Working in an auto shop can be a great way to brush up on your auto repair skills and stay up-to-date on the latest automotive technologies. However, there are a few things you should know before starting a job at an auto shop. These things will help you determine if you want to change your lifestyle and begin this career path!
1. People Depend on You
A clinical pharmacist manages and monitors patients with various conditions, also known as comorbidities. Similarly, if you work in an auto shop, people are depending on you to help discern and diagnose their vehicle issues. Many individuals do not possess the same level of knowledge when it comes to vehicle repair, so you are expected to be the expert in this field. This can be a great responsibility, but also incredibly rewarding!
2. You’ll Be Working With Electricity
Safety will now be an important part of your lifestyle. Edwin Herbert Hall discovered the Hall Current Effect in 1879, and this is still used today in the automotive industry. You will be working with electricity, so it is important to follow all safety protocols and use appropriate tools. Additionally, you must understand how to safely isolate any faulty parts and work with the circuit boards of vehicles.
3. Tools Are Your Best Friend
When you start working in an auto shop, you’ll need to familiarize yourself with the various tools and equipment used throughout the industry. For example, wrenches are commonly found in auto shops and are used to tighten screws and bolts. Additionally, there are specialized tools such as torque wrenches that are necessary for certain repairs. These tools are essential for a successful job, so you should be familiar with each one before starting. Working in an auto shop can be a great way to learn about different tools and apply that knowledge to your personal life.
4. You’ll Make Good Money (Sometimes)
A transmission repair usually costs between $1,200 to $5,000. Sometimes, you may be able to make more money in an auto shop than you would in a regular job depending on the level of complexity of certain jobs. However, you also need to understand that there is a high risk of burnout in this field if you don’t take the necessary breaks and keep your hours in check.
5. You Need to Stay Up-to-Date
Technology is changing faster than ever, and the automotive industry is no exception. Different vehicles are equipped with different features, so you need to stay up-to-date on the latest technology and trends. Additionally, you must know how to properly diagnose and troubleshoot any issues that may arise. This means staying informed on the latest software updates, as well as understanding how certain parts of the vehicle may be interconnected.
Working in an auto shop can be a great way to learn and expand your knowledge of automotive technology, but it’s also essential to continue to learn about the automotive industry.
6. You’ll Need to Work Long Hours
Breakdowns happen at all hours, so you need to be prepared for long days and nights in the auto shop. Additionally, since most repairs require the parts to be ordered, you may need to put in extra time finding specific parts and waiting for them to arrive. It is important to have a flexible schedule and to be aware that you will not always have a set shift. While this might be a bit of a lifestyle change for some, the hours you put into the shop will be worth it in the end.
Working in an auto shop can be incredibly rewarding and lucrative, as long as you are prepared to put in the effort. With the right attitude and knowledge, you can make a career for yourself in this field.
Elor McDori
