how about working on the vw corporate side. training techs in classroom setting.also helping vw on lawsuit cases where vw had to buy the vehicle back because dealers could not fix the problem under warranty. that sounds like fun. working on nothing but heat cases.
I'm slamming and customizing a vintage beetle that I think is the absolute bees-knees, and I did have a 99 vr6 jetta that was super fun (got cheap, replaced axle beam and A arm that dumb drifter kid fubared).... but I honestly think I would rather punch bucketfuls of broken glass all day than work on nothing but late model german stuff...(no offense meant). I have interviewed at dealerships that wanted me, but didn't really follow through. In some ways I'm glad because i don't think I "fit the mold", but I would have liked to learn factory repair and get certified in one of the manufacturers lines. Then again, I like doing my own thing, flipping cars, scrap metal, I have my own repair clientele etc... I've heard that an independent streak doesn't go over well at most dealerships, and the politics are likely to get you. My thing is that I like to work full time and pull a second income. Right now I work as a tech at a chain-shop and am going to school to be medium/heavy diesel certified. That should get me in SOMEWHERE with a pretty decent position, but I expect my secondary income to eventually (15-20 yrs down) take over and become self employed. It already did once when I started buying cars just for scrap metal. My cash income was almost DOUBLE my paychecks, but man was I tired! lol!
I got a 06 gti white.. Live on ny no ruat 175k. Runs like a top still.. Just added down pipe cats deleted.. Solid car looks just like your. I just left honda. Afta 10 years.. Honestly i so sick of these cars. Fix my own cara thats it.. Honesty rather be a exterminator at this POINT
In Australia, flat rate isn't a thing at all but we have the same issue of technicians leaving. Trying to find good qualified technicians is also hard, no one's applying
*There's only 4 outs for dealership technicians* 1: _death_ 2: _become physically disabled_ 3: _stick around as a lifer and retire_ 4: _leave willingly prior to completing steps 1, 2, or 3_
Over the years ive noticed that the top techs pretty much always get out of the business. It seems that if you have what it takes be be a top guy, then you would make significantly more money in other professions. A top drivability and electrical guy easily has the cognitive ability to work in just about any other profession.
Dealers and the car manufacturers look at the techs as thieves ,cheats and liars , they are right ,that's exactly what they created. A dealer tech would be skidded out if they didn't lie cheat and steal. Our shop motto was Fraud Feeds My Family.
Great topic. I'm glad this was brought up. We had 3 guys quit in the last month. One became a cop, one went to work for public transportation and another went out of state. This field is tough and the most common reason I hear is that most techs feel unhappy with the flat rate system a our dealership. They have raised the labor rate for the consumer and lowered the time pay for the tech. Its not a winning combo. I would have to guess that the next level would be either to learn parts dept/service advisor and maybe eventually go for GM. Although it seems many GM's take the sales route instead. I'm not sure but this topic is one we discuss. Nobody seems to know...
I left an indy shop after a few years, went to a Toyota dealer. I never want to leave. Worked on rusty old junk at the independent shop, working on stuff that's less than 10 years old for the most part at the dealership. Lots of maintenance/services rather than fixing broken cars and it's a bit like a production line...I've been realizing lately that I'm ok with that.
I transitioned from dealership tech to Industrial machine mechanic for an avionics company. Money and benefits are much better. I have found my previous experience with cars has tied into manufacturing machines very well.
It is a young(er) man's (or woman's, but I've only known one female tech) job - I've known many mechanics and most say the same, that you notice it more (physically) as you get older. You bake in the summer, you freeze in the winter, your hands take a beating (sometimes literally) and are always full of crud no matter what you do. I recently did a bit of "mechanicing" after a long break, and the pain just shot through the roof (from repeated movements such as using a screwdriver, and also from impact using a hammer, etc.) So apart from messing around with my own stuff, I can't go bacik to it as a full time job. Sadly, I don't think mechanics/technicians get enough respect, not for what we have to do, what we know, our abilities, and the training we go through. I did 4 years of college (day release), sat over 10 exams, done various VW training courses, and for what? Due to a few unscrupulous shops/mechanics, we are not trusted as a whole and people often think we are trying to rip them off. Unfortunately, I don't really know what the answer is. You either just keep on going, doing the odd brand training courses as new tech comes out, leave and do something else, or perhaps you start your own shop. I think you just basically hit a plateau, and every one has to make up their own minds as to what to do based upon whether or not you still enjoy the job, and/or other personal circumstances.
Worth noting is doing it the old way is dirtier and more painful. Many folks still don't use disposable nitrile gloves and use hand tools where pneumatics and cordless tools would really save their arms from tendonitis and rotator cuff damage and their hands from carpal tunnel. If you own your own facility later in life you can choose not to freeze or bake. Using technology to lift heavy objects pays off.
