/ discord IG @nick.nakai and is it still worth changing careers paths in todays day and age? Watch this video and get some insight. #techtalk #amitooold #beingamechanic #mechanicpay
I started at age 27 and I have a kid. I’m 28 now and I’m making about 60k as a bmw technician. And I am still in school, I went the college route to get an automotive degree. You just gotta love what you do and grasp everything you learn and show good work ethic, trust me you’ll get a raise and they won’t want to let you go!
@@evanm9026 I went from 30k as a lube tech to 50-60k as a flatrate tech, 80k last year and estimating 100k this year being a diesel tech. Trend for me seems to be more and more each year
I'm a late bloomer, got married at 41, child at 42. 58 years old now. Associates degree mid 40's and Fleet Manager for a public utility around same time. I have 4 ASE's taking 5th tomorrow. If you have a passion for it which includes being a prolific reader you can do it. I'm with Nick on being in shape, it helps. If you're in a warm climate like I am go to a conditioned shop, it helps. Never been at a dealership, but from what I hear and read on line, it's a tough working environment, try fleet work. Our foreman makes $80K and our mechanic is approaching $60K, great benefits too. Remember learning is a life long endeavor. Oh yah.....company supplies all the tools too!
Was working to be my own boss in gardening, ended up changing carrier path’s at 34. Went to my local college at 34 got mechanize ag ,diesel technology small engine certifications at 35. Started working on diesel fleet buses ever since. Life is good. And great pay 💰
I started when I was 30 and it didn’t work out for me. I was really impatient with how long it took to get out of being a lubie and the politics of the whole shop just got to me. On top of that working as a Lube tech knowing my service advisors took MORE than any of us was frustrating. I’m in the aviation field now and I would highly recommend going to school to get your A&P license and working on planes. It’s a 2 year program similar to an auto program and you start off making double min wage. I love working on cars just not other peoples cars haha. Humbled by my experience I gave it 2 years and worked at 3 different Honda dealerships. Solely work on my own car and family’s.
Interesting. A friend's husband left the Aviation Mechanic field and went on to become a lawyer. I wondered why. He was in his late 30s as well. Is aviation mechanic field still growing?
Feel you on that I started at 37 at Porter and move up to lube and still here . I’m not likening the dealership environment and how they push and push cause they want to make more money so they take everything out of you for less . I’m focusing getting my llc and going in to vending machine business and getting back in to forex trading after putting it on the back burner . I mean making 2k in 4min ain’t bad if I get better at trading
Old Head here 50 Still love being a tech, been doing it 28 years. You hit the nail on the Head, you gotta love it because it is a tough business. Id say if your over 30, ehhh that would be a max recommendation. Starting out its gonna be rough and the money will not be good for the first few years. Its a lot of hard work, no way out of that but to get out of that
So I’m going to be retiring from the Air Force this coming year and I’ll be through to the mstep program at uti(military’s dime). I’ll be 39 this year and I still think it’s a good career choice for me anyway because I’m a big car guy. I love working on cars so as long as the work place isn’t terrible it’s something I’ll enjoy. I also have one BMW at the moment and another one on order so I’ll be able to work on them myself. That’s why I chose BMW specifically. Lol. Nick, I’ve been enjoying the videos since it’s something I’m going in to. It does help with insight to the life. I also do detailing as a side business so that is also something I use as well. Nick, if you’re ever in Vegas it’d be cool to meet up and grab some drinks.
@@justinoyola5646 being in roughly the same age group and having just jumped into the auto industry from similar environments, I’d say jump with contingency plans and see how you fair. Just realize its a very physically demanding job. Theres no “wait periods” like the military and its not meditative like working on your own car. Your on your feet going non stop all day, and the cars never stop coming, so speed is key. Granted you walk out of there with that “first day of boot” purging of excess energy and no screaming, so thats a win.
@@justinoyola5646 Mercedes Drive prioritizes military. If you can get into Fletcher Jones Imports that would be a plus. I worked there before I moved to Arizona. Id look into Drive and apply. My 2 cents, UTI is good for guys going into Mercedes or BMW, the other brands don't seem to care for it. By the way, we just hired a Drive Grad with a longer military back ground recently .
@@justinoyola5646 We're about the same age. I completed school in 2021 and got a job at a European specialty shop. It's a VERY tough field. At first, you're going to be very slow at completing jobs because basically everything is going to be new to you (shop equipment, specialized tools, inspections, types of vehicles, work orders). It's go, go, go all day long. Fast paced. If your boss is understanding, he'll work with you. An asshole boss will make your job a living hell. You'll be assigned vehicles that you've never worked on. Don't know what an Evap Purge Valve is? Service writer told you to replace it. Better figure it out. Your body will be sore everyday (you'll be working and thinking extra hard due to inexperience). Trying to replace a water pump but it's seized in place? Gotta think outside the box, or ask a more experienced tech for help (hopefully, you have friendly co-workers). You have to buy your own tool cart AND tools. My advice to you..before you enroll anywhere, try to get a lube tech job at a dealership or independent shop. After a few months, you'll either like it or quit.
