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6 Things You Will Not Learn In Automotive Tech School
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- Опубліковано 14 сер 2024
- If you are thinking about going to automotive tech school, that is awesome. You will learn about how cars work, and some about fixing cars. But you need to understand that you will not learn everything it takes to be a mechanic, or a technician. Today we look at the things that you will not learn in automotive tech school
For full show notes visit the blog at ~ humblemechanic....
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~A little about my time at automotive tech school
~How to buy tools responsibly
~Dealing with flat rate ~ • Episode 3 FLAT RATE Hu...
~Managing money as a mechanic ~ • How To Manage Money as...
~Working with customers as a mechanic
~Selling work to a service advisor
~Diagnosing cars
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I went to a decent tech school and got about 4 ASEs and I am now working at a Nissan dealership. I was just promoted to a level 2 tech from a lube tech the idea is to do serpentine belts, alignments, tie rods, brakes, fluid services and other jobs short of advanced diagnostics, transmissions and engines. At my dealership, I have a 30hr pay minimum guarantee at $17 per hour.
As per the tool truck, I will buy something if I need to. I have only purchased an impact wrench, sprayer, and a stud installer. I will generally pay in major chunks or at one time.
I am excited to start with a variety of work and move up from a lube tech. Saturday was my first day working as a tech and I put on a rear tie rod, did a brake fluid flush and a cvt transmission fluid change, and an alignment; pretty basic work, I know, but It is much more satisfying than just changing oil.
This has been pretty long winded, but I just wanted to share.
Sir Housecat awesome buddy. Keep at it. It only gets better from my experience. :)
Hope its still working out but ikn the pain brother
I do that same work at in independent shop. I started as the oil change tech and just worked up into tie rods, brakes and other basic shit. Now my boss to have me trained on wheel refinishing. progressing a career, any career, can be really satisfying.
Have you been promoted even more?
Sadly, companies won't pay anymore than they want to or need to due the factual belief of the master/slave tradition still active in america and other western countries. Workers got cut a raw deal with corruption and Union busting which ruined any chance of a standardised system within all operational industries as political prostitutes rose up and put lobbyists, corporations and banks first over infrastructure, people and society.
Something I didn’t learn in tech school is just how much interior work I was going to be doing once I went to the dealership. I did one door latch in school and hated it, but I have had to remove multiple headliners and other things that is just a little too fragile for my liking. So that’s the story of how I chose to be a diesel mechanic 😂
The best way to buy tools is to pay for them and not finance anything.
I second this. And also rather save up for a decent tool box than buying all the tools for cheap and all separately.
+1970chevelle396 eh, i got a paid off truck, so basically i have what would be a truck payment, to pay for tools...and tools make me money, a new truck is just shiny
1970chevelle396 one of the companies i used to work for gave us $100 a week tool allowance which helped a lot but i agree buy outright instead of running up huge tabs on the trucks i have a great tool salesman where i live who gives me a $1000 personal credit interest free so if say i want to buy the new $600 chordless impact wrench ingersoll rand has he just tells me to pick it up and take it and i just pay him my steady $50 a week till its paid im up around the $40k mark in the money ive invested in tools so far but its all paid for and making me money now and will continue as long as i still want to do it its a long game investment and takes many years but grants you many freedoms because we all know a well equipped mechanic that knows his trade can basically go anywhere they like and find work
Pro mechanic told me a long time ago that if you need a set of tools, wrenches, screwdrivers, or other, buy a cheap set and as you lose or break or mod' an individual tool from that set, replace it with a nice one of your choice, hint has served me well for decades.
kawadude mcdouble you just said "buy outright" and then went on to talk about how you do the opposite... running up a 600 dollar bill you pay 50 a week into is not buying outright
im.a ford tech been working on cars for about 4 years im 5 min into this video and I think this is the best video some one.starting out as a tech can watch
I've been a ford tech for almost 2 years now. I started as quick lube tech maybe a month or so after starting a tech program for my degree. I just recently got moved to flat rate and I agree with this video alot.
adam savage of mythbusters fame said it best in his youtube Tested series, buy the cheap tool first, and if you use it enough to the point that it breaks/wears out, then buy the expensive too because you have warranted that owning the expensive version will last longer.
That is one approach. And for some things it's fine. But there is also a saying about buying nice or buying twice. I think when you start as a tech you need so much QUANTITY that you should focus on buying more tools. But I think that Adam and I would agree that once you have the basics you can upgrade as needed. (after typing that I think we are on the same page LOL)
The biggest problem is older techs refuse to teach the new techs, plus they are set in their ways for the most part which is no good.
silverbird58 What the fuck did I just read?
Old guys are notorious for becoming hacks and taking shortcuts too. They will say "it's good enough", but you know damn well they wouldn't do that shit to their own cars.
john handcock well a lot of them drive p.o.s."s anyways
If you read the service information before you run a diag you will be better then them in no time.
I disagree but then again I see it all the time older tech/mechanics don't like to share because we feel like what we are saying is just being ignored. but I personally don't mind helping someone learn as I know they will be in my shoes one day..
Can't help but question the intelligence when I see shop guys with full custom Snap On / Matco tool box's. And they actually brag that the box alone was $10-$15k!
Tech school didn't teach me how to sell drugs behind the garage.
+TheEgg185 that's probably a. Good thing.
Hahaha I have worked at some schools that teach that! Ill just post a link lol www.miamiherald.com/news/local/education/article1954573.html
I don't sell dope OFFICER.
LMFAO :-)
Wow, are schools really not teaching this stuff? I feel lucky now...
I did my automotive training at my local community college, which has a great reputation with all the local dealerships for producing competent techs. Part of the curriculum was a semester-long course of Service Writing, and a semester-long course of Shop Management. Beyond that, the school held the belief that anyone can turn a wrench, and instead focused on core knowledge and diagnostic process, often with more hands-on lab time than classroom time. How and where to buy tools was discussed in the first week of every class, and the ups and downs of a mechanics income were frequently brought up as well.
