I don't know if i'm more impressed with the advice that she's giving or just the shear amazement of her life story. If you stop and listen to all the life's lessons that Faye provides, it's truly a gift that she's able to bring all of that to our attention. Thank you! 😘
I had a kid (15) do a pretty big internal tire patch on one of my tires . He was on an internship and being mentored by the two older guys at my corner shop . He was so enthusiastic and they let him do the whole job, start to finish . The owner was apologetic about how long it was taking and offered to do it for free and i declined . I was off that day so not in a hurry. I wrote the kid a note with a tip in it and told him i hope he sticks with it , that i started as an apprentice in a cabinet shop at his age . I told him love what you do and your life will come together.
Great, what a way to ingrain tip culture on to that kid. Theyre gonna start feeling entitled to tips for any job they do (wether he sticks to automotive work or any other Mc Job🍔 Some praise and a fist bump would of suffice.
Another entry level: tire technician! I started out in auto parts, spent a quarter of my life in the military, now finally getting my foot in the door doing oil & tires at Walmart. Most would hate going to work, but everyday for me is another day working on a different car and learning more🙏🏼
Over 20 years ago I listened to the advice that I wouldn’t enjoy being a mechanic, “it’s greasy and dirty, you won’t like it.” Had the fortunate opportunity to attend and graduate University and College. Tried a few careers over the years. At the age of 40 I am finally starting my Technician journey at my local Toyota Dealership. Faye’s advice is spot on. I would only add that once you have a project vehicle, use UA-cam as a reference/guide. Watch as many videos about whatever issues you find with your project. Two veteran mechanics couldn’t fix my 3.4l cylinder 3 misfire. Eventually I found a single UA-cam video that solved my problem of fuel injector seals crumbled away. Luckily I have 3 extra 4Runner junkers to pull the injectors from and get my only working 3rd gen back on the road…so maybe get a project vehicle AND and second parts vehicle.
First, you're so modest. You're incredibly intelligent!! It wouldnt hurt to drop the name of the school you graduated from but I understand for the purpose of this video it may intimidate people or discourage them. In the same regards Rock the fact that you're a badazz woman!! You're also extremely driven. This is a great video though. I love the thought behind it. Drives me crazy that I become a bigger fan the more genuine content u put out!! So jealous of Mr.H!!🤣 Fr, thx as always. Great content! Have a good one. Edit: the longer I watch this..the more I realize how contagious your enthusiasm is!! I can't help but smile listening to you!! ✌🏻🙏
@@FayeHadley I was just keeping it real. i think its awesome that women like you have carved out a space in a male dominated industry. i think its even more fascinating how you got here!! your career seems like it would have been a forgone conclusion!! then you had the courage to do what you did. i hope you drop a bio some day. prolly be inspiring to some young women and even young men. to see someone who doesnt fit the stereo typical mold just killing it, is cool af!! plus im curious what you listen to so there is that....🤣 for real i wish you the best!
Look, Faye, went to UTI at 42, knew everything except , electrical and the alignment machine, got the mech tech job immediately, was put on hours, couldn't pay rent , I went back to big trucking. Still paying for the loan. BTW: at 12, I started on a tiller engine, took it apart a million times, would not start, until a lawnmower mech told me about timing marks!
Danny is freaking awesome! I have also had 2 other mentors who were extremely amazing, too. Hard to ever say one is better than the other because they have all been so different and taught me different things!
I'm in the Army now, but I worked for LKQ, decent place to work. Learned lots, employee discount was great, tools get spendy when you're working on literally every make and model across decades.
i was on the lube rack for a year, now working my way to be the best advanced tech possible. i have a great mentor that i work with everyday. its hard work but i love it. i got real lucky but i work my butt off
I started in the towing side of shops. I was in body and mechanic shops. Since I was paid hourly during the day I would do small assignments such as oil changes and tires and my skill sets grew. Waiting on the mechanics was a time suck so I adopted "if I am not in my truck I am under it" eventually becoming the fleet maintenance person of a half dozen trucks. I mentored with body and mechanic techs and now I am the lead tech with a national fleet truck company. The experience with wrecker hydraulic systems translated to truck liftgates. The aftermarket wiring on the wrecker body translated to truck boxes. I have done some bodywork along the way. I have no loan debt or diplomas or certifications hanging on the walls. Along the way after a few bumps and paint exchanges have tight quarter driving skills that baffles the crew at the shop and scares the mess out of my wife even after 20 plus years. Guess who gets to back the trailers?
The theme - do whatever it takes to get experience but I love that you also give such in depth examples. So many people just say "DO this" or "DO that" and never tell people how to get started doing those things. Your vid will be quite helpful to many people. Well done.
I can't afford to go to a tech school so I've been teaching myself by watching UA-cam videos and doing whatever repairs I can do on my own cars. So far I've only done brakes, suspension, serpentine belts and tensioners, and engine mounts. But there's a whole lot more that I still have to learn and get experience on especially diagnostics which typically is open ended and requires more time and research and not always a simple parts replacement.
Thanks Faye got myself a 86 Camaro been working on it off and on.. still needs a little 🤏 work. Enjoy your UA-cam videos get alot info from it. Keep up the awesome work
Man, you and The Car Care Nut are quickly becoming my favorite Auto Mechanics on UA-cam! Thank you so much for your continued hard work and honesty! You make me want to maintain and work on my '09 5 speed Taco but rarely get to because it's so dang reliable haha.
Faye, I am extremely impressed with your experience how you got into the the automotive mechanic business. That is an amazing story of all the jobs you were exposed too and the things you learned and the patience you exhibited with the different jobs and people you worked with . I am 78 and I would have loved to been able to have an automotive class in H.S. If they had one. I have watched, I think, all of your videos. You are an excellent communicator & excellent teacher. Wondering did you go to a TOYOTA TECH school ? I still do all the oil changes on my 3 cars in my garage and minor tune ups & fluid changes.. I watched your video on antifreeze flush and am going to ddo that on A 2016 Avalon I recently traded for. I pray The Lord will open an excellent opportunity to have your own profitable shop. You have the experience,put in the time, and are extremely intelligent. Something good is going to happen too you & I pray real soon in Jesus Name Amen 👍🏻😉
Thank you so so much!! I appreciate ALL of the kind words!!! No, I never did T-TEN, but I have taken make of the Toyota technical training classes and am working my way up to Toyota master tech! I'll be taking some in person training later this year through the dealership too!😀
Definitely all of those things are totally true. I was fortunate enough to have a father who loved to drag random vehicles home and srag out the box and say "have at it" do what you want with this car. But if you get it running we will keep it for when you get a driving permit. None of them ever panned out, but I did end up with a cool old 1968 VW Beetle I bought for $100.00 from my best friend's dad. (I was the 2nd owner.) I drove it for a few years, improving it as time went along. I did the same thing with my daughter. She loved watching me work on the cars when she was little. Helping me "find" my tools in the garage for me. She loves fast cars and owns a 2013 Nissan GT-R.(I live that car.sorry,Faye.)( I do like the 3rd gen.Supra,my dad had one that made 700+ horsepower.)
This is all amazing advice! And I always love learning about people and where they come from. Your story is awesome and quite inspirational! I know you'll love the story of how our restoration shop started. Because of Guillows model airplane kits and Estes model rocket kits. You read that right. As a kid my dad was always building model airplanes and rockets on our dining room table. I still have several of them hanging in my room. Well one day my dad made a deal on EBAY with a guy in Ohio (who is a great friend now) for some Estes kits. They got talking and my dad learned that the guy was selling them to pay his storage bill for 20 cars. He mentioned he was selling a 71 Charger. Well long story short my dad made a deal for the Estes rockets AND a car and so we piled into a rented truck and went to pick it up. We got it home and my dad made a deal with another guy (who also became a great friend) to use his shop to restore the Charger. My dad found restoring the car to be just like building a giant Guillows model. And he's helped friends fix their cars when he was growing up. So we got the car done and then all of our friends were like "can you restore this for me?" so we helped them out and our friends began telling their friends. Dad knew he was onto something. Around that same time I was having trouble in school with bullies. Child bullies and adult bullies in the school board who were telling me and my parents I would never amount to anything. Then my dad quit his job as a college professor because the higher ups were changing his test marks to maintain a passing percentage. And so he formed our business to give me and my brother a life without a college degree. I started out at the age or 12 operating sandblasting cabinets and my skills grew from there. now I do sandblasting and build all the instrument clusters. I guess I showed those bullies eh? 😜. Anyway sorry for the novel. I just thought you'd like it. Thank you for taking the time to share all you tips!