Really appreciate the video, currently 21 and signed up for automotive school last week. My current job is miserable and I’m young enough to take the pay cut and be able to bounce back. Don’t know much about cars atm but I love a challenge.
I am 53 years old and looking to get into being a auto mechanic. I reading a UTI textbook nightly & ordering Delmar ASE test prep books to take my ASE's & doing my own work on my car.
I went to UTI when I was 36 and I was definitely older than most of the other students but there was one guy who was about 50. I am 50 now and been working in dealerships since UTI. I started with Volvo cars, which was good for me. They don't have "lube racks" at Volvo dealers - every tech does everything, so I didn't get the dealer lube rack experience but while at UTI, I worked at Sears Auto Center so that's like a glorified lube rack shop. I'm a heavy line (mostly) tech at a domestic dealership now and I LOVE what I do but it's damn hard work at my age. My shop is as busy as anyone could want and management, although they appreciate the high quality of my work, is always pushing for more flag hours. I go home exhausted and hurting every night but so far, the pain isn't unbearable. I have accepted that my body will give out before my passion for the job does. I wish I had started much younger.
@@ghostwrench2292 I am 36 and just starting this April at a Toyota Dealership. This comment was very helpful. I can't say I'd wish I'd started sooner because my body would be done by now if I had. So I plan on doing it for 5 yrs and then going to parts or fleet...etc. something less physically demanding but still in the Auto Industry. What do u think? Congrats on jumping in.
@@jumb0shr1mp6 I'm 38 and finished tech school in early 2021. Landed a job quickly at an indie shop. Definitely harder on the body when you're approaching 40. After a year, I quit and went on to work as a Fedex driver, but I feel like I dont belong there. The automotive bug keeps tugging at me, so I'm looking for a tech job, again. I'm also planning on leaving before turning 50.
I got into the auto mechanic field in my early 20s and worked my to being a diesel technician. Seeing how physically broken down a lot of the older guys were, I wanted something less labor-intensive so I went back to school and became an accountant. I still miss the culture of the blue-collar world though.
I’m only 22, I worked at a tire shop for 5 months then went to my Local Subaru. They started me in Express as a lube tech but after 4 months they noticed I had potential and moved me over to the Main Tech Shop of Subaru, I love it so far! It’s a lot of new things to learn but I’m sure I’ll be able to learn quickly!
Great points, I've been considering starting my own mobile mechanic business. I worked as a diesel and auto mechanic to put myself through engineering school. Engineering was great 👍 but now I've been considering making a career out of my hobby. Thanks for posting.
I started at 29 years old, fresh out of the Army and I started at the bottom and was flat rate from day one. The first few years were rough, basically learning as you go. I'm 62 now, in great physical shape and I made 188K last year as a flat rate tech.
Look after your health,and i mean look after your diet and fitness seriously and age will not restrict you from doing anything.Ive started a mechanic apprenticeship in my 50’s.
Started 2 years ago as a mobile mechanic, 48 now. Nice income and it is always in demand..as long as you got the passion and perform quality acceptable work. People see that and then you become highly recommended. Have a job almost everyday. Meanwhile going to school for Aviation Mechanic.
I'm 30 years old. Became a mechanic at 20 after a two-year AAS degree in Automotive Tech. Worked my way through the dealerships and am now at an independent shop as a Master Tech with 4 years of GM training and 2 years of Toyota training. At 30, my back is fucked. My tools are worth more than all my cars combined, and have limited resale value. My skills are virtually non-transferrable to any other "maintenance-based" industry due to lack of actual certification within the field. My value is based on my productivity, which can greatly depend on others' abilities to do their job effectively. Half my coworkers have- or developed alcohol and chemical dependency issues. You will be taken advantage of, by service managers, by customers, and by friends and family. If you want to progress, you will have to get certified, attend ongoing education, and spend a LOT of upfront money on tools. The money is there, but it's few and far between. I loved my first few years wrenching, but there's a reason you don't a lot of older technicians.