My favorite bit, though, was that each student had to teach 2 hours of each class they took, during the semester they took it. It forced us to really familiarize ourselves with the material, to interact with other people, and to answer questions. Afterwards, we'd get a peer review, as well as input from the instructors.
man your tech school sounds way better than the ones in my state. that's good
which school did you go to. that sounds almost identical to the school I attended
A lot nowadays are puppy mills. They are there to take money from the students and churn them out with as little effort as possible and barest minimum information about the real mechanic world. But it's true across much of "academia".
yah that's the shit you get with for profit schools.
Same man my school is the same, its amazing. Glendale Community College! In AZ, going to be a real Associate s degree. Automotive technology. Way cheaper than uti.. Almost free with finnacial aid. Better than 45k debt with uti.
I went to tech school out of my pocket for a month!... It was too expensive for me to continue but I tell you I learned a LOT in that single month asking all kinds of automotive questions!. I even contributed my Mazda 3 for the car inspection lab!!!
Great video bud. I'm a UTI grad as well (Phoenix, 2001). You bring up some great points in your video. I have been in the industry a long time (mainly construction equipment side) and feel as though these shops have unrealistic expectations of entry level techs coming out of school. Like you mentioned the greatest learning comes with experience, but many places expect immediate performance level and then go around bashing the tech schools. I interviewed with a International Truck dealer and the service manager told me he was only interested in me for my experience and that he hated my school because, in his words, "I've hired grads from there who couldn't tell the difference between a metric and standard wrench."
I just don't know the answer to changing this. Oh, currently teach high school diesel shop class and love it. I'm going to add this video into my talk about further education.
I started out in a shop 6 mo. ago (with some personal experience under my belt) and I just enrolled in Penn Foster's online auto tech program and it's going really well for me! This online career degree program is giving me basic fundamentals on engines and auto repair. Some of the guys at the shop are bashing it, "you need to go to CC because you get the lab and learn it all there" Well, the shop is my lab along with my project car, and the online courses are my teacher. I can't afford to work part time and go to school like some of those kids can, let's face it...classes and lab take up so much time. Anyways, whatever works. I'm just happy I'm getting some formal education now 👍👍👍
NICE! I am glad it's working for you. Someone asked me about that not long ago.
I just started penn foster how did that turn out for you ?
Great points brought up about the communication between tech and advisor. I never learned this in school, only through experience I found this out and being in both roles during my career.
I'm 52, always liked toying around my cars, but don't have any serious training. I want to learn from online resources and tech schools for my own knowledge, to help me work on my own vehicles.
Autozone provides free online training over Zoom. Certificate provided. I work for Valvoline and a rep stopped by and informed us of it. Reason I bring up my employer is because you need to tell them where you work, address of shop, number of bays, etc. Honestly, you could just say that you’re self employed and give generic info and I doubt anyone will care. Taught by an ASE master tech from a company. Today I learned about advanced GDI diagnostic and repair+intro to 3 phase fuel pumps. Hope that helps you 👍
as a seasoned tech of 23 years, master, i want to add watch out for your advisors and dispatchers, that job you can do fast, they want to pay you less for.
As a fresh guy out of tech school, but experienced 3 years in the field, I specialized in GM cars at one point. I owned several Northstar cars personally. I learned the hard way that selling work through good customer exchanges ticked off the service writers. Although the dealership's Customer Service Index thanked me. As an ambitious guy, I also made enemies. I would take a 17 hr job and do it in 8. A few other mech's would only do a number of systems, rather than specialize in every area. They hated me, but I was the journeyman's wing man in no time.
YES! The mechanics having a working relationship with customers is crucial! I have a guy I've been going to for over 10 years now. The shop owner is on my speed dial. His mechanics are all on my speed dial. I've even stayed at the shop for periods of time explaining, in profound detail, whatever my car is doing that has me worried. They always treat me really well, and I'm convinced it's because I'm so eager to engage with them and LISTEN to what they say. Letting mechanics TALK to customers is worth its weight in GOLD, because it builds the customers' understanding of procedure.
Nicely done! As a former tech you are right on. As a auto teacher I need to be reminded to be sure my students know this before they begin their career. Keep it up!
I start in September at 38 years old never to late lol
I just started 2 months ago, I'm 34.
Same!
started 31
I just finished. Didn't go to be a technician.
CHUTNEY 2020
What did you go for?
I did not have the advantage of Tech School, I started out working as a mechanic's helper at a gas station at the age of 14. I quickly observed that the mechanic, who was the owner's brother in law, was not very good at the job and I later learned he was an alcoholic. O worked from 3 to 6 on weekdays and from 8 to 12 on Saturdays. The station was closed on Sundays because of "blue laws," that have since been repealed. I would go home after work, clean up and go to the library to do homework and also to read up on car repairs, of which there was very little besides how to install and remove parts, so I would read up on how transmissions, brakes, engines, fuel systems, ignition systems etc worked. And by the time I was there a year, I was a better worker than the "mechanic," and he was getting nervous, I left there and worked at another gas station as a mechanic for a few months before landing a job as a mechanic at a car dealership. I loved it because every year, before the new cars came out, there were teaching vans that would come by and teach us about the new cars, expected problems and new items and how to diagnose problems with those new items. They also provided a wealth of information about ordinary repair tricks and techniques that helped us work smarter and better. I went from being the king of comebacks to rarely getting a come back. By the time I finisher putting myself through college, I was a licensed master mechanic and was being groomed as shop foreman for all of Mr. McDonald Steven's auto dealerships, a job I turned down as I preferred working as a geologist. I passed my last certification tests in 1983 and did not renew after that. I do not consider myself qualified to work on modern cars and have forgotten much about the older cars I did work on.
