Iv seen guys fresh out of UTI that ended up being awesome techs Iv seen guys fresh out of UTI that ended up being the worst techs ever! It's a matter of personal ambition that determines your success in Auto repair.
I went to UTI back in 1987..... I did great but after 5 years I hated working on customer cars. Now 30 years later I enjoy rebuilding my own engines. I would do it over again but I would go to a community college and save tons of money.
Yep, as a former UTI student I've seen other UTI techs through the years. Some are L1 & Master ASE certified that are some of the sharpest in the industry. And other Master techs that could barely change oil. It all comes down to what you put in it.
@Malachis Grace not necessarily, I have a one year degree from a community college. In one year I took engines, brakes, steering and suspension, HVAC, performance and diag 1+2, electrical 1+2, auto and manual transmissions. They didn't make me take any general education classes.
I like that you bring up the negatives and positives. Definitely makes me think twice about this career choice. I used to shadow a mechanic at a independent shop. He said “Work on cars as a hobby, not a career” or something to that degree.
To be honest, I would recommend courses in advanced electrical theory as well as any repair based courses. Today's repair tech isn't just an auto mechanic, per se. One minute you're an HVAC tech, the next you're an electrician. In my opinion, one of the best things you can arm yourself with is a very good understanding of electrical theory and operation, as well the ability to read and interpret wiring diagrams. I never went to tech school for auto mechanics. I went for electronics and electrical occupations instead. The nuts and bolts of this business isn't what's likely to trip young mechanics up. That will come with experience in the field anyway. Focus your schooling on electrical theory and diagnosis . A good understanding of these things will lead far less misdiagnosed vehicles.
I just subscribed to this and many other channels, Im probably the oldest auto technician student at 47 yrs old , and on Monday I start as Junior tech at a BMW dealership , Im in my last trimester at Mech Tech College and I don't regret going to tech college. Wish me good luck.
I am a recovering addict. 36 years old finally getting my life back together and am planning on going to tech school soon. I just wanted to say thank you. Your video really helped me decide that this is the right route for me. Also you have a great channel so I subscribed.
My dad didn’t go to any tech school and worked as a master mechanic until he died in 2003. He was 53 and had more knowledge than his certified boss. I learned from him and I don’t have a certificate in auto mechanics but I do in Paramedic and fire suppression. To me, the same concept applies. O2, spark and rhythm
It really depends on the opportunity that people get. Sometimes school is better and sometimes experience is better. But it’s harder now to get a job at a shop without school. They don’t count garage experience either. I chose school mainly because tech school has a bigger network base so I can get a job anywhere once I finish.
Went to an Aviation High School in Detroit, I flew and worked on aircraft while there. After 9/11 worked in automotive for five years. While attending community college during many years I studied welding, criminal justice, but I earned 3 Degrees... auto, diesel and aviation mechanics. Love automotive but hate commission. Been in aviation since 2006 starting at a regional airline but now working at a major airline. At major airlines or a cargo outfit you can earn over $50 an hour. Diesel is my backup plan or trains if I get laid off. I have my CLD, many Ase's auto, diesel, X1, service consultant, parts specialist but I have failed these test many of times before I passed, I'm more of a hands on person though and I can pass many of other test but these test suck in my opinion and these test don't make you a hands on technician although some techs master both test and hands on. In aviation mechanics my license never expires like ase's do in 5 yrs. I volunteered for free as a biomedical technician to learn that trade for 6 months as well. As a tech. you have to be versatile; automotive, diesel, aircraft, plant maintenance, fleet technician, amusement park tech., trains, welder, biomedical technician, farm equipment tech... ect. You have to think outside the box. In my opinion auto techs are well under paid and should be paid hourly and about the same as an aviation technician due to their investment. With my matco triple bay and all the other tools I have for automotive, the investment isn't that great. Coming from Detroit after 9/11 the economy shut down. Anyone working commission suffered wether automotive, furniture sales workers. restaurants, or any commission based jobs in general. I dislike commission because when the economy takes a hit you suffer regardless of all your hard work or experience. You will be surprised how your talents and good attitude can place you into a high paying job due to your experience, having a associate's degree, or working in a different field not related to your degree because you have applied yourself. The ultimate goal is to set yourself up for the future and to have a fun career where it dosen't feel like work, the company has a 401k and contributes to it. My snapon and matco toolboxes sit at home as a hobby for my cars/motorcycles. My other toolboxes sit at the airport where I performed maintenance and taxi aircraft. I have many hobbies which include swimming, skateboarding, and boxing and hopefully soon para-motoring. The goal is to get paid what your are worth so you can enjoy a life outside of work and develop a happy medium. Money/pay doesn't always mean happiness as well/ I tell my wife my other backup plan is being a Wendy's manager later on in age/life; this is because I budget. In life you have to keep taking chances and pick yourself up when you fall down, many of times this has happened to me. College is not always the #1 answer all the time too, it can be a business where they rob you if you let them. You have to take advantage of opportunities and stay motivated and (think outside the box)! Born in Detroit at one point being poor living with my dad in a house with no heat, electricity, or water I never gave up and had determination. Nowadays I see so many young kids that are lazy, don't want to work, and expect things to be handed to them. In life if you put forth effort you will be surprised what comes along or what company, ceo, or business man or woman says I would like you to come work for us. Keep your head up and stay motivated, peace✌
Excellent video! As a degreed mechanical engineer and a self taught mechanic of 45+ years, this is some of the best advice I've seen on youtube for beginner and up coming mechanics. Good job!
I didn't go to a tech school, I was pursuing an engineering degree and partied my way out early. So when the bills came pouring in I had to get a job quick. I had a natural tallent for things mechanical and electrical so I jumped into the industry. This is not the way most guys get into it. But if your smart, can understand what you read and remember it you can do it without school. With or without school you will not make a good living for the first few years, thats a sad fact.
Just go into vocational school through my high school I’m doing automotive tech this video has a better base of what the class should be than what the school told me
Big fan of your content, although with this I have to disagree. I have seen many graduates from "top" tech schools that can barely perform oil changes. I have been a technician for 2 1/2 years, prior to that I had no mechanical skill or knowledge. I am currently 6 months away from acquiring my master technician certification at my current dealership. I have seeked out all the knowledge I could on automotive and still continue to do so. This is why I was and still am able to progress in my field at a fast rate. My point is whether you start as a entry level lube tech or go to a big name tech school your success as a technician is up to how much you put into it. There is nothing that cant be learned from in shop experiences or research on your own. The best advice I would give a tech in any situation would be everyday learn something new. Confused about Cvvt? Research it. Confused about how transmissions work? Research it. Direct injection? Research it. You get what you put into it. Take that money you would spend on tech school and put it towards tools, and never stop learning.
amen. I did an engine swap with the help of a Puerto Rican school drop out. this field really isnt that complicated. Research is the key. I have yet to mess up on ANY car i have ever worked on. Electrical issues are one thing. Software on cars is quite another. In which case there is always someone willing to put in the work to teach everyone that is not acquainted with said issues.
From someone with a lot of family in the industry, I chose to go into medicine, but it did me no good in the end as my career was over due to a military disability and a progressive illness. Most of my family who are techs/ mechanics are in Europe Australia, New Zealand. They have apprenticeship programs for all kinds of tech and vocational careers. Also, the same company's who sell cars here to us and demand lots of training and schooling, many of them have apprenticeship programs so when you're done, you've been trained by let's say, Honda, and know how to work on all their powersports products and ready to work. They made sure their young weren't saddled with crushing school debt, and they had a vocation to help them contribute. Where are those programs here in the US? Community college is an option for automotive in most states, and it's considerably lower cost, but things like motorcycle repair are mostly offered at MMI at ridiculous tuition prices. There has to be a shortage of auto techs coming up if not already in progress, and maybe there needs to be a new way to train mechanics and get them into the pipeline.
I grew up in the shop. Family owned business. I still went to tech school. I did tons of work before I went to tech school, but school taught you how stuff worked and the theory behind it. The engine performance class was on a different level though. I went to automotive training center and had the privilege of having Jim Morton as an instructor. He taught me a lot of stuff that still sticks with me today. I still have my notebook from that class in my box at work.
My point above was that I leaned a ton about scanner and scopes that I wouldn’t have had time to learn at work. School was worth it to me, but I had the luxury of having a job when I got out. Not everyone is as lucky as I am.
Just started at a tech school at 44 years old after 20 years in corporate America. ive been loving the program so far, and my teacher helped me get a job within three weeks. Pretty crazy. It's been a great career pivot so far.
I am in complete agreement with you. The two year college programs are the best way to go. I used to teach auto body at the high school level and found out very quickly that the age of the student really matters. In Massachusetts we let 12 and 13 year olds decide on what they want to do for the rest of their lives. They are way too young to make informed decisions. Most students pick the shops according to social popularity and where their friends are.
My 14 year old daughter doesn't know what she want to even do after Highschool! Now my son is 12 and is convinced he will be an auto tech like dad, but we will see:)
I went to Nashville auto Diesel. And came back to work at a dealership and did a lot of pms for a good time. Then one day they gave me a real job. That was years ago and it’s still prove your self driven. I’m only one of 2 guys with a mid heavy cert out of 5 in our shop. It’s hard with out school and certs to get in a shop paying anything. Yeah joe junk truck shop will give you a shot at low pay. Some ppl don’t like hearing it but it’s the truth. Love the videos.
I took an alternative path, US military 91B, wheeled vehicle mechanic. It's not a bad way to learn once you get into duty. A community college is one of the best ways off the street to get in the trade, while learning the basics as a general tech in the shop. I just reentered the automotive trade after several years away and I started all over again. One has to leave their ego at the door to succeed.