I finished vocational school at 24 and started working for a Toyota dealership as a lubie. Worked there for about 8 months before deciding to leave. Didn’t have the patience to be a lube for years just to climb up to a line tech. You basically get paid spare changes while service advisors get paid a lot more just for dealing with customers. Also they look down on their techs a lot. Left to work at the airport as a stationary technician working on jetways repairs. I’m glad I did and I’m so happy where I am at now. Pays better and they don’t work you like a dog. Not thinking about going back to the automotive industry. Thinking about going back to school toward electrical to become a electrician. Good content as always Nick. Peace ✌️
Started as a toyota tech, worked there for 12 years was able to crack $100k. Now I’m on the German side (Audi) and wish I would have came sooner $162k and $167k my first two years. There is money to be made, especially on the luxury side. And what’s crazy is we can’t seem to find guys with Audi experience.
I always enjoy your vids Nick. There are so many factors that come into this topic. I’ve said countless the times, being a tech could be the greatest job in the world, if it weren’t for the “traditional” environment. My .02 if you have zero experience and are at the age of having responsibilities then you are probably out of luck making the move for the reasons you said. You will be at the bottom. If you get the lube tech stage at of the way when you are young then you can go and forth and you please, which is what I did. When I was at Toyota, we had a 51 year old lube tech who also served as a helper to us techs sometimes. Guy had a family, was always hurting for money and with the mistakes he made clearly wasn’t cut out for it. To each their own, but in a nutshell if you don’t have the employment experience in a shop and the ability to get ASE’s to build your resume, then your going to have a tough time getting established.
I just recently turned 29 and have two children under two. I’ve been in warehousing for 9 years and have completed 42 credits in Mechanical Engineering at my local community and technical college during that time, but I had to take some time away from school due to my children and it really made me think about my current career and the idea of following my automotive passion. After listening to you, I believe that I can confidently say that deciding to take a service technician position might be the best opportunity for someone like me, given the passion for cars (no work experience in field) and my circumstances. Especially given that my current position’s salary is $37,800. Thank you! And keep on keeping it real with us! 🙏🏽
Currently 22, been in the trade for 4 years now. Working at an independent shop working on both cars and medium duty trucks, the eventual dump trucks and western stars. It’s never too late to try it out. Many shops are looking for techs. The demand is higher than ever, atleast here in Canada. If you’re starting out, I recommend an independent shop bcuz you get a variety of cars and you learn more that way. Definitely thinking about going back to school to get my truck license. Cheers.
Great video bro. Alot of good points. ive been at a Toyota dealership for the last 5 years and was thinking of joining an electricians union apprenticeship. Im gonna apply all your points to help with my decision. Im more comfortable than happy where im at now. Appreciate ur wisdom on the subject. 🤙🏾🇺🇸
I started the T-Ten program last year in august while starting an internship at a local Toyota dealership. It’s funny I actually became interested only after watching Nikos videos lol. Anyways I’ve went from $15 on the lube rack to $17 and I’m beginning to get small repair work like brakes, small diags, etc. last year i had only done an oil change and last week I did a water pump on a Prius. From a 19 year old kid with very little experience, my opinion may not be very relevant but if you’re gonna become a tech, I would highly recommend school. It’s usually a two year program and your foreman and service manager love to see you pushing yourself and taking initiative. Even if you don’t know shit, showing up on time, a good attitude, hygiene, and grabbing the next R.O. will set you apart from the rest of the guys and your paycheck will reflect it eventually. Keep up the sick videos man I love them ❤️
Always very informative and excellent delivery. One request is I like seeing you work on cars the most. If you can drop in some more footage of your skills it would be appreciated when you can. Love the song at the end of your show. What is it?
I'm gonna be 33 this year, I've been working on cars since I was a teen,but with no experience they want me to start as a lube tech,can't afford to take the pay cut unfortunately
I aint certified but i do backyard mechanic for 10yrs now. Doing it sideline income because i work in a wrong field of career. I never ran out of customers due to low charge of labor in exchange. I love what im doing and love helping people save much more money than spending alot in actual shop.
Started when I was 25 as a lube tech at Acura then a flat rate tech at Bmw for 6 years, made the jump to now become a Rolls Royce tech. Making way more money then I ever have.
@@jumb0shr1mp6 Acura was $12, went through the STEP program got offered $23 starting and before I left bmw I was getting paid $30, now at Rolls I’m getting $35, if I flag over 140 hours I get a bump in pay to $40
@@luishernandez-xd4tx The program, known as the BMW STEP Program (short for BMW's Service Technician Education Program) is a graduation program of sorts to these graduates and provides them with all the resources and training to become a certified BMW technician.
