New to Auto Repair

[Scott]

Hi Guys, I’m from Newcastle Upon Tyne, England , UK. After watching a few of Eric’s videos, I have become more and more enthusiastic about becoming a Mechanic/Auto Tech. Obviously being from the UK, I know that the way cars are made here is different than the way they are made in USA. Most cars now in the UK are moving to electrics which is harder to do. but one of my main questions is, is it easier to be a Tech in the USA? and also, as I am relatively new to this, I wondered if you could give me any pointers on where to even start? I mean you mentioned in one of your videos already that its not the way it used to be, you cant just walk into a place and ask for a job. people want experienced guys to work there, but how on earth do you get experience if nobody will give you that first break?

Topic

[Andrew Phillips]

While it is true that most shops want to hire people with experience or can at least demonstrate (or otherwise back up their claim to) their knowledge, most ‘green’ mechanics start out as lube and oil techs, and then work up from there. Some automotive schools also have programs to assist their graduates with job placement. Today it’s harder finding a job, in any industry, than in years past. Most jobs are landed through “who you know” rather than “what you know” — at least in my recent observation.

[Scott]

Thanks for the response, I too have noticed its not “what you know” its “Who”. but an auto mechanic school may be good if I can find one

[Jon Hart]

As a Tech from England things are pretty different here compared to the US In terms of Qualifications you just need a level 3 in light vehicle maintenance as an absolute minimum to even be eligibly to apply ( some backstreet places might accept level 2 for light service work)

Having said that even with a level 3 it can be difficult to find work ideally you want to try and do brand training through a main dealer as it really puts you in a good place to make progress as a tech.

We dont have Lube techs A techs and all of that here You’ll be expected to know how to do everything from a tyre to a gearbox to a cylinder head rebuilds the Workshop controller normally dishes out the work and as he knows you he will give you what is appropriate Ie my first gearbox the customer was leaving the car for a few days for all the other bits so plenty time to work it all out same with my first cambelt etc

[Rick]

To be honest US texhs won’t be able to offer any type of opinion on UK shops, work environment ect. We can just all bitch about common issues like stupid customers, bad service writers, that sort of thing.

[Author]

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