To address your first paragraph, in the future, hands will get less dirty and minds will have to get more sharper, as more computer functions and electric vehicles will command different ways of repair, as Scotty notes.
after working on my car, just doing oil changes and replacing worn parts, I'm surprised at how physically demanding it is. I was sore and I swear I'd have a six pack with the amount of sit-ups I was doing.
gizzy nc unfortunately I've noticed that same thing over the years. Instead of the more experienced techs taking a mentoring role like we all should!! a lot of them seem to think sharing what you know is like shooting yourself in the foot.
You also have to think that from my perspective, I don't want to waste any more time than I already have on someone who I feel isn't dedicated enough or gonna stick around through the bad times and ride that out. I've personally tried helping and teaching a few younger guys only to have them either not pay attention (phone in hand) or just decide they want to be a welder now. There are always 2 sides of a story. You work hard and be willing to push through the bad times, you'll be the one teaching someone who reminds you of a younger you.
Get a government fleet service job as a mechanic. Where you are no longer flat rate, where you have all the time you need to do a quality job and you get tons of paid vacation. I moved into a government job and the dynamic change is huge, night and day difference. Went from being a number to being a part of a family. Im not an automotive mechanic im a facility mechanic but i work with and around a lot of the fleet service guys and they feel the same about there job.
Ya ,was sentenced to 20 years of retail, 14 at a dodge dealer, now i work fleet for the railroad, would not let my children get into this trade , I get so pissed when i here people put down other shops and techs , i've been and seen both sides, Job satisfaction for a retail tech is rated at the same level as a cop.
Agreed I went from making 100k a year flat rate working 7days a week open to close to a government funded transit agency making 90k a year working 40hrs a week. Pension, 457 plan, Medicare for my family, life insurance, accidental insurance, and not buying tools from snap on every week. I feel blessed.
Mr.Motarded Mike very true. I started new w limited experience in a government fleet and it was the best job. I left since decided to move location but will get back ASAP. Definitely 100 percent true
I think I quit when I was 31 as it was hard on my body and I was always upset. Now I work in high voltage power conversion and propulsion (for a defense contractor basically). This was somewhat of a fluke, but the experience gained from working on commission, not getting paid for work not finished or improperly diagnosed, the people skill gained really helped make me good at what i do now. I did have some educational background in electronics and engineering in school...but like you said...I chose to fix cars for a period (and still do for myself).
Hi HumbleMechanic I' am a master Hyundai/Kia/Genesis tech. Thank you for this video it has really touched me where it hurts. I feel the same as you about automotive. I think manufacturers don't really care about our future because we are not their direct employees, so we have to be creative about our future. For instance, we could save more from our income and use it as a vehicle to invest in other areas like realestate or something else. Thank you for your efforts again.
It's the days you don't work that I really feel the pain. Especially in my hands. They get stiff. I'm maxed out on my manufacture training through Kia, and this has it's pros and cons, as you mentioned. I will ALWAYS work on vehicles. But, I doubt it will be a life long profession for me. I see my dad in his early 50's, and the physical hardship this job has had on him. I think the pros to an independent shop versus a dealership, is there is less stress on time. Dealerships at times have unrealistic expectations for repairs, and it's a constant pressure on technicians. Also, growing up in a dealership, I always saw the technicians (mechanics) treated with respect. Since the 2008 recession, this isn't the case it seems. Disposable technicians is the new way, treated badly, and in my opinion, not paid accordingly. Good technicians move on, either to other dealerships, manufactures, or out of the field all together, which in reality hurts the manufacture and dealership more than the technician themselves. Sadly, it isn't even viewed this way.
+Thomson85 sorry to burst your bubble buddy but I work at an independent shop for 8 years and paid flat rateindependent shop will leave a MUCH bigger scar on your body than working at a dealership I work on cars that are 15-20 years old, rusty and every car that comes in is different. You need more tools, you will be lost more and there is less resources and no big "manufactuerer" to call when you are in trouble.
Here in central Texas, within the GM dealership world, there is definitely a shortage of techs. I believe it's a combination of low warranty times (4.8hrs to overhaul a 6L80?) and the fact that raises and promotions are non-existent. Guys go to other dealers within the same brand and it's no different.
Move into commercial or industrial. If you work as an industrial mechanic you can make excellent money. You can move up to maintenance manager. Most decent companies offer tuition reimbursement for you to go to school. If you have the aptitude you can go to school and become a maintenance or reliability engineer or a industrial or project engineer. Some companies may even give you that title with no degree if you have the right kind of experience.