*Probably you'd do way better then you give yourself credit for. I took some classes in HS I didn't really like not remember, but I watch my husband fix ours cars all the time. Everything is definitely more complicated, but if you buy a code reader and can work it, you'll be just fine.*
*The basic mechanics of a car are still fairly similar to what they were 25 years ago. I really need tk learn about diesel though. I have a 2011 BMW X5 I bought used, and it's a great car, but extremely confusing and complicated. I don't even have a clear idea how it works*
I am a service advisor, & I found it interesting what you had to say about selling the work to the S.A. Where I work, the techs will almost always call me to the garage so that I can get a visual on the parts needing replacement. That way when I talk to the customer, I can speak with the same conviction that the tech would. It really is hard to sell work when you don't have a clue why you are selling it. When I can see the damaged parts with my own 2 eyes, I don't feel like I am selling unnecessary/unwarranted work to the customer.
The importance of doing a job properly! I've seen too many VW techs do timing belts with white out as their favorite tool...
I Agree with all of these and more! I went to UTI and I work at a ford dealer and I worked with a 29 year veteran in drivability, I gotta tell you I learned more from him than in my two years of training! I didn't even know how to rack a car, or use an air tool lol now all of these and more is common practice I've been at the dealership for half a year now and I'm working my way to flate rate while trying to gather as much experience as I can. If you could I'd love to see more of your day as a VW Tech! Maybe some diag, or talking with your fellow techs, (if you can get them to) I enjoy your videos! Keep up the good work!!!
No automotive training here, all I know came from working on my car, asking around and watching videos, how-to's. We don't have quality tools over here, so all of my tools are from Amazon, from hand tools to power tools. Thanks for the video!
As a Counterman, I live vicariously through my technicians, it's nice watching your videos and learning about what they go through, keep it up!
My first advice to any rookie technician: stay off the truck! Sears has plenty of good tools for the rookie technician, and 13 years later, I still have 95% of my craftsman tools, they're just at home now lol
Sears is junk and going away there is way better stuff for a better price online
@@michaelsieber6601 same idea either way, buy tools online or in harbor freight, home depot, Northern tool, etc., not on the tool trucks
@@michaelsieber6601 the new Stanley craftsman is better. There making a factory in texas. Only the ratchets are still shit lol
@@michaelsieber6601 cool story bro.
I'm about.... 7 months into tech school...
And... We get to mess around with brand new stuff.... scan tools that costs the same as a new car and equipment like ossilioscopes
Now.... We've so far learned... How to diagnose electical problems like, ABS, check engine lights ect.
We've also learned to change headgaskets, grind valves and a lot of other things...
'
But my teaches were nice... once my car broke down, they'd had some spare parts laying around i could try, and i got it to start... so they'd explained how the ignition system worked ect...
But where i've learned the most was doing things in my free time like changing the crossmember on my friend''s car and fixing a lot of brakes
Get to work as much as possible.... AND DON'T STRESS!!! Take your time, organize bolts, BREATH!
And always tell yourself that any problem can be solved if you're willing to learn how to solve it
NICE!
Im currently in tech school right now. I think the biggest problem is the instructor teaching student the basics. It seems that the instructor are too caught up in teaching students to be master tech. They need to focus on training techs to do thing that can make them money right out of tech school. The title "master" can come later on in their careers as techs. Like you said in your video, tech coming right out of school tend to over think basic stuff like a fuses or the battery.
Mechanical aptitude is another point to add. I went to school for heavy equipment repair was sold on new current system repair and computer based technology since everything is going to hscan. After the first semester it was all about the basics the second the most competent instructor left leaving one for the program. He left the industry as a mechanic in 1994 but really left being a mechanic in 1985 then was a service and undercarriage salesmen. We mainly learned about cat 3116, 3406, 3408, 3206 etc. heui systems were the most current systems we learned emissions systems were power points and useless info. Hydraulics were 1985 and older systems real basic rudimentary at best. Electronics was taught by a aerospace engineer and a current technician at a local dealership that was worth the time in class
Shop time consisted of half of class setting up and the other half being bitched at for a little drop of oil on the floor and tp slivers on the bathroom floor. Then tearing down old clapped out engines then reassembling them using one set of tools for six groups taking three hours removing a head. Moving on to three weeks of valve adjustments using two sets of feeler gauges and the same set of tools. Between "working" on those engines to fucking around with ford 8n tractors allis chalmers junk. The local caterpillar dealer provided equipment diag tools and cat sis at our disposal we were not allowed to work on them because of the instructor was not competent in new equipment and the cost of parts if we make a mistake. We used that very equipment to test our operating skills by putting balls in buckets and stack tires. Another mention is we did not learn to use computer diagnostics till the week before finals in the final semester.
Just a warning to future students at these fine tech schools your best bet is to find a mentor in the field or do a fuck ton of research into the schools you may plan on attending I strongly recommend attending a manufacturer approved school like ford asset gm or cat based schools or you may have a experience like myself and my good friends.
Snap-On has changed over the years. It used to be that a tool truck driver had twelve years or better experience and could not only show you the tool you need, but how to use it most effectively. Also he was a good source of advice when you had a " problem child" vehicle that puzzled all the techs in your shop. The advice and "coaching" was how he paid your boss back for the time you spent on the truck.(Of course this presumes that you didn't spend a lot of time on the truck, or hide in the bathroom till the Snap-On man left because you didn't have your payment.) If I have anything to say about tech school, it is "Soak up all the diagnostic knowledge that you can." It will pay bigger dividends over the years than becoming really good at lamp replacement.
