Motor mechanics are responsible for inspecting, diagnosing, and repairing various types of engines, typically in cars but also in aircraft or other machines. This role is well suited to people who enjoy troubleshooting and solving complex problems. Applicants should be skilled in technical expertise, have analytical abilities, attention to detail, and great customer service skills. This is a full-time role and usually involves weekend, evening, and overtime work as well. Motor mechanics often work as part of a team in repair shops—although issues are identified with computerized tools, this is a hands-on job where mechanics will commonly work with power tools, pneumatic wrenches, or welding torches to fix parts.
Motor mechanics are responsible for checking the serviceability of vehicles through test drives and system checks, as well as identifying problems using computerized diagnostic equipment. This involves testing parts to make sure they are running as they should, and following checklists to ensure that all critical areas of the car are examined properly.
Motor mechanics perform basic checks to ensure the motor is running properly, such as changing the oil and replacing filters. These checks need to adhere to company and industry test procedures, so motor mechanics will be responsible for ensuring these guidelines are met.
Day to day, motor mechanics typically work on cars and assess problems with them. This will entail communicating the issues with customers and explaining technical information about the problems and repairs to them in an easy to understand way, as well as advising of the cost.
If issues have been identified on the vehicle, it’s a motor mechanics job to replace or repair the damage to parts, such as gearboxes or generators, to certain specifications. These may be minor tasks or larger jobs which require more technical expertise.
In order to ensure that the correct standards are met, motor mechanics need to maintain the shop equipment and test it regularly. Part of a mechanic’s role is to service, adjust, and test these devices to ensure high standards are maintained.
To become a motor mechanic, a postsecondary degree in automotive technology or a related subject is considered a good foundation. ASE certification (National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence) is also valued by employers and many companies require their mechanics to become certified. Due to the constant changes in technology, mechanics are expected to update their certifications every few years. Employees are usually required to have one or two years of on-the-job-experience and informal training as well.
The median annual salary for motor mechanics is nearly $38,500. Motor mechanics in the 10th percentile earn around $21,500 annually, while the highest paid earn close to $64,000 a year. Most mechanics work full time, and many work evenings and weekends.
Location and level of experience impact the pay level for this role. Some employers offer dental plans and medical insurance as part of a benefits package. The BLS predicts that the growth rate for this sector is expected to grow by 6 percent through 2026.