Automotive Careers - How to become a Mechanic

I was considering a career change and the auto repair industry was an idea. From research I have done, im a little confused on something.

Most shops require ASE certification to be hired.

ASE cert. requires 2 years experience.


How exactly does a person manage that? Cant do either one without the other?!?

start changing oil in a shop

What do you do now? Grease monkeying is a step down from most jobs.

Anyhow, I got experience while schooling simultaneously thru a co-op program known as "ASEP". I went to college and interned at a dealer at the same time. ASE requirements were met upon graduation and as soon as I passed the "L1" I was an ASE certified master tech.

As in 2 yrs you mean work anything auto related for 2 yrs?

think long and hard about it. I did 1.5 yrs in an ASE auto program and decided this wasnt what I wanted to do the rest of my life.

oh yea BTW ASE is a joke!

Learn to work on all the lt1s bs flaws. That will train you to become a badass mechanic.either that or ford mod motors. Working on Anything else is cake. :jest:

Seriously though,
Learn to work on commercial diesel vehicles. If u can get in as a lube and pm tech for a company. Learn to repair anything on truck/trailers. There will always be work for somrone who can service air brakes on commercial vehicles. Thats what im doing now, lot of work,too many hours.BIG paychecks. Working on cars is like working on toys in comparison.

Pick another career. Most of the mechanics I know aren't making a spectacular amount of money in their field and they've been out of UTI for 2ish years now... I have no schooling after high school and just got hired for a job in November that pays significantly more than all 4 of them and I have free benefits.

You want a mechanics job that pays good? Become a marine diesel Mechanic. And travel. Travel is the key to that but there is a huge demand for marine diesel mechanics internationally. Were talking diesels the size of a house to the smaller fishing charter boats, yachts and local marine merchants. Go to a good tech school for it or if your young enough take up the military option.

Pick another career.

Best advice given. I've been working as a mechanic, although on airplanes for 29 years and I wouldn't recommend it to anyone.
Wrenching on your hot rod is fun but it's another thing to make a living doing it.

Ok. There's many ways to go about it. First off, there's state licensing and then there's ase licensing. Ase works pretty much nationwide. With ase, you don't need state. That being said, in Michigan you can go and take the state tests at the secretary of state and receive your own license number to work on vehicles. That'll get you your experience. Education can also count for up to 1 year of qualification time for ase. My best advice would be to go to a technical school and work as a grease monkey at the same time. The schooling will prepare you fir the written ase tests, and by the time you're done, you should be able to get your ase right away.

The more specialized the field, the more money you'll make (and the more interesting the job will be). I was in your shoes at one point and worked in an auto metal fab shop for a summer and it was NOT what I had expected.

Since then I've become an ammonia refrigeration engineer working on screw and reciprocating compressors and the money is FAR better and more importantly the job itself is much more rewarding. But if you're down to changing oil in grandma's Windstar mini van, I suppose that could be exciting.

I did 20 years (16 years with a GM dealer) as a tech and I suffered thru the last 8 of them. Most of the general public have no respect for you and will treat you like crap, and the management will treat you even worse as most think you are expendible. There is no money left in that field other than a select few spots but good luck finding or getting into those. FWIW There are only 2 shops I would return to wrenching for. One, I blew the perfect opportunity to go to and the other place I'm not worthy to be at. Other than that, I am happy i left that line of work plus its also hard on the body.
I almost think flipping burgers has more potential than wrenching...

As everyone has said, wrenching doesn't exactly pay the greatest. It's hard work and long hours. People do treat you pretty poorly. Worse off, people tend not to trust you. It can also turn your hobby into a nightmare.

All that being said, it's your decision to make.

I got about 6 months into an aprentiship program before I realized that it wasnt for me...

I definately think that its not for everyone...

all these guys know what they are talking about.

I worked part time at just a tire and lube express for a few years. It was fun some days, but most days it's terrible.

oh yea BTW ASE is a joke!

No UTI is a joke and a waste of money, if you want to be a certified technician other then changing tires and oil then get your ASE in Engines, Brakes, Suspension take your pick.

It is a bad field to be in, I've been with my company for 3 of those years some weeks are better than others but its not worth it for the bullshit you deal with.

I've been a mechanic for 10 years going on 11 pay isn't the greatest but it gets me through. I wish I had stayed in school and went to college for something else, but I love working on engines. But it deffinatly takes its toll on the fun factor of working on your own stuff.

When i was a panel beater my wife was a manager at wendys... She made as much as I did. We both quit our jobs and make more money but she drives 60 miles to work now.

Well I guess I'm the first guy to tell you I love my job! I love what I do just not where I work is the best way to put it. I am not a dealer tech though I do fleet maintenance for a delivery company. I have been a mechanic for over 6 years. I love diagnostic and power train work. I know fleet mechanics are looked at as the "trashy grease monkeys" in the industry but its is a great way to get plenty of experience. It is a bit more laid back than dealers and you don't have to fight for hours.
I personally would like to get into more engine building and machine work but I am a little stuck right now because my gf and I want to get a house and get married and start a family...... What I am trying to say is it isn't as bad as some make it to be. There are lots of better paying jobs and a lot less paying jobs out there and you will have good days and bad. hope this helps.

Go to school to become an Aviation Mechanic. You won't want to be a bitch in an oil shop making minimum wage.

Let's confuse this with some facts:

http://www.simplyhired.com/a/salary/search/q-Auto+Mechanic

Al 95 Z28

Let's confuse this with some facts:

http://www.simplyhired.com/a/salary/search/q-Auto+Mechanic

Al 95 Z28

I wouldn't say that $36,000 is all that impressive for a career. 18 year old kids can make that their first year welding/doing factory work around here.

I did 20 years (16 years with a GM dealer) as a tech and I suffered thru the last 8 of them. Most of the general public have no respect for you and will treat you like crap, and the management will treat you even worse as most think you are expendible.
I know that part of the reason why techs are treated like crap is because of service managers who attempt to try and take everyone for a fool and justify their bullshit reasoning. I've dealt with enough of them that this holds true more so than not. They are out to make money and sometimes techs are collateral damage, however there are some techs who just don't give a fuck. Two of the biggest instances I have been in was suing Frank Parra Chevrolet in Irving, TX for not honoring a warranty claim, which was settled out of court because they knew they'd loose. The other was when a "tech" stole the Hurst shifter from my car and replaced it with the stock pile of trash, like I wouldn't notice.
The following listed instances as well as many other small experienciences with GM is pretty much they can go fuck the couches they sit on.

On a side note, can't believe Lingenfelter has been gone for that long...

I worked 3 years in a shop during school before getting an internship. I did everything from changing oil, to state inspections, to routine maintenance. The pay sucked. I make $5 more an hour at my internship than I did at a shop, and will make twice as much after graduating college in May. It was fun I guess, made me HATE having to work on my own car. I almost went to UTI coming out of high school, but am very glad I didn't.

