Career guide

Car mechanic: career guide and training

As a car mechanic you repair and check passenger cars and light commercial vehicles.

What will you do?

The job is also known as auto mechanic, car technician or garage mechanic. You determine the right approach for each intervention, prepare the workstation and the vehicle and diagnose the breakdown. You carry out repairs and replacements, test and adjust the vehicle and prepare it for delivery to the customer.

  • Determine the right working method for each intervention
  • Prepare the workstation and the vehicle
  • Diagnose breakdowns
  • Carry out repairs and replacements on vehicles
  • Test and adjust the vehicle
  • Prepare the vehicle for delivery
  • Keep work records and maintain the workstation

Skills to develop

  • Technical insight into engines, brakes and suspensions
  • Skilled hands and a precise way of working
  • Able to diagnose breakdowns methodically
  • Knowledge of safety rules and regulations
  • Team player in the workshop

Your foundation for this occupation

Understand vehicle systems before replacing parts. Maintenance combines mechanics, measurement and vehicle-specific instructions.

From preparation to your first day

  1. Develop the practical skills

    Practise a service with inspection, fluids and wear checks under supervision. Use correct lifting points and specified tightening torques.

  2. Check your work

    Check assembly, leaks and warnings after the repair. Record parts and completed checks in the job order.

How can you grow?

Specialise in diagnostics, commercial vehicles or a brand before progressing to technical specialist or workshop coordinator.

Frequently asked questions

Should you replace the named part immediately after a fault code?

A code identifies a detected deviation, not always the failed part. Investigate the cause through measurements and prescribed diagnostic steps.

Sources and training

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