Tech school is awesome but after going i realize that if you will read you can learn. You don't need tech school...you need the books offered at a tech school. Then all you need is a car. The most difficult thing to learn outside of tech class would be diagnostic equipment knowledge. If you owned a ford and owned and a rotunda vcm diagnostic scan tool you wpuld be golden...then there's the commitment to learning and testing yourself daily and weekly. Neither route is bad but one is more organized and funded and more practical. Community college isn't that expensive in the long run. Most people could find a job while training
John Salcido Yes it is great until you realize you spent a lot of time focusing on money rather than your family and friends. We only live one life and money should’ve been the main focus, but it is important to have a income where you can be comfortable
Hello former 91bravo wheeled vehicle mechanic. I got out of the army in 2020, started as a tech 1 diesel tech for us express. Got laid off but since i got laid off couldnt take my tools that they were suppling me. About of month of not finding a job due to no tools i decided to switch to the automotive(non diesel) because there were more entry level positions and i knew that people would be more forgiving for me not having tools. Eventually i started working for this Meineke that was was ran by a very wealthy family. I started out as a gst/lube tech 6 months ago. I am currently a b tech and im ase cert in brakes, gs1 and hvac. Currently getting ready to take my my ase for suspension. Long story short did i waste my gi bill on a 45000 dollar school. Nope. Everything i learned was from a Master tech and me asking the owner to send me to more and more training. The knowledge is out you just have to be willing to work and learn.
I want to become an auto tech when I grow up on my next life. Although I like the mechanicals side of things, I do want to have a solid focus on the electrical side. That said, I’ve find it a bit difficult to find a reputable school where I live. I’ve been able to deal with just about any issues on my personal vehicle for these past 19 years which has saved me lots of money, and a few that have cost me, but we’ll just call those learning experiences. Can’t wait to get started on my new life and all that to tell you thanks for the video. It was certainly helpful. Cheers!
Sadly there are so many automotive schools that do not offer "tech training". What they offer is to teach young people how to change drum brakes, engine rebuilds, and use antiquated techniques as an approach to training. Seldom do you find classes in these schools that explain theory and operation of todays systems. I am not saying they dont exist ,but I am saying they are not plentiful. Mostly people that go into the college style training end up leaving and not pursuing a career in the field because what they learned does not apply to real world repairs. So now comes the big question , should they concentrate the training curriculum as 70 percent technical (electrical/theory) , and 30 percent mechanical ? Thoughts ?
New Level Auto You are exactly right I see it all the time. I believe they should push more electrical as the shops in my area seem not so capable to handle that end of the repair. When you interview potential techs most State I don't do electrical or they just do heavy line. It's kinda sad because who's gonna do it when we are gone. I believe that should be at least a 1/2 year requirement for them to get a degree and show them it's really not hard once you understand the theory and what it needs to accomplish the end goal.
I completely agree with you on that, they concentrate on the old mechanic jobs, and leave the hard "tech" stuff as an after thought. Honestly I think the nut and bolt part is either easy or it is not for a student, and a lot of these programs are still run like an old shop class in highschool, aka send the delinquents and dumbmasses to shop, so the real students can get an education. This is not the 1960s, I mean you may need a scan tool to do brakes! To answer your question HELL YES! If you can't use a DVOM, scope and scan tool, very well, you shouldn't get a diploma as what real use do they have in the real world of auto repair.
I work at Subaru and they offer classes and training through themselves. They will even pay for ASE’s. I never went to trade school. I started out in the Express changing oil and rotating tires. You do online training then they send you off to their own schools and you learn over the period of years but I have never needed to go to school.
@@jlw1985 I’ll be headed to Subaru school after the New Years because I work at a dual dealership with Subaru and Hyundai. It’s called Thomas Subaru and Hyundai. TC for Thomas Cumberland. Stay at it as an Express Tech and keep yourself busy even if there is a lot of down time they do notice when you aren’t working.
With the changes in technology over the years, I had a feeling things would be moving into this direction. If one were to go to a tech school, it's a shame to come out with possibly a student loan to repay, tools to buy, and low pay to start off with. Sounds like the deck is stacked! I mean, I don't know.......I'm self taught from the start, but when I started, there were still ignition points and condensers in distributors. What? What's a distributor? Remember smog pumps? I had a diploma from an electronics school, so that helped, industrial arts classes in high school, science.....all that good stuff you can't get no more! Oh, and that "other" thing a lot of (not all) folks these days don't have.....common sense! Common sense and critical thinking are your best allies along with whatever you can learn.
That is one of the main reasons I started this channel to help turn that deck back in these young techs favor! and yes I remember points and smog pumps and feed back carbs:( As for Common sense, not much I can do there:(
Common sense and critical thinking helps you develop your own diagnostic "routine" customized for you (by you) that'll help you though your daily encounters. Tech school don't teach that. Good judgement! Tech school don't teach that. Put together all that including tech school will work FOR you.
I have a Auto tech degree, Associate in science, and about 2 years left on a mechanical engineering degree. The education that has made the biggest difference in my life is my tech education. If you have not gotten an oficial automotive education, you know nothing. Not only do you know anything but you have no idea what is that you do not know. I was in school with a guy who was in the military as a mechanic for years, worked on the side as a mechanic with his own customer base. Every day he said he learned things he did not know, learned plenty things he did wrong, and learned how to diagnose and not just to throw parts at a car. I have worked at multiple dealerships, Cadillac, Chrysler, Ford, Independent shops. I also sub contracted with the military, traveling to different bases all over the country. My tech degree made that possible. Before school I did factory work, food service, construction, ......all the general labor stuff. My tech degree tripled my hourly rate with my first job, not to mention you get a valuable skill that benefits you for the rest of your life. When you are dating women......., bringing something like automotive skill is an asset.
David Bland Im really considering going to school to learn to work on cars, i hate i waited till im 28 to do it but i want to, is going to a community college good? I want to go to school for automotive technology and eventually engineering, i been hesitant for to long.
@@251southside community college is the path I took and I never regretted it. 28 is not too old. I have been in and out of school since 91. I am 47. I got my auto degree in 99, I wish I had done it earlier.
@@IGBreezy3 I went to a community college for automotive. My reasoning was that the credits would transfer for continuing my education. Plus I already had some comm. college credits anyway. Where I am, automotive is only about 3 years. It is less if you already have the basics or are able to test out of those basic classes, like math, computer...... From what I have seen a specific trade school is good if it feeds a particular manufacturer like BMW, Mercedes... If it is just a general education with no guarantee of job placement, then go where you can afford. Just remember when you go to work they will expect you to know how basic systems work and have the ability to learn as you go.
Knowledge can only be acquired over time you can't learn 10 years of knowledge in 5 years. Cars have changed and continue to change so has the skill set. I have a mechanical electrical and electronic background . Hey you got to be smarter than what your working on. Good video and advice
Your right and it is damn hard to be a competent mechanic. I am a trying to get into the field but I can at least admit that automotive technology is getting far to advance for my understanding. This is why I was thinking of small engine repair 2 stroke boats motorcycles and Atv's. Kudos to the man that could get through tech school and learn a whole lot of stuff. Stay on'em flat rate.
If your ultimate goal is working for an independent and eventually running that shop, go to a tech school... if you want to be a dealership rat, go and be an express tech.. 90% of dealerships will Send AND PAY for you to be trained to be whatever kind of tech you want to be....
I personally went to WyoTech specifically for their management course... learned a lot about working on cars welding fabrication engine builds... I then spent 12 years learning how to diagnose and change parts the “dealership way” in my eyes I’m greateful for the degree because it opened my mind to how an entire service department IS ran and how it SHOULD be ran.... aside from that I think spending $30k was a poor investment on my part.... I could have spent that year being a motivated lube tech and learned what I know and use every day now for a lot less.....
I can swap transmissions, program ABS units, Install a supercharger, install 4x4 lifts... man i'm about to drop the diff on my M3 tomorrow to replace the bushings .. but somehow i can't get a job at a shop or dealership to do oil changes and tire rotations -.-
I went to a gm specific school and worked in a gm dealership for a few years and ended up hating it. I now work for a manufacturing company as a maintenance mechanic and love it. If it wasn’t for my schooling I wouldn’t have had the opportunity I got.
It’s been a dream of mine to become an auto mechanic/ technician. But at 47 and being the only one employed in the home, I can’t quit my job to go to tech school. Paying for it is another issue. I have been applying to any place looking for someone to give me a shot. Unfortunately I’m that DIY guy you talk about that no one wants to take a chance on. I just hope and pray the right shop gets my resume and can teach me the right way.
Personally i went to a community college to start off and when i worked at a dealership they send you to factory training but even when you did factory training they ll still have you changing oils for a few years until they move you up to do actual tech work my advice to people dont limit yourself to just working on cars being a mechanic means you can fix other shit as well not just cars
In my experience I got into the field because my dad is and has been a tech for many years. I did not personally go to school and neither did he. I haven't been in the field too long however when it comes to learning anything I'm a sponge and never do I think I know more than I do. I've done a good amount of heavy work and diag work by myself. I personally don't think school is needed. I work with kids that come out of school and they can't even change oil right consistently with out messing something up. Schooling is a good tool if you'd like to take that route however in my personal experience (even though short) I don't believe it's required. If you have a willingness to learn and ask questions you can be successful. At least I have
Learning no matter how you do it, you get out of it what you put into it! The truth is I have seen as many, I grew up in this business types that couldn't fix a sandwich as much as tech school grads. One of the biggest issues I see with the homegrown "techs" is they have learned so much stuff that is just plain wrong, but again be it a teacher in tech school or a good mentor in a shop, both can grow a great tech, but finding those mentors in shops is getting harder everyday, most of the great mentors have hit the grumpy old man stage and no longer want to spend the time to mentor yet another kid that will jump ship as soon as the grass is a little greener somewhere else.
Yes but I think it all boils down to the person and whether or not they want to put in the time to learn how to do things. In my case I paid attention and tried to talk and ask many of the older guys I work around how certain things are done and the better ways to approach situations and certain jobs. I don't think the problem so much is that guys don't wanna teach, it's that kids just think they know everything and older guys don't wanna be bothered.
That is one issue, with the young techs, but another issue is bosses that do not want the liability of hiring a guy off the street without that paper, do not get me wrong, great techs can be completely self taught, but getting that foot in the door can be very hard. And very few young people will put in the effort to do it, without a push of an instructor etc
@@flatratemaster if you've never worked on a vehicle,have no clue what so ever then yes tech schools are for you. If you already have the basics and know you how to learn,skip it and save the money
@@joekoehler6759 exactly right, tech school is nothing but yet another way for someone else to take your money and when you graduate you’ll be stuck with a loan to repay while you make minimum (or slightly more) wage... as with everything it all depends on the person, people that want to learn and love the industry will succeed school or not, history is not wrong
I received all the vehicle repair training that I have in vocational training in high school and being in the vehicle maintenance career field in the United States Air Force for 24 years. Plus, I have an associates degree in automotive technology and a bachelors degree in biology, which I barely paid anything to earn except for my service.
