Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics

What automotive service technicians and mechanics do

Diagnose, adjust, repair, or overhaul automotive vehicles.

Typical tasks

1. 1Follow checklists to ensure all important parts are examined, including belts, hoses, steering systems, spark plugs, brake and fuel systems, wheel bearings, and other potentially troublesome areas.
2. 2Test and adjust repaired systems to meet manufacturers' performance specifications.
3. 3Perform routine and scheduled maintenance services, such as oil changes, lubrications, and tune-ups.
4. 4Inspect vehicles for damage and record findings so that necessary repairs can be made.
5. 5Align wheels, axles, frames, torsion bars, and steering mechanisms of automobiles, using special alignment equipment and wheel-balancing machines.
6. 6Repair, reline, replace, and adjust brakes.
7. 7Repair, replace, or adjust defective fuel injectors, carburetor parts, and gasoline filters.
8. 8Align vehicles' front ends.
9. 9Repair and service air conditioning, heating, engine cooling, and electrical systems.
10. 10Review work orders and discuss work with supervisors.

Technology used

• Apple Safari
• Microsoft Edge
• Microsoft Excel
• Microsoft Office software
• Microsoft Outlook
• Microsoft Windows
• Microsoft Word
• Mozilla Firefox
• SAP software

How to become one

Experience

Previous work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is required for these occupations. For example, an electrician must have completed three or four years of apprenticeship or several years of vocational training, and often must have passed a licensing exam, in order to perform the job.

Training

Employees in these occupations usually need one or two years of training involving both on-the-job experience and informal training with experienced workers. A recognized apprenticeship program may be associated with these occupations.