I spent 15 years as a dealership line tech for a little bit at Nissan, and the rest at Toyota. Leaving this horrible industry is the best thing I have ever done.
Gotta find the right shop. We use a lot of OE or OE equiv. I only resort to garbage (duralast) when there is no alternative, like on the 72 f-250 I've got sitting here. @@DanKamYouKnow
So much good advice. Have desire, work hard, shut your mouth, put away the phone, no shame in menial tasks, etc. The unsaid factor in this woman's success, aside from a passion for the industry, is she is really, really smart. That never hurts in any endeavor.
I think, implicit in what you're saying is that when you love something, learning about it in depth is very interesting and great fun, so you can't get enough of theoretical and practical articles or conversations about all manner of automotive subtleties. This passionate attitude will put you in a different category from anyone who gets into it simply because they see a demand and think it's a manageable way to get a paycheck. Liking people is also a prerequisite for a successful career fixing cars as I see it. BTW, I thought I could be a good therapist and I was but it took less than a year to recognize that it's not the best way for me to help others. It occurred to me that in business we can treat our suppliers and customers well and affect many lives in that way. When you have employees, there's another opportunity. It's always a good decision to be nice by default. 😊
100% agree Faye! I started fixing cars with my dad and bought my first car in 1978 at 15 for $125, a 68 Firebird Convertible. Taught myself welding, engine/trans swaps and brakes without the aid of the internet. I started in a shop in 1982. In todays age what It takes is a love for mechanical things, working with your hands and being able to plan ahead and research. Expect to make mistakes and you will learn the most from them! Also, when someone experienced gives you advice, never say, "I know." Say, thank you.
I started out in a local auto parts chain, back in the 80s when oil still came in cans, you could still buy leaded gas, and engine sizes were in cubic inches. Worked at Auto Zone back when they were still Auto Shack and was there when Radio Shack made us change our name (still have an AUTO SHACK jacket I won in a battery selling contest; wonder if that's collectable now?). My first project car was a 1965 Barracuda I bought from a soldier at a nearby army base for $100, with the 225 "slant six" motor. Bought my first tools at a pawn shop that sold them for $3 a pound. Aahh, the memories...
But seriously, the way I got into cars might work for some people. I started at that local parts store, delivering to nearby garages. So I had 10 or 15 mechanics to talk to and observe every day. You can really learn a lot when you have that many teachers! Great when you start your project car - if you get stuck on something and need advice or ideas, just ask five mechanics the next day.
Wow. I have done almost all of these things. Internship excepted. Specifically, worked in tire and brake shops. Done countless oil changes. Had the best mentor you could ever imagine. He was a close friend for 20 years. Like a brother. A truly gifted mechanic. As for the race team? Well, kinda. My mentor was an illegal street drag racer. So we were always working on his car. It was the best project car. A Fiero with 600 hp. Maybe late 500s. Maybe mid 700s. I know it ran a dastardly quarter the one time we took it to the strip. 7.4 seconds at 173 mph. And then they told us to leave and never come back. Oh man. Those were good days. I liked this video. Reminded me of my early days. I never did make it as a mechanic, but I am the only person who works on my car, so in that way, I made something of it. Nowadays, I repair rental equipment. Boring, but easy. Wish it payed better. Thanks for reading.
Wow... this is priceless information. It took me many years of draining the swamp to realize I was there to learn how to operate and learn how pumps work. The most useful thing i learned as a mechanic was that the difference between an apprentice and a master mechanic is that a master mechanic can fix their own mistakes. I still make them. If anybody can do it find anybody... thats why we get paid the big bucks because anybody don't exsit. Thank you for your time and efforts to share what took you many years of hardships to learn in such a easy to understand demystifying manner.
I definitely like watching all the tricks and stuff on your channel and even I didn't know as a backyard mechanic, I work on my own and my friends and family's vehicles and usually solve the most difficult things. Great channel Faye.
Seems like I will always be stuck with the 90s vehicles 24 and I wasn't even apart of that erra much but it seems I love how simple the 90s cars can be before ob 2.
My oldest brother was a service manager at a dealership. Thought I would try a month of working at this dealership right out of high-school. See how an automotive job would be as a full time gig - (back then). Lack of specialized tools at a British Car dealership proved to be one first hurdle. (British Standard Tools). Really have to *commit* to make this career work). I only stayed-on that one August, in-order to try it out. Was interesting to watch a fresh out of Tech. Trade School person, without much hands on experience, performing basic operations, such as a tuneup. I was actually able to help the new-tech. seat an ignition distributor, (cam-gear to oil pump rod alignment issue). {This person removed the distributor to change a part in it, in which the distributor did not need removing… By doing so, dropped oil pump drive rod into the oil pan. (Off comes the oil pan). New folks learn the difficult lessons quick}. Good subject video, thank you. Your commitment to this trade is inspiring. 🏆
I got lucky 🤣 haven’t gone to school and prob not going to, but I work for Porsche with zero experience but i’ve been here for more than 2 months now. I absolutely love my job and want to continue this career 🥰🥰
Great video Faye and good tips for learning and getting into the trade! Also, props to your video style here; it made it so personal. Sharing your life story and goals has so much more meaning. Although I was always interested in cars and being able to fix and modify them, my work life took a different direction. However, when I was young, I did have multiple jobs working in auto parts stores, and I had several project cars too. Both were really invaluable helping me learn how automobiles and their related components work. I still do various repairs (non-major) and maintenance on our vehicles as well as modifications and detailing.
Excellent advice! I really think this advice applies to any industry - start at the bottom and work your way up and the most important part is make sure you love what you are doing. Thanks Faye!
Ran dealership service and parts departments for 40 years. Was asked to serve on boards of the auto shop school for both a junior college and a high school. The one thing I emphasized to student techs was that they become as good as they could in the language of the community they served. English, Spanish, whatever. The ability to clearly communucate with co-workers, bosses, and customers was critical. YOU are a naturally excellant communicator and I value your repair videos, right up there with The Car Care Nut, actually. Your advice is always sound. Thanks for sharing all that knowledge with all of us who still like to DIY. It's amazing what I've learned about wrenching now that I'm retired and don't MANAGE anymore!
One of the things I used to tell new technicians was to learn to see with your fingers because your eyes can't always get to places your hands and fingers can. Also, there is a ton of learning for free on the internet I love to learn about new stuff and I am 72 and have been wrenching for a living since 1969. Had my first of many cars when I was ten. I want to say thanks to you for what you pointed out so many people want to start out at the top nowadays Thanks again and stay true to what you love.
Very solid advice. I have been a CDJR tech for over a decade, and I started off on the lube rack. I had no training, and no experience. I worked on my own vehicles for years, and then worked at an AutoZone for about a year. Ended up meeting someone that said "Hey, you're pretty sharp, you should go talk to the service manager at the dealership". Told the SM I had no experience, but I loved working on vehicles and I was willing to start at the bottom. Got hired, worked lube for maybe 4 or 5 months, and started getting Chrysler certifications and doing training and quickly moved on to turning wrenches. After about 2 years, I was on flat rate. I am now a fully certified tech. One additional tip...be willing to get tools!! If you aren't willing to invest in the tools for the job, you should reconsider getting in the field!!