My advice, look into a different career field. You will be better of going to a tech school for an associates in IT or engineering than you will getting ASE certified. And there is more potential to move up, as much as it sucks, education is key.

If you do what you love you won't work a day in your life. Become a porn star and fuck bitches for monies.

Here is my story. I am 33 years old. I have been a paramedic for 9 years. I am burnt out. The average shelf life for a medic is about 5 years. I am well past that. Im weighing options on pretty much starting over at 33 years old. I am not going into the military. I have a young child, so travel is out. I make in the neighborhood of 48k a year. My wife makes more than I do, so I dont need a 50k+ a year job. But I do need to make at least 38k a year. Sitting at a desk 8 hrs a day and being a pencil pusher is not an option. I would get bored and walk away.

I need something that changes frequently. A new challenge each day, if you will.

In looking at job postings for mechanics or helpers, they ALL require experience. No experience, no chance.

How are you suppose to get the experience, if no one is willing to hire someone without it?!?!

I have always done my best to work on my own car/family cars and if I have the tools to do the job, i am very capable of fixing things.

Working as a mechanic I think will give me the daily change I need, and keep my attention.

I put in 10 for Chevrolet. I'd have to agree that it's a thankless job. I went through the GM ASEP which is basically a auto tech program sponsored by GM.

I was considering a career change and the auto repair industry was an idea. From research I have done, im a little confused on something.

Most shops require ASE certification to be hired.

ASE cert. requires 2 years experience.


How exactly does a person manage that? Cant do either one without the other?!?

you need to start off at the bottom. oil changer, tire changer, or general parts hanger.

I know that part of the reason why techs are treated like crap is because of service managers who attempt to try and take everyone for a fool and justify their bullshit reasoning. I've dealt with enough of them that this holds true more so than not. They are out to make money and sometimes techs are collateral damage, however there are some techs who just don't give a fuck. Two of the biggest instances I have been in was suing Frank Parra Chevrolet in Irving, TX for not honoring a warranty claim, which was settled out of court because they knew they'd loose. The other was when a "tech" stole the Hurst shifter from my car and replaced it with the stock pile of trash, like I wouldn't notice.
The following listed instances as well as many other small experienciences with GM is pretty much they can go fuck the couches they sit on.

On a side note, can't believe Lingenfelter has been gone for that long...

That said, service managers make a lot more money and don't have to get their hands dirty....I have a buddy who is a service manager at a local GM dealership and he makes over $70K with sales bonuses. That job is more about sales and customer service though rather than fixing cars....and dealing with idiots that know nothing about cars. You also get to be the middle man/punching bag between clients/management/techs. It might be worth considering if you really love cars and it has a better salary range.

oh yea BTW ASE is a joke!

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what he said.

Here is my story. I am 33 years old. I have been a paramedic for 9 years. I am burnt out. The average shelf life for a medic is about 5 years. I am well past that. Im weighing options on pretty much starting over at 33 years old. I am not going into the military. I have a young child, so travel is out. I make in the neighborhood of 48k a year. My wife makes more than I do, so I dont need a 50k+ a year job. But I do need to make at least 38k a year. Sitting at a desk 8 hrs a day and being a pencil pusher is not an option. I would get bored and walk away.

I need something that changes frequently. A new challenge each day, if you will.

In looking at job postings for mechanics or helpers, they ALL require experience. No experience, no chance.

How are you suppose to get the experience, if no one is willing to hire someone without it?!?!

I have always done my best to work on my own car/family cars and if I have the tools to do the job, i am very capable of fixing things.

Working as a mechanic I think will give me the daily change I need, and keep my attention.

put yourself out there. walk into shops, and ask. don't be afraid to start off at the bottom. that can and will lead to higher positions, and learning.

Greenblood, Do you work for a independent ambulance service? In my town the fire department has paramedics also. If you work for your village can you transfer to the fire department side?
As far as becoming a auto mechanic, you're probably going to have to go to school and then find a entry level job from there. If you don't want to go to school I would apply to jobs in person and bring your car with you. If you run into the right person they may give you a chance and you can learn on the job.

I work out of a fire house now. I have no interest in becoming a firefighter. I am a county employee.

I think the problem with trying to get started as a mechanic today is there are so many unemployed experienced mechanics right now from the restructuring of GM and Chrysler. Why would anyone hire fresh meat they need to train when there are 15 highly experienced A, B and C guys all lined up for that lube tech job.

I work out of a fire house now. I have no interest in becoming a firefighter. I am a county employee.

if turning wrenches is what you want to do, then go for it. there will never be a shortage of demand for good technicians.

like i said.....go out and walk into different places of business, and ask if they're hiring. if they are, it may be a pretty shitty position to start, but that's ok.

if they want to hire you to simply sweep the floors, and clean up after the mechanics, then do it. when you've been there for long enough to get to know the mechanics, offer to assist if they need it. even if they just need you to hold a hose out of the way. you'll be surprised how far that gets you.
you'll learn a lot on the job. don't harp on ase certs. while a lot of shops want ase guys, the fact is that ase means nothing more than you're a good test taker. good shops will be more interested in what's in your head, not what patches you've got sewn on your sleeve. ase is a marketing tool. there was a day when it meant somethig to be ase certified, but those days are gone.

another option to try, is driving tow trucks for a repair shop. same thing. you can get your foot in the door to wrenching pretty easily from that.

I am a county employee.

You've probably thought of this but since you already work for the county, could you transfer to the county garage. Maint is simplified in a fleet environment.

If you do what you love you won't work a day in your life.

I agree with this to an extent. Sometimes when people combine work and passions, they just get burnt out on their passions, which really sucks.

Become a porn star and fuck bitches for monies.

http://i873.photobucket.com/albums/ab300/Mastertomos/i-see-what-you-did-there.png

You've probably thought of this but since you already work for the county, could you transfer to the county garage. Maint is simplified in a fleet environment.

Funny you mention that. I DID look into that, only to find out they require ASE certification AND 7 years experience.

If your working for a shop you probably won't make a whole lot. My father owns his own shop here in Oklahoma, and he makes pretty good money. They also work on high end to low end stuff. I help him out when I'm off work from pipelines, I hate it. Also mechanics on the pipeline make a whole lot of money but you have to have a rig setup.

^^^ this our labor rate is $60 an hour, I make $10.75 with an extra $350 a month for insurance that I use to pay the wifes car payment.

I would look into deisel mechanic or heavy machinery/hydraulic. But if your going to do that you may as well just get training to run the heavy machinery.

I know a few people who have been changing oil in dealerships and slowly working their way up, and by slowly I mean, They hit a wall, had to switch dealerships/jobs and try to work up again. One guy had a second worker put on his lift, so he had to share a lift.

