How to Be Automotive Technician - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Jul 19, 2023 / 6 Minutes Read / By Albert

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The automotive technician is an important job in the automotive industry. They are responsible for diagnosing and repairing vehicles, ensuring that they are operating safely and efficiently. This job requires a high level of technical skill and knowledge, as well as an understanding of automobile systems, components, and repair processes.

As a result, automotive technicians must be well-trained in mechanical, electrical, and computer systems to diagnose and repair vehicle issues. With their expertise, these technicians can prevent major automotive breakdowns, keep vehicles running smoothly, and increase the longevity of a vehicle. This helps save money for the vehicle owner, as well as reduce environmental pollution caused by inefficiently running vehicles.

Steps How to Become

Obtain a High School Diploma or GED. Before you can even begin to think about becoming an automotive technician, you must have a high school diploma or GED.
Learn the Fundamentals. Automotive technology is a complex field, so its important to start with the basics. Take courses in automotive technology, mathematics, electronics, and physics.
Find an Automotive Training Program. Most employers prefer to hire technicians who have formal training from an accredited automotive technology program. You can find programs at trade schools, community colleges, and technical schools.
Become Certified. Certification is not a requirement to become an automotive technician, but it will give you an edge in the job market. Automotive technology certifications are available in several different specialties, including brakes, air conditioning, engine performance, and electrical systems.
Obtain Work Experience. You can gain valuable experience by working as an apprentice mechanic or through a paid work experience program.
Consider Specialization. When youre ready to take your skills to the next level, consider specializing in a particular area of automotive technology. You might choose to focus on luxury cars or electric vehicles, or specialize in transmission or engine repair.

Staying ahead and competent as an automotive technician requires dedication and hard work. Keeping up to date with the latest technological advancements in the field is essential. Taking classes or attending seminars is one way to stay informed and can be beneficial to an automotive technicians career.

Investing in the right tools and equipment is an important factor in staying ahead and competent. Having access to the right resources and diagnostic tools will help a technician diagnose and repair problems quickly and accurately. Networking with other technicians is also a great way to stay on top of the latest industry trends.

its important to take the time to read technical manuals, stay organized, and be open to feedback and constructive criticism. By following these steps, an automotive technician can ensure that they are staying ahead and competent in the field.

You may want to check Industrial Maintenance Technician, HVAC Technician, and Robotics Technician for alternative.

Job Description

Diagnose and repair vehicle mechanical and electronic systems.
Perform maintenance and repairs on a variety of domestic and imported vehicles.
Inspect vehicles for necessary maintenance and repairs.
Troubleshoot and diagnose complex automotive issues.
Test-drive vehicles to diagnose malfunctions and to ensure that repairs are complete.
Repair, replace, or adjust parts, such as brakes, spark plugs, suspension systems, mufflers, and exhaust systems.
Maintain and repair vehicle air conditioning systems.
Read and interpret diagnostic codes from vehicles computer system.
Discuss automotive problems with customers and provide detailed repair estimates.
Perform oil changes, lubrications, and other routine servicing tasks.
Adjust, repair, or replace parts and components of automotive systems, such as fuel system components, wheel bearings, and air-conditioning components.
Keep records of work performed on vehicles.

Skills and Competencies to Have

Knowledge of automotive systems, components, and diagnostic tools
Ability to diagnose, repair, and maintain vehicles
Ability to work with both hands and power tools
Ability to read and interpret diagrams, schematics, and technical documents
Ability to use shop equipment such as lifts, jacks, and hoists
Knowledge of state and federal regulations regarding automotive repair
Ability to explain complex technical concepts to customers
Knowledge of safety procedures while working on vehicles
Ability to perform minor welding and fabrication work
Ability to troubleshoot electrical and computer systems

Automotive technicians are highly skilled individuals who are responsible for diagnosing and repairing a wide range of mechanical and electronic issues in cars and other vehicles. Having the right knowledge and experience is essential for a successful automotive technician, as they must be able to identify any problems quickly and accurately. They also need to be able to work on all types of vehicles, including those with different makes and models.

Furthermore, an automotive technician needs to have excellent problem-solving skills in order to be able to identify the cause of any issue and then take the necessary steps to fix it. they must be able to use specialized tools and equipment in order to effectively diagnose and repair the vehicles. Lastly, having a good understanding of the latest technologies available in the automotive industry is essential for an automotive technician to stay up to date with the ever-evolving industry.