I am the "senior lube tech" at a dealership, and as such I get paid flat rate with commission for items I recommend based upon my experience in the field. I got into my position on the last day after I put in my 2 weeks notice due to a deficiency in work between me as a journeyman tech and my "team leader" (basically a way for the shop to get away with not paying a foreman by spreading out manager responsibilities). It's been a pretty sweet gig, but as someone that works with the new hires and folks that are on their last legs, you start to get a feeling for who has the drive and who doesn't, and the main attributes I'd say for those that "have it" is patient endurance and the ability to pay attention and follow/execute instructions.
Very, very good video. I am not in the auto repair industry, but I do almost all of the work on my own cars. Your point about getting a project car is a good one. I grew up on a farm in Iowa during the '80's (a very tough time for farmers). If something broke down, we fixed it ourselves to save some cash. I learned so much from my Dad during that time by watching and eventually helping him (my own mentorship and internship, I guess) fix everything from cars & trucks to tractors to whatever. I also learned my limitations and when to call the local shop and make an appointment. 🙂 Thanks Faye for an excellent video with great tips. Cheers to you.
Your good mechanic you made video on aba engine I still got my mark 3 going on 5 years I was cdl truck driver love your passion with your videos very happful way you thusly explain I drove coal bucket in KY Ohio had start over from the old timers said boy you can't drive with pop in hand we love channel Faye
We have some very good vo-tech schools for auto/diesel/farm mechanics in western Kansas , and other locations. Jay Leno spot lighted one and gave some funding , used to show up once in awhile but not sure for how long. Late 60's Dad was in school in Goodland when my parents got married , then east Ks for automotive design and more in Pittsvurg Ks when I was hatched in 67. He stayed in it for years until a better deal showed up so I grew up in it , then I took wheeled vehicle mechanics in Nat. Gaurd after I graduated in 85. Only thing there is you should go full time. Thats where you learn the trade. However now its unbolt , rebolt the new part on. Not much in rebuilding.
I have been working as a service writer for a few months at a national franchise repair shop and I don't like it very much. I felt like being a tech is much better. Thank you for the advice.
Would much rather have a wrench in my hand than a mouse that's for sure. But 20 yrs in, my back said, Service Manager sounded good. Still have fun working on my own stuff tho.
Hey faye, I've been watching you with my client for the past couple years. I'm a caregiver and my dude was a car guy before he couldn't anymore. Watching your show and many others are a part of our Saturdays. That's for your knowledge and positivity. Saturday wouldn't be the same without ya. Keep up the good work.
When I went to tech school after high school the teacher told me I was wasting my time there because I had enough practical experience working with my dad in our shop as a kid that I'd learned all of the basics taught in the classes he was teaching. But if you go for specialized training, the brand specific school is the best way to go.
What a great video. As I watched, I realized I have done every single one of the ideas you presented (some several times)! And yet I never considered being a tech. My favorite was interning on a top fuel dragster and checking clearances on the top end between rounds. The owner swore me to secrecy!😇 Audi parts? The new Audi SUV is called a Urus.
Just recently bought my first project car a 1991 mazda rx7 soft top and been messing and tinkering with it and its so much fun especially since my friends also enjoy messing with cars as well. Been working on putting a new head unit and speakers in it and it has taught me a good bit about how to connect wires together and overall alot about how the car works. Prior to this i loved cars but didnt actually know much about how they work internally but after owning my project car for a couple of weeks ive learned way more then what i would have learned without a project car
You pretty much nailed it in every aspect,great vid Faye,how to got started,,I offered to work for a $1 hour at a local gas station,,when minimum wage was $2.50 hr,,instead of cleaning ,I offered to arrange the owners toolbox (I learned all different types of hand tools)and arrange shop tools(learned how to use different shop tools),,and pump gas of coarse,,,Sometimes you have to create your own job ,LOL after 40+ years still pulling wrenches.And im still learning new things every day. I have mentored a few apprentices over the years ,some still in contact me after many years.which empowers me to keep on guiding them throughout the trade.
Faye I am 64 years old and just think what you had to offer there was marvelous one spectrum that might help also and somewhere I learned a lot was working for someone in the heavy equipment world tons of jobs to start out at and tons of knowledge to be learned also good place is farmers. Wonderful vidio on a subject more youths need to get to know. Thanks.
Reminds me how i sstarted but i never did it professionally i do all my own work. My dad started me off at 5 tearing down briggs and stratton motors, handed me a book said get it running
Faye, you are an inspiration to your viewers on your channel. Your advice and guidance to young adults going into the automotive field is so informative and spot on. You are a mentor to all of us. We learn so much from your videos. Thank you so much and God Bless.
My first car was a Datsun 510 wagon that a paint and body shop used as one of their parts hauler. I bugged them for a year, so when they bought a van to haul parts, they sold me the 510 cheap. The body on the 510 was perfect. But it needed paint. And the most important lesson that I learned from fixing that 510 was that I hate Carburetors. And my second car was a Datsun 260z... with twin Hitachi carburetors!
I made friends with a local bodyshop by me and they've been so kind to allow me to keep a small Mobile Tool Cart there and allow me to use their lift to work on my own cars . I try not to tie it up too long . So i've learned to prepare for my entire list of to do in advance to so i can complete things within a 6 to 8 hr window . I basically made their jaws drop cause i did what would be considered 2 days of work in 1 day.
U have made great videos, Faye, but excellent info/advice. Even if u GET schooling/internship/etc, & u decide it's not for u, u can do all/most work on your OWN vehicle. U made me remember my 86 Camry, shopped many times at a pick n pull salvage. I was like a kid in a candy store! I took HS auto shop, attended GM training school, hadn't got hired, & DID get a job for Westinghouse Electric. Never applied for a mechanics job except wrkd part time at a friend @ an Amoco station before I got married. I recommend techs try & work for a garage or open their own place when they are able. Moving up in dealerships is very slow & can be partial to some techs. Just MY opinion.
Well I guess these are good tips, I was going the import tuner route. Unfortunately people frown upon a guy in short shorts and a halter top lmao. For those who know the magazine from early 2000s.😂
I cant agree more with your advice. Having your own project means you can learn from mistakes and also build your confidence after a great job completion. I like doing a nice car audio system myself. Its fulfilling. Having a mentor I feel is one of the biggest IMO. I think I wouldve made a great mechanic when I was younger had I had the right type of mentor. My father was into cars a bit but didnt have any patience lol. I took machine trades in school but had no interest in cutting metal all day. However I got to work on my own heads when my headgaskets bit the dust. It helped that on the side i helped a distant cousin who was a year older than me who was a blessed mechanic. I learned so much from him. He was a DIY to the bone growing up with a barn filled with VWs It was amazing the things he could do. From rebuilding and overhauling GM 3800s down to just the block with great big superchargers, painting the engine and engine bay, watching them put in work at the drag strip you wouldve never knew that all that work was done i one dusty old barn. Things like internals and cams for people, to just replacing an alternator in the rain in 7 minutes. I seen that firsthand. Had a Camry that was backed into a poll somewhere with crushing half the rear bumper i thought and I watched him pop it out with just a torch. Another time I blew a CV shaft in my Saturn 5 speed. Watching a car come back to life is so rewarding! He had no High School Diploma no certificate and you would be amazed the shops that would pay him good money on top of his backyard mechanic jobs. Unfortunately being friends with everbody and not following a legitimate path led him into some bad habbits as well. Bad Habbits that cost him his life. I think about him often (especially when I need car help lol) That makes your 3rd point great advice as well. Ive been planning to go back to school with this field being 1 of my 3 choices. What you're doing is awesome I wish more young ladies would try the field. I love the Goth punk vibe and the great taste in cars ❤️ Keep on Rocking Faye!! 🫡👍
this is very solid advice. my parents had a bodyshop and i figured there will always be cars and wrecks and i did really good at it. now i own a body shop and we are very busy. most big body shops can help get you I-car certifications and ase certifications. my son started out at a tire shop and i was teaching him how to do some mechanical work got me. 2 years later he now works at a great mechanic shop.