In other dealerships ive worked in, take mercedes benz, they had a couple UTI/Wyotech employees hired, But they are almost always hired in as a shop bitch and move up due to someone else getting fired, and if the dealership needs to cut someone...guess who gets to go? The best way to go about it would be to go to one of those schools and if you know someone who works at a shop, use them to get hired. Then just dont mess up. Ive seen alot of pick up trucks with tool box's in the back of them come and go.

Ive never been a mechanic at a dealership, i was just a lot tech/bitch. But i heard enough and saw enough of it to get the idea. The master mechanics always had 20-30years experience and werent going anywhere. Then it would fall down the ladder to the newbie (where you would be). Some places hire ASE certified mechanics and make them change oil all day too. Its easy sure, but its not what you want to do all day. Other places run them all the same, they get the jobs they are givin, no picking and choosing.

It's a dead end field.

no it's not a dead end field. there's always gonna be cars. the key is to learn to diagnose them. once you know that.....you command a high salary. also, stay away from dealerships.

i wrench for a living. And work in a relaxed shop. There is no doubt I enjoy fixing a car and diagnosing it right also I love my tools haha. But pay sucks, Its weird how pay can vary. Make 20 bucks a hour in one shop and 12 bucks in another. What are other fields and Tech can get into?

It would be fun, if you get into a performance shop and work at one like Speed Inc or AMS, but your going to need crazy exp for them. So you would have to start as said earlier on grandmas winstar or soccer mom's sienna.

Also, I think the rates are differnt for differnt makes, I heard that the BMW dealer near me pays out like 50$ an hour. I am not a mech, Im going into Computer engineering and currently work at UPS makin 18.80$ an hour : ( ------- P.T.

There are other education options out there besides UTI, 2 year community college programs, or factory sponsored training. I'm finishing a bachelor degree in auto management. It is very flexible as far as careers go.

http://www.morrisville.edu/programsofstudy/schoolofscienceandtech/automotivemanagementbba/

If you want to do this right, read my words GO TO SAM.

Dont waste your time or money on schools like UTI and WyoTech, they are joke.

I agree with this to an extent. Sometimes when people combine work and passions, they just get burnt out on their passions, which really sucks.


Agreed, and it's only human nature to want to desire a change and to dread the repetitious after a certain amount of time has passed. Ultimately, most people are known to change their careers more than once in their lifetime, something that would've been unheard of decades ago.

As everyone else has been saying, start at the bottom doing lowly clean-up/oil changing jobs, and move up...

I am currently going to SIUC and majoring in automotive technology. I love the school and my classes but I will also be able to do more than turn a wrench when I'm done with the program. I have worked in a small independent shop and a GM dealership. I will have to say the independent shop was a lot better than the dealership.

The heavy equipment repair field is a lot better than being an auto tech. I have done both. Be prepared to get down and dirty and whatever needs done(odd, off the wall jobs,fetch parts,anything) . Getting into it should be a lot easier for you too. Hit up all the big construction companies in your area. Never give up.

Why dont you try to get a job at a performance shop with dyno's or ls based cars?

Ive looked into working for a local lsx based performance shop.
For what they wanted me to do and know, the pay.offered was a joke imo.

Op
Consider commercial diesel repair and maintenance and not automotive.
You will change.oil and lube. But eventually move up to diagnose and repair.
Large companies with there own mechanic shop with a fleet of trucks and trailers.
You will learn to weld,change axle parts, brake parts,air brake parts. Its different from cars. Pays more, and is a well paid and sought after skills.
We had one guy come in that was a ase master tech to work for the company.
He did not do well and lasted a week. He was out of his league sort to speak, his own words.

I 2nd that doing your passion for work makes you hate your passion. You get burnt out during the week and do not want to work on your own car. I changed oil for 2 years, that was enough to want me not want to work on my own car. I cant imagine doing other peoples shit. But shop enviorement plays a huge part in that, some are so laid back you can pull yours in and work on it no issues.

I drive a gas truck locally, so normally every weekend i am wrenching.

I went through UTI and then the Audi Academy, and currently work at an Audi dealership. Although I do enjoy working on cars, the politics associated with working at a dealership is ridiculous. As a mechanic, everyone challenges you on every decision, it's a constant fight just to get work done. It's a continuous battle just to get paid 40 hours in a week, at least where I am. Last year I averaged 42 hours of pay every week, and I know I was there much longer every day than that. There are better paying shops to work at however, you just have to find them.

As said previously, being a tech is a very demanding, thankless job where you are nothing more than a skidmark in the underpants of your service manager.... however, you can never go wrong with a job that you love, no matter how hard it may be.

If you really want to be a mechanic, and want to get paid very well to do it, come up here to Alberta. Once you become a journeyman, it's quite easy to pass the $100k/year mark as an automotive tech, 200k+ as an OTR tech around the oil rigs.

Well ill give my 2 cents. I have 10 years turning wrenches and I am only 26. First off dealers suck. I have been heavy equipment for the last 8. Techs that work in a air conditioned shop bitch about getting dirty....come hang out with me in august or febuary when I have to shovel a tunnel through snow to work on a bobcat or something. To be a mechanic you have to love what you do. Second is you constantly have to strive to get better. Or you will go no where and prolly get laid off. I make good money and remember this, supply vs. demand. There are fewer and fewer people getting in this industry. The youngest person I work with is in his 40's. I may not make the most now but that will change. The owner of my company said he will be scared of me in 10 years because I will write my own check. If you dont have the mindset I have then you will prolly be miserable and should think of doing something else for a living.

Go to a tech school and get certified?

I think the problem with trying to get started as a mechanic today is there are so many unemployed experienced mechanics right now from the restructuring of GM and Chrysler. Why would anyone hire fresh meat they need to train when there are 15 highly experienced A, B and C guys all lined up for that lube tech job.

I can tell you why experienced isnt always better. Your a,b,c techs dont have any drive 95% of the time and that means a crappy attitude and bad habits. I manage a shop and was a tech for ten years. I know lots of guys that have 10,15,20 + years that are out there and wouldnt hire a single one of them. Some of these guys were lucky to work places that put up with there BS. I have found some young guys that had heart and the will to learn and now would work circles around some of these OLD TIMERS.
If you want to try working on cars you just need to prove you want it bad enough!! I will always hire a guy if he shows he really wants to learn. It takes time to become a good tech and It takes years for most of us to figure it out. Anyone can turn turn a wrench but it doesent mean they should be doing it for a living.

You have to search hard being inexperienced and start from the bottom. Speaking from working at a corporate and private shop, private is the way to go. I'm working 50 plus hours a week doing tires and oil changes but having done the same at corporate its a lot better.

