 - How many people work in your shop? Does each person specialize in a field?
I've always worked in shops with less than 6 techs. There are many different levels of ability. Most people start out as lube techs doing oil changes and just never stop learning and training. Knowledge is money in this business. You never stop learning. Some people prefer to specialize and some want to do it all. Transmission work is the one thing that is usually specialized.

6 - If you had to do it over again would you? Why or Why not?
Good question. It's not an easy trade by any means but one thing I can tell you is I was never without a job if I didn't want to be. A good tech will always be in demand but it's a very hard job. It's hard on your body and Heaven knows, you will be buying tools and equipment for the rest of your life. Don't be surprised if you spend over $10K a year on tools, every year of your life. Busted knuckles and sliced fingers will be a way of life.

7 - Is there anything that I should know but have not asked already?
See #6

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We offer help in answering questions, clarifying things or giving advice but we are not a substitute for an on-site inspection by a professional.

Tom Greenleaf
Ultimate Carjunky / Moderator
Tom Greenleaf profile image

May 13, 2017, 10:55 PM

Post #3 of 3 (1365 views)

Re: How did you become a mechanic	Sign In

Very well said Hammer Time.
Sam: You said the key words to success that you have the "passion for it" and if real nothing is going to stop you.

#6. Would I do it again? Yes and would do just what I did early was go out and be on my own is unique to you and you alone not for everyone. It's hard but so is anything worth it.

Suggestion that's a must IMO: Don't think about how much money you can make rather how good you can be at getting things right and you won't want for work it will find you.

About the "busted knuckles part of it" : It's not the only thing or trade you can sustain the cuts, burns and a whole list. Use your head know what's dangerous dealing with vehicles - they are heavy and can fall, flammables everywhere, the chemicals/cleaners involved plus everything seems to be sharp!
Subnote: Yup - have been burned, cuts just go with it. One car fell only but slowly so could escape - that's luck and got out from under it! No damage to me or car - don't expect that twice.

It's constant learning and constantly needing or wanting more and better tools already said expect that and budget it in.

If you have the "passion" you will succeed,

Tom

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