Went to Uni. For nothing automotive. Have almost no formal training. Fell into being a tech by grace of my ex father in law, may he rest in peace. Learned it all OJT, love what I do, made the best friends in my life, met the girl of my dreams. Tech school is awesome, wish I’d gotten the formalities outta the way, but I love my life and my path. You wanna do this, just jump, as Bayek of Siwa once said. Listen to this woman. She speaks truth. She’s a cool lady. Hear me?
if you don´t wanna commit to a project car, get a lawn mower or generator from the side of the road and try to get it running (lawn mowers in spring/early summer, generators in fall/beginning of winter season)
I love your videos Faye, and the sparkle in your eyes when you talk about being a mechanic shows that you truly love what you do! It is such a pleasure to see!
I've been a fan for a very long time and one of my favorite things about you is your enthusiasm and energy for what ever it is you are doing and or teaching! ✊️🎓🌎✔️😎
YESSSSS🎉🎉🎉🎉 I am so So so Lucky to have a foot in with Bridgestone and OMG they send me to clases and I was promoted to a mechanic and sales so i’m learning parts how to price tickets what i need in each job. I’m changing oil, I’m changing breaks, i’ve learned so much already so the basic bottom line is DO ANYTHING that has to do with cars! HANDS ON was the only way i am able to learn. Amazing advice!
gr8 vid, yah small engines are great for learning. and people throw out lawnmowers all the time and you can get them for free. that's how I learned a lot. I am not a Mechanic, but the knowledge I learned from it I have been able to apply to other small engines, and cars. My son's first car which was my old car, a 2001 Nissan Maxima. about 192k miles , I helped him keep it going for 4+ years. while some of the repairs weren't right but it helped it limp along. I wasn't going to replace the transmission. but was able to get it working for gears 1, 2, 3 and R , no Overdrive. P0744 was the code. among other things that went were various electric parts, starter, alternator, O2 sensor, window motor, blower motor, speed sensor, brakes. rear struts, etc simpler stuff. how to rescue a car that broke down on side of road and get it going 1/2 mile to safety. also been able to help other family members with the car(s). as long as it was NOT a german made car.
Honestly I've only met a few techs that went to school that where really good at their job. I learned everything hands on. Started as a lube tech and worked my way up to a master tech!
I started at Jiffy lube, and they don’t require experience usually, you have to do JLU (training modules) before you start working as a courtesy tech, and then do another set of modules for UBT and etc.
Perfect timing for you to post this video since, I start Automotive trade school tomorrow up in Canada. Before all this my daily driver for the past 6 years I guess was my project car? I've also done some small jobs for others while learning. Also have a mechanic back home who told me some things too. I'll admit, most knowledge dose come from UA-cam (The GOOD ones btw lol) I'm determined to stick with it. Somebody helped me out a long time ago when I needed it. So I want to be that person for others if I can. Before going to trade school being an option, I was handing out resumes and asking if people were willing to take me in and I got a lot of turn away or "maybes" and after while it got to the point were, maybe it's just better to get a degree in this so that way. It shows I'm capable in this field and can prove my worth to the industry. Once I graduate and back at working again, I plan to get a truck. Then maybe once I get a place of my own. I'll start on something small to take a part and fix up, or even drive it. Thanks for the advice Faye!
Amazing advice! Your earlier videos on 2nd gen Tacoma's peeked my interest on doing my own maintenance. So I guess I turned my daily driver into my project vehicle 😂.
I would recommend working at Carmax as a Reconditioning Associate, very low bar of entry in my experience, and with enough patience you can easily move to paint and dent repair, small windshield repair, and you can even learn at tech school for your ASE's while working and I THINK carmax will help you pay for it. If you, like me, are living in a state with wage blight, they even pay decently. Also, cheap(ish) wholesale cars...
I’d say the best bet is to apply somewhere where you can see others that started where you are and got where you want to be. I’m very lucky my dealership rewards employees based on our efforts. In a year in this industry, my pay has increased from around 36k to 50k and I’m still hourly. Getting phased into the main shop in a few months!
Girl you are a dime piece! Beautiful, and know your 💩! Never went to school to work on vehicles, but I did work on aircraft in the Navy! Now I paint for a company that makes custom arborist trucks. I do also work on vehicles. I only do certain things, as some stuff makes me cuss more than they aircraft did. I work on my own vehicles, and even motorcycles. Also I detail vehicles on the side. I do from basic details, all the way to paint correction, and ceramic coatings. You truly are any man's dream girl! Love watching our vids, as you know your 💩! Love it!
My mentor was my best friends step dad. Did head gaskets on a 3.4 camaro in their yard in 100 degrees. So you know i did all the work but he taught me a lot in only 1 job
Faye...you are AWSOME! all this advice is spot on , this is exactly how one gets into the trade. Tear stuff aprt and learn what it is and does and do scutt work at shops, mom n pops are the best to learn at because they run on such a tight budget that everyone counts and the sooner you become profitable the better. Buy tools ! I can't say that enough, don't worry about the tool trucks, HF will do until you get really profitable and and second hand is just fine. Again, dont have to have the best just have them, their more valuable than gold when you know how to use them.
Man, you gave such terrific advice in a number of areas. I love your enthusiasm! I also had three "project cars" before I got my driver's license and worked on lawnmowers and motorcycles starting at age 12. One thing I would suggest, having worked both flat rate and also fleet maintenance, is looking for a fleet maintenance position with a solid government or a large trucking company. I know you can make a lot of money flat rate... if your boss is honest, if the shop is busy, if the economy is good. Fleet maintenance is often more secure and, if you are a hard worker, a good company will recognize your value and offer compensation to keep you. I work for FedEx Freight and make six figures with great insurance and benefits, so it can be done. P.S. I also had several VW Rabbits and Sciroccos. They were wonderful cars.
I love you Faye, you’re beautiful inside and out! 🥰 Don’t ever let stress get the better of you, discouragement is a poison! Just sayin from experience, I know it’s off topic. 🙏🌺
I don't know if i'm more impressed with the advice that she's giving or just the shear amazement of her life story. If you stop and listen to all the life's lessons that Faye provides, it's truly a gift that she's able to bring all of that to our attention. Thank you! 😘
AWWWW thank you!!
@@FayeHadleyyea i like you too😏
I had a kid (15) do a pretty big internal tire patch on one of my tires . He was on an internship and being mentored by the two older guys at my corner shop . He was so enthusiastic and they let him do the whole job, start to finish . The owner was apologetic about how long it was taking and offered to do it for free and i declined . I was off that day so not in a hurry. I wrote the kid a note with a tip in it and told him i hope he sticks with it , that i started as an apprentice in a cabinet shop at his age . I told him love what you do and your life will come together.
That was awesome of you to do that for him.
Great, what a way to ingrain tip culture on to that kid. Theyre gonna start feeling entitled to tips for any job they do (wether he sticks to automotive work or any other Mc Job🍔 Some praise and a fist bump would of suffice.
@@Dixie_Normiz you seem like such a miserable person to talk to 🤣🤣🤣
Another entry level: tire technician! I started out in auto parts, spent a quarter of my life in the military, now finally getting my foot in the door doing oil & tires at Walmart. Most would hate going to work, but everyday for me is another day working on a different car and learning more🙏🏼
Being a mentor is rewarding. Seeing the light turn on in people’s minds is a great thing.
It’s the best part of my job
You are an amazing woman, my granddaughter loves your channel and wants to be a mechanic. Keep up the great work you do.
Over 20 years ago I listened to the advice that I wouldn’t enjoy being a mechanic, “it’s greasy and dirty, you won’t like it.”
Had the fortunate opportunity to attend and graduate University and College. Tried a few careers over the years.
At the age of 40 I am finally starting my Technician journey at my local Toyota Dealership.
Faye’s advice is spot on.