I wish that I would have had a tool guy like you mentioned. That would be awesome. :)
My Snap-On guy is exactly like this. He was a GM tech for 25 years before he started selling tools about 10 years ago. He is AWESOME! I still buy most of my tools from Cornwell and Mac due to cost. But he has sold a lot of tools to me just because he is respectful and knowledgeable. I know what you mean though. It used to be someone really liked tools and being a mechanic but maybe their bodies weren't letting them due the same level of work as a mechanic as they were used to or required to do. So they would ask themselves...
"How can I still be in this industry that I love and still be able to support my family but not have to wrench since I just can't do it anymore...?"
Usually after talking with their own tool dealers they would get turned on to the idea of being a business owner and selling tools. These days however...The tool companies seem to be pretty desperate for dealers. Half the shops I've worked at...Have only had access to ONE tool brand. Where as when I first started as a diesel mechanic...We had every brand you could think of and then some. Now you might have Snap-On at one shop and Mac at another. And if you work in a heavily populated area you might be lucky enough to have 2 brands available.
So what they're doing now is basically whoring out the idea of owning and operating your own business. Instead of finding knowledgeable mechanics to represent the brand. My Mac guy is respectful, always on time and because I buy 85 percent of my tools from him. He always gives me insane deals. But...He was a general contractor/Carpenter before selling tools and he has no clue what I mean when I say I need an ICP sensor socket for a Ford Powerstroke. Now...Of course as a good business man he is more than willing to look it up and find what I need but... I have to know what I need in advance and give him the part number if I want or need it to be a quick transaction.
I looked into selling Tools a while back and I went to a couple of seminars where there were prospective tool truck owners and much to my surprise most of the questions received by the speaker were in regards to whether or not it would be a problem that they knew NOTHING about tools or what they're used for. I was kind of shocked...
Brandon Crimmins we had 3 (mac, snap on, and matco). The snap on guy moved to nj. But anther guy replaced him. The matco Guy was tech for years and he’s from the same area I grew up so we relate a bit plus he was the matco Guy at the previous 2 shops I worked at (he seems to have a big route). The Mac guy was unreliable at best, came into money and now never stops by. See his truck drive by all the time and he lives in a housing development right behind my dealer, but never stops. There was a Cornwall guy years ago, nobody’s seen him in years.
I just started in sept 2017. 45 years old. Switching careers. My advice to anybody considering it is, learn computers and electrical.
I went through a general high school automotive class with the coolest teacher ever that actually helped me get a job at a for dealer my junior year. After graduating I then attended the San Jacinto Ford ASSET program and I have to say we were not directly taught many of these things however I did have two wonderful teachers that did what they were supposed to and then went out of their ways to help us with these topics. They taught the normal how a vehicle works and how tools work and everything in between and then some. Plus they would give us some of their wisdom before and during a lab so we could try multiple ways of doing a single task so we could start developing our own skills and our own methods. This helped so much in the field and really helped me figure out what i was good at and what i needed help with before i got to the real deal. I have the absolute greatest mentor i see him as a super hero tech haha but seriously he has showed me the ins and out and how to deal with small and large issues and how to turn the worse tickets into something that isn't so terrible. He has showed me how to write a simple yet super effective story which i found to be a lot harder than expected but it is now a breeze! One of the biggest thing I have learned is that greed is your worse enemy and isnt worth losing a customer or your job. After working as a tech for a bit i have to say the best part of my job is that i get to supply a service that truly helps people and is something people can really appreciate. Its the best feeling to help someone even if it doesn't benefit me greatly. I have had a few customers invite me to dinner or bring me cooked meals to work to thank me and some letters and stuff too!!! Its just too cool man, best job in the world, it is most excellent! HumbleMechanic thank you for your videos they have enlightened me greatly! I am pretty new to your channel but I plan on being a loyal subscriber for a long long time! You have some awesome content and it has helped me out with my career and my attitude towards it. Good work and i cant wait for more videos! Thanks bud!!!
keagan oquinn san jacinto in pasadena?? Hows the tech proffersors and is there different teachers for honda, toyota etc programs
Yes san jac in passadena! The tech professors are awesome! And yes two teachers for each manufacture.
What worked great for me when building up my first set of tools was to start purchasing as I was in tech school.
Make a list of what you need, and a list of potential sources. Every week, check for sales. After a year, I had bought enough tools at nearly 50% off overall to be able to work in a shop out of tech school. As a first time buyer, I purchased mostly Mastercraft Maximum tools at Canadian Tire (similar to Craftsman Pro series). I would stay away from expensive brands unless it was absolutely necessary. Even my Husky toolbox I found on liquidation at Home Depot for $200. Wasn't the best, but was definitely satisfactory for first toolbox. $200 can't go wrong. Look for tool sales as early as 1 year beforehand. You will save a lot of money.
For the odd times I have a mobile mechanic come out, I love it when they talk to me. I like seeing the parts that failed, why they failed etc. And sometimes, when I'd have 2 things for them, they'd go "....for this other job, if you can turn a wrench you can do it yourself in an afternoon. No sense paying me $50 for it unless you simply don't want to do it".
Retired now ,but was lucky . I attended UTI Phoenix 1971,72 . The first guy I worked for was very knowledgeable and taught me most of the rest of what I needed to know.
#6 yes! I'm still trying to get better at that. I have found that my first hunch is usually right but the inexperience makes me second guess myself.
Every time you diagnose a car read the service description. Nothing will help you learn more.
Tech school for me was useful in certain ways but not at all for getting me into the field (I'm specifically talking about 1st year).
It was pretty cool, we had a project where we had to pull an engine from a car, put it back in and make it run again. we had to do all sorts of stuff like learn how to fabricate brake lines and re&re suspension and electrical diagnosis and I learned a TONNE, there's no doubt about that.
But it didn't prepare me whatsoever for the job I was about to go into after school. After school you do oil services and tires. I think I changed 2 tires total at school so I was pretty much useless in that department and in school I didn't do a single oil change. They didn't teach me what to look for when it comes to suspension checkups, at no point did they teach me how to identify low or degraded fluids. They taught me a lot of stuff but very little of it was relevant to the job I got right out of school.