Charles fantastic subject. I'm not a tech but spent 30 with GM on the vehicle production side of the business. I stayed there because the pay was good the benefits were good and now the pension is good. Auto workers work real hard just like any other manual occupation. I'd like to ask you a question. Do you think today's topic would have been averted if the pay was better the benefits were better and there would be a good pension from your dealership waiting for you when you wanted to retire ? It's amazing how money can alter one thought process. I quite enjoy you thought process, look forward to more of this. Thanks Steve
Steve Rob Thanks for the comment Steve(and the kind words :)Sure if the pay/benefits/pension was better I would feel different. But there is also a level of fulfillment that plays into it. I don't really want a job that I "punch the clock". I want to feel like I make a difference.Money can shift your thinking, but I think that is short term. That being said, I wont say no to a raise. :)
Good topic. I was mastertguild Audi technician at and Audi dealership in a upscale neighborhood in Los Angeles. My co workers were the best and the pay was amazing but after 10 years, it just got old, plus traffic was so bad all the time and in time I grew unhappy there. It was getting hard just to break 80 hours in 2 weeks when I would break 120 without a sweat years before in a 2 week pay period. Which now it means working more hours and working harder to get your hours. You throw in the dealership politics, more complicated work, lower SRT times. After a while, I did feel like I was stuck there instead of wanting to be there, Don`t get me wrong. There are far worse places to be stuck at. I owe that place a lot. I have achieved a lot there. I guess it just ran it course for me. So.....I left and packed my bags and tool box to Bavaria ,Germany in Dec 2012. Learned the language, integrated here and working on Audis over here. It`s a different mindset here. LOVE IT! I guess for me all I needed was a change of scenery. Oh yeah, The beer is pretty damn awesome here.
radimus323 WOW, what a cool story. The dealership landscape really did change in the late 2000s. I am so happy that you made that jump. And what a crazy awesome jump it was. :)
+HumbleMechanic Yeah the Dealer World went down hill fast in the mid 2000s. The 90's and Early 2000s were awesome, the Time Guide paid more, warranty was less scrutinized and adjusted for inflation we were paid more per Flat Rate Hr. I worked with 14 people in the Dealers who opened their own shop, These are mostly guys I worked with at Mercedes Benz Dealers.
It's the dreaded plateau for sure. I would have to speak of the obvious from what I see directly in front of me. Your channel, your pod casts! I know from experience that you get dozens of emails and comments each day from people that you have helped in some way. Those positive comments and thanks has to light that fire again and again. It's a new perspective on our jobs. We are no longer working on that customer whose eating doughnuts and staring out the waiting room window wondering what's taking so long.....instead your being viewed all over the world by people who are actually grateful.
It’s a tough job as a tech gets older. It’s pretty rare to see any tech over 50 still working the line. The work gets old and heavy. They resist the quick changing technology and I can’t blame them. A lot go into the mobile tool business where some do quite well.
When I finished tech school and interviewed seven dealers in the area I wanted to land in, I chose the one that came across most like a service business with a sales department, not the other way around. The franchise was established something like 1911, and had all the obscure special tools to work on antique units, and stocked a lot of parts to work on the old stuff too. We had a full machine shop and did full engine/transmission rebuilding. Nothing was ever "too old" to work on, or too weird of a project to take on. If that wasn't enough, the owner had another dealership down the road with a racing team and dyno for performance tuning. We also had a department dedicated to crash repair, and another to restoration work. There was so many different directions to go beyond "qualified service tech" that I could see myself staying there indefinitely. Unfortunately when the economy nose dived in the early 2000's, profit became a huge priority and suddenly all we were doing was routine maintenance and tire changes. Our managers left the business and were replaced with penny pinchers. I had to leave after seven years and didn't get back into the business for another decade.
Well. Very good but also very depressing podcast. Cathartic may be the best description. The problem(s) at it's core fundamentally a human one. This problem exists at all levels in the chain is inherent to all relationships. Auto company wants to make the most for the least cost/effort---dealer wants to make the most for the least cost/effort---tech wants to he compensated the most...on and on. This dynamic goes on in ALL human, animal even many non living systems. Nature wants the most for the least. The market usually takes care of this problem over time. But it seems lately things are out of whack. In the short term, the only answer I see is for people to leverage their power. Even if it causes some pain. The good tech with leverage needs to look for better prospects. Actually this applies to everything from boyfriend/girlfriend relationships to CEO. Of you have power, leverage it. If the system wants you, it will keep you, or you will be helping out your future bros and gals. On the other side of the human problem, if you arn't willing or able to leverage yourself. Find ways to be happier with your current situation. Focus on what you have, build healthy relationships and keep truckn'. Nothing wrong with that Just try not to occupy middle ground. Move on or work to accept. Middle off the road gets you run over every time. Thanks for entertaining my long annoying response.