I totally agree with you. I did a Motorcycle tech course & landed in auto tech job by chance. after 3 yrs of learning & filling in the blanks of my knowledge I'm getting there but it has not been easy. on the verge of ASE certification now. It would of been so much easier with relevant training, but i will say, almost impossible without the tech training i did have.
I would advise anyone who is serious about wanting to become a real technician to go to school. It will be a game changer, but unfortunately they won't see the benefits very well until down the road. Guys with no education, there are holes on what they know that usually stop them from really making it. I went to school, didn't finish it because the class schedule didn't line up with my work schedule, and one paid me, one I paid, and I didn't think it was really helping me, so I quit 2 classes from graduation. OH well, I don't have a degree/diploma on my wall but I did learn a lot. Way down the road I realized that it really helped me with manufacuturer training (Nissan).
depends on what you want to do.... if you want to do more advanced repairs yes you need some sort of further education on vehicles, but for basic repairs youtube will do fine..... nowadays heading into a shop you will want schooling because vehicles nowadays are much more complex than they used to be
I have never been to tech school, I think parts of it are useful, I think on job training is more effective. I learnt by doing with advise from my farther. I have known many people who have the paper from reputable places but are absolutely useless. It’s depends on the person but I learn daily by doing. Learning how do it safely and correctly doesn’t have to be at tech school. Some people do need the clear teaching style of a school but it won’t teach you everything even more so with modern cars. Experience is much more important than peace’s of paper! Some of the best mechanics I know aren’t qualified.
Education is important, it will broaden your view and give you more opportunities. Even if I have degrees in Applied Informatics and MBA I am still not afraid of getting my hands dirty while fixing my old Audi on the street. The reason why am here at 1 AM CET is because I want to learn new things from knowledgeable, experienced and great professionals like Mike, Thomas and others. The more you know, the more you know that you don't know enough.
love the video. i went to wyotech and took automotive,and light duty diesel and learn so much for a good platform to start my career. only thing about tech school they have only so much time to teach before your next class and alot of things you dont get to learn in class or hands on.
Mike, It's like Keith said about what are they teaching in technical schools today is a key point too. Nowadays, with all of the electronics on modern cars, one would think that most of the emphasis would be the electrical. But it's probably still the mechanics with a small amount of electrical theory. And it's true that you have to have some background with an education as a foundation. And the best qualification to have is experience in solving today's problems on vehicles. And when I say experience, I don't mean pattern failures on vehicles. It's where the person has the background, knowledge of systems and the skill set to diagnose any issue to solve a problem. Oh, by the way Mike, what's Ohm's Law ???? :))))
LOL, on Ohms Law:). Talking with 2 techs that went to the same school, a for profit school, they both have a very good understanding of electric theory, that started with classes at that school, 1 took the Ford program, because it has way more electric theory involved, also you can look at ScannerDanners classes at Rosedale tech and see it does get taught, just maybe not enough, after all can we every have enough electrical training ever!
I'm familiar with Paul's teaching at Rosedale and he does a great job in teaching diagnostics of where electrical theory is prevalent. I just wonder about the community colleges that's out there in what they're teachings are. We have a local community college nearby and went I retire, I'll have to audit their classes to see what they're teachings are. And it's good to hear that the two techs that you spoke with are getting pretty good training...
The problem is even if your local has a good electrical program, the next one may not, I will be doing a non profit school video for next week and I will be talking about it in that video and also a follow up video on choosing a school:)
That's true as you never know what another school nearby may be teaching. I'll be looking out for your non-profit school video as it sounds interesting. Have a good one Mike!
A different angle was I went in the Air Force as a vehicle mechanic and I was in from 1975 to 1983 and learned a lot. After that I went in the Air Force Reserves and retrained into aircraft. The training was back then top notched and basically you get to work on the same vehicles we have now. Sure they are basic vehicles but you get paid to learn. 4 or 6 years and you will have a advanced training on modern vehicles. Just google "general purpose vehicle & equip. maintenance"
go to a junior college where they have internships with major dealership. For now, it's free to attend a junior college in CA. by doing this, you are ahead of the game because you will save tons on money.
IN NYC there are few schools lincoln tech is one & some call it lincoln reck it costs 33 k for a 13 month program and some of us just dont have that kind of money to spend on tech school or just in general.
Totally agree. Guy I work with is kind of the PM follow up guy. He can change parts like no other. But give him a broken truck and say here diag and repair and he's lost. God forbid he gets a check engine light or an after treatment job. Which basically means I do the diag for him lol
I’d love to see a high school graduate attempt to diagnose a hybrid/electric vehicle in 5 years. Get at least an associates degree for this rapidly changing field. You’ll be glad you have it down the road.
Thank you sir for your time and great info! I’m mentoring a high school student who wants to pursue automotive as a career. This was a great start to my research.
Tech school is a necessity to enter into the Auto/Diesel repair industries these days. Everybody starting out in this field at least has to have the basic knowledge on how the systems of car/trucks work. Well and having the skills to read a multi meter also help.
The military is a great place to learn mechanics, school is short but you get 4+ years of experience. That's how I got my start. Plus after you can use the GI bill to further your education.
I was planning to go the school but them I found out that would cost me 30k so I decided not to go because I'm 30 years old and I have my own bills to pay so I can't effort it anymore loan. But I didn't give up on my job searching. So now in the nissan dealership they give me a shot without any experience and they offer hands on training. I would start as lube technician. They also offer a job training at the nissan school. May is not the right way to start a career but because of my situation I'm very happy with this opportunity I'm looking forward to Rocks. 🙏🏻
Going to tech school is great, but if your not able to use that knowledge when you come out where you work, its easy to forget. I'll be the first to admit my electrical diag skills are low, now that I'm the only tech at an independent its up to me to do it, but I haven't done much of it since trade school, and my boss won't send me for any training, so I rely a lot of You Tube, All Data, Identifix, to see what common things are for problems I have, then go and do the testing on those particular areas to see if that is my problem. I Went to tech school on the east coast of Canada in' 03-'04, tried working there for a couple years but no work, and any I did was only brakes, suspension and engine work, no electrical diag. Moved out west in '06, went back to tech school while I worked a dealer from '07-'11. Became red seal licensed in '11. But I was only able to do very little electrical diag there, as the were specialty techs. There were 28 techs in the shop, 4 electrical/tune up techs, 2 trim techs, 1 front end/alignment tech, 1 auto trans tech, 14 general repair techs and 6 lube techs. I was one of the 14 general repair techs, as came to work there after, and all the specialty guys were all in there 40s-50s, and I was in my early 20s when I started. When I moved to an independent I was able to do a bit more, but still not a lot, because a couple of the other techs were really good at it, so they got the big jobs and I got simple stuff. And now where I am like I said its just me, but a lot of the time its like what you said in you pros/cons vid about equipment/programming and sending stuff to the dealer. I have a fully up to date Snap-on Solus Edge scanner, and my dvom and a test light, and a battery/charging system tester. That's what I have for diag at this shop. So I have to send stuff to the dealer a lot, which I hate telling the customer that, but its a fact of where I work. The other day the boss said he wanted to get into programming so I wouldn't have to send stuff out. But he figured we could up date the scanner and that was it and I could program. The Snap-on guy had to explain to him about specialized equipment, the subscriptions to the dealer sites with the programs and updates, etc, etc. And on top of that possible training which he really didn't like.
Programming is not something to get into without training, trust me it is no fun when half way through a programing session and everything locks up etc, Yes I have bricked 1 module, and have recovered many more, but I do a good bit of it.
Granted not all tech schools are equal. Not all teachers are scanner Danner. With that being said I’ve found you get what you put into it. If you’re really interested in learning, I mean really interested in learning, you’ll benefit from going to a tech school. My father always told me don’t be afraid to be stupid. Don’t be afraid to say you don’t know something. You’ll learn more if you go in with that attitude. Take every bit of information and dissect it. Treat every thing as a learning experience, and you’ll always benefit from it. I’ve always had an open mind. Whether I was talking to an A tech or an oil change tech. You can always learn something. Don’t think you know everything there is to know I guess is my point.
One of the things I found with my degree. Is i was looked at more highly when looking for a job. And then my a.s.e certs help out. The one thing I found out about auto repair. There is always a job somewhere
bodybuildingdaily news . My first was from Gordon cooper vo tech . Auto mechanic. Then i went to southwest technology for auto technology. Then i was fortunate enough to go to work at andy granatelli tuneup masters. Back when it was good. And they had weekly night school. For advanced diagnostic. Learned so much... hope this answers your question
Went to tech school. Honestly I did learn alot but it definitely lacked repetition in the hands on side. I'm pretty familiar with everything that I was taught. But just no 100% in my work or speed.
Us older guys should be so lucky as to find a younger tech wanting to make it a career, not a job. I own my own shop, worked 19 years in dealership land. Last two have been on my own. I’ve went through a couple of “young part changers” Usually, once i start to ramp Up the workload (still changing parts) they drop like flies.
Education should be a fundamental and necessary part for all those young people who wish to start in this field. It is the foundation that will help them understand the complicated automotive world. In any case, education never ends by constant changes in technology. Once these young people begin with their studies, begin to understand how this actually works and should make sure to master the subject and especially the entire electric field. Excellent motivation and advice for all those young people! In addition I shared your channel on my workshop page @check engine serv. Puerto Rico on Facebook, to help your audience grow. GREETINGS AND A BIG HUG FROM PUERTO RICO! BUDDY...
I think this advice primarily applies to the guy's that work at an independent shop. Any dealership will hire someone without experience or education as a lube tech. Once you're in, you can very easily learn while changing oil and eventually work your way into a more advanced quick service position where you're installing parts. During this time, the dealership is pushing training on you like crazy and sending you off to classes. At this point, it's fairly easy to get an apprenticeship position where you'll be working along side a master tech and you continue to learn as you go. I can however see where none of this would apply at an independent shop because they don't push training on you or send you off to classes. You're simply expected to know what you're doing or you wont have a job. I'm not saying you shouldn't go to school, but it's definitely not a must to be a successful tech.