I can tell you why experienced isnt always better. Your a,b,c techs dont have any drive 95% of the time and that means a crappy attitude and bad habits. I manage a shop and was a tech for ten years. I know lots of guys that have 10,15,20 + years that are out there and wouldnt hire a single one of them. Some of these guys were lucky to work places that put up with there BS. I have found some young guys that had heart and the will to learn and now would work circles around some of these OLD TIMERS.
If you want to try working on cars you just need to prove you want it bad enough!! I will always hire a guy if he shows he really wants to learn. It takes time to become a good tech and It takes years for most of us to figure it out. Anyone can turn turn a wrench but it doesent mean they should be doing it for a living.
Absolute truth.

^^Oh yeah, they think they are above everyone. When I worked at Sears I watched 5 techs come and go in under a month because they were hired as an alignment tech but were too proud to do batteries and tires. In this business you are never above any job. I don't care if you are a master tech you might have to do medial work. The ones that refuse don't last. You don't need certs to work Im proof of that.

Make sure you like this line of work eventually it will take a toll on your body. Ive been doing it 20 years now and im 36. My advice look into the State jobs and Public utilities as they have apprecticeship programs to train you with pay. Also there are dealership programs at local colleges to maybe look into. I started by sweeping the floor at an engine machine shop to just hang out and watch.

There are high paying jobs in this field you just have to know the right places too look. I was a State of CA employee for 7 years making about 50k a year now i work for PG&E making 90k as year as an Equipment mechanic with no OT. I dont have my ASE certs i do have my CA smog license and just hands on training. Good luck on your career!

I'll share a few things, but you have to listen carefully.

Backstory, I am a 40 year old married for 20 years dad. My shop celebrates an eight year anniversary March 1st. I have been a tech since I was 17 years old. I started as an $8 an hour grunt and I topped out eight years ago as a $150k a year 100 hour a week Master Tech.

First thingh you need is passion. Few choose to be a tech and make a living at it. You truly must enjoy doing it. If grease and grime aren't your thing, not the career for you. If you don't possess a logical analytical brain, it is not for you. If you are thinned skin and/or are easily irritated, it is not for you. You have to enjoy it.

I got into the trade in 1988 when my 69 SS396 needed an oil pan after hitting something on I95. I was quite happy delivering pizzas for $750 a week before that. But for some reason I could just play. Cars and systems just made sense to me. And like anything else, if you know how something works, you can fix it. Kind of explains the divorce rate in the country, doesn't it?

I started as a third shift guy at a 24 hour roadside rapist shop but quickly developed a set of morals and left to work for a chain tune up shop. Hated that so I found a nice independant shop that paid flat rate at a good rate. The idea that you could bill more hours than you actually worked completely intrigued me. It was all uphill from there.

No formal training and at 20 years old I was killing it at around $1200 a week take home for 46 hours worked a week. Do I have your attention yet? I always had cool fast cars since then. I learned as I went and always made best use of the information made available to me at the time. At first it was Motor manuals and of course that led to CD Roms which was THE coolest thing ever. Now I am a Mitchell 1 and it is all online.

It is a steep learning curve and I found out quickly most bosses are assholes, so that is where thick skin is required.

My ASE certification was led by a boss who mistakenly said he would give me $100 for every one of the eight available. Big mistake. There are many reasons why one does not finish high school. Mine were deeply personal. NOT a dumbass. I studied and in two nights I walked out a Master Tech, and a base salary of $800 plus $21 an hour flat rate. At a gas station. That went south due to a remodel into a C store. From there to a big independend where I flew to the top of that shop at $32.50 an hour and a set of keys. No where to go from there so it was time to tap some of my savings and open my own which is a decision I have never regretted.

So, in short, my advice. Skip expensive schooling and go hands on. Find an independant to start at and realize the only way up in this buiness is to move to a different shop. If you are good, word gets out, and finding employment is not that hard. Get your two years practical experience and go for the ASE certs. That is what employers look for. I could care about an UTI or Lincoln College diploma, sho me proof of proficiency through the ASE system. It takes a few years to make money at it, but if you are truly passionate about the trade, your paychecks will reflect it. Anyone who tells you to run away is either no good at it, or they suck. Again, ASEs are the first thing I look for when hiring a new tech. The gleam in the eye is the first thing I look for in a helper/apprentice.

Andy

I was quite happy delivering pizzas for $750 a week before that.
In 1988? Almost 40g's a year? Delivering pizzas? :suspiciou

In 1988? Almost 40g's a year? Delivering pizzas? :suspiciou



Keep in context, back then, there were no Dominoes, Papa Johns, and Pizza Hut was a sit down resturaunt. At that time I had a two year old S10, a 78 400 4 speed TA, and a 69 396 Velle. You would be amazed at that you could buy out of a guys driveway back then. But the most memorable was a 69 Roadrunner. 383 4 speed car with a 3.55 Sure Grip that needed a battery. $400. Drove the snot out of that one for almost a year before I scored big by selling it for $2300. Damn I am old,.

Yep everything this guy says is true. ASEs will get you places, but by no means do you need them to start. And be confident. I got my job within 5 minutes of walking in the door.

ASE just means you are book smart. Anyone that is good at taking multiple choice tests can pass these exams. That is really all they are. But yes unfortunately, chain shops require those bs certifications for raises and such. You don't necessarily need them to get in, chain shops just won't trust you right away and will look at you as a liability for a while. This also depends on how much experience you have other than ase. I would say that the shittiest concept about this field (passenger car and truck) is that all these shops expect you to have more and more skills to adapt with today's vehicles, but they don't want to pay you anything to have those skills and tools to do it. If you think about it, you need skills in: plumbing, hvac, electrical, welding, hydraulics and wrenching; all to just survive in this field.

Sort of like the quote from swat, "if you like long hours and getting dirty for low pay", then this field is for you. You REALLY need to enjoy wrenching and getting dirty to enjoy this field, and not just working on cars you like. Working at a chain shop, be prepared to work on all makes and models that are 10+ years old, some of which are ready for the junkyard; and if you live in any state that get snow, get ready to deal with rust and corrosion. You will quickly hate certain manufacture's after discovering how fucking stupid some of their designs are. Cough* ford* cough. Which reminds me of the other saying, "the mechanic fucked the engineers wife". Resulting in making the mechanic's life a living hell on some designs.

Yea you can make decent money in this field if you are very good at diagnostics and very fast at replacing parts. In today's time, to make a career out of this, it is very important to have good diagnostic skills. IMO, the only thing good about school is getting tools for 50% off tools in most cases. But other than that, no school can teach you everything about their field. They teach you the theories and basics, the rest you learn on the job. What you put in, is what you get out. You really need a positive attitude in this field or you will not survive. I pretty much had to unlearn what I was taught in school in order to be faster at replacing parts.