I would only add that once you have a project vehicle, use UA-cam as a reference/guide. Watch as many videos about whatever issues you find with your project. Two veteran mechanics couldn’t fix my 3.4l cylinder 3 misfire. Eventually I found a single UA-cam video that solved my problem of fuel injector seals crumbled away.
Luckily I have 3 extra 4Runner junkers to pull the injectors from and get my only working 3rd gen back on the road…so maybe get a project vehicle AND and second parts vehicle.
My favorite top 3 female mechanic Faye thank for another how-to automotive video .
Thank you so much!
First, you're so modest. You're incredibly intelligent!! It wouldnt hurt to drop the name of the school you graduated from but I understand for the purpose of this video it may intimidate people or discourage them. In the same regards Rock the fact that you're a badazz woman!! You're also extremely driven. This is a great video though. I love the thought behind it. Drives me crazy that I become a bigger fan the more genuine content u put out!! So jealous of Mr.H!!🤣 Fr, thx as always. Great content! Have a good one. Edit: the longer I watch this..the more I realize how contagious your enthusiasm is!! I can't help but smile listening to you!! ✌🏻🙏
Oh my goodness, thank you so very much for the kind words!!!
@@FayeHadley I was just keeping it real. i think its awesome that women like you have carved out a space in a male dominated industry. i think its even more fascinating how you got here!! your career seems like it would have been a forgone conclusion!! then you had the courage to do what you did. i hope you drop a bio some day. prolly be inspiring to some young women and even young men. to see someone who doesnt fit the stereo typical mold just killing it, is cool af!! plus im curious what you listen to so there is that....🤣 for real i wish you the best!
Look, Faye, went to UTI at 42, knew everything except , electrical and the alignment machine, got the mech tech job immediately, was put on hours, couldn't pay rent , I went back to big trucking. Still paying for the loan. BTW: at 12, I started on a tiller engine, took it apart a million times, would not start, until a lawnmower mech told me about timing marks!
I am speechless...an amazinginly accurate assessment of real world-entry level access to the Auto Biz!
Thank you!! Well, I lived it and it worked out okay! 😅
ASE Master Tech of 34 years here. Great Advice. KEEP UP THE AWESOME WORK FAYE!!!
Danny is the ultimate mentor
Danny is freaking awesome! I have also had 2 other mentors who were extremely amazing, too. Hard to ever say one is better than the other because they have all been so different and taught me different things!
I'm in the Army now, but I worked for LKQ, decent place to work. Learned lots, employee discount was great, tools get spendy when you're working on literally every make and model across decades.
i was on the lube rack for a year, now working my way to be the best advanced tech possible. i have a great mentor that i work with everyday. its hard work but i love it. i got real lucky but i work my butt off
I started in the towing side of shops. I was in body and mechanic shops. Since I was paid hourly during the day I would do small assignments such as oil changes and tires and my skill sets grew. Waiting on the mechanics was a time suck so I adopted "if I am not in my truck I am under it" eventually becoming the fleet maintenance person of a half dozen trucks. I mentored with body and mechanic techs and now I am the lead tech with a national fleet truck company. The experience with wrecker hydraulic systems translated to truck liftgates. The aftermarket wiring on the wrecker body translated to truck boxes. I have done some bodywork along the way. I have no loan debt or diplomas or certifications hanging on the walls. Along the way after a few bumps and paint exchanges have tight quarter driving skills that baffles the crew at the shop and scares the mess out of my wife even after 20 plus years. Guess who gets to back the trailers?
Your positive outlook coupled with down to earth advise is an inspiration Faye 😊 The Automotive industry is fortunate to have you in its ranks 🚗
The theme - do whatever it takes to get experience but I love that you also give such in depth examples. So many people just say "DO this" or "DO that" and never tell people how to get started doing those things. Your vid will be quite helpful to many people. Well done.
I can't afford to go to a tech school so I've been teaching myself by watching UA-cam videos and doing whatever repairs I can do on my own cars. So far I've only done brakes, suspension, serpentine belts and tensioners, and engine mounts. But there's a whole lot more that I still have to learn and get experience on especially diagnostics which typically is open ended and requires more time and research and not always a simple parts replacement.
The tire shop anecdote was great... new tires are expensive!!
Agreed!😀 I didn't buy my first set of new tires until very very recently!!
Part stores are good places to start. Learn a lot and you meet a lot of people. Which thing could help you find a job in the future.
Thanks Faye got myself a 86 Camaro been working on it off and on.. still needs a little 🤏 work. Enjoy your UA-cam videos get alot info from it. Keep up the awesome work
Man, you and The Car Care Nut are quickly becoming my favorite Auto Mechanics on UA-cam! Thank you so much for your continued hard work and honesty! You make me want to maintain and work on my '09 5 speed Taco but rarely get to because it's so dang reliable haha.
Faye, I am extremely impressed with your experience how you got into the the automotive mechanic business. That is an amazing story of all the jobs you were exposed too and the things you learned and the patience you exhibited with the different jobs and people you worked with .
I am 78 and I would have loved to been able to have an automotive class in H.S. If they had one. I have watched, I think, all of your videos. You are an excellent communicator & excellent teacher. Wondering did you go to a TOYOTA TECH school ? I still do all the oil changes on my 3 cars in my garage and minor tune ups & fluid changes.. I watched your video on antifreeze flush and am going to ddo that on A 2016 Avalon I recently traded for.
I pray The Lord will open an excellent opportunity to have your own profitable shop. You have the experience,put in the time, and are extremely intelligent.
Something good is going to happen too you & I pray real soon in Jesus Name Amen 👍🏻😉
Thank you so so much!! I appreciate ALL of the kind words!!! No, I never did T-TEN, but I have taken make of the Toyota technical training classes and am working my way up to Toyota master tech! I'll be taking some in person training later this year through the dealership too!😀
That is great so proud of you and what you have accomplished ie you are special 👍🏻😉
@@FayeHadleyany advice how to make all dealership and independent shop pay their tech more bc of tech shortages ?
Definitely all of those things are totally true. I was fortunate enough to have a father who loved to drag random vehicles home and srag out the box and say "have at it" do what you want with this car. But if you get it running we will keep it for when you get a driving permit. None of them ever panned out, but I did end up with a cool old 1968 VW Beetle I bought for $100.00 from my best friend's dad. (I was the 2nd owner.) I drove it for a few years, improving it as time went along.
I did the same thing with my daughter.
She loved watching me work on the cars when she was little. Helping me "find" my tools in the garage for me.
She loves fast cars and owns a 2013 Nissan GT-R.(I live that car.sorry,Faye.)(
I do like the 3rd gen.Supra,my dad had one that made 700+ horsepower.)
Thanks for the info! Keep the great content coming! 🤘🏻
This is all amazing advice! And I always love learning about people and where they come from. Your story is awesome and quite inspirational! I know you'll love the story of how our restoration shop started. Because of Guillows model airplane kits and Estes model rocket kits. You read that right. As a kid my dad was always building model airplanes and rockets on our dining room table. I still have several of them hanging in my room. Well one day my dad made a deal on EBAY with a guy in Ohio (who is a great friend now) for some Estes kits. They got talking and my dad learned that the guy was selling them to pay his storage bill for 20 cars. He mentioned he was selling a 71 Charger. Well long story short my dad made a deal for the Estes rockets AND a car and so we piled into a rented truck and went to pick it up. We got it home and my dad made a deal with another guy (who also became a great friend) to use his shop to restore the Charger. My dad found restoring the car to be just like building a giant Guillows model. And he's helped friends fix their cars when he was growing up. So we got the car done and then all of our friends were like "can you restore this for me?" so we helped them out and our friends began telling their friends. Dad knew he was onto something. Around that same time I was having trouble in school with bullies. Child bullies and adult bullies in the school board who were telling me and my parents I would never amount to anything. Then my dad quit his job as a college professor because the higher ups were changing his test marks to maintain a passing percentage. And so he formed our business to give me and my brother a life without a college degree. I started out at the age or 12 operating sandblasting cabinets and my skills grew from there. now I do sandblasting and build all the instrument clusters. I guess I showed those bullies eh? 😜. Anyway sorry for the novel. I just thought you'd like it. Thank you for taking the time to share all you tips!