I work at a GM dealership, and im fairly new to the trade as I just finished tech school almost 2 years ago. im hourly and a quick lube tech, but do state inspections, and various other repairs. its a great learning experience! thank you for your input on these topics! you do a great job and I love your vids!
+Richard 1990 Thank you! Keep working hard!
Such great advice. I went to tech school in the late eighties and it’s apparently still the same.
Go to ur local community college and take classes, and get a part time at a shop while doing it. UTI is WAYYYYY overpriced and u get the same info at a CC while saving $20K. Working in a shop will teach u more than any school.
I do think that CC can be a great option too. Do you get the same training? Maybe, I think it really depends on the school and the person.
HumbleMechanic I went to UTI, used the GI bill. But I really didn’t learn much.. Graduated deans list and had all sorts of offers to go to manufacturer training but I needed to make $$$. Declined it and started full time in a shop. 5yrs later I was running the shop and Master Tech. But it was an independent and I was at the top.. Quit to get higher in the business, now I’m an MDT (did in 3yrs) at Toyota. But yea it’s a lot about the person. Saw plenty fail out in the first couple courses. UTI always promises the moon (w a HUGE price tag) and most people I see end up no better than guys from CC or not even in the industry anymore.
i was glad to do the cc route instead. the price for pvt for profit programs were huge turn off on typical budget levels. got more "real world" training at my 1st 2 dealers for years while making money.
I hate the CC I am going too. It feels like a Highschool mechanics class. The teacher don’t give a dam and he knows he won’t ever get fired. I feel like I am not learning what am I supposed too. Only thing I am getting out of it is learning how to mange time and how to keep everything organize around you or else you will have a long day. Knowing how to use tools came natural to me. Figuring stuff out as well. However, I am not learning how to diagnose problems. I am glad I have YT. I learned more here than at my CC.
@@devildog_iii3492 I went to MMI in Orlando. I did well in school. I really liked the focused training there no bsing around. But it definitely was a place that you got out what you put in. It always seemed to me that the CC guys took for ever to graduate. Summer break, spring break. We just banged it out even through 4 hurricanes. One thing that helped was getting a job at a dealership while I was in school. It was like getting 14 hrs of training a day for 2 years instead of just 6. But the real learning starts the day you start your first tech gig. I was lucky to have 2 senior techs that were willing to take the time and teach. Now 15 years later I give the young guys the chance to learn.
i was never at tech school was just dumped in the auto trade curently in earth moving equipment and beating even the pros of the trade every day is a new day to proof learning never stops when u r working
To answer the question at the end of the video about what is lacking in tech school programs( and not just automotive BTW) I'd say it has to be apprenticeship programs. That real world experience is invaluable and it doesn't matter how great the school facilities are. Unless you've actually been in the real work environment applying your knowledge in ways that no textbook could cover you're just not going to be as prepared as you could be. There should be more partnerships between shops and schools. It can be a win-win for both the shop and the student.
*I loved my autotech teacher, but he knew how to fix cars better then he could teach. I wasn't exactly cut out to be a mechanic either, but I feel that his class gave me a great base to start off of. I've learned a lot more half paying attention to videos my husband watches at dinner, and helping him hold things in place or reach certain screws since my hands are small.*
*Knowing your car will break if you get something wrong will really kake you learn too. Nothing that drives home the gravity of a situation like your credit score depends on it. Now that I'm sitting back down to learn the basics, it's more relateable now that I have experience, and all these terms and parts mean something to me. When I was 14 it was all junk metal*
Great channel, I'm also UTI alumni. Your advice is spot on! I am pretty successful now. I definitely jumped in a blew a fortune on tools. I graduated UTI in 1998 and really didn't use the internet yet so was pretty hard to find used tools, and really convenient to shop on the tool trucks. I have been in the automotive field ever since graduating. I worked flat rate at dealerships, small shops, fleets and currently a vehicle test facility(not flat rate). The Humble Mechanic definitely knows what he is talking about. I must add, stay healthy being a mechanic is also very hard on your body.
I am also a UTI graduate, I agree that tech school gives you a basic foundation. you learn how to be a tech, making flat rate hours, and diagnose cars with experience.
alot of my instructors, stated that other tool options besides the tool truck, are great places in fact gavs,us sites and all.
Diesel Mechanic here, and I totally agree, Hidding the techs is all but non existent. I had a VOLVO Sleeper cab in for service and this guy asked if he could take a nap in his truck while we serviced. My manager said SURE!
Just started my apprenticeship and so far I love it, your channel was the tipping point that made me decide to become a technician, thanks man.
nice video,I'm 14 years old and I'm planning to go to a school named MTI here in ocala florida and just seeing your video helped me think that there is just more than fixing a cars,like for example talking with customers.Thank You,for you might have just helped me with info.
Another tip you should consider taking with you for this journey is to get in the habit of using manuals and wiring diagrams to diagnose problems. Don't throw them away, you will continue learning about the new technologies used in new model vehicles with new features.
Thanks
Thank you from Dominican Republic. I visited NC (Durham) last year, it great place. Thanks for videos.
For tools that are all metal such as sockets, torx bits, wrenches, prybars, etc, I usually go to the swapmeet or yard sales and buy the rustiest, complete tools I can find for just a couple of cents. With a bit of apple cider vinegar, steel wool and tlc, they come out like new in about 24 hours. I've saved a ton of money by doing this.
