How Are Automotive Technicians Different From Mechanics?

Some consider these job titles interchangeable when talking about automotive technician vs. mechanic. In the most fundamental sense, both jobs require training and repairing vehicles. Nonetheless, the daily duties for each role can vary. Here, we discuss the differences between an automotive technician and an automotive mechanic.

What Is An Automotive Technician?

An automotive technician analyzes, repairs, and conducts routine maintenance for automotive vehicles of all types. They generally focus primarily on diagnostic services, identifying what results in more significant vehicle problems. Technicians use specialized computers and appliances to offer suggestions and plan repairs. While numerous technicians work in car dealerships and repair shops, they may also operate in more specialized settings, like the pit crew for a race car team.

What Is An Automotive Mechanic?

An automotive mechanic inspects, repairs, and maintains numerous types of automotive vehicles. Most automotive mechanics emphasize conducting routine maintenance. Nonetheless, some mechanics specialize in a distinct part or type of repair, like engines, tires, or brakes. Whether they repair whole cars or focus on one place, most mechanics work in repair stores or car dealerships.

Automotive Technician vs. Automotive Mechanic

Auto technicians and auto mechanics have a lot of differences. All automotive technicians are mechanics, but not all automotive mechanics are technicians. Those within the automotive enterprise often perceive technicians as more developed jobs, but both jobs need special skills. On the other hand, an auto technician has a more technical role and requires more education or certification. Here are the major differences between these roles:

Job Responsibilities

Auto mechanics and technician in automotive function side-by-side in repair shops. Their everyday tasks focus on repairing automobiles and helping customers. While the jobs are identical, some of their daily tasks vary. Common responsibilities for an automotive mechanic may include:

  • Conducting routine maintenance or repairs
  • Conducting required examination or testing for a specific vehicle
  • Formulating accurate maintenance recommendations and price options
  • Clarifying recommended care to customers
  • Maintaining comprehensive records of repairs and maintenance
  • Performing quality checks on tools and appliances

An automotive technician may conduct the duties above, but their responsibilities may comprise the following:

  • Analyzing vehicle diagnostic codes
  • Scheduling repairs for mechanics to perform
  • Utilizing special computers or equipment to diagnose problems with a vehicle
  • Evaluating errors or causes of malfunctions

Performing routine repairs or maintenance as an auto mechanic or technician may comprise automotive technician programs like:

  • Tire replacement
  • Oil changes
  • Tire rotations
  • Fluid checks and changes
  • Tire alignments
  • Engine tune-ups
  • Brake checks

automotive technician programs

Job Titles

Most mechanics and technicians specialize in a respective field, such as:

  • Diesel
  • Automotive
  • Collision Repair
  • Electrical
  • Marine
  • Aircraft
  • Motorcycle
  • HVAC

One of the great things about seeking a mechanic or automotive technician career is that numerous industries you can go into are here to stay.

Salaries

The average wage for a mechanic automotive in the US is $20.61 every hour, and the average salary for an automotive technician in the US is $20.06 per hour. Every employer specifies their payment structure differently. Earnings for automotive mechanics and technicians vary based on facets such as:

  • Education or training lever
  • Years of experience
  • Additional certifications or skills
  • Scope of responsibilities
  • Geographic location

In addition to the wage, many industries provide additional benefits, like paid time off and health insurance.

Work Settings

The work setting for auto mechanics and technicians is often identical. Most work in repair shops, whether at independent shops or car dealerships. While the precise nature of the setting varies for each shop, some factors to expect include the following:

  • A forty-hour workweek
  • Functioning overtime or outside of standard business hours if required
  • Complying with security regulations
  • Standing for a long duration of time on concrete floors in a loud garage setting
  • Co-operating and working closely with other technicians or mechanics in automotive technician training
  • Operating complex tools and machinery like vehicle lifts and various power tools
  • Conducting repetitive tasks
  • Working under strict deadlines or fast turnaround times to fulfill promises or estimates given to customers
  • Conveying with customers about the maintenance and repairs their vehicle requires

automotive technician training

Some auto technicians function in more specialized roles, like a race car pit crew member, where the work setting may differ. Nonetheless, the most important features of concentrating on safety, working efficiently, and accurately operating complex devices remain the same.

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