What is an auto mechanic

In brief

As an Auto Mechanic, you'll keep vehicles in tip-top shape. You troubleshoot, maintain and perform repairs - from brakes and distribution to diagnostics on electronics. You make sure customers drive away safe and satisfied.

What will you do as an auto mechanic?

You work in a garage or dealership on passenger cars (sometimes commercial vehicles or motorcycles). You listen to the complaint, diagnose, repair and test. Electronics play an increasingly important role, so you enjoy working with diagnostic tools as much as with a torque wrench.

Typical tasks:

  • Translate customer complaint into diagnosis and work assignment
  • Periodic maintenance and MOT preparation/performance.
  • Repairs: brakes, suspension, engine, transmission, air conditioning, EV/hybrid systems
  • Software/electronics diagnostics, troubleshooting and updates
  • Test drive and final inspection, workshop administration and parts management
  • Customer advice on maintenance, safety and costs

What competencies should you have?

This role is all about overview, precision and working safely. These are the skills you need:

Pressing on under time pressure, yet remaining secure
Responsible and customer-oriented
Technical understanding and accuracy
Communicative: clear towards colleagues and customer
Analytical thinking and problem solving skills
Eager to learn (electronics/EV evolves rapidly)

This is what your workday looks like

You start planning, pick up a maintenance job and work out a fault diagnosis. In between, you briefly consult with the workshop chief, order parts and call the customer about costs and turnaround time. After the repair, you test the vehicle, complete administration and deliver the car clean and safe.

Training and advancement

Entry can be through intermediate vocational courses in automotive technology (BOL/BBL). Many mechanics specialize along the way: EV/hybrid, diagnostic technology or brand-oriented dealer maintenance. Manufacturer training, NEN/safety and MOT inspector give you additional momentum.

Examples of training:

  • Automotive technician (mbo 2)
  • First automotive technician (mbo 3)
  • Technical Specialist Passenger Cars (mbo 4)
  • Supplementary: MOT inspector, EV/high voltage, air conditioning (F-gases)

Salary

As a starter (21+) you will earn on average €2,350 - €2,600 gross per month (approx. €14.40 - €15.75 per hour). With experience, MOT qualification, EV/diagnosis specialization and breakdown services, this often grows towards €2,800 - €3,200+.

Diploma

An automotive engineering diploma (level 2-4) is the foundation. Extras such as MOT inspector, high-voltage/EV and brand training make you scarce and better paid.

Number of hours

Mostly full-time (36-40 hours per week). In peak periods (tire changes, vacations) you may work extra hours according to allowance schedule.

Working Hours

Primarily day shift on weekdays; Saturdays occur at dealerships or busy garages. Shifts are rare, breakdown or pick-up/drop-off shifts sometimes possible.

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Car Mechanic

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Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need MOT testing to get started?

No, but it helps tremendously. You can start out just fine without a MOT; many employers offer the training as soon as you turn.

Very important and growing. With high-voltage and diagnostic training, you'll be deployed faster on modern (hybrid/electric) vehicles and your salary will increase.

In a universal garage, you work brand-independently; at a dealership, you immerse yourself in one brand, with access to specific tooling and training.

Sure: First Auto Technician, Diagnostic Specialist, MOT inspector, Workshop Manager or Service Advisor. Manufacturer training accelerates your steps.

Often the employer (certainly MOT, EV and brand training). BBL route is popular: work, learn and immediate salary.