I'm a tech at Harley Davidson, I'm putting my notice in at the beginning of feburary and going to an independent shop. Hopefully it works out. If not I need to find a better career
I met a guy who worked for a big Japanese automaker, in Australia. He started out as a tech, got all the certifications, won the national internal company competition for techs, and worked his way up to being their head of training and development for all techs in the country. So in some cases at least there is a path up, but for maybe 1 out of 10000 techs. :/
I understand this completely, even though I'm in the diesel/heavy equipment world for 12 years. I am in the body shop so it's never the same job twice in a row, but it still gets old after a while. I started as a helper and worked up to the 200+ hour wrecks by myself. pretty much everything that can be done is what I did. I looked around one day and saw that there was only one other guy even close to me, not to sound arrogant. everyone always expected me to do the hard jobs for them so they never tried. I was just the guy who learned by dissection and bettered myself every chance I got. I have long wondered the dilemma of this video, but my mind was made up for me on July 15 2016. I was riding my motorcycle on the way to work one Friday morning and was involved in a horrible wreck that broke my back in 2 places, 3 ribs, both arms and bruised my lungs. I was out of work for 4 months. long story short, to my disappointment, I cannot do it anymore or at least for now. a lot of things fell into place and I was offered a foreman/service advisor position at a different location. you ain't lying about taking crap from every angle. but the part that bothers me the most is the worthless crew I have turning out crap work that I have to sign my name to when i have knowledge to do it better and faster and they wont listen. it's great how everything worked out but I still think it's less stressful with just me, the truck, and the parts. leave me alone and I'll produce for you. it's better than nothing. do the best you can with what you got.
17 years as a Master Volvo technician .I worked in kentucky, texas, north carolina, and Australia. I left for good last year to work with a military contractor and travel the world while barely turning wrenches ever again. I never been happier and actively encourage friends to get the hell out of the industry. I encourage young people to never go into the industry.
After moving dealerships when I felt I reached my limit a couple of times I've met guys who I trust and want to work for me so next plan is to open my own place and get them working for me. Here in Australia usually guys that work for private shops make more money and have better conditions.
It all depends on what you want as a technician. The best paying place might not be the right place for you. Experience will play a tremendous roll in your happiness where you work. Not just your experience but the experience of the techs around you. I work in an independent shop where some techs have already spent 20 plus years in that shop. They have stayed for a reason. The reason is simple training is provided, special tools are provided, most up to date scan tools that an independent shop can have are provided, shop manuals for almost every brand are provided (and expected to be used) and pay (for my area) is phenomenal. $400 after taxes just for walking in the door everyday, $8 for each allocated flat rate hour plus whatever hoops you have to jump thru that really aren't allocated in the flat rate system that we all know at times is flawed. We get over time (which most independent shops won't pay in my experience) and we get a $2.50 hourly bonus if we collectively turn $8000 a week for the boss (we almost always do, that's a team effort) financially it's a great place! Almost always there is a trade off in the industry for time off and good pay as I think is the case in most industries. Not here, we work every other Saturday on rotation and your fourth weekend is a four day weekend. We send all cars out the door in as close to factory condition as we can get them (95% are in factory condition out the door, you can't tell we were in them) the other 5% have seen the dreaded hack mechanic or family member that will most definitely mess up the car worse. Also we get a week paid vacation. It took a long time to one find this type of work place and two to get in the door. For me this place is what was next. The next thing is out there for everybody, you just have to look for it. Until you find it don't get discouraged, just keep on wrenchin. And watch The Humble Mechanic, his experience will help you. Best of luck to you guys!
i was with vw for 9 years since i was 18 after trade school. i loved it i was sent to the journey man program. just the pay and the abuse was what i didn't like. having to kiss ass to make money and hope for a customer pay job was terrible always ending up with some warranty job. i never complained as i loved what i did and always learning but i left to work for the city for better pay.. but i do miss working at the dealer always learning and perfecting your craft.
Mechanics are in the same position as truck drivers were 25yrs ago. They are paying drivers pennies on the dollar and the load them down with debt of truck, ins. etc . The companies are getting all the bread and the drivers are getting the few crumbs that falls off the table. It is worse than share cropping. Worse than having a large student load debt. First, you need to go to an hourly rate and not flat rate. And a Union to represent you. Mechanics are paid very little and have to furnish all the tools and constantly getting paying less at flat rate. Best to find a company that needs a fleet mechanic or a state or govt job that can use your skills. I would not recommend any of my friends to go into mechanics or driving a truck. Heck, you can get 20/hour just working a cell phone store and got benefits, etc. And not life time debt of a semi truck or married to the tool truck, like a student loan situation.