At my school all the tools were cheap chineese stuff but they did their job as long as you didn't put the sockets on an impact wrench, they just said it is worth buying some better quality tools but the cheap tools can sometimes do the job almost as well as the more expensive ones. In my country there are no tool trucks you can buy tools online or at tool stores sometimes you can buy tools from auto parts suppliers but the prices they offer are higher than online and the product range is way more narrow than online. No one goes into debt to buy tools almost all workshops have their own set of tools a mechanic doesn't have to worry about tools unless he wan't to have some tools at home to make some more money fixing friend's cars or wants to work on his car at home. Also in most shops there is no such thing as flat rate you just get paid for the time you spend at the shop. In here at most shops there is no service manager, the mechanic is the one who services the customer the same person takes the car in, fixes it and talks to the customer after the repair. As to diagonsing cars, yes the experience and the understanding of how everything works are the key.
Wow, I feel really lucky. I attend Gateway Technical College, they have a partnership with SnapOn, they exposed us to the tool buying process, to Flat Rate, how to manage our time, and to top it all off, they actually taught us how to diagnose: Use your brain, start with something both easy and obvious, if a light is out, swap the bulb with a known good one. After that, if it doesn't work, test the fuse/relay, and on and on. Just an example, but they literally have a class on using the Snap On Verus Pro, Modis, and Solus Ultra.
I'm a shady tree ,back yard ,self tought wishing one day to be able to say ,yes I'm a mechanic I can help you,lol I just like to say thank you for your time sharing what you have experienced ,I have recently subscribed an everything I've heard makes perfect sense,I have also experienced just about everything I've heard as well.so anyone new just catching this,Do your self a favor an pay full attention.you will most certainly will better your game,and hopefully the business because I see so many rip offs who call them selves a auto tech. Thank you again bud for all the time and info, please for give me,I haven't heard your name I really just listen to the advice!!
My tech school gave us a beginning matco tool set. That's about 15% of my tools. Another 20ish% of my tools are craftsman. The remaining percentage is all harbor frieght. My rule of thumb is when one of those tools break because of how often I use them is when I get to replace it with matco or snap on
My experience is that one must never forget the three main basics are fuel ,air and spark. Stem off those for engine problems and you'll be fine.
my tech school experience consisted of open book tests (which helps no one), and my teacher sleeping most of the day. so we stayed in the shop, and messed around with our own vehicles. made some money using the lifts and tools available so there is the only plus.
Most Tech Schools don't even teach you how to tinker with a car factory, everything is so compressed in schools they skip alot of things. All these kids that go want to learn performance, but you first need to learn how the car works stock.
I worked flat rate for a long time. I am now at a shop that gives me 40% commission. The way they did it when my dad was doing this. Pretty much the same thing as flat rate, but it's taking a cut. I get $600 a week that is part of my commission. First check of the new month is my normal $600 and my commission minus my $2400. Average $2000-$4000 on commission. Here I do find shops moving that way. How it was before we started.
Living in the Midwest, there is a lot of rust on cars that seize bolts, tie rods, everything. UTI does not teach how to trouble shoot these simple problems and how to address the customer of the problem and the possible repercussions. I had to hold a UTI Guy's hand with getting a battery hold down out. Spray it, shock it, and it was out!
The Snap On Truck used to come to our house every Tuesday. The only good thing is it made it easy to buy Mike's gifts the next few years helping to outfit his garage.....LOL. But boy, you are so right. I have Harbor Freight stuff for the barn!
Been in the shop as a Chrysler tech for about a year and a half now, and about to graduate from Chrysler based tech school, any of you guys just getting started even only after a year and a half I could tell you to find that guy in your shop that all the writers and managers like to give problems cars to. Sit there and study and ask what they are doing and help them, learn their process. Come in on your days off just to learn, it's helped me a lot. Tech school isn't going to teach you how to turn a wrench, you have to learn that on your own.
i'm in Tech school and A Dealership, best combo ever! internship type thing. experience plus Knowledge!
+Alec Beaudoin I agree!
+HumbleMechanic yeah! already got an ASE and I'm only 18! wooo! also my Diesel Geek P2015 part arrived today. doing that tomorrow
HumbleMechanic WhatsApp u thought in réplica car like 1967 GT 500?
Interesting point of view but here in Pennsylvania, the public schools offer a Career Tech educational path. So a student in a school near me can enroll in 9th grade and choose Automotive technology. Here they receive theory on those systems, practice skills such as tire mounting and balancing, scan tools, alignments, etc. They also work on a lot of cars with guidance and they never know whats coming in next. This class is 3 hrs a day for 4 years. Many wind up working at various dealerships and can graduate high school with this training, an inspection license, and some sit for the ASE. Best part its free and think of the experience by 18-19 years olds. Some realize that this is not for me and can save a family thousands on trade schools. I am a product of this career path and it served me well. Also as others mentioned, our local community college offers several auto courses and the tuition is low. Their shops have the best equipment money can buy!
ive been working on vehicles for 17 yrs i believe mechanics are born not made.. proper schools are def a good addition to any mechanics knowledge. i watch your vids for thr knowledge you share and its appreciated thank you for the work you do sir! im a disabled Iraqi veteran and ive worked multiple jobs my whole life and now that i cant work a regular job it keeps me busy tooling around and doing my usual " side jobs" that has now become my regular job.
wyotech taught all the things u mentioned or at least tried to while I attended back in 2007.
but will agree getting into the customers wallet and explaining why their car needs to be repaired never gets easier! but show them once that you are honest and show them the old parts or take the extra time to explain and even take them out into the shop to show the repair your almost guaranteed a customer that will trust you and not ask questions the next time. (usually not an option at a dealer)
wyotech was also "sponsored" by snapon but the instructors told us to shop around for tools because the competitors truck gave us 1/2 off all tools, compared to snapons which was no where near that! But so many techs that i see in their first year of working have a brand new 5k + brand name tool box that makes them absolutely 0 money. the tool needs to pay for its self if it won't you don't need it!
Random GearHead which campus did you attend?
wyo went chapter 11 yeah?