Mileage will vary I know several dealers that will not hire anyone without an Associates degree, even for the quick lube department, many that will not send techs to training if they have 1 tech certified etc
From personal experience I believe going to tech school would be a good idea. But it really just comes down to experience. You can learn all you want, but if you haven't been putting that knowledge into real world situations for awhile, things are tough. I taught myself how to work on cars, mostly from UA-cam and from books. Then working on my own stuff, and friends and family. I got a job and got 5 ase certifications. All self taught. But when I first got the job I was in over my head. Even though I had knowledge I didn't have experience. I could tell the guy next to me how to do things all the time that he didnt know the procedure for. This was a guy who worked on cars 6 days a week for 35 years and a lot of times I found I had more knowledge than he did. But when it came to real world problems he had me beat all day long. As well as speed. I was always yelled at because I was too slow... Experience is the key!
I have been wrenching my whole life on my own stuff growing up and just shut down my handyman buisness to go back to wrenching! I feel it depends on situations and circumstances. Everyone has there thing and thier ways they get there. Some people are good at being self tought that's why I watch scanner Danner and study all night. It's more of being self driven and knowledge, than what the source is you get the knowledge. Just do your research and make sure it's logical knowledge not some guy who thinks he's master tech but he's not. I'm not near as good as some tech guys but I never touch an car without research first for common issues ,diagnostic, and an full visual and physical inspection of the cars wiring harness for contact points and such!
I’m only able to go to uti because of the gi bill. I’ve already got experience from the army but nobody wants people that just have military experience without school.
Awesome advice I just may decide to go to tech school to get the basic on rebuiding motors thx a whole lot for this video I really appreciate the advice!
that is me quick service @ 52 years old after spending 35 in nyc emergency medical services and after two WTC im all beat up now eyes ears feet u name it i feel 92 its just oil changes and tire/wheel stuff
I’m thinking about going to Lincoln tech cause I wanna learn as much as I can about automotive so I can pretty much go anywhere and learn from other places as well
What about someone who has gone out and studied various automotive books and manuals and achieved the status of Master Tech? I have done just this. I can easily say that I know all my basics and while I don't have a ton of hands on practical experience applying this knowledge I do far surpass everyone I work with. So I guess my question is. What about someone who has studied and educated themselves? Do you feel that they should look into tech school or maybe just a dealer or manufacture offered schools?
Frogboyattacks Ok i can see how it looks that way. let me just clarify I do work in an autoshop but our shop does not do drivability or heavy line work. We mostly do basic maintence, tires, oil changes, brakes, ect. Everyone there is just parts swappers except me. On the side I do everything i can manage at home or at friends. Head gaskets, electrical diagnostics within my cabilities. I currently dont own a bidirectional scan tool or a DSO like i wish but i can get a lot done with a DVOM and a test light.
Education is Education, the basics and more advanced concepts can be learned without a teacher, I can attest to that, most of my knowledge was learned by reading service information long after I left tech school, but knowledge without a real world testing, either with a instuctor testing you or in the field, with a car testing you, is just book knowledge
Maxwell Peter Not really a jiffy lube we do do quite a bit of service just nothing too envolved like rebuilds or head gaskets but i have done those before on my own. Most of the work we do is general service alternatos, external water pumps, oil pan gaskets,valve covers, radiators, rack and pinions, suspension work alignments and the ocasional minor electrical work. So about half of what you would see at most full service shops. No real transmission work besides flushes or filters. No ac work at all. Altho i have the nessessary epa 609 certification and have done some ac work on the side myself. I just have very little expierence under a senior tech doing work like ECM diagnostics or primary and secondary ignition analysis.
Flatrate Master thank you and i agree completely nothing beats working under a more expierenced mentor or hands on expierence testing and using learned knowlege. I guess what im really asking is. Do you feel that someone with a large wealth of knowlege but little hands on expierence using said knowlege should look into tech school or do you feel that they should look into working at a dealer or independant shop?
Sticker looks good on the box... I'm honored to have a place on it! Tech school gave be a good foundation of what was to come... how things turn out after, that's all on you.
Yes I love my job, as for how I got into this business, more of happenstance than anything else, started helping my dads company fixing his trucks because they broke down a lot, found out I had a talent for it and enjoyed it, not a job I had even considered!
on a dayley basis I am HGV driver but fixing cars is something what makes me happy cruise control retrofitting lpg conversion all this happens on my drive.. my recent best lesson I learned: i did the cluch on Citroen and it works fine for two days....then it start to behave...such as one day it works fine the other I can't image the gear...we was trying to understand what I did wrong or what happened...as normaly if cluch fale fake it fale..its not electric..was told by neibor to replace slave cylinder....dont make sense.. but when u don't know what to do... New slave cylinder installed and guess what clutch works again...for a day or so... anyway long story short finally I take the gear box off one more time and found a little tiney piece of torx bit which I broke when was doing flywheel I didt did take attention to it but it drops to the pressure plate at some point so take this souvenir out and now keep it in my wallet such a great feeling when mystery problem sorted lol
Been around machines my whole life. Work on most things on my truck past cars etc. Can completely rebuild my dirt bike and engine. Am currently a heavy equipment oiler. Mechanically inclined. And stillllll I don’t have a Solid well rounded knowledge of everything or am I confident in taking on certain projects. Like he said work is so fast paced it takes years to absorb and know how to do certain repairs. I’m too busy being an oiler that I have zero time to jump in with the boys and learn something new. Also I make too good of money and not enough skills to leave the company. Other companies see my working experience as entry level. The hourly pay cut is around 15 hr less than what I’m pulling in now. My coworkers have served between 5-25 years at the company and nobody rarely gets moved because those positions are held pretty tightly. I’m on my 5th year some talk about jumping in with the boys but I doubt it. I’m really good at what I do I’m sure intentions are keeping me here as long as possible. That being said I enrolled into Lincoln tech while still doing heavy equipment pm. This degree infused with my current experience should get me out of lube and land me somewhere else making my current hourly or more. School will get you there faster than on the job training. Nobody has time and not enough down time. School is 100% down time
Id reccomend community college over UTI and the others. Community colleges are cheaper and some even offer manufacturer training. Just have to look around. I myself will be entering Toyotas program at a local community college.
I know of a lot of so-called techs that are only good at testing. The best techs I have worked with have learned on the job. I had a new truck and the dealer techs that said it needed a new clutch because it would grind in 3rd gear unless you double clutched. I wound up rebuilding the trans because the dealer tech could n to figure out the real problem and that was after they put 4 clutches in the truck and the problem was not fixed. sanquorniser was bad and the tech could not figure it out
Dont learn Automotive to go n get a job, learn to create jobs 4 yourself n 4 others. The auto repair shops are always there to make u average to get there business going n growing.
I went to MMI and failed out because I struggled with the electrical side of things. If I wanted to get into auto tech what tips would you give so that I would be able to better understand these systems? I know my weakness but I need to know how to beat it. My end goal wouldn't be to work for a big dealership, but rather get in with a performance shop because that's where my passion with cars lies.
I love working on cars, I am always trying to find something new on cars.I work with my dad whenever I can. Im still in high school and I graduate in 3 and a half months, and Im planning to go to community college because tech school is going to cost me around 25k-30k. Should I consider going to tech school? or Should I just go to Community college.
Save your money and go to your community college and learn automotive. Use the money saved to buy yourself a top of the line scanner/code reader. Today you can't even open the damn hood without a top of the line computer. Honestly the industry looks at UTI students as a joke. Good video!👍😀
![Lp. Сердце Вселенной #60 РОЖДЕНИЕ ЛОЛОЛОШКИ [Финал] • Майнкрафт](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/YoR0pAV9FVQ/mqdefault.jpg)
Iv seen guys fresh out of UTI that ended up being awesome techs
Iv seen guys fresh out of UTI that ended up being the worst techs ever!
It's a matter of personal ambition that determines your success in
Auto repair.
What do you think about Lincoln Teck?
Eddie Da Silva true man
I went to UTI back in 1987..... I did great but after 5 years I hated working on customer cars. Now 30 years later I enjoy rebuilding my own engines. I would do it over again but I would go to a community college and save tons of money.
Jeff Cuevas im at uti rn im doing ford fact
Yep, as a former UTI student I've seen other UTI techs through the years. Some are L1 & Master ASE certified that are some of the sharpest in the industry. And other Master techs that could barely change oil. It all comes down to what you put in it.
go to community college over a tech school for a third of the price. you’re welcome guys.
I will be talking about the differences between the 2 in next Mondays video:)
In my opinion the only way tech school is better is if it is to train you for a specific manufacturer with guaranteed job placement.
Malachis Grace why nah
@Malachis Grace not necessarily, I have a one year degree from a community college. In one year I took engines, brakes, steering and suspension, HVAC, performance and diag 1+2, electrical 1+2, auto and manual transmissions. They didn't make me take any general education classes.
@@flatratemaster Is this a career track that someone approaching 40 can go into?
I like that you bring up the negatives and positives. Definitely makes me think twice about this career choice. I used to shadow a mechanic at a independent shop. He said “Work on cars as a hobby, not a career” or something to that degree.
To be honest, I would recommend courses in advanced electrical theory as well as any repair based courses. Today's repair tech isn't just an auto mechanic, per se. One minute you're an HVAC tech, the next you're an electrician. In my opinion, one of the best things you can arm yourself with is a very good understanding of electrical theory and operation, as well the ability to read and interpret wiring diagrams. I never went to tech school for auto mechanics. I went for electronics and electrical occupations instead. The nuts and bolts of this business isn't what's likely to trip young mechanics up. That will come with experience in the field anyway. Focus your schooling on electrical theory and diagnosis . A good understanding of these things will lead far less misdiagnosed vehicles.
I just subscribed to this and many other channels, Im probably the oldest auto technician student at 47 yrs old , and on Monday I start as Junior tech at a BMW dealership , Im in my last trimester at Mech Tech College and I don't regret going to tech college. Wish me good luck.
How has your experience been so far working as a BMW junior tech? I'm looking into going to tech school.
I am a recovering addict. 36 years old finally getting my life back together and am planning on going to tech school soon. I just wanted to say thank you. Your video really helped me decide that this is the right route for me. Also you have a great channel so I subscribed.
