Want to be a car mechanic?
Tuesday 31 March 2009
Want to be a car mechanic? Read up on what it involves and the different routes that people take to become one.
What does a car mechanic do?
Car mechanics repair practically anything that runs on an engine and wheels such as cars, lorries, motorbikes and coaches. Some mechanics are trained to work on a whole range of vehicles, but some only specialize in a specific area or make of it.
Mechanics also have to do regular maintenance tasks such as MOT checks which ensure that vehicles are still safe and legal to drive on public roads.
Tricks of the trade
A vehicle will be brought in for repair and mechanics are often required to assess it on the spot and figure out what could be wrong. Once they know their trade well mechanics will be able to do this almost immediately, often by instinct or by the sound or look of a car.
To do their job mechanics work with a whole range of equipment from hand and power tools to electrical appliances.
But it takes more than knowing about vehicles to become one. Mechanics also have to be in the right shape because the job involves a lot of physical work like heavy lifting. It's also common for them to work on weekends and go on emergency call outs.
Where do mechanics work?
Everywhere! They’re hired by local garages, individual dealerships as well as vehicle brands, and can also be employed by armed services, taxi companies and even police forces.
Qualifications
Employers usually look for people who have at least four GCSEs including English, Maths and Science - an educational background in engineering or IT would be helpful too.
All mechanics have to have a valid driving license for the type of vehicles they’ll be working on and are also expected to have full colour vision.
Get trained up
As car technology develops and as stricter driving rules are put in place, more and more mechanics are needed. Here are a few ways you can get into the auto industry:-
The Diploma in Engineering
Engineers are needed in almost every job industry and play a part in the making of everyday items like staplers and larger objects such as cars. Learn more about engineering here.
The Diploma in Engineering focuses on three areas:-
- The Engineered World: the impact of egineering.
- Discovering Engineering Technology: the basics.
- Engineering the Future: delves into successful innovations and how to develop and launch ideas.
Find out more about the diploma.
These young people want to get into the diploma too.
Apprenticeships
Most apprenticeships in mechanics are only available to 16-24 year olds, but it’s possible to find a Young Apprentice scheme aimed at people aged 14-16.
An apprenticeship allows people to study how to be a mechanic, provides practical training and the opportunity to talk to and learn from a professional.
What's even better is that people get paid to do it! Mechanical apprentices earn a minimum of £80 a week, but this will go up to £95 in August. Search for an apprenticeship here.
Course search
There are loads of college courses that are highly regarded by employers, such as a City & Guilds Award and Certificate in Vehicle Maintenance and a BTEC National Certificate and Diploma in Vehicle Technology.
Because technology always changes, it’s vital to continue to learn about it. A lot of people go on to study a NVQ in Vehicle Maintenance or Vehicle Fitting Operations.
Work experience
Some local garages are willing to hire people for on-the-job training which usually lasts for around three to four years. Employers only ask that people show enthusiasm for the job and have knowledge of car parts.