Nice video! I am 47. Been a Diesel and Auto mechanic for 21 years. The only downside is the chances for promotions. Most shops have eliminated shop Foreman and made it into a Lead position. Its the same job minus the pay and benefits and supervisor title. I was promised it 2 times in my career. I Left my last shop because I was promised Foreman with a 30 day notice. I gave up my dream of getting promoted. Found out later my last shop promoted a kid who was 28 and only had 5 years under his belt. For most of my career. I would show up to work 30 mins early and get dressed up and ready to work right away. Now I show up to work and then get ready and grab my coffee. I still work hard. But I will not stop what I am doing and race and get things done. I have not run into anyone changing fields who are older. I only have met early to mid 20s who start out as a mechanic. Most mechanics are my age anymore. We cannot hire another guy. We are working major overtime and it sucks. At least it’s optional. I have not worked overtime since my early 30s. The shortage is really bad. At least shops treat mechanics really well. 20 years ago if you called off work you would get yelled at. You were expected to not take breaks only lunch. Weekly guys would stop by the shop and ask for a job. I have been with my wife for 21 years. I have 9 year olds. Glad I paid my dues way before kids. We have a nice house and own rentals. My wife has a good job. We get to take big vacations and have nice cars and toys. I plan to retire at 62. Seem way to many guys wait to long and hobble around the shop at 60 plus in bad shape. I have always worn gloves and hearing protection from day one. The only issue I have is lifting my hands high for long periods of time. I started out as a helper and learned on the job. I never went to trade school. I have a huge stack of day class certificates and online classes I took. I was half way though a BA in Hydrology when I decided to drop out and become a mechanic. I would not recommend starting out as a mechanic. Past 40. One thing I made sure of was no kids till I had lots of experience and seniority. I paid all of my tools off my first 5 year in. I worked 60 hour weeks for years….
I just became a bumper to bumper tech with zero school or experience for Mercedes, I was a porter, then into tire shop since they don’t have “express Lube” I worked my way up within 2 years, some guys took 5+ to get into the shop but I was pretty mechanically inclined wrenching on my own cars, asking service director for permission and staying in his good side. I’ve been on the front line for about 5 months, it’s been tough having no real mentor and just learning as i mess shit up and taking wayyy longer than the jobs should. Very right about all the politics. All the OG techs don’t really like that I came up with no school or anything and get paid almost as much, I hustle. Work through lunches, 30 mins early already racking my next jobs up. I loved working on my own cars, but have not worked on my cars since I’ve became a tech. I almost joined the navy or air-force because I had no idea what I wanted to do with my life. Got blessed with my service director believing in me, but I just stress way too hard not getting help and essentially looking at a blank page when I was never taught to accurately diagnose. I am now looking back into the navy/Air Force for better benefits and pension. Also I want to be a lineman now so I would like to get school paid for. But who knows I might love it and stay in. Im 25, make 26.50, very minimal tools due to still not being sure about the career for the long run (guys are 15k+ in debt for tools). I take all advice from older more experienced mechanics/tech’s with gratitude.
Brooo love your videos! Im from Athens Greece and the last 20years im a automotive electrician (12years Toyota)..... And now im waiting a contract from Tesla Norway Bergen!!! Always chase your dreams!!!!!!
I believe it is always beneficial for anyone to learn a skill like being an auto mechanic. I work at a Gmc dealership as an autobody technician and we have two apprentices who just started both are in their early 30's. There is plenty of money to be made with either body, paint, or service.
Hey dude. I’m currently working as a salesman but I love cars so much! Next week I’m going to have an interview whether I got accepted or not to enrolled in the school as a mechanic of some sort. Wish me luck! I’m 22 and I’m hoping to get enrolled. Nice video btw!!
Hey Nick, I am 19 and today I applied to the local Toyota dealership as a lube tech. Excited to hopefully get my foot in the door of the automotive industry.
The main thing about getting into the industry at an older age, you will need two things. TOOLS and MEMORY, if you have bills and you can’t afford tools your screwed. If you have a good head on your shoulder and can pay attention and absorb knowledge, you can turn hours and do jobs efficiently. I’ve never been the most efficient tech, I’m fortunate enough to have gotten out of a dealer and into a performance shop at a young age. Definitely know why your getting into the industry, don’t look at money and that goes for any career field… I thought that at Cadillac and now I work on old Volkswagens loll
38 years old and started 5 years ago as a tire lube tech went to school to better understand repair and I’m doing more repair and making better money .
I agree! Its not about age its about the money. I have considered changing careers for a while now from diesel mechanic to electrician but its lower wages for a few years that put me off.
Good video, I just turned 20 and work at a Lexus dealership I went the no school route it worked out pretty great for me atleast, was a lube tech for about 6/7 months and now am a line tech.
Wow that's great man! Congrats. How much of a raise did u get when u went to the Line? Like $3 extra an hour? (If u don't mind answering) Were u hourly as a lube tech or flat rate as well? How many hours did u normally put in as a lube tech? (I start Tuesday!)