That’s awesome bro, how’s the class going?
My dad didn’t go to any tech school and worked as a master mechanic until he died in 2003. He was 53 and had more knowledge than his certified boss. I learned from him and I don’t have a certificate in auto mechanics but I do in Paramedic and fire suppression. To me, the same concept applies. O2, spark and rhythm
It really depends on the opportunity that people get. Sometimes school is better and sometimes experience is better. But it’s harder now to get a job at a shop without school. They don’t count garage experience either. I chose school mainly because tech school has a bigger network base so I can get a job anywhere once I finish.
Went to an Aviation High School in Detroit, I flew and worked on aircraft while there. After 9/11 worked in automotive for five years. While attending community college during many years I studied welding, criminal justice, but I earned 3 Degrees... auto, diesel and aviation mechanics. Love automotive but hate commission. Been in aviation since 2006 starting at a regional airline but now working at a major airline. At major airlines or a cargo outfit you can earn over $50 an hour. Diesel is my backup plan or trains if I get laid off. I have my CLD, many Ase's auto, diesel, X1, service consultant, parts specialist but I have failed these test many of times before I passed, I'm more of a hands on person though and I can pass many of other test but these test suck in my opinion and these test don't make you a hands on technician although some techs master both test and hands on. In aviation mechanics my license never expires like ase's do in 5 yrs. I volunteered for free as a biomedical technician to learn that trade for 6 months as well. As a tech. you have to be versatile; automotive, diesel, aircraft, plant maintenance, fleet technician, amusement park tech., trains, welder, biomedical technician, farm equipment tech... ect. You have to think outside the box. In my opinion auto techs are well under paid and should be paid hourly and about the same as an aviation technician due to their investment. With my matco triple bay and all the other tools I have for automotive, the investment isn't that great. Coming from Detroit after 9/11 the economy shut down. Anyone working commission suffered wether automotive, furniture sales workers. restaurants, or any commission based jobs in general. I dislike commission because when the economy takes a hit you suffer regardless of all your hard work or experience. You will be surprised how your talents and good attitude can place you into a high paying job due to your experience, having a associate's degree, or working in a different field not related to your degree because you have applied yourself. The ultimate goal is to set yourself up for the future and to have a fun career where it dosen't feel like work, the company has a 401k and contributes to it. My snapon and matco toolboxes sit at home as a hobby for my cars/motorcycles. My other toolboxes sit at the airport where I performed maintenance and taxi aircraft. I have many hobbies which include swimming, skateboarding, and boxing and hopefully soon para-motoring. The goal is to get paid what your are worth so you can enjoy a life outside of work and develop a happy medium. Money/pay doesn't always mean happiness as well/ I tell my wife my other backup plan is being a Wendy's manager later on in age/life; this is because I budget. In life you have to keep taking chances and pick yourself up when you fall down, many of times this has happened to me. College is not always the #1 answer all the time too, it can be a business where they rob you if you let them. You have to take advantage of opportunities and stay motivated and (think outside the box)! Born in Detroit at one point being poor living with my dad in a house with no heat, electricity, or water I never gave up and had determination. Nowadays I see so many young kids that are lazy, don't want to work, and expect things to be handed to them. In life if you put forth effort you will be surprised what comes along or what company, ceo, or business man or woman says I would like you to come work for us. Keep your head up and stay motivated, peace✌
Excellent video! As a degreed mechanical engineer and a self taught mechanic of 45+ years, this is some of the best advice I've seen on youtube for beginner and up coming mechanics. Good job!
I didn't go to a tech school, I was pursuing an engineering degree and partied my way out early. So when the bills came pouring in I had to get a job quick. I had a natural tallent for things mechanical and electrical so I jumped into the industry. This is not the way most guys get into it. But if your smart, can understand what you read and remember it you can do it without school. With or without school you will not make a good living for the first few years, thats a sad fact.
Just go into vocational school through my high school I’m doing automotive tech this video has a better base of what the class should be than what the school told me
I started 20 yrs ago and I'm still going to tech school everyday :) love this business!
If you stop learning, you need to retire because you will be obsolete in months!
Big fan of your content, although with this I have to disagree. I have seen many graduates from "top" tech schools that can barely perform oil changes. I have been a technician for 2 1/2 years, prior to that I had no mechanical skill or knowledge. I am currently 6 months away from acquiring my master technician certification at my current dealership. I have seeked out all the knowledge I could on automotive and still continue to do so. This is why I was and still am able to progress in my field at a fast rate. My point is whether you start as a entry level lube tech or go to a big name tech school your success as a technician is up to how much you put into it. There is nothing that cant be learned from in shop experiences or research on your own. The best advice I would give a tech in any situation would be everyday learn something new. Confused about Cvvt? Research it. Confused about how transmissions work? Research it. Direct injection? Research it. You get what you put into it. Take that money you would spend on tech school and put it towards tools, and never stop learning.
amen. I did an engine swap with the help of a Puerto Rican school drop out. this field really isnt that complicated. Research is the key. I have yet to mess up on ANY car i have ever worked on. Electrical issues are one thing. Software on cars is quite another. In which case there is always someone willing to put in the work to teach everyone that is not acquainted with said issues.
From someone with a lot of family in the industry, I chose to go into medicine, but it did me no good in the end as my career was over due to a military disability and a progressive illness.
Most of my family who are techs/ mechanics are in Europe Australia, New Zealand. They have apprenticeship programs for all kinds of tech and vocational careers. Also, the same company's who sell cars here to us and demand lots of training and schooling, many of them have apprenticeship programs so when you're done, you've been trained by let's say, Honda, and know how to work on all their powersports products and ready to work. They made sure their young weren't saddled with crushing school debt, and they had a vocation to help them contribute. Where are those programs here in the US? Community college is an option for automotive in most states, and it's considerably lower cost, but things like motorcycle repair are mostly offered at MMI at ridiculous tuition prices. There has to be a shortage of auto techs coming up if not already in progress, and maybe there needs to be a new way to train mechanics and get them into the pipeline.
I grew up in the shop. Family owned business. I still went to tech school. I did tons of work before I went to tech school, but school taught you how stuff worked and the theory behind it. The engine performance class was on a different level though. I went to automotive training center and had the privilege of having Jim Morton as an instructor. He taught me a lot of stuff that still sticks with me today. I still have my notebook from that class in my box at work.
My point above was that I leaned a ton about scanner and scopes that I wouldn’t have had time to learn at work. School was worth it to me, but I had the luxury of having a job when I got out. Not everyone is as lucky as I am.
Been in this a line of work for 20 plus years and still learning when you quit learning his the time you quit trying
Just started at a tech school at 44 years old after 20 years in corporate America. ive been loving the program so far, and my teacher helped me get a job within three weeks. Pretty crazy. It's been a great career pivot so far.
If you're Considering becoming an Auto Tech Please Listen to this Guy!!!!!
Thank you, you are too kind!
I am in complete agreement with you. The two year college programs are the best way to go. I used to teach auto body at the high school level and found out very quickly that the age of the student really matters. In Massachusetts we let 12 and 13 year olds decide on what they want to do for the rest of their lives. They are way too young to make informed decisions. Most students pick the shops according to social popularity and where their friends are.
My 14 year old daughter doesn't know what she want to even do after Highschool! Now my son is 12 and is convinced he will be an auto tech like dad, but we will see:)
I went to Nashville auto Diesel. And came back to work at a dealership and did a lot of pms for a good time. Then one day they gave me a real job. That was years ago and it’s still prove your self driven. I’m only one of 2 guys with a mid heavy cert out of 5 in our shop. It’s hard with out school and certs to get in a shop paying anything. Yeah joe junk truck shop will give you a shot at low pay. Some ppl don’t like hearing it but it’s the truth. Love the videos.
I took an alternative path, US military 91B, wheeled vehicle mechanic. It's not a bad way to learn once you get into duty. A community college is one of the best ways off the street to get in the trade, while learning the basics as a general tech in the shop. I just reentered the automotive trade after several years away and I started all over again. One has to leave their ego at the door to succeed.
Tech school is awesome but after going i realize that if you will read you can learn. You don't need tech school...you need the books offered at a tech school. Then all you need is a car.
The most difficult thing to learn outside of tech class would be diagnostic equipment knowledge. If you owned a ford and owned and a rotunda vcm diagnostic scan tool you wpuld be golden...then there's the commitment to learning and testing yourself daily and weekly.
Neither route is bad but one is more organized and funded and more practical. Community college isn't that expensive in the long run. Most people could find a job while training
i'm still in the community college, i don't want to be a millionaire, i just want to make enough money to put enough food on the table.
Sir, you need an attitude adjustment. Just getting by is not going to cut it. You're welcome.
me too bro
Richys Camera Captures Not everyone can be the 1 percent and wanting a simple life isn’t bad so stfu
Cap Cap your absolutely right, it isn’t bad to want simple life, but some people would rather work nonstop to become greater.
John Salcido Yes it is great until you realize you spent a lot of time focusing on money rather than your family and friends. We only live one life and money should’ve been the main focus, but it is important to have a income where you can be comfortable
Hello former 91bravo wheeled vehicle mechanic. I got out of the army in 2020, started as a tech 1 diesel tech for us express. Got laid off but since i got laid off couldnt take my tools that they were suppling me. About of month of not finding a job due to no tools i decided to switch to the automotive(non diesel) because there were more entry level positions and i knew that people would be more forgiving for me not having tools. Eventually i started working for this Meineke that was was ran by a very wealthy family. I started out as a gst/lube tech 6 months ago. I am currently a b tech and im ase cert in brakes, gs1 and hvac. Currently getting ready to take my my ase for suspension. Long story short did i waste my gi bill on a 45000 dollar school. Nope. Everything i learned was from a Master tech and me asking the owner to send me to more and more training. The knowledge is out you just have to be willing to work and learn.
I want to become an auto tech when I grow up on my next life. Although I like the mechanicals side of things, I do want to have a solid focus on the electrical side. That said, I’ve find it a bit difficult to find a reputable school where I live. I’ve been able to deal with just about any issues on my personal vehicle for these past 19 years which has saved me lots of money, and a few that have cost me, but we’ll just call those learning experiences.