Sheet Metal Worker Mechanic, Machine Tool Technician, and Auto Body Technician are related jobs you may like.

Frequent Interview Questions

What experience do you have in automotive repair?
What is your approach to problem solving?
How do you stay up to date with changes in automotive technology?
How would you handle a difficult customer?
Describe a time when you had to work under a tight deadline.
Describe a time when you diagnosed and solved a complex automotive issue.
What safety measures do you take when working on a vehicle?
Describe a time when you successfully collaborated with a team of technicians.
What tools and equipment do you use during automotive repair?
Describe your experience with computerized systems used in automotive repair.

Common Tools in Industry

Multimeter. A device used to measure electrical current, voltage and resistance. (Eg: Fluke Multimeter)
Oscilloscope. An electronic instrument that displays current, voltage or other changing signal in a graphical form. (Eg: Tektronix TBS1052B)
Torque Wrench. A tool used to accurately tighten fasteners to a specified torque value. (Eg: Craftsman Beam Style Torque Wrench)
Socket Set. A set of sockets and ratchets used to remove and install different fasteners. (Eg: Stanley Socket Set)
Diagnostic Scan Tool. A device used to read vehicle diagnostic information and trouble codes. (Eg: Autel MaxiDiag Elite MD802)
Pressure Gauge. An instrument used to measure pressure in an engine, transmission or other components. (Eg: Verdict Digital Tire Pressure Gauge)
Hex Key Set. A set of hex keys used to loosen and tighten bolts and screws. (Eg: Stanley Long Arm Hex Key Set)
Impact Wrench. A power tool used to loosen and tighten stubborn bolts with a hammering action. (Eg: Ingersoll Rand 2135TiMAX)
OBD-II Reader. A device used to retrieve trouble codes and other information from a vehicle's onboard computer. (Eg: Actron CP9580A)
Caliper. An instrument used to measure the inner and outer diameter of a cylinder or other objects. (Eg: Mitutoyo Digital Caliper)

Professional Organizations to Know

Automotive Service Association (ASA)
National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE)
Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE)
International Automotive Technicians Network (iATN)
Automotive Management Institute (AMI)
Automotive Aftermarket Industry Association (AAIA)
Automotive Maintenance and Repair Association (AMRA)
Automotive Service Association of Canada (ASA-Canada)
Automotive Parts Rebuilders Association (APRA)
Automotive Training Managers Council (ATMC)

We also have Industrial Mechanic, Avionics Technician, and Generator Mechanic jobs reports.

Common Important Terms

Tune-up. A tune-up is a type of automotive maintenance that typically includes replacing spark plugs, filters, and other components to ensure the vehicle is running efficiently.
Diagnosis. Diagnosis is the process of identifying the cause of a problem or issue in a vehicle. It usually involves testing the vehicle's systems and components to determine what is causing the issue.
Maintenance. Maintenance is the process of regularly inspecting, maintaining, and repairing a vehicle to keep it in good working condition.
Brakes. Brakes are the system of parts designed to slow or stop a vehicle. They consist of brake pads, rotors, calipers, and other components.
Alignment. Alignment is the process of ensuring a vehicle's wheels are properly aligned with the direction they are intended to go in. This can help improve fuel efficiency and reduce uneven tire wear.
Oil Change. An oil change is a routine maintenance process that consists of draining out old motor oil and replacing it with new oil. It is important for maintaining an engine's performance and longevity.
Suspension. Suspension is the system of parts designed to absorb shock when a vehicle is being driven. It consists of shock absorbers, springs, and other components.
Electrical System. The electrical system is a vehicle's system of parts that provide electricity to power its various components and systems. It includes batteries, starters, alternators, and other components.

Frequently Asked Questions

What certifications are necessary to become an Automotive Technician?

Automotive Technicians need to have a valid driver's license and certification from the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) to work in the field.

What type of work does an Automotive Technician do?

An Automotive Technician diagnoses, repairs, and maintains mechanical, electrical, and electronic systems of automobiles. This includes engine, transmission, suspension, brakes, HVAC, and other systems.

How much does an Automotive Technician make per year?

The average Automotive Technician earns an annual salary of $40,710.

What type of education does an Automotive Technician need?

Automotive Technicians need to have a high school diploma or equivalent and complete a postsecondary automotive technology program at a trade school or community college.