If you are starting from scratch, be prepared to work a few years at damn near minimum wage as a tire/lube tech, and be ready to spend easily $20k+ in tools over a couple years if you plan on turning this into a career. Management really doesn't give a shit about you, you are expendable. To them, you are just another pig in the stall; if you don't meet their standards and start causing them to lose money, you are gone. Anytime you take away money from a shop, you are gone. All chain shops care about is money and productivity. Forget about leaving when your shift is over. Chain shops love to take in more work then they can handle. Which means all the mechanics get to stay hours upon hours after their shift is done to complete the work that the salesman and management took in. Management doesn't give a shit about you staying late either, because they already made money on the job and can leave whenever they want. Expect to work 12-15 hour shifts on weekends.

It's all about finding the right shop. By that I do not mean a chain shop. All chain shops are good for is gaining experience. Your top mechanics are only making $20/hr at the most, that's with 8+ ase's and decades of experience. Find a nice privately owned independent shop that only has a few employees total, one that doesn't advertise or specialize in $20 or less oil changes. To make money in this field, side jobs are your best friend. Just be smart about it.

I dunno, that is just my experience for being in the field for 5 short years. I guess another plus side is all the tools you buy for your job, you get to keep for yourself. If you play your cards right, I've heard that you can write them off in taxes as well. I discovered this field wasn't for me and wanted something more than a 9-5 job,

I have to ask, what's so wrong with UTI that has everyone saying such bad things about it?? I ask because I've been in the Army for 5 years now and I HATE it. I love working on car's and am currently doing a motor swap on my 99 SS by myself and it's going flawlessly. After I get out the Army I really want to go to UTI since there is one in Tampa close to South GA where I'm from. Please tell me the reasons and experiences ppl have had with this..srry not trying to steal the OP's thread here.

I have to ask, what's so wrong with UTI that has everyone saying such bad things about it?? I ask because I've been in the Army for 5 years now and I HATE it. I love working on car's and am currently doing a motor swap on my 99 SS by myself and it's going flawlessly. After I get out the Army I really want to go to UTI since there is one in Tampa close to South GA where I'm from. Please tell me the reasons and experiences ppl have had with this..srry not trying to steal the OP's thread here.

The fact that i worked with several at sears and they knew no more than I did from hands on experience and they are out 30k

Keep in context, back then, there were no Dominoes, Papa Johns, and Pizza Hut was a sit down resturaunt.
There were Dominos around back then. Perhaps not in your area. I remember camping out for three days waiting for Monsters of Rock tickets and surviving on $5 Dominos medium pepperoni pizzas. Drawing that kind of pay in that time period seems awfully unbelievable.

The fact that i worked with several at sears and they knew no more than I did from hands on experience and they are out 30k

yeah well one thing is I would'nt be paying for it out of my pocket, the Army is lol. I am alsoalot different than most of the kids who got out of high school and went to UTI cause they liked the F&F movies, and thier parents needed some where to send them after high school. I myself have been working on cars since I was atleast 14 and have been around racing, and done alot of racing myself. I live,breathe, eat ,shit, cars and racing. I would take ALOT more out of that school than 90% of the ppl who go. I know I want to be around car's in some way ,shape, or form for the rest of my life and want to learn everything there is to know about them. I think if I was to go to that school I could really learn alot, and retain it. What do you think?

that school sucks. I know people that have gone and said it's all book work and no hand's on. Lanier tech has a motorsports program in GA which is a lot more hands on and you have to apply to get in. take a test, go through interviews etc. weeds out MOST of the idiots they can but still have to accept people for the numbers. I think 15 people a year get in.

I went to UTI and am not one of the idiots that went there. Most of them probly wont go into the field. If you want to work on cars and learn then it wasnt bad at all. Been out in the field for 5 years now, Worked on school buses for 4 years and now for the last year in a small repair shop. Probly got 20k in tools and is all paid off. So keep that in mind if you seriously want to work in the field you are going to spend $$$ on tools your first couple of years. But wont sell my tools I love them and still more to buy and love.

I went to UTI and am not one of the idiots that went there. Most of them probly wont go into the field. If you want to work on cars and learn then it wasnt bad at all. Been out in the field for 5 years now, Worked on school buses for 4 years and now for the last year in a small repair shop. Probly got 20k in tools and is all paid off. So keep that in mind if you seriously want to work in the field you are going to spend $$$ on tools your first couple of years. But wont sell my tools I love them and still more to buy and love.

see, that's what I wanted to hear. First hand experiences on what the school was really about about and what it did for you and your life in general. Altho small repair shop is not what I had in mind, was aiming a lil higher but hopefully that shop pay's you well as some of those shops can..most don't tho. I would love to hear more about you time in the school and what you learned.

see, that's what I wanted to hear. First hand experiences on what the school was really about about and what it did for you and your life in general. Altho small repair shop is not what I had in mind, was aiming a lil higher but hopefully that shop pay's you well as some of those shops can..most don't tho. I would love to hear more about you time in the school and what you learned.

I went to the small repair shop to learn more on all types of cars I have worked on things from a 6.0 Powerstrokes:mad: to audi and benz so trying to be well rounded. Working on school buses for 4 years thats all I knew besides performance so still young so I said screw it work on cars for awhile. likely go back to heavy duty equipment or larger trucks. You get out of the school what you put in. There are some dumbass ppl there but then there are some knowledgable ppl. So Listen in class and do the lab work and you will learn. Go out in the field and you will learn more real quick. I dont regret it.

I went to the small repair shop to learn more on all types of cars I have worked on things from a 6.0 Powerstrokes:mad: to audi and benz so trying to be well rounded. Working on school buses for 4 years thats all I knew besides performance so still young so I said screw it work on cars for awhile. likely go back to heavy duty equipment or larger trucks. You get out of the school what you put in. There are some dumbass ppl there but then there are some knowledgable ppl. So Listen in class and do the lab work and you will learn. Go out in the field and you will learn more real quick. I dont regret it.

thanks so much for that info

I have to ask, what's so wrong with UTI that has everyone saying such bad things about it?? I ask because I've been in the Army for 5 years now and I HATE it.

Why do you hate the army so much? What is your mos? Do you just not like the mos you signed up for, or just don't like the structure of the army way of life?

yeah well one thing is I would'nt be paying for it out of my pocket, the Army is lol. I am alsoalot different than most of the kids who got out of high school and went to UTI cause they liked the F&F movies, and thier parents needed some where to send them after high school. I myself have been working on cars since I was atleast 14 and have been around racing, and done alot of racing myself. I live,breathe, eat ,shit, cars and racing. I would take ALOT more out of that school than 90% of the ppl who go. I know I want to be around car's in some way ,shape, or form for the rest of my life and want to learn everything there is to know about them. I think if I was to go to that school I could really learn alot, and retain it. What do you think?

I love working on car's and am currently doing a motor swap on my 99 SS by myself and it's going flawlessly.

You mean you love working on cars that you own? There is a big difference between working on your own cars that you actually like and being forced to work on piles of shit that were designed by a 22 year old on oxycontin.