Can’t wait to get started on my new life and all that to tell you thanks for the video. It was certainly helpful. Cheers!
Holy crap... 0:16 I thought I was having a stroke!! Sorry, my bad... back to watching!
Guess I messed up that edit:)
Thomas EXOVCDS FFFFAAAAWK I thought the same thing
Thomas EXOVCDS I just smoked so I thought I was tripping hard
@@flatratemaster thadaeus
Sadly there are so many automotive schools that do not offer "tech training". What they offer is to teach young people how to change drum brakes, engine rebuilds, and use antiquated techniques as an approach to training. Seldom do you find classes in these schools that explain theory and operation of todays systems. I am not saying they dont exist ,but I am saying they are not plentiful. Mostly people that go into the college style training end up leaving and not pursuing a career in the field because what they learned does not apply to real world repairs.
So now comes the big question , should they concentrate the training curriculum as 70 percent technical (electrical/theory) , and 30 percent mechanical ? Thoughts ?
New Level Auto You are exactly right I see it all the time. I believe they should push more electrical as the shops in my area seem not so capable to handle that end of the repair. When you interview potential techs most State I don't do electrical or they just do heavy line. It's kinda sad because who's gonna do it when we are gone. I believe that should be at least a 1/2 year requirement for them to get a degree and show them it's really not hard once you understand the theory and what it needs to accomplish the end goal.
sir you dont have time to watch videos like these, you must be making videos!! we are stalking your every move muahahahaha. jk ur my diag hero. k bye.
I swear I am trying to edit one as we speak
I completely agree with you on that, they concentrate on the old mechanic jobs, and leave the hard "tech" stuff as an after thought. Honestly I think the nut and bolt part is either easy or it is not for a student, and a lot of these programs are still run like an old shop class in highschool, aka send the delinquents and dumbmasses to shop, so the real students can get an education. This is not the 1960s, I mean you may need a scan tool to do brakes! To answer your question HELL YES! If you can't use a DVOM, scope and scan tool, very well, you shouldn't get a diploma as what real use do they have in the real world of auto repair.
Can't wait!
Good tech SCHOOLS ABSOLUTELY A MUST ! Lincoln tech graduate 2 year course 1979 I use my school reference every day .
I work at Subaru and they offer classes and training through themselves. They will even pay for ASE’s. I never went to trade school. I started out in the Express changing oil and rotating tires. You do online training then they send you off to their own schools and you learn over the period of years but I have never needed to go to school.
I work for Subaru also, I’m doing all my online stuff now while I’m an express tech, I shoiluld be headed to Denver for school in feb or March
@@jlw1985 I’ll be headed to Subaru school after the New Years because I work at a dual dealership with Subaru and Hyundai. It’s called Thomas Subaru and Hyundai. TC for Thomas Cumberland. Stay at it as an Express Tech and keep yourself busy even if there is a lot of down time they do notice when you aren’t working.
His fingers look like you can use them for pliers. 💪
You had to go there??!! ; o )
At my 60 years old I 'm learning to be an automobile mecánica technic good job teacher
With the changes in technology over the years, I had a feeling things would be moving into this direction. If one were to go to a tech school, it's a shame to come out with possibly a student loan to repay, tools to buy, and low pay to start off with. Sounds like the deck is stacked! I mean, I don't know.......I'm self taught from the start, but when I started, there were still ignition points and condensers in distributors. What? What's a distributor? Remember smog pumps? I had a diploma from an electronics school, so that helped, industrial arts classes in high school, science.....all that good stuff you can't get no more! Oh, and that "other" thing a lot of (not all) folks these days don't have.....common sense! Common sense and critical thinking are your best allies along with whatever you can learn.
That is one of the main reasons I started this channel to help turn that deck back in these young techs favor! and yes I remember points and smog pumps and feed back carbs:( As for Common sense, not much I can do there:(
Flatrate Master remember the old nitrogen grenade brake boosters
Common sense and critical thinking helps you develop your own diagnostic "routine" customized for you (by you) that'll help you though your daily encounters. Tech school don't teach that. Good judgement! Tech school don't teach that. Put together all that including tech school will work FOR you.
Very true statements!
I have a Auto tech degree, Associate in science, and about 2 years left on a mechanical engineering degree. The education that has made the biggest difference in my life is my tech education. If you have not gotten an oficial automotive education, you know nothing. Not only do you know anything but you have no idea what is that you do not know. I was in school with a guy who was in the military as a mechanic for years, worked on the side as a mechanic with his own customer base. Every day he said he learned things he did not know, learned plenty things he did wrong, and learned how to diagnose and not just to throw parts at a car. I have worked at multiple dealerships, Cadillac, Chrysler, Ford, Independent shops. I also sub contracted with the military, traveling to different bases all over the country. My tech degree made that possible. Before school I did factory work, food service, construction, ......all the general labor stuff. My tech degree tripled my hourly rate with my first job, not to mention you get a valuable skill that benefits you for the rest of your life. When you are dating women......., bringing something like automotive skill is an asset.
David Bland Im really considering going to school to learn to work on cars, i hate i waited till im 28 to do it but i want to, is going to a community college good? I want to go to school for automotive technology and eventually engineering, i been hesitant for to long.
@@251southside community college is the path I took and I never regretted it. 28 is not too old. I have been in and out of school since 91. I am 47. I got my auto degree in 99, I wish I had done it earlier.
David Bland So should I go to community college for 2 years then go to a trade school for automotive???
@@IGBreezy3 I went to a community college for automotive. My reasoning was that the credits would transfer for continuing my education. Plus I already had some comm. college credits anyway. Where I am, automotive is only about 3 years. It is less if you already have the basics or are able to test out of those basic classes, like math, computer...... From what I have seen a specific trade school is good if it feeds a particular manufacturer like BMW, Mercedes... If it is just a general education with no guarantee of job placement, then go where you can afford. Just remember when you go to work they will expect you to know how basic systems work and have the ability to learn as you go.
David Bland ohh okay 👌🏿 because I’m going to Lincoln tech, but I’m not sure if i should or not 😬
Knowledge can only be acquired over time you can't learn 10 years of knowledge in 5 years. Cars have changed and continue to change so has the skill set. I have a mechanical electrical and electronic background . Hey you got to be smarter than what your working on. Good video and advice
Thank you!
Electrical is where the money is at!!!!!! Takes longer and harder to put a time on. Could take a minute or an hour or a day...
Your right and it is damn hard to be a competent mechanic. I am a trying to get into the field but I can at least admit that automotive technology is getting far to advance for my understanding. This is why I was thinking of small engine repair 2 stroke boats motorcycles and Atv's. Kudos to the man that could get through tech school and learn a whole lot of stuff. Stay on'em flat rate.
Thank you! and good luck!
If your ultimate goal is working for an independent and eventually running that shop, go to a tech school... if you want to be a dealership rat, go and be an express tech.. 90% of dealerships will Send AND PAY for you to be trained to be whatever kind of tech you want to be....
I personally went to WyoTech specifically for their management course... learned a lot about working on cars welding fabrication engine builds... I then spent 12 years learning how to diagnose and change parts the “dealership way” in my eyes I’m greateful for the degree because it opened my mind to how an entire service department IS ran and how it SHOULD be ran.... aside from that I think spending $30k was a poor investment on my part.... I could have spent that year being a motivated lube tech and learned what I know and use every day now for a lot less.....
I can swap transmissions, program ABS units, Install a supercharger, install 4x4 lifts... man i'm about to drop the diff on my M3 tomorrow to replace the bushings .. but somehow i can't get a job at a shop or dealership to do oil changes and tire rotations -.-
Thats a bs story
I turn down jobs all day
I went to a gm specific school and worked in a gm dealership for a few years and ended up hating it. I now work for a manufacturing company as a maintenance mechanic and love it. If it wasn’t for my schooling I wouldn’t have had the opportunity I got.
It’s been a dream of mine to become an auto mechanic/ technician. But at 47 and being the only one employed in the home, I can’t quit my job to go to tech school. Paying for it is another issue. I have been applying to any place looking for someone to give me a shot. Unfortunately I’m that DIY guy you talk about that no one wants to take a chance on. I just hope and pray the right shop gets my resume and can teach me the right way.
Personally i went to a community college to start off and when i worked at a dealership they send you to factory training but even when you did factory training they ll still have you changing oils for a few years until they move you up to do actual tech work my advice to people dont limit yourself to just working on cars being a mechanic means you can fix other shit as well not just cars
In my experience I got into the field because my dad is and has been a tech for many years. I did not personally go to school and neither did he. I haven't been in the field too long however when it comes to learning anything I'm a sponge and never do I think I know more than I do. I've done a good amount of heavy work and diag work by myself. I personally don't think school is needed. I work with kids that come out of school and they can't even change oil right consistently with out messing something up. Schooling is a good tool if you'd like to take that route however in my personal experience (even though short) I don't believe it's required. If you have a willingness to learn and ask questions you can be successful. At least I have
Learning no matter how you do it, you get out of it what you put into it! The truth is I have seen as many, I grew up in this business types that couldn't fix a sandwich as much as tech school grads. One of the biggest issues I see with the homegrown "techs" is they have learned so much stuff that is just plain wrong, but again be it a teacher in tech school or a good mentor in a shop, both can grow a great tech, but finding those mentors in shops is getting harder everyday, most of the great mentors have hit the grumpy old man stage and no longer want to spend the time to mentor yet another kid that will jump ship as soon as the grass is a little greener somewhere else.
Yes but I think it all boils down to the person and whether or not they want to put in the time to learn how to do things. In my case I paid attention and tried to talk and ask many of the older guys I work around how certain things are done and the better ways to approach situations and certain jobs. I don't think the problem so much is that guys don't wanna teach, it's that kids just think they know everything and older guys don't wanna be bothered.
That is one issue, with the young techs, but another issue is bosses that do not want the liability of hiring a guy off the street without that paper, do not get me wrong, great techs can be completely self taught, but getting that foot in the door can be very hard. And very few young people will put in the effort to do it, without a push of an instructor etc
@@flatratemaster if you've never worked on a vehicle,have no clue what so ever then yes tech schools are for you. If you already have the basics and know you how to learn,skip it and save the money
@@joekoehler6759 exactly right, tech school is nothing but yet another
way for someone else to take your money and when you graduate you’ll be stuck with a loan to repay while you make minimum (or slightly more) wage... as with everything it all depends on the person, people that want to learn and love the industry will succeed school or not, history is not wrong
Thank you I'm in a local tech school and learning alot. Thanks for providing the information and knowledge that you do, it means alot.