This is a very helpful video, I just started work at a large dealership where I will be learning off the other Technicians how to tackle diagnosing issues and repairing them so I will be keeping this information in mind!
Why does everything done by a dealership cost $400?
+MyassesDragon Which dealership? That's really cheap! xD
+spankmeister yea considering the cost of factory parts and shop labor rates, $400 is not badnto fix an engine light
MyassesDragon right. and that is so hard to save up for. especially when you wait tables.🍴🍷🍷🍴
SourLemonSeed lol
Sharonica Smallwood thats your fault lol you could make $10+/h working in a factory.
You have brought up an interesting point in this video. When I went to tech school (granted not for automotive, but for electro-mech equipment) I encountered some of the same lacking areas in which can be vital to a tech starting out. While I agree there is no substitute for experience, I do feel like they should have touched on how one may approach developing diagnostic process. A few tip-offs about approaching things systematically vs taking random shots in the dark based on limited info would have made that first 6months to a year much easier.
Another concern I have with some of these curriculum are how long have the instructors been in the classroom and out of a true shop environment. These guys may have read about newer system advancements yet have no first hand experience.
I am in agreement that tech school is a good thing for many coming into the field. I would alert new students to really think about the reasons instructors emphasize certain things and ask questions. Asking questions shouldn't stop just because you finish school. If you find yourself in a bay next to a guy whose been doing it for 15 years, it's worth trying to build an understanding so you can pick the seasoned brain.
I completely agree I would like to add though that u get out of tech school what u put in. If u sit in front of the class and be involved and pick ur instructors brain (I went to UTI and there's multiple instructors throughout ur schooling) and listen to their personal stories. You learn 10 times more about the automotive field by asking the right questions than with the course material by itself. Which is what the majority of students use to skate by to learn and pass but don't really absorb a whole lot
By the way I graduated UTI and ford fact in 2011 and worked in a ford dealer for a while before getting an opportunity back in the army (just a quick background)
my dad always had advice for these techs when they came to his shop for work. forget what they taught you and listen to what I tell you. he would take time and start them off with a torn down engine and a book and let them figure out how to put it together and put it back in the car and get it running with no computer. only the book. he loved to pass on knowledge.
Hey man I was also a UTI and VW step graduate from Glendale Heights my self, and 13 year veteran with VW. Im now working on Audi"s but I miss my VW's. Its cool to see someone who took the same career path as i did(i'd say we are a rare breed). I like your videos they're very informative and will share them with the younger techs at the job. Keep up the great work and thank you.
Thank you!!! Always cool to hear from someone that took the same path. When were you at UTI? seems like our paths my have crossed at some point.
It's a big relief to see that you went to UTI. I am really set on that school, but some people have told me that it's a joke and not worth the money. Glad to see that they're wrong about that
+Jack Matthews Go to a community college if you can. You will get the same training and will save money. Some community colleges also have programs with dealerships to get you factory training.
Tech Schools don't teach this stuff because it's called common sense. Unfortunately schools don't teach common sense. I'm 26, 11 year welder making a career change. I start auto tech school in 2 weeks. So excited! I've always worked on my own cars but need to be 100%. Doing this to open my own race shop.. wish me luck. good videos!
Don't welders make more money
depends on where, who for, and what your welding.... coming from someone who is underpaid for what i do.
There are some things that cant be taught. I wish I could. I provide the software but some need to upgrade there operating system or just there attitude. :)
How’d it go
I worked with 2 guys right out of tech school and they had never replaced front ir rear brakes. No hands on experience at tech school.
Never really been interested in Tech school but really good info nonetheless. Great videos man! I always look forward to seeing them.
So true flat rate. And tool truck. No you should say the hidden cost of the craft, I love do that also given a head up on things that would let them know what to expect in the future. Like brakes, rotors, ball joints tires battery lights.
Yes more diagnostics training in tech schools would be great. Also more training about working in a shop. Talking about Flat Rate v. hourly. Talking about asking for straight time on a job that had unforeseen difficulties. Different routes to starting out as a tech Dealership tech v. Chain shop v. independent shop. Talking about the possibilities of going into business for yourself and opening your own shop and the costs involved in that and what it takes to do that. I guess just the business and financial aspect of it in general.
I am an HVAC tech, and i like your channel because you are good at describing how to handle car troubles. I have to say, this was sort of what I thought it would be, and why I watched it. Because they don't teach you everything in tech school, whether it for mechanics, HVAC, blueprint reading, motor controls. I really liked your tool buying advice. I do a bit of that myself. Some tools you have to buy, regulations in the HVAC field. I can't use my vacuum compressor now, I have to use EVAC cylinders. Those are regulatory problems though, they always are changing
Subscribed and have been watching your vids, your a unique guy, very humble, lol, your videos are very enjoyable and informative. Look forward to watching more when I get the time, thanks.
+Jennifer Anne first off, thanks for subbing!
I've been seeing your comments all day and I really appreciate that Jennifer! It's a pleasure to have you as part of the community.
Your insight is welcome and very appreciated. :)
I’ve done small crane mechanics and do mean small crane. You make me respect any engine mechanics more. Never knew of flat rate pay.
I had so many issues with trying to get into the industry from the start I always used to hear that I do not have enough experience. until I finished the freightliner program. then I got offered relocation and tools
Experience defined:
What you get, when you don'tnt get what you want.
I diagnosed my own O2 sensor heater fault with VCDS and replaced the sensor for $100. VCDS is totally worth it for a DIY type person. VCDS is expensive but pays for itself. I will get some OE parts (brakes/discs) but not for electrical parts that are mostly standard across vehicles (Delphi parts).
I just graduated from UTI in Los Angeles and soon I'm on my way to Mass. to start my Mercedes Benz scholarship. Definitely worth the investment. How much you get out of technical school depends on how much you put in, and I don't mean money.