I spent 15 years as a dealership line tech for a little bit at Nissan, and the rest at Toyota. Leaving this horrible industry is the best thing I have ever done.
Dealer life sucks. Left the dealer after about 1 year and from that point on I loved my work.
@@JoeC-tt9oq Majority of those independent shops use aftermarket parts and garbage ones at that, I couldn't do it just off that.
Gotta find the right shop. We use a lot of OE or OE equiv. I only resort to garbage (duralast) when there is no alternative, like on the 72 f-250 I've got sitting here. @@DanKamYouKnow
So much good advice. Have desire, work hard, shut your mouth, put away the phone, no shame in menial tasks, etc. The unsaid factor in this woman's success, aside from a passion for the industry, is she is really, really smart. That never hurts in any endeavor.
I think, implicit in what you're saying is that when you love something, learning about it in depth is very interesting and great fun, so you can't get enough of theoretical and practical articles or conversations about all manner of automotive subtleties. This passionate attitude will put you in a different category from anyone who gets into it simply because they see a demand and think it's a manageable way to get a paycheck. Liking people is also a prerequisite for a successful career fixing cars as I see it. BTW, I thought I could be a good therapist and I was but it took less than a year to recognize that it's not the best way for me to help others. It occurred to me that in business we can treat our suppliers and customers well and affect many lives in that way. When you have employees, there's another opportunity. It's always a good decision to be nice by default. 😊
100% agree Faye! I started fixing cars with my dad and bought my first car in 1978 at 15 for $125, a 68 Firebird Convertible. Taught myself welding, engine/trans swaps and brakes without the aid of the internet. I started in a shop in 1982.
In todays age what It takes is a love for mechanical things, working with your hands and being able to plan ahead and research. Expect to make mistakes and you will learn the most from them! Also, when someone experienced gives you advice, never say, "I know." Say, thank you.
lots of great tips.
Glad you think so!
I started out in a local auto parts chain, back in the 80s when oil still came in cans, you could still buy leaded gas, and engine sizes were in cubic inches. Worked at Auto Zone back when they were still Auto Shack and was there when Radio Shack made us change our name (still have an AUTO SHACK jacket I won in a battery selling contest; wonder if that's collectable now?). My first project car was a 1965 Barracuda I bought from a soldier at a nearby army base for $100, with the 225 "slant six" motor. Bought my first tools at a pawn shop that sold them for $3 a pound. Aahh, the memories...
But seriously, the way I got into cars might work for some people. I started at that local parts store, delivering to nearby garages. So I had 10 or 15 mechanics to talk to and observe every day. You can really learn a lot when you have that many teachers! Great when you start your project car - if you get stuck on something and need advice or ideas, just ask five mechanics the next day.
Wow. I have done almost all of these things.
Internship excepted.
Specifically, worked in tire and brake shops. Done countless oil changes.
Had the best mentor you could ever imagine. He was a close friend for 20 years. Like a brother. A truly gifted mechanic.
As for the race team? Well, kinda. My mentor was an illegal street drag racer.
So we were always working on his car.
It was the best project car.
A Fiero with 600 hp.
Maybe late 500s.
Maybe mid 700s.
I know it ran a dastardly quarter the one time we took it to the strip.
7.4 seconds at 173 mph.
And then they told us to leave and never come back.
Oh man. Those were good days.
I liked this video. Reminded me of my early days.
I never did make it as a mechanic, but I am the only person who works on my car, so in that way, I made something of it.
Nowadays, I repair rental equipment.
Boring, but easy. Wish it payed better.
Thanks for reading.
Wow... this is priceless information. It took me many years of draining the swamp to realize I was there to learn how to operate and learn how pumps work.
The most useful thing i learned as a mechanic was that the difference between an apprentice and a master mechanic is that a master mechanic can fix their own mistakes. I still make them.
If anybody can do it find anybody... thats why we get paid the big bucks because anybody don't exsit.
Thank you for your time and efforts to share what took you many years of hardships to learn in such a easy to understand demystifying manner.
I definitely like watching all the tricks and stuff on your channel and even I didn't know as a backyard mechanic, I work on my own and my friends and family's vehicles and usually solve the most difficult things. Great channel Faye.
Seems like I will always be stuck with the 90s vehicles 24 and I wasn't even apart of that erra much but it seems I love how simple the 90s cars can be before ob 2.
My oldest brother was a service manager at a dealership. Thought I would try a month of working at this dealership right out of high-school. See how an automotive job would be as a full time gig - (back then). Lack of specialized tools at a British Car dealership proved to be one first hurdle. (British Standard Tools). Really have to *commit* to make this career work). I only stayed-on that one August, in-order to try it out. Was interesting to watch a fresh out of Tech. Trade School person, without much hands on experience, performing basic operations, such as a tuneup. I was actually able to help the new-tech. seat an ignition distributor, (cam-gear to oil pump rod alignment issue). {This person removed the distributor to change a part in it, in which the distributor did not need removing… By doing so, dropped oil pump drive rod into the oil pan. (Off comes the oil pan). New folks learn the difficult lessons quick}. Good subject video, thank you. Your commitment to this trade is inspiring. 🏆
I got lucky 🤣 haven’t gone to school and prob not going to, but I work for Porsche with zero experience but i’ve been here for more than 2 months now. I absolutely love my job and want to continue this career 🥰🥰
That's SO awesome!!! 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻
Great video Faye and good tips for learning and getting into the trade! Also, props to your video style here; it made it so personal. Sharing your life story and goals has so much more meaning. Although I was always interested in cars and being able to fix and modify them, my work life took a different direction. However, when I was young, I did have multiple jobs working in auto parts stores, and I had several project cars too. Both were really invaluable helping me learn how automobiles and their related components work. I still do various repairs (non-major) and maintenance on our vehicles as well as modifications and detailing.
Excellent advice! I really think this advice applies to any industry - start at the bottom and work your way up and the most important part is make sure you love what you are doing. Thanks Faye!
Ran dealership service and parts departments for 40 years. Was asked to serve on boards of the auto shop school for both a junior college and a high school. The one thing I emphasized to student techs was that they become as good as they could in the language of the community they served. English, Spanish, whatever. The ability to clearly communucate with co-workers, bosses, and customers was critical. YOU are a naturally excellant communicator and I value your repair videos, right up there with The Car Care Nut, actually. Your advice is always sound. Thanks for sharing all that knowledge with all of us who still like to DIY. It's amazing what I've learned about wrenching now that I'm retired and don't MANAGE anymore!
Faye, what a cool helpful insightful video, i appreciate your passion for your industry!!!
Thanks so much!
One of the things I used to tell new technicians was to learn to see with your fingers because your eyes can't always get to places your hands and fingers can. Also, there is a ton of learning for free on the internet I love to learn about new stuff and I am 72 and have been wrenching for a living since 1969. Had my first of many cars when I was ten. I want to say thanks to you for what you pointed out so many people want to start out at the top nowadays Thanks again and stay true to what you love.
Very solid advice. I have been a CDJR tech for over a decade, and I started off on the lube rack. I had no training, and no experience. I worked on my own vehicles for years, and then worked at an AutoZone for about a year. Ended up meeting someone that said "Hey, you're pretty sharp, you should go talk to the service manager at the dealership". Told the SM I had no experience, but I loved working on vehicles and I was willing to start at the bottom. Got hired, worked lube for maybe 4 or 5 months, and started getting Chrysler certifications and doing training and quickly moved on to turning wrenches. After about 2 years, I was on flat rate. I am now a fully certified tech. One additional tip...be willing to get tools!! If you aren't willing to invest in the tools for the job, you should reconsider getting in the field!!
I bought a $400 1999 GMC Jimmy with electrical issues and I sure learned a lot troubleshooting. A beater and youtube, that worked for me.