Thank you very much!
You are right nothing beats a education. You can't get anywhere without one.
In Canada you need to go to school in order to get certified, For your red seal will take about 3 years.
Canada is very different than the US
I received all the vehicle repair training that I have in vocational training in high school and being in the vehicle maintenance career field in the United States Air Force for 24 years. Plus, I have an associates degree in automotive technology and a bachelors degree in biology, which I barely paid anything to earn except for my service.
I totally agree with you. I did a Motorcycle tech course & landed in auto tech job by chance. after 3 yrs of learning & filling in the blanks of my knowledge I'm getting there but it has not been easy. on the verge of ASE certification now. It would of been so much easier with relevant training, but i will say, almost impossible without the tech training i did have.
Definitely a hard road, but you will get there!
I would advise anyone who is serious about wanting to become a real technician to go to school. It will be a game changer, but unfortunately they won't see the benefits very well until down the road. Guys with no education, there are holes on what they know that usually stop them from really making it. I went to school, didn't finish it because the class schedule didn't line up with my work schedule, and one paid me, one I paid, and I didn't think it was really helping me, so I quit 2 classes from graduation. OH well, I don't have a degree/diploma on my wall but I did learn a lot. Way down the road I realized that it really helped me with manufacuturer training (Nissan).
It really does!
depends on what you want to do.... if you want to do more advanced repairs yes you need some sort of further education on vehicles, but for basic repairs youtube will do fine..... nowadays heading into a shop you will want schooling because vehicles nowadays are much more complex than they used to be
I have never been to tech school, I think parts of it are useful, I think on job training is more effective. I learnt by doing with advise from my farther. I have known many people who have the paper from reputable places but are absolutely useless. It’s depends on the person but I learn daily by doing. Learning how do it safely and correctly doesn’t have to be at tech school. Some people do need the clear teaching style of a school but it won’t teach you everything even more so with modern cars. Experience is much more important than peace’s of paper! Some of the best mechanics I know aren’t qualified.
Education is important, it will broaden your view and give you more opportunities. Even if I have degrees in Applied Informatics and MBA I am still not afraid of getting my hands dirty while fixing my old Audi on the street. The reason why am here at 1 AM CET is because I want to learn new things from knowledgeable, experienced and great professionals like Mike, Thomas and others. The more you know, the more you know that you don't know enough.
love the video. i went to wyotech and took automotive,and light duty diesel and learn so much for a good platform to start my career. only thing about tech school they have only so much time to teach before your next class and alot of things you dont get to learn in class or hands on.
Issue with any schooling:( thank you!
Mike, It's like Keith said about what are they teaching in technical schools today is a key point too. Nowadays, with all of the electronics on modern cars, one would think that most of the emphasis would be the electrical. But it's probably still the mechanics with a small amount of electrical theory. And it's true that you have to have some background with an education as a foundation. And the best qualification to have is experience in solving today's problems on vehicles. And when I say experience, I don't mean pattern failures on vehicles. It's where the person has the background, knowledge of systems and the skill set to diagnose any issue to solve a problem. Oh, by the way Mike, what's Ohm's Law ???? :))))
LOL, on Ohms Law:). Talking with 2 techs that went to the same school, a for profit school, they both have a very good understanding of electric theory, that started with classes at that school, 1 took the Ford program, because it has way more electric theory involved, also you can look at ScannerDanners classes at Rosedale tech and see it does get taught, just maybe not enough, after all can we every have enough electrical training ever!
I'm familiar with Paul's teaching at Rosedale and he does a great job in teaching diagnostics of where electrical theory is prevalent. I just wonder about the community colleges that's out there in what they're teachings are. We have a local community college nearby and went I retire, I'll have to audit their classes to see what they're teachings are. And it's good to hear that the two techs that you spoke with are getting pretty good training...
The problem is even if your local has a good electrical program, the next one may not, I will be doing a non profit school video for next week and I will be talking about it in that video and also a follow up video on choosing a school:)
That's true as you never know what another school nearby may be teaching. I'll be looking out for your non-profit school video as it sounds interesting. Have a good one Mike!
A different angle was I went in the Air Force as a vehicle mechanic and I was in from 1975 to 1983 and learned a lot. After that I went in the Air Force Reserves and retrained into aircraft.
The training was back then top notched and basically you get to work on the same vehicles we have now. Sure they are basic vehicles but you get paid to learn. 4 or 6 years and you will have a advanced training on modern vehicles. Just google "general purpose vehicle & equip. maintenance"
go to a junior college where they have internships with major dealership. For now, it's free to attend a junior college in CA. by doing this, you are ahead of the game because you will save tons on money.
IN NYC there are few schools lincoln tech is one & some call it lincoln reck it costs 33 k for a 13 month program and some of us just dont have that kind of money to spend on tech school or just in general.
They are expensive
Totally agree. Guy I work with is kind of the PM follow up guy. He can change parts like no other. But give him a broken truck and say here diag and repair and he's lost. God forbid he gets a check engine light or an after treatment job. Which basically means I do the diag for him lol
:) and that sucks on doing his job for him!
Going to a reputable tech school is a good investment.
With good diag skills, we can all have the apprentices sweeping the floors for a long time!!
LOL
I’d love to see a high school graduate attempt to diagnose a hybrid/electric vehicle in 5 years. Get at least an associates degree for this rapidly changing field. You’ll be glad you have it down the road.
Thank you sir for your time and great info! I’m mentoring a high school student who wants to pursue automotive as a career. This was a great start to my research.
Tech school is a necessity to enter into the Auto/Diesel repair industries these days. Everybody starting out in this field at least has to have the basic knowledge on how the systems of car/trucks work. Well and having the skills to read a multi meter also help.
No getting around it, this job is no longer just nuts and bolts!
Yes to everybody that wants to go into the field, get some formal training.
Flat Rate Master ,
What is starting flat rate pay at your shop?
I learned how to work on cars from my grandpa and I am better at finding and fixing problems on most vehicles non hybrid
The military is a great place to learn mechanics, school is short but you get 4+ years of experience. That's how I got my start. Plus after you can use the GI bill to further your education.
Very True!
I was planning to go the school but them I found out that would cost me 30k so I decided not to go because I'm 30 years old and I have my own bills to pay so I can't effort it anymore loan. But I didn't give up on my job searching. So now in the nissan dealership they give me a shot without any experience and they offer hands on training. I would start as lube technician.
They also offer a job training at the nissan school. May is not the right way to start a career but because of my situation I'm very happy with this opportunity I'm looking forward to Rocks. 🙏🏻
Going to tech school is great, but if your not able to use that knowledge when you come out where you work, its easy to forget. I'll be the first to admit my electrical diag skills are low, now that I'm the only tech at an independent its up to me to do it, but I haven't done much of it since trade school, and my boss won't send me for any training, so I rely a lot of You Tube, All Data, Identifix, to see what common things are for problems I have, then go and do the testing on those particular areas to see if that is my problem. I Went to tech school on the east coast of Canada in' 03-'04, tried working there for a couple years but no work, and any I did was only brakes, suspension and engine work, no electrical diag. Moved out west in '06, went back to tech school while I worked a dealer from '07-'11. Became red seal licensed in '11. But I was only able to do very little electrical diag there, as the were specialty techs. There were 28 techs in the shop, 4 electrical/tune up techs, 2 trim techs, 1 front end/alignment tech, 1 auto trans tech, 14 general repair techs and 6 lube techs. I was one of the 14 general repair techs, as came to work there after, and all the specialty guys were all in there 40s-50s, and I was in my early 20s when I started. When I moved to an independent I was able to do a bit more, but still not a lot, because a couple of the other techs were really good at it, so they got the big jobs and I got simple stuff. And now where I am like I said its just me, but a lot of the time its like what you said in you pros/cons vid about equipment/programming and sending stuff to the dealer. I have a fully up to date Snap-on Solus Edge scanner, and my dvom and a test light, and a battery/charging system tester. That's what I have for diag at this shop. So I have to send stuff to the dealer a lot, which I hate telling the customer that, but its a fact of where I work. The other day the boss said he wanted to get into programming so I wouldn't have to send stuff out. But he figured we could up date the scanner and that was it and I could program. The Snap-on guy had to explain to him about specialized equipment, the subscriptions to the dealer sites with the programs and updates, etc, etc. And on top of that possible training which he really didn't like.
Programming is not something to get into without training, trust me it is no fun when half way through a programing session and everything locks up etc, Yes I have bricked 1 module, and have recovered many more, but I do a good bit of it.
Granted not all tech schools are equal. Not all teachers are scanner Danner. With that being said I’ve found you get what you put into it. If you’re really interested in learning, I mean really interested in learning, you’ll benefit from going to a tech school. My father always told me don’t be afraid to be stupid. Don’t be afraid to say you don’t know something. You’ll learn more if you go in with that attitude. Take every bit of information and dissect it. Treat every thing as a learning experience, and you’ll always benefit from it. I’ve always had an open mind. Whether I was talking to an A tech or an oil change tech. You can always learn something. Don’t think you know everything there is to know I guess is my point.
One of the things I found with my degree. Is i was looked at more highly when looking for a job. And then my a.s.e certs help out. The one thing I found out about auto repair. There is always a job somewhere
did you have an AA from community college or an automotive technology certificate?
bodybuildingdaily news . My first was from Gordon cooper vo tech . Auto mechanic. Then i went to southwest technology for auto technology. Then i was fortunate enough to go to work at andy granatelli tuneup masters. Back when it was good. And they had weekly night school. For advanced diagnostic. Learned so much... hope this answers your question
Went to tech school. Honestly I did learn alot but it definitely lacked repetition in the hands on side. I'm pretty familiar with everything that I was taught. But just no 100% in my work or speed.
I'm 25 yrs 3 yrs in the field 2 yrs of tech school prior to start working, I'm upset I have no older tech to learn from to show me tricks 😧
That sucks! always helps to have a good mentor in the shop!