I got hurt in December not even at work but it made me realize what a toll this industry can take on your body. I’m only 32 but you’re body gets less and less resilient as time goes on… If you’re gonna get into this industry or any industry that’s very physical, the best time is when you’re younger for sure.
Try working on garage trucks… Had to pull a transmission. It had rat turds all over it. The garbage cooked for 2 months. The body leaked juice all over the shop. But working in the heat sucks also… lol
I'm 34 and am enrolling at PCC (Portland Community College) Sylvania for Automotive Service Technology in the winter term! I'm very excited to take this step...I've been thinking of doing this since I was in prison..right now, I'm in construction with the Oregon laborers union doing Asbestos Abatement Removal, but I still want to learn about cars. I wouldn't mind getting dirty and busting my ass fixing some assholes' cars, because I'm in it to learn the trade, and I don't care for the pay- no kids or wife! So, life is about continuing learning new practical skills as I see it! This career path will be the perfect fit for me because I love puzzles and I like a challenge, which doesn't make work boring: The thrill of accomplishment comes in working out the problem. There is great satisfaction in overcoming.
I'm 47 and taking Automotive Classes right now at a local College. I'm semi retired and I know how to work on basic car stuff but I just wanted to take some classes to learn a little about the trade for my own personal knowledge.
I started at 23 and went to automotive school, got multiple ASE’s. But I also had 3 kids and a wife to support. The way that they are paying now days. Unless you live with your parents starting out. It’s very difficult to get started in automotive. Even now it can be a struggle. And if your on flat rate it can be very tough. Outside of certain states you can literally make less than minimum wage. Be careful out there guys.
I'm a desiel mechanic and love it. I also switched from automotive to desiel tech learning so much more. Honestly there a little bit more easier to work on except heavier things lol
I used to be a machinist. Didn't really enjoy it and I don't like where the industry is going. I wanted to switch to automotive technician so I went to my local community college and started building my general tools set. Chewed through it 2 classes a semester at night. My wife and I organized our finances preparing for the pay cut. Then I got a job at a national chain. While they got my foot in the door, the pay was terrible. Last year I got a job as a tech at a Chrysler dealership in the used car dept. I'm 42 and am happier than ever
@@zlabfab487 I worked on CnC lathes, setup, programming, and turning. Had a lot of interesting work at a small shop, but low pay. Went to a large company for better pay, but that turned me into a button pusher. Bored out of my mind, no flexibility, repetitive. I also studied Manufacturing Engineering. There's so much automation coming to CnC that the operators are going to have less and less to do. That's when I decided to get out.
@@zlabfab487 get on the path towards it. Even if you just take one class at your local community college. I'd recommend building a starter set of tools that everyone needs... ratchets, wrenches, sockets, breaker bar, impact gun, pry bars. Get them from Home Depot or Harbor Freight. You'll have the basics when you start. Borrow specialty tools from the tech next to you twice, then you know what you need to buy next
I agree with what he said at 6:45. If you are doing this just for the money you are gonna hate. I was 22 years old and had been goin to college changing majors. I eventually just said screw it, "I need to start a career and start making money". My friend was studying to become a car mechanic so he could work for his dad. I said ill do that too. 3 years later.....I hate it. So please please take the advice from a 25 year old who is trying to get out of this field. Only go into this field if you truly have a passion for it.
Yea I also wanted to add that you don’t have to LOVE wrenching you just gotta like it. No one is going to Love there job every single day forever eventually you get tired of it. But if you at least like it then you will enjoy it far more then hating it.
I'm 70 been in this trade over 50 years. Am a Heavy duty on road, body and paint, I'm also thinking of doing my final 2 years of law school and becoming a scum sucking lawyer by day, a freedom fighter at night. My point is NEVER stop learning, ALWAYS keep an open mind and never, ever just lie down and let life beat you down!!
I just have to say thank you for this video. I have been asking this question on many other channels nobody really answered like you did. I'm 35 and was questioning it. I know a couple of OG's in the game and they said the same thing you said. Just started my Intro to electricity class the 10th. One quick question. Do we still have to take ASE's even with certification?
I've been working on cars since I was little and still do now but I am a carpenter/ roofer. When I take a day off from one of my jobs to work on one of my pickups I feel like it's a treat because it is strenuous but does not compare to my normal day to day
I started fresh out of high school got a job as a lube tech at Toyota went to automotive school at night finished got my ase master in about 4 years in the business got my Toyota master shortly after that. Got lucky landed a job at Ferrari and 5 years later with Ferrari I make substantially more money but I agree with nick A LOT of factors other than brand of car is what will determine how much money you can make. I’ll pass on some advice an old timer gave me when I got to Ferrari. “Worry about fixing the car the money comes with fixed cars not comebacks”
Funny, I used to work next to an older tech who always said “comebacks are just another chance to make more money!” He may be right but my pride refuses to accept comebacks as a regular occurrence.