Yep!!! Good luck in MB. i think you'll love it.
Terrific video Charles. I feel like a lot of the things you said can be applied to other jobs too. I know for me while I obviously needed what I learned in class in college, it was working out in the real world through internships that I really learned how to do the job. Without those internship (or apprenticeships in other fields) I think you can be very overwhelmed in your first full time job after school.
Alota people go to school then get a job at a dealership changing oil. I'd recommend skip school start working right away changing oil( at a dealership of you can), buy your self a school level text book and study. You learn so much being on the shop and they will pay for you o take ASE tests, a dealership can offer exposure to the lastest technology and alot of great training. On your down time at the shop shadow the older techs ask questions, offer to help them with there work, DONT ANNOY THEM. Get your self a cheap ass broken car fix it and flip it with what your learning. I think it's crazy people are going to school for a year just to be thrown in a dealership changing oil. There are so many variables you come across in the real world experience. It's like they are paying you to learn if you do it the way o described!
I think that’s great too. Met a shop in MD doing similar things with young people. They basically get paid to go to school.
The sad part is, many shops are dumb with new techs.
This list is so true, brother! And I went to UTI in 2006-2007, again much better student than I was in high school!
I had to come back to this one. One thing you do not learn in tech school is how shop equipment works, in this case it was an older air over oil single post lift. Now mind you I was not doing this job, it was a guy across the shop. The maintenance man was checking the oil level in the lifts and he asks this newer mechanic to pull the lift dipstick (it looks like a 2foot long dart with a threaded cap on the end). The new guy failed to release all the air in the lift and as soon as the last thread of the cap was free the dipstick shot out of its hole,stuck in the ceiling and a fountain oil lift oil followed it. Two cars sitting in a flat stall area next to the lift were pretty much covered in oil (one convertible) and the guy just about lost his eye form getting hit in the face by the oil stream. Bad day in the shop.
I write this part just as a warning. We did have a guy loose an eye. He was pounding the inner race out of a rotor. It was a piece of his tool that broke off and hit him in his eye. It was about a year of working on his eye before they gave up. The guy kept his job and you never saw him without safety glasses.
i was very fortunate to get trained at a small shop with a passionate owner. i went to highschool with the senior tech. they helped me through my first turbo project(eg civic). anyways, i imagine on the job training is about the best you can get but it has to come with patience and small victories before they add up to a good understanding. i did most of my tool purchasing my first 2 years as i realised i needed specific tools to do specific jobs. we had an unwritten rule that if u needed to borrow a tool more than just a couple times then its time to get your own. i am still not very good at diagnosing certain electrical issues but i can shakedown a car and find a noise with a quickness.
I think the main difference is that a shop teaches you shortcuts or tips that will still get the job done but faster while tech school teach you the "right" method which in practice it won't work as well
Not sure if it was just your school, but we did spend a lot of time diagnosing in class. Sure, the cars were artificially bugged, but it still helped in learning how to test real cars for actual problems.
I was waiting for you to say diag. I graduated tech school a year ago. Working as an a-tech at a fleet shop. So many makes and models makes for fruitful and sometimes challenging diags. I love the hell out of it and thank the skies I'm on salary.
#4 is very true. I didn't go to school for it, I was put in predicaments where I had to literally break things down to the z for customers because we were taught a 70/30 function: 70% working on cars 30% interacting with customers. #6 is also true. I worked with some cats (2 brothers) that are in school at Vatterott and they even said that I'd be wasting my time going since I've gained experience by working with them and the rest of our crew. They even get lost on somethings and they both combined have 4 years of college and 2 years between them.
Thank you for this video! I graduated NTI in Mooresville and thought I knew it all. Took Ford classes and just knew I would never be on the quick lube line. But even with all the training and money you spend, the guys hiring at dealerships and independent shops will stick you in the pit or doing PDI no matter what.
The problem I ran into was the shops I started in had no provision for training new guys out of school. Lots of former dealer techs loved this franchise but I had nothing but trouble. It was like reading a book about baseball then getting drafted onto the Yankees. There were no trainers, just supertechs looking for their chance at a second bay. A tough way to start.
ASK the guys doing the hiring their plan on taking you from newbie to foreman. They know you'll work hard. That's expected. You want to work for people who will notice your effort, reward you for that, and help you move up so everyone makes more money.
we were called blueberries when I went there
TheBurnout well said man
the only source of knowledge is experience - Albert Einstein -
lot of truth in that
A couple key things I learned in tech school understanding the logic and KISS (Keep It Simple Stupid) always look for the simplest stupid things first
This was spot on.... One could speak infinitely on the discrepencies between tech schools and the actual field, but you made a great summary out of it... I'm a tech school teacher by the way...
Excellent job Charles. Even though I'm a DIYer I still identified with the things that you pointed out. As avid DIYers we still struggle with buying tools, learning to troubleshoot, selling our car addiction to our wives, etc,.
we got our official automotive training about the same time. I was starting out in aviation just getting settled in a job, and decided I wanted backup. 8 years later ended up back in NC and using it. Tech school also doesn't tell you that if both throttle springs fail on a Mazda B2500, then it opens up to 100% without warning. Either that or it hates me.
I went to UTI in Exton P.a had a great experience learned alot but they need more real life training like you said on tool buying and integrating into a dealer or indy shop with older techs. Great video!! I will be sharing my UTI experience soon thanks for the video man your awesome!!
I just had an idea: You should provide a list in description or write on the screen for those skimming videos. (I am on a 15 minute break at work lol) You could even link the list to timestamps on the video. It would be rad. Thanks for your posts!
+taurus2001dohc I started to do that on the Q and A videos.
what new mechanics need to do is go into a sponsored automotive sector, such as a gm, ford,toyota school. Don't go to a generic school, find a company sponsor, like a 2 year gm asep program that will find you a career and teach you all about the field