So informative Faye, I always wanted to be a Toyota mechanic but never had the chance to pursue it.
I am the "senior lube tech" at a dealership, and as such I get paid flat rate with commission for items I recommend based upon my experience in the field. I got into my position on the last day after I put in my 2 weeks notice due to a deficiency in work between me as a journeyman tech and my "team leader" (basically a way for the shop to get away with not paying a foreman by spreading out manager responsibilities).
It's been a pretty sweet gig, but as someone that works with the new hires and folks that are on their last legs, you start to get a feeling for who has the drive and who doesn't, and the main attributes I'd say for those that "have it" is patient endurance and the ability to pay attention and follow/execute instructions.
Very, very good video. I am not in the auto repair industry, but I do almost all of the work on my own cars. Your point about getting a project car is a good one. I grew up on a farm in Iowa during the '80's (a very tough time for farmers). If something broke down, we fixed it ourselves to save some cash. I learned so much from my Dad during that time by watching and eventually helping him (my own mentorship and internship, I guess) fix everything from cars & trucks to tractors to whatever. I also learned my limitations and when to call the local shop and make an appointment. 🙂 Thanks Faye for an excellent video with great tips. Cheers to you.
Your good mechanic you made video on aba engine I still got my mark 3 going on 5 years I was cdl truck driver love your passion with your videos very happful way you thusly explain I drove coal bucket in KY Ohio had start over from the old timers said boy you can't drive with pop in hand we love channel Faye
We have some very good vo-tech schools for auto/diesel/farm mechanics in western Kansas , and other locations. Jay Leno spot lighted one and gave some funding , used to show up once in awhile but not sure for how long. Late 60's Dad was in school in Goodland when my parents got married , then east Ks for automotive design and more in Pittsvurg Ks when I was hatched in 67. He stayed in it for years until a better deal showed up so I grew up in it , then I took wheeled vehicle mechanics in Nat. Gaurd after I graduated in 85. Only thing there is you should go full time. Thats where you learn the trade. However now its unbolt , rebolt the new part on. Not much in rebuilding.
I have been working as a service writer for a few months at a national franchise repair shop and I don't like it very much.
I felt like being a tech is much better.
Thank you for the advice.
Would much rather have a wrench in my hand than a mouse that's for sure. But 20 yrs in, my back said, Service Manager sounded good. Still have fun working on my own stuff tho.
Hey faye, I've been watching you with my client for the past couple years. I'm a caregiver and my dude was a car guy before he couldn't anymore. Watching your show and many others are a part of our Saturdays. That's for your knowledge and positivity. Saturday wouldn't be the same without ya. Keep up the good work.
Great vid Faye!!!! Top notch advice!!!🤘🤘🤘
When I went to tech school after high school the teacher told me I was wasting my time there because I had enough practical experience working with my dad in our shop as a kid that I'd learned all of the basics taught in the classes he was teaching. But if you go for specialized training, the brand specific school is the best way to go.
What a great video. As I watched, I realized I have done every single one of the ideas you presented (some several times)! And yet I never considered being a tech. My favorite was interning on a top fuel dragster and checking clearances on the top end between rounds. The owner swore me to secrecy!😇 Audi parts? The new Audi SUV is called a Urus.
Just recently bought my first project car a 1991 mazda rx7 soft top and been messing and tinkering with it and its so much fun especially since my friends also enjoy messing with cars as well. Been working on putting a new head unit and speakers in it and it has taught me a good bit about how to connect wires together and overall alot about how the car works. Prior to this i loved cars but didnt actually know much about how they work internally but after owning my project car for a couple of weeks ive learned way more then what i would have learned without a project car
Project.... start with a BIKE then Go Kart to a Car. Learn the wrenching process. Read Read. Watch Faye. Haha.
You pretty much nailed it in every aspect,great vid Faye,how to got started,,I offered to work for a $1 hour at a local gas station,,when minimum wage was $2.50 hr,,instead of cleaning ,I offered to arrange the owners toolbox (I learned all different types of hand tools)and arrange shop tools(learned how to use different shop tools),,and pump gas of coarse,,,Sometimes you have to create your own job ,LOL
after 40+ years still pulling wrenches.And im still learning new things every day.
I have mentored a few apprentices over the years ,some still in contact me after many years.which empowers me to keep on guiding them throughout the trade.
PCC here in Portland Or. has awesome automotive
Courses ,, Thx for motivating us.👌✌️..
Faye I am 64 years old and just think what you had to offer there was marvelous one spectrum that might help also and somewhere I learned a lot was working for someone in the heavy equipment world tons of jobs to start out at and tons of knowledge to be learned also good place is farmers. Wonderful vidio on a subject more youths need to get to know. Thanks.
Reminds me how i sstarted but i never did it professionally i do all my own work. My dad started me off at 5 tearing down briggs and stratton motors, handed me a book said get it running
That's so awesome!!
Faye, you are an inspiration to your viewers on your channel. Your advice and guidance to young adults going into the automotive field is so informative and spot on. You are a mentor to all of us. We learn so much from your videos. Thank you so much and God Bless.
My first car was a Datsun 510 wagon that a paint and body shop used as one of their parts hauler. I bugged them for a year, so when they bought a van to haul parts, they sold me the 510 cheap. The body on the 510 was perfect. But it needed paint. And the most important lesson that I learned from fixing that 510 was that I hate Carburetors. And my second car was a Datsun 260z... with twin Hitachi carburetors!
I made friends with a local bodyshop by me and they've been so kind to allow me to keep a small Mobile Tool Cart there and allow me to use their lift to work on my own cars . I try not to tie it up too long . So i've learned to prepare for my entire list of to do in advance to so i can complete things within a 6 to 8 hr window . I basically made their jaws drop cause i did what would be considered 2 days of work in 1 day.
U have made great videos, Faye, but excellent info/advice. Even if u GET schooling/internship/etc, & u decide it's not for u, u can do all/most work on your OWN vehicle. U made me remember my 86 Camry, shopped many times at a pick n pull salvage. I was like a kid in a candy store! I took HS auto shop, attended GM training school, hadn't got hired, & DID get a job for Westinghouse Electric. Never applied for a mechanics job except wrkd part time at a friend @ an Amoco station before I got married. I recommend techs try & work for a garage or open their own place when they are able. Moving up in dealerships is very slow & can be partial to some techs. Just MY opinion.
Well I guess these are good tips, I was going the import tuner route. Unfortunately people frown upon a guy in short shorts and a halter top lmao. For those who know the magazine from early 2000s.😂
I cant agree more with your advice. Having your own project means you can learn from mistakes and also build your confidence after a great job completion. I like doing a nice car audio system myself. Its fulfilling. Having a mentor I feel is one of the biggest IMO.
I think I wouldve made a great mechanic when I was younger had I had the right type of mentor. My father was into cars a bit but didnt have any patience lol. I took machine trades in school but had no interest in cutting metal all day. However I got to work on my own heads when my headgaskets bit the dust. It helped that on the side i helped a distant cousin who was a year older than me who was a blessed mechanic. I learned so much from him. He was a DIY to the bone growing up with a barn filled with VWs
It was amazing the things he could do. From rebuilding and overhauling GM 3800s down to just the block with great big superchargers, painting the engine and engine bay, watching them put in work at the drag strip you wouldve never knew that all that work was done i one dusty old barn. Things like internals and cams for people, to just replacing an alternator in the rain in 7 minutes. I seen that firsthand. Had a Camry that was backed into a poll somewhere with crushing half the rear bumper i thought and I watched him pop it out with just a torch. Another time I blew a CV shaft in my Saturn 5 speed. Watching a car come back to life is so rewarding! He had no High School Diploma no certificate and you would be amazed the shops that would pay him good money on top of his backyard mechanic jobs. Unfortunately being friends with everbody and not following a legitimate path led him into some bad habbits as well. Bad Habbits that cost him his life. I think about him often (especially when I need car help lol) That makes your 3rd point great advice as well. Ive been planning to go back to school with this field being 1 of my 3 choices.