My next step was Diesel. I make much better money, hourly, and the equipment I work on is all owned by our company. Definetly the right choice for me. the work is tougher, but its awesome fixing big rigs and bobcats and excavators and all that
I went from Honda to Chevrolet and then I specialized in Duramax. I went to dealerships after working at a Porsche race shop. Building and doing track support for Rolex cars was an absolute blast, but the pay was TERRIBLE. You have to love it and already have money to really make it in the auto racing industry to where you can actually start to make good money again. I was just starting out and still buying tools in order to even do my job. It turned into a vicious cycle of owing too much money on tools and not making enough to cover the bills, so I moved on. After the collapse in '08 I took a 6-1/2 year break from the industry. It became exceptionally difficult to survive. Some shops at the time did everything they could to make a dollar, including raping aftermarket warranty companies, overcharging customers and even selling work that was not performed. I was not willing to participate. Now I'm working for an independent shop doing very well and couldn't be happier. I'm challenged daily and driven to excellence. The only downside is that the tool burden is heavier. All of the testing equipment I am used to having on hand is now something I have to provide. The shop has a very nice scanner, but everything else is on me. I thought I was done with buying tools! :P
I'm a level 2 technician for Chrysler and by the end if this year I will a level 3 Chrysler master technician I'm thinking about leaving the dealership next year and go into the diesel heavy duty field
That is is, I kinda wish I had taken my opportunity back 13-14 years ago. I had a local trash company begging me to come and work for them on their 18 wheelers. I thought it was going to be too nasty and I passed it up. Now that I look back, I would have likely had a much simpler life now.
your skills are in great demand ,The older HD people won;t mess with the new electronic systems that are standard on the equipment built now. Focus on the computer stuff first and the mech stuff second .You won't be sent home early.
I was level 2 in everything but electrical, driveline, and engines, because it was so hard to get one electrical course, and I was level 3 in drive train and engine, but they still wouldn't pay me more than $12 an hour. I'd take that training and run.
In the end i think it comes down to knowing your full potential and whether or not you want to achieve it. Some people have the drive while others dont. If someone is at a top level position and they know they can do better or are not happy/content with where they are, then if they have the drive they will find what makes them more content and get them closer to their full potential. Others are content staying in one spot and would be happy and content staying where they are. In the end i think it all depends on your drive to advance and being able to realize what you are fully capable of doing
I just cant see myself working for someone all my life and i have the drive to start my own shop. I know I can do it and it will be very difficult but in the end I will be happier
Great Video! i believe i have discovered the next step. I work as a master tech in a independent shop, and like you said lately have been feeling Burnt out. I just don't believe the amount of money i spent on tools was really worth it. but cars are def. my passion, so what i have started doing for a few years now is selling cars. I cant explain how good it feels working on a car that i know ALL the profit is mine. i still work a 4 day week at the shop,just to stay fresh and upto date, but soon hope to sell cars full time, then when i work on my own cars i will be purely out of passion :)
My father in law does that. His uncle has a dealer license so they just fix up ford ranger after ranger all year long. They make 3500 profit each a month selling rangers and then makes about 1000 doing odd jobs. He said he will never even think about going back to a shop unless his uncle dies.
One way to get inventory many dealers use is to buy at Copart (easy because they started as mechanics) then turn select vehicles for profit. Don't do bottom feeding because you will do the same work for a shitbox as a more profitable truck, SUV or car. A dealer license lets you get the most out of the used car and salvage car ecosystem without bothering with a salvage yard unless you want to (they can be very, very profitable).
First of all, great topic for discussion. Ever since I started as a tech, I've been looking for the next challenge, or next certification, or skill level. I've considered many of the options that you brought up. It seems like the logical next step for a master technician would be some kind of engineering. I have a friend who was a Honda tech for many years. After crushing an aptitude test that he wasn't even planning on taking, he was hired as a Robotics Technician for a micro-processor manufacturer. He had no degree. He tested well because of his automotive experience. What I see myself doing in the future is going back to school for electrical engineering. My second choice would be to teach automotive for a trade school or community college (which would be easier). I love to teach.
You bring up very good points which I too used to ask myself when I worked at several VW dealerships. My idea had always been to somehow contact VW corporate and share my idea of having experienced technicians be part of the teams that design new vehicles, so that their input can be taken into consideration. All manufacturers do not take into consideration the actual repair process of certain issues which due to design, are more work then if things were done differently. Having gone to a 15 month gas/diesel school program, I decided to leave the dealer scene and expand my knowledge in the medium & heavy duty fields. After learning and gaining enough experience I again moved to other unique industries which provided me with more knowledge. Had never realized the GSE (ground support equipment )industry at airports was very challenging.
I was kind of wondering the same thing. I see the older guys at my work who are on the verge of retirement (once they can find a suitable replacement) and I realized that I do not want to be 60+ years old and still working on ATV's. I wouldn't mind doing it for the next 10 or so years but by then I think I'll definitely be wanting to go to the 'next level' ...whatever that may be.