Just turned 35 here, debating on jumping into this after withdrawing from Sheriffs. Currently Security at a casino the last 5 years and I’m over it. Watching your vids definitely gives me something to think about. I did about 10 years doing paint and body but I’d rather learn the other side of cars. Checking out the t-ten and the pact program this Tuesday. Cheers!
@@salgilead2801 I checked it out and I felt that it was something I need to think about before I dive right in. The instructor I talked to at Miramiar was very up front. I'm leaning towards the pact program but I'm looking at other options.
Been working on Mercedes for 45 years and still like my job. Lots of diagnostic challenges for sure. Only problem though is can't make much more than 60 k a year. Lots of problem cars and not much low hanging fruit. Every once in a while will hit 60 hours a week but the good stuff never lasts!
I use to work at a local Lamborghini dealership. The mechanics use to make 150k + a year just due to the manufacturer giving them huge bonuses towards the repairs. I loved working there but realized I would never afford a Lamborghini working there, let alone an apartment. Also, didn't want to work for 5+ years just to get promoted for an extra $2 on top of the minimum wage. So, changing careers is understandable when it comes to being a mechanic.
Changed career to a motorcycle technician at 35. Finished and the following week was working and now I’m currently a Ducati technician. Still learning but glad I changed.
I started officially at age 18, but was working on my my own cars at 17 and passing wrenches since i was like 5. I work on all makes and models at an independent and closing in on 195k a year
I had a teacher say that the MOST CRUCIAL part of school was to focus on electrical, and he is 100% correct. I graduated from tech school with honors and started at the dealer as an apprentice, learning way more in 3 months than in the 18 months of school. School is good for basic knowledge with paper certification mental competency, but nothing beats hands-on work. The ONLY reason I was able to push through school and dealer work was my interest in automotive systems.
I had several teachers at UTI say the same thing. I will tell you being proficient in electrical diagnostics is important but the techs who make the most money in my shop are diesel techs and heavy line techs. Electrical diagnosis is hard to get paid properly for (especially under warranty) compared to heavy line work. I've spent days diagnosing electrical nightmares and had to fight with warranty companies to justify the time I was asking for to fix the car versus when I have to tear down an engine and rebuild it, it's pretty straight forward with regards to how much it will pay me. For that reason, I prefer heavy line work because it makes me money but I also enjoy electrical diagnostics from time to time.
You are right about that. Warranty in the dealer will ask you to diag something for free and repair it for slashed times. The dealer has given me experience but I am looking towards diesel in the future. I'll just work as hard as I can for now and look for a way to switch later on. Warranty and service writers giving freebies are harmful towards technicians trying to make a living.
My personal opinion is it’s not age but where you are in life. Example : kids, financial status, priorities etc. you need to have great work ethic and not be afraid of overtime to just be learning. I’m 23 netting $30k by may. Good money in the industry. People be lying so you don’t become a tech. Stingy people in the industry. Old heads still not understanding there time is up. Just hustle and believe in yourself. Age is just a number.
Hey love the videos, Just wanted to mention at my toyota dealer as a lube tech, pay is $1 above the minimum wage plus $3 commission for each car we do. It adds up a lot and we get paid pretty good especially summer time and they don’t work us like dogs.
I will be starting at $15hr flat rate. Amy tips or advice for me to make decent money? Can I flag more hours thru the day? How is your dealer with overtime. I need 50 hours a week to survive with that low pay
It’s good you know how many hours you’ll need to flag. At first, you might need to work longer days and even on days off to hit your target. It won’t be long before you find your rhythm. Hopefully your shop will have enough work to keep everyone “fed” because if there aren’t enough cars, there’s not much you can do.
currently 18. been working on cars since i was 16, and started a mobile mechanic business at 17. now i have 5 guys working for me while i work at a dealer. got a 2000 corvette from working construction while doing online school to advance my life. Built it from ground up, built motor with txspd rods and pistons, btr stg3 cam with titanium springs, ported 243 heads, and a fast 98mm intake with tb, kooks headers going to a Billy boat catback. started at nissan as a lube a week after my 18th birthday, started heavy line pretty quick, but got laid off to "overstaffing". now i am at a CDJR dealership as a lube. I'm making 25 an hour as a fucking lube though which is crazy lol. still have been a full time student at my local auto program the entire time. working out my classes through the dealer to become a lvl 1 to reach heavyline diesel. you inspired me to go towards fleet and that is my goal still.