What you're doing is awesome I wish more young ladies would try the field. I love the Goth punk vibe and the great taste in cars ❤️ Keep on Rocking Faye!! 🫡👍
this is very solid advice. my parents had a bodyshop and i figured there will always be cars and wrecks and i did really good at it. now i own a body shop and we are very busy. most big body shops can help get you I-car certifications and ase certifications. my son started out at a tire shop and i was teaching him how to do some mechanical work got me. 2 years later he now works at a great mechanic shop.
Also You may want to ultimately learn the Bussiness Management Aspect as well as Customer Service Consultation.
Went to Uni. For nothing automotive. Have almost no formal training. Fell into being a tech by grace of my ex father in law, may he rest in peace. Learned it all OJT, love what I do, made the best friends in my life, met the girl of my dreams. Tech school is awesome, wish I’d gotten the formalities outta the way, but I love my life and my path. You wanna do this, just jump, as Bayek of Siwa once said. Listen to this woman. She speaks truth. She’s a cool lady. Hear me?
if you don´t wanna commit to a project car, get a lawn mower or generator from the side of the road and try to get it running (lawn mowers in spring/early summer, generators in fall/beginning of winter season)
These 5 tips that you gave on the video are absolutely great ways to start to get involved in the automotive industry.👍🏼
I love her joy and enthusiasm
I love your videos Faye, and the sparkle in your eyes when you talk about being a mechanic shows that you truly love what you do! It is such a pleasure to see!
I've been a fan for a very long time and one of my favorite things about you is your enthusiasm and energy for what ever it is you are doing and or teaching! ✊️🎓🌎✔️😎
YESSSSS🎉🎉🎉🎉 I am so So so Lucky to have a foot in with Bridgestone and OMG they send me to clases and I was promoted to a mechanic and sales so i’m learning parts how to price tickets what i need in each job. I’m changing oil, I’m changing breaks, i’ve learned so much already so the basic bottom line is DO ANYTHING that has to do with cars! HANDS ON was the only way i am able to learn. Amazing advice!
I don't believe there's anything people in the comment section can add!!! She totally knocked it out of the park!!!!
gr8 vid, yah small engines are great for learning. and people throw out lawnmowers all the time and you can get them for free. that's how I learned a lot. I am not a Mechanic, but the knowledge I learned from it I have been able to apply to other small engines, and cars. My son's first car which was my old car, a 2001 Nissan Maxima. about 192k miles , I helped him keep it going for 4+ years. while some of the repairs weren't right but it helped it limp along. I wasn't going to replace the transmission. but was able to get it working for gears 1, 2, 3 and R , no Overdrive. P0744 was the code. among other things that went were various electric parts, starter, alternator, O2 sensor, window motor, blower motor, speed sensor, brakes. rear struts, etc simpler stuff. how to rescue a car that broke down on side of road and get it going 1/2 mile to safety. also been able to help other family members with the car(s). as long as it was NOT a german made car.
Honestly I've only met a few techs that went to school that where really good at their job. I learned everything hands on. Started as a lube tech and worked my way up to a master tech!
Heck yeah!!!
@@FayeHadley I absolutely love your channel! Don't stop!!
I started at Jiffy lube, and they don’t require experience usually, you have to do JLU (training modules) before you start working as a courtesy tech, and then do another set of modules for UBT and etc.
Great advise girl. Wow you are hardcore. I don’t know how you had so much enthusiasm, energy and dedication.
First female mechanic that I've seen that I really like. UA-cam seems to attract weird people with daddy issues. Keep up the hard work.
Faye, I have one word for you.....AWESOME!!!
Perfect timing for you to post this video since, I start Automotive trade school tomorrow up in Canada. Before all this my daily driver for the past 6 years I guess was my project car? I've also done some small jobs for others while learning. Also have a mechanic back home who told me some things too. I'll admit, most knowledge dose come from UA-cam (The GOOD ones btw lol) I'm determined to stick with it. Somebody helped me out a long time ago when I needed it. So I want to be that person for others if I can.
Before going to trade school being an option, I was handing out resumes and asking if people were willing to take me in and I got a lot of turn away or "maybes" and after while it got to the point were, maybe it's just better to get a degree in this so that way. It shows I'm capable in this field and can prove my worth to the industry. Once I graduate and back at working again, I plan to get a truck. Then maybe once I get a place of my own. I'll start on something small to take a part and fix up, or even drive it. Thanks for the advice Faye!
Mechanical knowledge comes from experience. Experience comes from mistakes.
Amazing advice! Your earlier videos on 2nd gen Tacoma's peeked my interest on doing my own maintenance. So I guess I turned my daily driver into my project vehicle 😂.
I would recommend working at Carmax as a Reconditioning Associate, very low bar of entry in my experience, and with enough patience you can easily move to paint and dent repair, small windshield repair, and you can even learn at tech school for your ASE's while working and I THINK carmax will help you pay for it. If you, like me, are living in a state with wage blight, they even pay decently. Also, cheap(ish) wholesale cars...
Faye, thank you for what you do.
You are so welcome!!
Faye is Simply Amazing and Such an Inspiration!
I’d say the best bet is to apply somewhere where you can see others that started where you are and got where you want to be. I’m very lucky my dealership rewards employees based on our efforts. In a year in this industry, my pay has increased from around 36k to 50k and I’m still hourly. Getting phased into the main shop in a few months!
Girl you are a dime piece! Beautiful, and know your 💩! Never went to school to work on vehicles, but I did work on aircraft in the Navy! Now I paint for a company that makes custom arborist trucks. I do also work on vehicles. I only do certain things, as some stuff makes me cuss more than they aircraft did. I work on my own vehicles, and even motorcycles. Also I detail vehicles on the side. I do from basic details, all the way to paint correction, and ceramic coatings. You truly are any man's dream girl! Love watching our vids, as you know your 💩! Love it!
My mentor was my best friends step dad. Did head gaskets on a 3.4 camaro in their yard in 100 degrees. So you know i did all the work but he taught me a lot in only 1 job
Commenting on the video for the algorithm
thanks!! And sick username! I had a two stroke 8V92 in my bus!! Crazy engine, amazing sound!
Faye...you are AWSOME! all this advice is spot on , this is exactly how one gets into the trade.
Tear stuff aprt and learn what it is and does and do scutt work at shops, mom n pops are the best to learn at because they run on such a tight budget that everyone counts and the sooner you become profitable the better. Buy tools ! I can't say that enough, don't worry about the tool trucks, HF will do until you get really profitable and and second hand is just fine.
Again, dont have to have the best just have them, their more valuable than gold when you know how to use them.
Man, you gave such terrific advice in a number of areas. I love your enthusiasm! I also had three "project cars" before I got my driver's license and worked on lawnmowers and motorcycles starting at age 12.
One thing I would suggest, having worked both flat rate and also fleet maintenance, is looking for a fleet maintenance position with a solid government or a large trucking company. I know you can make a lot of money flat rate... if your boss is honest, if the shop is busy, if the economy is good. Fleet maintenance is often more secure and, if you are a hard worker, a good company will recognize your value and offer compensation to keep you.
I work for FedEx Freight and make six figures with great insurance and benefits, so it can be done.
P.S. I also had several VW Rabbits and Sciroccos. They were wonderful cars.
Ive been a mechanic for 17 years. I just quit and im very happy and healthier now. 😊😊😊
I love you Faye, you’re beautiful inside and out!
🥰
Don’t ever let stress get the better of you, discouragement is a poison!
Just sayin from experience, I know it’s off topic. 🙏🌺
Thank you so much!!
an entry level job is still the first step on the ladder.
I passed this video on to someone who wants to follow your path.
Please keep us entertained and informed!!
Awesome, thank you so much!
Faye. Where do you find you glasses. Throwback to the sixties and seventies. You rock
Always amazed with FAYES beautiful soul ❤