Uncle worked at a GM dealership. His big gripe was having to work on many different makes. He was happy as a pig in shet when his union announced he would only have to work on one specific make. That kinda bothered me because that would limit his experience with other brands and also make his skills less marketable. As an employer I'd be pissed if there was a backlog of say Ford cars/truck to be worked on and my mechanic couldn't help catch up. Ya'll know what happened to allot of those dealerships because of such nonsense. He's working at a used car lot servicing every imaginable car ever made for much less in pay. In the end employers have to compete with other employers. If the person is worth their salt then they can name their price or go on to greener pastures. A skilled employee is difficult to hang onto. Some concessions can be made on an individual basis. If the employer knows the tech does his job and to what degree there is normally leeway for negotiation. Your pals that left. One who went to another shop. Without knowing more it's hard to say. Even the relationship with the co-workers and employers, paperwork the cars, the pay. Some foreign cars... I find are a pain to work on as are some domestic. The guy starting his own shop. Good for him. That is the goal for many. Gain experience, tools and eventually start their own business. That can go well too if he didn't burn bridges with references to clients back to his own employer or to him depending on the field. Have seen that. Have given contracts to past employees who have started their own businesses, even past employers Communication is key. For gods sake, make it known to the employer what your goals are. If you're unhappy try to explain why and negotiate. You're more likely to get something within reason if you have value.
Clay if you don't mind , what Country was your uncles GM dealership in that had unionized shop techs. I'm up in Canada and we do have unionized dealerships techs. Take Care Steve.
I think communication is obviously important, but you can't make your goals known to your employer if you don't know what they are yourself. Which is what I understood to be the topic of this video. I've never worked in the automotive industry but I did have a good job that I left because I no longer had a goal to achieve. As personally rewarding as it can be to achieve a long term goal it's equally as disappointing to realize that you've just lost your "purpose".
Randy Slodysko It depends on the job, the employee and employer. In a large company you may only make your feelings known to co-workers. Smaller settings like a shop or contracting firm you tend to have closer relationships. Going in the only goal may be a paycheck. After a few months you have a better idea of what is possible. Is it still a paycheck or is it a company in which you see yourself climbing the ladder. Are their additional perks and increases in pay as you show competence and reliability as responsibilities grow. Some are happy in the bottom tier and don't want added responsibility. That pay increase after a few months is enough and they'll float from job to job depending on the work environment. Other times there is no hope for advancement. Maybe a raise here and there. You may hear there is an opening or an opportunity comes along. Never is there a one size fit all since employees and employers vary so greatly. HM's goal is Master Tech. Then what? Once you reach that goal.... You would hope it is a vocation in which you found fulfilling, At the very least it pays the bills and you can enjoy life outside of work. Often times work sucks, why they call it work. Flat rate job that doesn't go right or takes twice as long. I have done electrical jobs that have taken far longer than it should. No skin off my back because I enjoyed it. Small jobs that payed well were hell, just had no interest or didn't like the customer/employer or the micromanagement. They try to fudge with codes and do shoddy work. Did it anyways because it meant future employment and contracts that I looked forward to. It payed the bills but left a bad taste in your mouth. Bid low not just to get your foot in the door but because it's interesting and you want to be a part of it, want to learn more, have more experience with that work and the people involved. Same with crap jobs too to make ends meet and have knowledge in that field. Knowledge you can use down the line If anything it's important not to burn your bridges. You never know when you're going to have to backtrack. It's always good to leave on good terms, with notice. You build a network of people who know your value and would be glad to take you back if that next big thing doesn't work out. Some people, not so much the jobs i'd never want to be involved with again. Do it to the best of your ability as safe as possible so you can sleep well at night.
The tech is the bottom of the barrel?? Ha, the dealer wouldn’t stay afloat without all those “lowly” techs! Bro, f the dealer. Go open an Indy shop and start working on cool cars and get all the $$$. Plus, feel good as you make your clients happy because you just saved them some money vs going to stealer. Way way better on your own!🤘🤘🤘🤘🤘🤘🤘🤘🤘🤘🤘👍
I don’t disagree for some of us. But for many techs it’s NOT the right move. I really don’t care what people do as long as they are happy and fulfilled
Everyone's fulfillment needs/life goals are different. What may keep one working at the dealership may actually make another leave. Only thing that can be done outside of that is to ensure that technicians are being supported by the people above them. Provide a safe, fair open working environment. Where people can be treated fairly, allowed to be open about issues/concerns and not feel that they will be ridiculed or worse yet fired for them. There is alot of office politics/drama in a workplace. A dealership service shop is not the exception. Nothing destroys moral more at a workplace than toxic leadership. Hard to stay loyal/work for a place where you are not appreciated for the value you bring and mostly treated like dirt. Just my take on this. Stay safe/take care!
I am semi retired. A thought that has crossed my mind many times when doing the nearly impossible jobs is that people, as in both customers and employers are fortunate to have people that are willing to do this work. Couple that with the amount of money spent on tools over the years, it is very much a thankless job. We seem to have had the similar situation forever, when I was in trade school they spoke about the lack of people coming into the field. Personally, I would never encourage anyone to get into this trade, unless they absolutely have their mind set on it.