IMO on the UTI and other expensive tech schools, most of the kids that attend those schools don't really take the education seriously. No school is going to teach you everything about the field. You learn so much more on the job, especially in auto motives, then you do at school. Yea the top dollar schools give you an opportunity to get into high end luxury european cars; but I, along with most mechanics out there, fucking hate working on those cars as it is.

Kinda funny, You are getting out of the army and are getting into the automotive business. I got out of the automotive business and am going into the army. Assuming you joined right after high school, I bet we are close to the same age as well.

Why do you hate the army so much? What is your mos? Do you just not like the mos you signed up for, or just don't like the structure of the army way of life?





You mean you love working on cars that you own? There is a big difference between working on your own cars that you actually like and being forced to work on piles of shit that were designed by a 22 year old on oxycontin.

IMO on the UTI and other expensive tech schools, most of the kids that attend those schools don't really take the education seriously. No school is going to teach you everything about the field. You learn so much more on the job, especially in auto motives, then you do at school. Yea the top dollar schools give you an opportunity to get into high end luxury european cars; but I, along with most mechanics out there, fucking hate working on those cars as it is.

Kinda funny, You are getting out of the army and are getting into the automotive business. I got out of the automotive business and am going into the army. Assuming you joined right after high school, I bet we are close to the same age as well.

Dude the Army has changed alot over the past 5 years that I have been in. First thing is that they ` DON'T "NEED" soldiers nearly as much as they did when we where at war for 10 years with Iraq and Afganistan. Iraq is over, and Afganistan is is drawing down very very fast. The Army is left with a shit ton of hurt, PTSDed out, and all around ALOT of soldiers in general.They are kicking ppl out for lil stuff now, and they are getting very very strict on their requirements, and it's just always some bullshit going on that makes no sense. They are OPENLY letting gay's into the military (no more don't ask don't tell). There is a damn good chance you may be roomates with a gay person while staying in the barracks (barracks that don't always have seperate rooms!) and will be training right along side of some strait prancing ass fairies that litter the ground with pixie dust as they walk (not my definition of a soldier!). Hope you like getting up @ anywhere between 4-5 AM and running 6 miles nonstop (not jogging) before the sun is up or the roosters lol. There is ALOT of dumb shit to put up with in the Army. I have 2 kids and a wife, been married for 5 years and I'm 25 years old, I'm a GROWN ass man!!..but the Army WILL treat you like a chid unless you have been in long enough to become a staff SGT (even then the dumb shit persist to follow you). I'm an E-4 Specialist, and my MOS is an 88M (pretty much a heavy truck driver). I enjoy doing my job (the truck driving) ,but the Army makes it stupid such as I have to be in full gear even while driving our trucks around post. Full gear is vest (bullet proof about 45lbs) 5 lb kevlar ACH (helment), gloves, eyepro (safet glasses), knee pads and elbow pads.This is all while still having to wear your uniform under all this, T shirt with long sleeved jacket and pants. This SUCKS if it's in Iraq during 120 degree heat, but it's expected cause it's a hostile place with bombs and bullets everywhere, but is just flat out dumb when you are back home driving your truck on post and it's summertime @ FT.Stewart GA. I could type for hours giving my personal experience in the Army but neither of us have that kinda time on our hands lol. My brother has been in for 17 years and he HATES it as well, he's just finishing up doing his 20 years and then bouncing out. It's just dumb now man, I enjoyed my year in Iraq but once back home in a garrison enviorment, you will hate life..Talk to half the ppl in the Army about how they like it, then make your decision. Alot of us are Zombies and they will stay in nomatter how dumb things get or are, there are alot of great benifits, but to me they are not worth being treated like a child. I am a good soldier, I stay out of trouble, do my job, and it STILL does'nt stop the Army and ppl above you from treating you like shit and like a child. I did'nt get out of high school and go right in. I was out for about 2 years and worked maybe 4 different job and never had I been treated like such a child even when I was a teenager. I'm done with the Army and that's all I got to say about that (Forrest Gump phrase lol)

and no man, I love working on cars in general. Mine, my freinds cars, and even ppl I randomly meet who need help and their car won't start..stuff like that. I get a hard on everytime I turn a wrench (no homo)

I hate to hijack this thread, but I would hope that after 4 pages of input, the OP got the general idea of the automotive field.

I have talked to a handful of people that are either still in or got out after like 4 years. From what I have gathered, all the ones that hate it just didn't like the job they signed up for; while others don't like the way of life in the military. That is understandable as it's definitely not for everyone and a lot of the mid 20's guys joined at 18 for college money or they didn't know what to do after school. But yes I would have to agree, the military is nothing like what it used to be. Odd that they set the bar so damn high to get in now and yet they are letting in gay's. Doesn't quite make sense to me. Which also tells you how fucked up society has become these days. Hopefully the gay's are too chicken shit to be a grunt and stay the hell away from me.

I was right about the age, I'm going on 24 in spring, but I still consider myself a kid. I honestly look forward to the discipline and being treated like a kid, I would expect nothing less as a lower rank. Same idea as if you were starting from scratch at a new job that you know nothing about. Although, it's going to be weird to take orders from nco's that are my age and younger. Only difference between us is our career path for the last 5 years, to an extent.

I really wish I would have joined years ago to get in the fight while the fighting was still on. Now most of the fighting is over (you would think anyway after 10 years) and everyone wants to join for the simple reason of they can't find a job anywhere else. But there will always be another war, I'm sure of this.

I was right about the age, I'm going on 24 in spring, but I still consider myself a kid. I honestly look forward to the discipline and being treated like a kid, I would expect nothing less as a lower rank.

No, you don't. Just wait until you're taking orders from some old ass 18 year-in E5 idiot, who is dumber than a bag of rocks(hence the 18 year-in E5) but can still tell you what to do. There are some great NCO's, but there are plenty that do not deserve it either, I work with them every day.

I hope you know someone on the inside, because they military is NOTHING like what you see on the outside. And no, I do not regret joining. I enjoy my job(when I'm doing MY job, 25B IT Specialist, and not some other pointless BS the Army asks me to do), may make it a career, but I'm not going to sugar coat it and make it sound like something it's not, like the military wants recruits to believe. You'll see. ;)

This is my mechanic experience, Ive been working on cars since i was kid. All i wanted to do is have it as a hobby. After high school, i just wanted a job. So i got hired at a local factory ,this was back in 2000. I worked there for 7 years straight nights which sucked. In 2005 my wife and i had our first child,some guys with kids that worked my shift didnt get to see there kids more less till the weekend cause of the shift we worked, So decided i had to do something, also the factory was slowing down and laying off and I was problably gonna be next. I worked with a guy there that was bestfriends with a guy that owned a GM dealership, so we met. A month later there was an opening in the body shop the pay was a little less for the first couple months. Then a mechanic quit. So i got signed on a apprenticeship. For me it worked out perfectly my boss payed for all my GM ASEP schooling plus parking, im from Ontario Canada so the ministry of training payed for gas to drive to and from school plus payed for a sitter, unempolyment payed for me being off work, plus after it was all done i got a $4000 grant for doing an apprenticship. Lets just say win win win. At the same time having a full time job. In the end im a GM asep grad with hounor roll, made hounor roll at the college, Have my inter-provincial licence. Im making $40k a year and the dealership is a block away. I work straight days 8 to 5 no weekends. I dont buy expensive tools, i bought a used box i might have $5k in tools. I some days wish i took another trade but the grass is not always greener on the otherside. All and all im happy, i can work one cars anywere in the world if i want to and im always up to date on all of the new technology which is sorta cool, hate to ramble but thats my story lol.