Me too man. Shop to shop, not moving up the ranks. I am getting discuraged
Us older guys should be so lucky as to find a younger tech wanting to make it a career, not a job. I own my own shop, worked 19 years in dealership land. Last two have been on my own.
I’ve went through a couple of “young part changers”
Usually, once i start to ramp
Up the workload (still changing parts) they drop like flies.
Dealerships have apprenticeship programs
Education should be a fundamental and necessary part for all those young people who wish to start in this field.
It is the foundation that will help them understand the complicated automotive world. In any case, education never ends by constant changes in technology.
Once these young people begin with their studies, begin to understand how this actually works and should make sure to master the subject and especially the entire electric field. Excellent motivation and advice for all those young people! In addition I shared your channel on my workshop page @check engine serv. Puerto Rico on Facebook, to help your audience grow.
GREETINGS AND A BIG HUG FROM PUERTO RICO! BUDDY...
Greeting from Georgia! All very true statements! I saw your post thank you!
I think this advice primarily applies to the guy's that work at an independent shop. Any dealership will hire someone without experience or education as a lube tech. Once you're in, you can very easily learn while changing oil and eventually work your way into a more advanced quick service position where you're installing parts. During this time, the dealership is pushing training on you like crazy and sending you off to classes. At this point, it's fairly easy to get an apprenticeship position where you'll be working along side a master tech and you continue to learn as you go. I can however see where none of this would apply at an independent shop because they don't push training on you or send you off to classes. You're simply expected to know what you're doing or you wont have a job. I'm not saying you shouldn't go to school, but it's definitely not a must to be a successful tech.
Mileage will vary I know several dealers that will not hire anyone without an Associates degree, even for the quick lube department, many that will not send techs to training if they have 1 tech certified etc
With to a tech school and it helps so much with diagnosis electrical is what makes your money
I am learning to be an mechanic in olds automobiles 1950---1990
From personal experience I believe going to tech school would be a good idea. But it really just comes down to experience. You can learn all you want, but if you haven't been putting that knowledge into real world situations for awhile, things are tough. I taught myself how to work on cars, mostly from UA-cam and from books. Then working on my own stuff, and friends and family. I got a job and got 5 ase certifications. All self taught. But when I first got the job I was in over my head. Even though I had knowledge I didn't have experience. I could tell the guy next to me how to do things all the time that he didnt know the procedure for. This was a guy who worked on cars 6 days a week for 35 years and a lot of times I found I had more knowledge than he did. But when it came to real world problems he had me beat all day long. As well as speed. I was always yelled at because I was too slow... Experience is the key!
Experience is key to this field, but you gotta start with a good foundation!
then clearly he has more knowledge than you???
I have been wrenching my whole life on my own stuff growing up and just shut down my handyman buisness to go back to wrenching! I feel it depends on situations and circumstances. Everyone has there thing and thier ways they get there. Some people are good at being self tought that's why I watch scanner Danner and study all night. It's more of being self driven and knowledge, than what the source is you get the knowledge. Just do your research and make sure it's logical knowledge not some guy who thinks he's master tech but he's not. I'm not near as good as some tech guys but I never touch an car without research first for common issues ,diagnostic, and an full visual and physical inspection of the cars wiring harness for contact points and such!
I’m only able to go to uti because of the gi bill. I’ve already got experience from the army but nobody wants people that just have military experience without school.
Awesome advice I just may decide to go to tech school to get the basic on rebuiding motors thx a whole lot for this video I really appreciate the advice!
that is me quick service @ 52 years old after spending 35 in nyc emergency medical services and after two WTC im all beat up now eyes ears feet u name it i feel 92 its just oil changes and tire/wheel stuff
I’m thinking about going to Lincoln tech cause I wanna learn as much as I can about automotive so I can pretty much go anywhere and learn from other places as well
I love cars and the idea of working with them but, can this even make enough money to enjoy life?
Yes you can
What about someone who has gone out and studied various automotive books and manuals and achieved the status of Master Tech? I have done just this. I can easily say that I know all my basics and while I don't have a ton of hands on practical experience applying this knowledge I do far surpass everyone I work with. So I guess my question is. What about someone who has studied and educated themselves? Do you feel that they should look into tech school or maybe just a dealer or manufacture offered schools?
Frogboyattacks Ok i can see how it looks that way. let me just clarify I do work in an autoshop but our shop does not do drivability or heavy line work. We mostly do basic maintence, tires, oil changes, brakes, ect. Everyone there is just parts swappers except me. On the side I do everything i can manage at home or at friends. Head gaskets, electrical diagnostics within my cabilities. I currently dont own a bidirectional scan tool or a DSO like i wish but i can get a lot done with a DVOM and a test light.
Education is Education, the basics and more advanced concepts can be learned without a teacher, I can attest to that, most of my knowledge was learned by reading service information long after I left tech school, but knowledge without a real world testing, either with a instuctor testing you or in the field, with a car testing you, is just book knowledge
hobbles wolf so you have ase master status and you work at jiffy lube
Maxwell Peter Not really a jiffy lube we do do quite a bit of service just nothing too envolved like rebuilds or head gaskets but i have done those before on my own. Most of the work we do is general service alternatos, external water pumps, oil pan gaskets,valve covers, radiators, rack and pinions, suspension work alignments and the ocasional minor electrical work. So about half of what you would see at most full service shops. No real transmission work besides flushes or filters. No ac work at all. Altho i have the nessessary epa 609 certification and have done some ac work on the side myself. I just have very little expierence under a senior tech doing work like ECM diagnostics or primary and secondary ignition analysis.
Flatrate Master thank you and i agree completely nothing beats working under a more expierenced mentor or hands on expierence testing and using learned knowlege. I guess what im really asking is. Do you feel that someone with a large wealth of knowlege but little hands on expierence using said knowlege should look into tech school or do you feel that they should look into working at a dealer or independant shop?
Sticker looks good on the box... I'm honored to have a place on it! Tech school gave be a good foundation of what was to come... how things turn out after, that's all on you.
You know you would:) gotta find a new place for a sticker on the new box:)
I graduated uti in 2013, I am just now making $300k a year at my shop. And I’m doing rolls-royce, Maserati, Ferrari, BmW.
interesting to know your own history how did you get in to industry and DO YOU still injoy your job
Many thanks for the video
Yes I love my job, as for how I got into this business, more of happenstance than anything else, started helping my dads company fixing his trucks because they broke down a lot, found out I had a talent for it and enjoyed it, not a job I had even considered!
on a dayley basis I am HGV driver but fixing cars is something what makes me happy
cruise control retrofitting lpg conversion all this happens on my drive..
my recent best lesson I learned:
i did the cluch on Citroen and it works fine for two days....then it start to behave...such as one day it works fine the other I can't image the gear...we was trying to understand what I did wrong or what happened...as normaly if cluch fale fake it fale..its not electric..was told by neibor to replace slave cylinder....dont make sense.. but when u don't know what to do...
New slave cylinder installed and guess what clutch works again...for a day or so...
anyway long story short
finally I take the gear box off one more time and found a little tiney piece of torx bit which I broke when was doing flywheel
I didt did take attention to it but it drops to the pressure plate at some point
so take this souvenir out and now keep it in my wallet
such a great feeling when mystery problem sorted lol
Been around machines my whole life. Work on most things on my truck past cars etc. Can completely rebuild my dirt bike and engine. Am currently a heavy equipment oiler. Mechanically inclined. And stillllll I don’t have a Solid well rounded knowledge of everything or am I confident in taking on certain projects. Like he said work is so fast paced it takes years to absorb and know how to do certain repairs. I’m too busy being an oiler that I have zero time to jump in with the boys and learn something new. Also I make too good of money and not enough skills to leave the company. Other companies see my working experience as entry level. The hourly pay cut is around 15 hr less than what I’m pulling in now. My coworkers have served between 5-25 years at the company and nobody rarely gets moved because those positions are held pretty tightly. I’m on my 5th year some talk about jumping in with the boys but I doubt it. I’m really good at what I do I’m sure intentions are keeping me here as long as possible. That being said I enrolled into Lincoln tech while still doing heavy equipment pm. This degree infused with my current experience should get me out of lube and land me somewhere else making my current hourly or more. School will get you there faster than on the job training. Nobody has time and not enough down time. School is 100% down time
but if i were to go to school. it would be either UTI or RTI
2 techs I work with went to UTI!
Id reccomend community college over UTI and the others. Community colleges are cheaper and some even offer manufacturer training. Just have to look around. I myself will be entering Toyotas program at a local community college.
Can you do it if you’re not really experience in it and not really all that mechanically inclined?
I know of a lot of so-called techs that are only good at testing. The best techs I have worked with have learned on the job. I had a new truck and the dealer techs that said it needed a new clutch because it would grind in 3rd gear unless you double clutched. I wound up rebuilding the trans because the dealer tech could n to figure out the real problem and that was after they put 4 clutches in the truck and the problem was not fixed. sanquorniser was bad and the tech could not figure it out
Sorry if I missed it, but did you go to school for your field?
This video is total BS! 😂
Dont learn Automotive to go n get a job, learn to create jobs 4 yourself n 4 others. The auto repair shops are always there to make u average to get there business going n growing.
I went to MMI and failed out because I struggled with the electrical side of things. If I wanted to get into auto tech what tips would you give so that I would be able to better understand these systems? I know my weakness but I need to know how to beat it. My end goal wouldn't be to work for a big dealership, but rather get in with a performance shop because that's where my passion with cars lies.
Good information as usual.
Thanks for the video FRM.
What do you pay your techs?
I think your post here was very good.
I love working on cars, I am always trying to find something new on cars.I work with my dad whenever I can. Im still in high school and I graduate in 3 and a half months, and Im planning to go to community college because tech school is going to cost me around 25k-30k. Should I consider going to tech school? or Should I just go to Community college.
Communty college is fine
Thx for the heads up
2 year update on school and the job?
How much Book work / Homework is there in a automotive school?
What do you think about Garage Gurus training classes
Save your money and go to your community college and learn automotive. Use the money saved to buy yourself a top of the line scanner/code reader. Today you can't even open the damn hood without a top of the line computer. Honestly the industry looks at UTI students as a joke. Good video!👍😀