I'm kind of the other way round here. I work for a minibus company heading up their private garage. It has a very limited scope for progression and learning new skills. Currently there is no job above mine. I'm about to move to a dealership garage at a lower level but the chance to learn new skills and gain more technical experience seems worth it to me
I was a service writer at a Chrysler Dealership, lube tech at a Ford Dealership, and was recently let go from an independent shop because of Obamas Affordable Health Care I couldn't agree more. As luck would have it, I'm looking to go back to the Chrysler joint for the entry level technician spot they are offering now...I wonder who is leaving and or what is happening. I remember the Senior tech telling me he would opening up shop once he was able to..... Interesting isn't it. Keep up the videos.
I got out of STEP, and tried two dealerships. I left after a few days at both. What bothered me is that we are taught a certain way at STEP, then we need to cut corners when on flat rate. Rear alignment on most BMW requires bolt replacement, but we don't really get time to do that. So if I replace it I don't get paid and if I don't replace it and the customer crashes I can expect jail time. Maybe other techs are ok with that, but it was not really for me. They really could do without flat rate in my opinion, forman could keep people working and people who do things properly could afford to take the proper time to get the car going and not come back.
for me, i just want to push myself harder and harder to flag more hours and be able to complete work faster, while being very thorough still; i don't half -ass any job.. but I am limited to the amount of work I receive because my service advisor is lazy and un-motivated. This dilemma is the reason I just want to get out of the industry. I am a machine, I will literally work 16 hours a day, am soon to be a senior master, and have done everything in my power to be successful, but the fate of my paycheck lies in the hands of an incompetent service advisor, and I've just never managed to be paired with an advisor who is as motivated as me. meanwhile, the dealership hires more and more parts changers, there's no respect for real technicians at the dealer.
Worked as a technician for 20 years,shop Foreman for 13 years,then opened my own shop. Should have done it sooner- never looked back. I really enjoy running my own shop.
How? Shop rents are $6k a month for a small 3 bay shop, plus all the other things where I am and you can only charge $120 an hour nobody has money. Toronto, Canada. How do you do it?
my personal burnout time has been about 8 yrs. seems to be about how long it takes to get to the top tech level and pretty much be able to do all the jobs within the shop. i think the challenge is gone for me and its time to look for another. now i rarely turn wrenches but am in a supervisory role that has a whole different set of challenges that makes me long for the old days of simplicity. i often think of working with a friend and opening and independent repair shop that does some restoration work, i'm just to scared to take the leap. maybe some mechanics just need a constant challenge throughout their career. just a personal note, dealer and fleet work seems to get old quicker than independent repair shops.
I left independent because I plateaux’d and it was all out every day to make a great check. Could gaff off and still make what I needed to stay alive thou. But always had to help other guys which took me away from my work CONSTANTLY. And had to know everything about every different manufacturer. Got paid $11hr + 18% labor and 4% parts. It worked but weird.. At dealer it’s $35hr and going to $37hr w 40hr guarantee wk. I wanted to work on one brand only and also the dealer took so much stress away and I worked easier for double the hours, didn’t have to babysit anyone and the drive is 9,000mi less a year.
I was with ford 6 yrs, now with Chrysler 12 yrs and am a lvl 3 master tech with the ase's, the small town mentality here is "oh your lucky just to have a job and you get what you get as far as pay" Truth is that is somewhat correct. Nobody in my town really pays good. Some techs get lucky and start out higher pay with what manager is there at the time. So I can see this career being less than desireable as far as long term profit or benefit.
I feel like really good techs should go out and work on their own. I noticed a movement of driven techs starting their own business because the flat rate system is flawed. We are held accountable for performance but management is not
I could not have said it any better myself. I have been a technician since 2004. I have changed brands already and now I'm a top level Porsche tech. I tried being the Porsche service advisor for about a year and couldn't take it anymore. Totally lost as far as knowing what to do and what the next step may be.
This is an old video, I know.. But the Mechanic I used to go to in my old city with my E36 BMW started his career at a Mercedes dealership, and has since moved on to owning his own European independent shop .Great guy! He would do certain work for me for free and give me discounts on parts E,G, oil filters e.t.c.