I'm a GM ASEP grad and have been in a GM shop for 9 yrs now. My advice is find another career. These new cars are really hard to work on unless you are fully up on your training. Working on your own stuff is cool and fun, but then when everyone and your brother starts wanting you to work on their stuff and pay you next to nothing or in beer it gets old. And they always say the same thing "well you work on cars for a living" GM warranty time at least doesn't pay shit. I'm happy to make 50+ hours a week. I make journeyman pay (which means I have reached the top of my pay already at a relatively young age) and what I like to think is a pretty decent annual income. Some places you can for sure make more at just depends on the volume in that particular shop. In my shop we all do everything. We don't have specialists or a engine guy or trans guy only. I can go from a piston wring job to a headliner job the next day. Just whatever I get. I'll say 1 thing is for sure its a pretty thankless job and abuses the shit out of your body. The first day I walked thru the door all the techs told me if I was smart I would find another career, I just brushed it off as apprentice hazing. I now fully understand what they were trying to say and I tell any new apprentice the same thing now haha

^^^ what Dealer you work at? I also think the Tags at the bottom are kinda funny, Explains the life.

well if you truly like working on cars for a a living or for fun, what the hell else is there. If there's a perfect answer I'd love to hear it cause I only got 12 months and I'm out the Army (fk this sht!) I love turning wrenches on my car, my freinds cars, and hell anyones cars in general..just like haveing actual work to do that's challenging.

I enjoy working on cars,truck, My passion is drag cars if I could find my way into that life thats where I would stay. Just sometimes its annoying because sometimes you just dont get treated like you have a skilled trade and places sure dont want to pay you what your worth.

Wow you army guys are pretty ignorant about them letting gays in. If you all have to pass the same tests to get in why can't they fight along side you? If protecting America is what you stand for as well as fighting for freedom who are you to say someone can't have the same rights as you just because of what they like? Personally I think they should be allowed to do everything that straight people can, including fight in the army.

Here is my take on it,
If you are a lazy piece of shit like half the people I have met then do not become a tech.
I have been working professionally as a tech now for 4 years and clear 50k a year averaging $23+ an hour but when working on flag rate you cannot stand around with a thumb up your ass milking every job that comes in. You get them done correctly without any problems and get them out.
If you do not have the experience just go to any Big O, Firestone etc and work General Service until they move you up to a tech which does not take long at all, get the certifications they require and make more money.

Anyways for the money that you can make doing this it is not bad at all BUT like said before it is not for everyone...a lot of stress and anger comes with it but what job doesnt. :punch: :chug:

QUOTE=Blk98Vert;16021613]Wow you army guys are pretty ignorant about them letting gays in. If you all have to pass the same tests to get in why can't they fight along side you? If protecting America is what you stand for as well as fighting for freedom who are you to say someone can't have the same rights as you just because of what they like? Personally I think they should be allowed to do everything that straight people can, including fight in the army.[/QUOTE]

:supergay:^^^^^^^

Way to represent your country there. I've personally worked with people who I had no idea were gay until after they moved on to other lines of work and told me. My old coworker was one of the best techs I had ever been around and he left because a tech in the shop found out he might be gay and he couldn't take the persecution from.him anymore. He did as good of a job as I did. So why can they not do what we do? It was ok to have them in while they hide it but now that they don't have to hide it to get in its a problem?

Way to represent your country there. I've personally worked with people who I had no idea were gay until after they moved on to other lines of work and told me. My old coworker was one of the best techs I had ever been around and he left because a tech in the shop found out he might be gay and he couldn't take the persecution from.him anymore. He did as good of a job as I did. So why can they not do what we do? It was ok to have them in while they hide it but now that they don't have to hide it to get in its a problem?

Ok so you had one of the fags work with you that DID'NT FLAUNT IT!. What I have a huge problem with (as well as ppl who support fags such as yourself) is the gay guy's that flaunt openly and prance when they walk, act like females and wear makeup and shit like that. You know, the ones who like rainbows and pony's , and faries and such?.Is THAT the kinda soldiers you want to see representing your kick ass U.S Army or Devil Dog Marines? PPl should be able to look at a soldier in uniform and see a professional ass kicker in every way, shape, and form! First off you are'nt in the military serving our country so DON'T patronize me saying things like "Way to represent your country there". Did you go to Iraq for 12 MONTHS strait driving up-armored semi trucks down bomb/I.E.D infested roads and getting shot at?. You lost all credibility with me when you mentioned the fact a GAY guy is just as good as working on cars as you are ( you failed at life at some point) LOL. Let me ask you this since you support faggots so much. Is it fair to me to have to share bathrooms and showers with gay guys googling my ass? Or is it fair to the non gay soldiers to be forced to be roomates in a barracks room that does'nt have walls up? I bet you would LOOOOVE to be in there and watch your gay roomate bring in his boyfreind and anal fuck him right in front of you? When it's a girl over there on your roomates bed, then 99% perecent of real men (not you) would love to watch, so that's a different story. It's ppl like you who are bringing this country down!. Your probly one of the ppl who also support the taking away of the pledge of allegiance, and removal of "In God we trust", and the legalazation of same sex marriage. America is falling from Gods grace because of things like this and ppl like you. BTW, I have a gay half brother and I have NOTHING to do with him, but I'm sure you would like him. I also have a half brother who has been in the Army for 16 years and he HATES fags and ppl who support them. He's been deployed 6 times to Iraq, Afganistan, and other places. I'm sure you would like to patronize him as well :gtfo:

However I would like to point out that if they can keep it to themselves and NOT act like a fairy prancing around all over the place in a Military uniform. Then that's a lil more acceptable. I personally hate all the fags, Hippies, and Ricers. They are all in the same boat.

However I would like to point out that if they can keep it to themselves and NOT act like a fairy prancing around all over the place in a Military uniform. Then that's a lil more acceptable. I personally hate all the fags, Hippies, and Ricers. They are all in the same boat.