I been a manager of a oil change center, I clear 70k a year including bonus’s in my opinion that’s where the money is at if you can get into management just have to be patient.
I think that the area of auto repair you choose to enter is at least as important as your age. I wouldn't go into heavy engine repair if over 25 years old. I think that alignment, suspension and brakes would be a doable specialty for a person who is in good shape and general health. The big downside for the guy who is doing alignment work is that he also is often tasked with doing tire mounting and rotations. This aspect of the job is pretty rough on the back and arm's. Some dealerships will "wear out' their alignment guys doing used car rehabbing and buying large numbers of off lease units that need more work. I watched this situation just really grind down otherwise good performers.Tire changes should be spread out among ALL the qualified techs to eliminate wearing out one or two people. It helps preserve people who often are helping out the techs when something heavy or awkward needs a couple more helping hands. It is a team work thing.
Tool cost is another point it is very easy to spend 10,000 within the first month just on everyday tools not including specialty tools you will have to acquire along the way.
@@IXINineIXI yes. Unless your a lube tech, pretty much every mechanic has there own set of tools and a box. Even lube techs usually end up buying there own cause the shop provides cheap tools that no one wants to use.
started in 1968 cleaning gaskets for the masters,grubby job,17 at the time,the old guys asked me at lunch what i wanted to do,told them i wanted to make the kind of money they made,they taught me heavy line,then i made the best move ,trained on transmissions only,did this for 45 years,they still knock on the door,but i'm retired now ,good life if you work for yourself,couple of R&R guys,the skies the limit,specialize,don't let ego get in the way,train in one thing,300 million people driving,you can work till you are too tired or blood pressure keeps you from working,there's no time limit,train and go get it,its out there
I own a semi, and there are few if any mechanics out here. In the past two years, they have all disappeared. I do most of my own wrenching, have for quite a few years. And the work I see coming out of these shops is beyond ridiculous. I am repairing a friends right now, what a mess, just ordered a new turbo, actuator, oil cooler and water pump... It was a good motor with a fresh in frame until some "mechanic" got a hold of her.
@@michaelwright1602 i visited a buddy of mine owns a trucking company,as you know quite clearly,these trucks are money pits,when they run,they generate cash,when down, they are worthless,he had to go pick this truck up asked if i'd come along,i'm not a diesel repairman by any means,but an engine is an engine,i walked over and looked at his rig,he fired it up,and i yelled,shut it off,the mechanic heard me screaming at my friend,he said what is wrong,i said the rockers are rattling bad,he said bs,i know,rockers,he told john to fire it up, he said oh my,i forgot to clearance them,he said who are you,i said someone who knows that this engine is not right,he looked at john and said your friend just saved a 12500 dollar engine,he said yeah he's the one who built my race motor,guy says you want a job,i said i've got one,i looked at him and said,people who don't make mistakes,don't do anything,he said that's all you got to say,i said no,i put an engine in a car without a flywheel once,top that,we all three went for bbq,take your time,get called away,cover your work with a fender cover,come back to it,speed only comes with accuracy,there is no such thing as a fast mechanic,just make sure it runs as designed,retirement sucks,i miss the action and fun i had with the guys i worked with,enjoy your trade,be damn proud of what you do,we make a difference,we get dirty,grimy,but when it leaves your shop,IT CAN GO STATE TO STATE, that's the payday really
Age is just a number, but how soon do you want to retire is the real question? If you’re going for the long term expect to spend thousands on tools and diagnostic equipment if you want to earn serious money. Also I’d suggest starting in small shops rather than dealerships. You have higher chances of learning more there and start wrenching sooner. Overall learning to diagnose is key you want to avoid being a parts changer.
I went to UTI in '10 and learned a lot, never really recommended it though. I try to tell people to go to school for something else or at least a community college with auto classes. Anyway, I've been at the same dealer since then. Lube tech at 19, Line at 21 and worked my way up to Foreman at 27. I'm 30 now and leaned away from wrenching for the most part. As for age, it doesn't matter to me. I've seen 60+ lube techs that were decent but couldn't get over the hump, not because they weren't capable. They just couldn't understand electrical, which I highly recommend learning if you want to do this. That is the key to moving up.
If you’re between the ages of 18-24 you can also go to JobCorps to become a mechanic or learn any other trade there is for FREE! I attended jobcorps and now work as a diesel mechanic for the railroad. Great job with benefits and good pay. Check it out.
As I approached 40 I realized that I most likely could not be able to produce on a flat rate basis. I never was the fastest, I tried to do it right and avoid comebacks. It took a long time to find another career but many skills are learned while working as a mechanic. I was able to pass an electrical knowledge test and took a job in telecommunications; it was a good move.