Ok there's what I was going for. There is a difference between a gay guy and a fag, just like a Honda driver and a ricer. I know several Honda guys that build their cars to run at the track that only have matte paint and stock wheels and some suspension work. They have real exhaust not fart cans. And real mods not a DIY Pep boys intake. I do not support fags, the flamboyant kind like you are explaining. I never have and never will. People are free to believe what they want but shit like that needs to be kept to yourself. What I meant was that most out there that I have dealt with you would never know unless they told you. And what is so hard to believe about my.coworker being an equal worker to me? He was 10 years older than me and we were both doing the same work. I completely agree that they don't need to flaunt it in the same way I believe that someone can follow whatever religion they want, just don't force it on me. And I don't support the removal of the pledge of alliegance or removal of in god we trust. I do however support same sex marriage simply based on the fact that they go to work and pay taxes so why can't they be married? Again I don't think they should shove it in everyone's face. So I'm saying what you are.saying, if they keep it to themselves and don't throw it out there, they are fine by me

Ok there's what I was going for. There is a difference between a gay guy and a fag, just like a Honda driver and a ricer. I know several Honda guys that build their cars to run at the track that only have matte paint and stock wheels and some suspension work. They have real exhaust not fart cans. And real mods not a DIY Pep boys intake. I do not support fags, the flamboyant kind like you are explaining. I never have and never will. People are free to believe what they want but shit like that needs to be kept to yourself. What I meant was that most out there that I have dealt with you would never know unless they told you. And what is so hard to believe about my.coworker being an equal worker to me? He was 10 years older than me and we were both doing the same work. I completely agree that they don't need to flaunt it in the same way I believe that someone can follow whatever religion they want, just don't force it on me. And I don't support the removal of the pledge of alliegance or removal of in god we trust. I do however support same sex marriage simply based on the fact that they go to work and pay taxes so why can't they be married? Again I don't think they should shove it in everyone's face. So I'm saying what you are.saying, if they keep it to themselves and don't throw it out there, they are fine by me

The sad thing is tho man, ALOT of the gay's love to flaunt it and push ppl's buttons with it. There is NO place for those type of ppl in the military ,yet if we let one in then we have to let them ALL regardless of if they are faries who sprinkle glitter everywhere. I say there should be NONE in our military that way it's fair to all of them:D. Americas military should be feared plain and simple. Keep it to themselves so real soldiers like myself should'nt be forced to uncomfortable around them. They could all drop dead right now (even my gay half brother) and I could give 2 shits. Anyone who likes the opposite sex has issues plain and simple, should not be supported in any way or form. It's like Mexicans, if we let one in...then we have to let them all in or it's unfair to the rest.

I can agree with that. It's a touchy subject

I enjoy working on cars,truck, My passion is drag cars if I could find my way into that life thats where I would stay. Just sometimes its annoying because sometimes you just dont get treated like you have a skilled trade and places sure dont want to pay you what your worth.

Amen to that. It's just sickening that the amount of skills, tools and certifications required to just get by financially in this trade. In my experience, chain shop employers don't really give a shit if you are unhappy with your pay. They can easily find someone else that will make them money for next to nothing in return.

ilovechevy1: lol... tell us how you really feel.

Anyone who likes the opposite sex has issues plain and simple, should not be supported in any way or form.

I like members of the opposite sex. You like members of the same sex? Apparently the military is better represented by homophobes and racists than professional and effective soldiers, regardless of their orientation or ethnicity.

I'm working with the mechanic here in Arizona who's been fixing my Camaro...spent a lot of time (and money) fixing this car, and learned a lot about it. So, he's going to start teaching me, and I'm investing some of my deployment money in starting an actual business :D

I like members of the opposite sex. You like members of the same sex? Apparently the military is better represented by homophobes and racists than professional and effective soldiers, regardless of their orientation or ethnicity.

I'm working with the mechanic here in Arizona who's been fixing my Camaro...spent a lot of time (and money) fixing this car, and learned a lot about it. So, he's going to start teaching me, and I'm investing some of my deployment money in starting an actual business :D

comon man you know what the hell I meant. I said all that stuff against Gay's and then in the heat of typing I messed up my wording so don't be a wise guy. I never said anything about being racist dude..stop being gay lol

Learn a trade. I run my own business by myself doing mainly service work and put in about 8 months / year. Live very comfortable, get to watch my kids grow up and attend a lot of car shows.

Oil changes are easy so I'd start there by trying to get a job at an oil change place. Although I would never make it a career. Working on my car or helping buddies out is one thing. But I refuse to do it for the rest of my life. Keep in mind some mechanics make very good money and some make jack shit. I've seen shops where some of the techs have STI's and 370z and then an AAMCO where everyone had shitty cars. Like someone else said tho Master techs tend to make good money and so do Managers at shops. I think this type of job is more based on preference. I like it as a hobby not a job.

^^^ so you are judgeing what a tech makes from what he drives?

^^^ so you are judgeing what a tech makes from what he drives?

IMO, If you are looking for work at a specific company, a great way to figure out how much the employees make is to look in the parking lot at the type of cars they drive. That doesn't always work in the automotive industry though as those mechanics probably have all their money tied up in tools. But I mean, if you are making a good deal of money and are smart enough to not pay $100 for a snap-on wrench or $50 for a screwdriver, then I would think you would not be driving around in some 20 year old rust bucket pos beater. Then again, some people, leave their nice cars at home for the morning m-f commutes to avoid unwanted accidents by all the bad drivers out there.

IMO, If you are looking for work at a specific company, a great way to figure out how much the employees make is to look in the parking lot at the type of cars they drive. That doesn't always work in the automotive industry though as those mechanics probably have all their money tied up in tools. But I mean, if you are making a good deal of money and are smart enough to not pay $100 for a snap-on wrench or $50 for a screwdriver, then I would think you would not be driving around in some 20 year old rust bucket pos beater. Then again, some people, leave their nice cars at home for the morning m-f commutes to avoid unwanted accidents by all the bad drivers out there.

Lol. Pretty much any tech I know including myself drive a beater for a DD. My nice car is at home. A lot of techs get lucky and are able to buy a car that needs a lot of work that a customer just doesn't want to fix anymore.

^^ I agree. PPl are different. So one guy wants a nice DD, Myself am building a street/strip car and have way to much money into and drive a s-10.

Lol. Pretty much any tech I know including myself drive a beater for a DD. My nice car is at home. A lot of techs get lucky and are able to buy a car that needs a lot of work that a customer just doesn't want to fix anymore.

Yup, thats what I did when I was turning wrenches. Once in a whiile the SS made an apearance at the shop, but mainly if I had something to mess with on it.

I've been a mechanic for 10 years going on 11 pay isn't the greatest but it gets me through. I wish I had stayed in school and went to college for something else, but I love working on engines. But it deffinatly takes its toll on the fun factor of working on your own stuff.

You've been a mechanic since the age of 13(according to your profile)?