The best techs I new made the most money, had the least comebacks, delivered on time,new the most shit,all commission men, there's no way in hell we would work hourly. You probably vote for democrats to.
I’m gonna try to pursue this as a career, been going to local college and paying 8K to get my associates in two years. Figured it was better then going to UTI for 1 year and paying 35K.
I was a toyota certified tech and i quit back in 2008. i see that it hasnt change. The main problem i had is that i worked at a high volume dealer. Too many competing Toyota dealers in an area and they take each others customers. Bean counters would load up the shop with too many techs than what the dealership had in customer base. They dont care about have too many tech since everyone is flate rate. Everyone was making between 24k-45k. 100k Techs didnt exist at toyota. back in 90s they got paid really good but over time everything just got cut. Working at the dealership isnt worth it.
I don't know why they make it so hard on techs. Imagine how much talent a shop would draw if it had a great climate control system, option of hourly/flat rate pay, good work environment, training programs. If you did that for your workers you would have to be fighting away the highly qualified applicants. But instead these dealerships that have millions of dollars would rather treat their techs like shit and constantly churn and burn them and be worrying about staffing issues, just so some guy at the top can buy another Ferrari. Honestly it seems like the industry is just exploiting these people's passion for automobiles, and if you don't have that passion- it just feels bad. Thanks for your insight! It was incredibly helpful!
I was in your shoes. Worked my ass off the last 3 years and I’m making decent money. I’ve gone far and still have a long way to go. Babies will motivate the shit out of you lol
Update! At the time of my original comment was working at one brand dealer had to leave went to another brand dealer as a lube tech put in 9 months of hard work and commitment, I’m now flare rate. I know I got lucky getting out of the lube rack under a year but my advise is just find a rhythm to work efficiently as you can, stay busy in your down time, talk to the techs, ask to help or even watch bigger jobs. Bosses are either watching or hear about what’s going on in the shop if your working hard someone will see from managers, shop forman, team leads, or just other techs word will spread about which lube tech actually wants to move up. I know I’m just starting and still learning so I’ll try to update again in a year. Thank you for the encouragement @jesus and thank you Nick for the videos they’ve helped a lot!
When you see how much money sales and F&I makes, you will walk away from parts and service and never look back. They look at fixed operations as suckers who pay the bills so they can make the big money.
I started out as an electrician and always did mechanic work on the side and the mechanic work got so busy I left the electrical and went full time at it.If you want to make real money you have to work for yourself and then you are in control .I will never work for anyone else.
Diesel mechanics are in super high demand especially for yachts and fishing vessels. Marine diesel great pay but hard work get into a caterpillar apprenticeship program its for 2 years and then work for caterpillar from there your possibilities are endless good luck buddy 👍.
No I took a 10$ per hr pay raise but since it’s not flat rate it’s not as big of an increase as it sounds. But will still make more for the year doing far less work.
IMHO, I think it's worth it. I'm 36 years old now, and have been in the game for 4.5 years. Graduated tech school in 2019 with my ASE Master Certification. I work strictly on used cars (reconditioning) and I'm also Hyundai Certified. That has earned me a $39/Hour, flat-rate position in the state of Idaho. Where you work obviously makes a difference, too. How efficient can you be as a technician. How efficient is the company getting parts to you. My employer is efficient, IMO. When it's prime season for us (March-October), I'm able to flag 150-170 hours per pay period. The other 4 months out of the year when things slow down.... 100-115 hours per pay period. My hours of work are 8:00am-5:00pm, with an hour lunch. It's a good setup. I would encourage people to pursue this industry.
@@jumb0shr1mp6 Not a problem, man. Some parts of our industry can pay well. Especially considering Auto Tech programs are only 2 years long. It really is a bang-for-your-buck trade. Hopefully you have a good experience at Toyota.
I started by going to trade school it was like a 8 month course and part of the coarse is the last 8 weeks you go to a dealership and do an internship working with a tech and I just went in and busted my ass and within 2 weeks they offered me a job as an apprentice with the same guy
How about what if you worked in a mechanic shop for 5 years how much should you expect to be able to ask for pay at a new shop? I worked at a shop for 5 years then left to go to another job(welding) and am thinking about going back to mechanic work.
I think if your past 34 and don’t know much of automotive it might be too old to start a lot of mechanic shop try to find younger people they can train it’s a lot of work to be a mechanic but it’s a good pay out if you love it, I start when I was 15 at a mechanic shop as a tire and lube tech now I’m 25 and making over 100k a year as a full time technician i recommend if your looking to come into the business over 30 to try small shop which will give you and chance to learn and honestly not to start at a dealership because it will take for ever to move up and produce money fast just my opinion