Personally I got slightly discouraged early on as to making it a lifelong career. I was in my auto shop in HS as a freshman, then spent 2hrs day as a Sophomore, and 4 hours a day my JR. and SR. years doing "free" work on cars from our towns residents and our teachers cars. It really was treated as a free shop +parts, (worked out great for the low-income families that didn't have the most money or the best cars to begin with). I also worked since I was a freshman at a local shop until 7pm Mon-Fri and 6am-6pm on Saturdays. By the time I was a senior I was basically working in the shop part-time at school for free then go straight to work after school, basically putting in 10hrs everyday. In the mornings I would come to class and go straight to work, not even go to the classroom for roll call, all of the other kids had traditional theory and application academic work that honestly looked boring as shit lol. So I may have actually pushed myself out of a career before ever even starting. After HS I worked a couple of years at that same shop, until the oilfield boom hit North Teas, and I along many other people chased the money and it was good, the work was new and instead of being in a shop all day I was now traveling constantly and working outside, quite refreshing actually. The work being mindless was a plus as well, no need to think, just do type attitude will get you along way in the oilfield. I did the oilfield for a couple of years but it wasn't really much of a career, and I knew that going in. The shop I had worked at was only a two man team and he had a new apprentice under his wing, besides he couldn't really afford to pay what I was accustomed to. So I joined the Army and became a Combat Medic. A lot like fixing machines because basically the human body is a machine. I enjoyed that as a career, I kept working on cars for friends and colleagues for 30 packs and a bill, and maintained my personal enthusiasm for cars, and high performance engines. Unfortunately I wasn't able to stay in the Army, after 8yrs of service I was medically retired, some injuries from an IED explosion and most others just from hard physical wear and tear, Im sure my previous work didn't help any either. After leaving the Army, the guy that originally hired me when I was 14 gave me back my job at 27. I hadn't realized how easily you forget information so it took me a bit to get on track, plus I noticed physically how demanding it was, I hadn't remembered it that way. Anyways I knew that I realistically would not pursue it as a career choice, rather keep it as a hobby Being medically discharged has put me in a unique predicament. Because of my service I can now go to school again. I am wanting to still stay in the automotive world but purely the aftermarket engine realm. So I have decided to go to tech school to become a machinist and CNC programmer. I have a goal of doing my own head/block work and high performance engine builds, and doing it well into my old age. The work wont be as physically demanding, and I'll be creating something. I'll be able to IMPROVE on things that will be in high stress applications all with the goal of having fun. I can't think of anything more rewarding for me. An upside would be my medical retirement compensation I receive from the Army monthly it's not much but if I can make decent money CNC Programming and getting my skills down for a larger company I can set that extra money to the side and buy my own machines to start filling my own shop. I think that's where I'm going and I think that's where I'll stay.
Charles you talk about the top level guys leaving the dealership. How about these top level guys go back to school and learn mechanical engineering and start designing the cars? I'll bet there has been a time or two when as a tech you thought what idiot designed this part, I could do it better. The pay is better and you stop buying those expensive tools.
dandaman some would say staying at a job you are no longer love anymore could be much harder than going back to school and learning a new skill. And if you only pay 60k for school and make 40k more a year you can have that school loan paid off pretty quick and live a more comfortable life after two years at the job. As far as relocation goes, some people like to move if it means a better life for them or their family. Just look at the population of the United States most of the people who lived in the US either migrated or someone in their blood line did for better opportunities. But it is not for everyone some people are too scared of improve their life because they are afraid of failure or would rather make excuses or blame someone else for their problems than to accept personal responsibility for their own life.
I know the feeling, I got my First Gold Ring from Mercedes Benz after 10 years, I'm About to get my Second Gold Ring with Nissan/Infiniti after 7 years, Now What? I'm actually considering working for Nissan. I was approached about a Techline postion and a Teaching Position. I will be 50 in 6 years, I asked my service manager that I have worked with the last 7 years, should I 1) Become a Service Advisor, 2) Stay a Technician 3) Get a Job with Nissan and work my way to a Technical Specialist. He felt I would be best suited to working toward a job with Nissan. The Manufacture has some opportunities for good Master Techs where we can pass that torch on.
+PHXGlock That's awesome man. I wish you all the best of luck. No easy task to have the knowledge and experience that you have. Glad to see you working to a job at tech line. We need all the good help there we can get.
No I declined Techline I'm still at my store but I think I might reconsider it closer to 50. I still love being a tech and not ready to give it up. I would have to relocated to Tennessee and that became a conflict with my Fiancee. The Teaching Postion was in Dallas and preferred a 4 year Degree. Nissan Usually make you do 2 to 4 years techline before being a Regional Tech Specialist. By the way the Nissan Guys I have come to know (Teachers, Tech Specialists) have good taste in Beer. I've been lucky to not have any Back Problems but I think in 6 years I will be ready.
I as well as a European specialist, and heavy equipment tech. Wasn't much room to move up, but I found a great option that led me to my "next" level. I became an auto instructor at my local high school.
I was a dealer tech 20+ years ago. When I left the dealership I went to a small 2 bay shop. I really liked not have so many people around all of the time. I also changed makes and was able to do custom work. The pay was less, quite a bit less, but that really didn't bother me. The last bit of me working on cars professionally was 5+ years with a municipality, steady easy work but really boring. That job really burned me out so I changed fields, I'm still a tech just working on computers now.
No problem, HumbleMechanic as far as changing fields it was time. My first job turning wrenches was 20+ years ago and my last job made me hate it. I didn't even want to work on my own cars. Now I'm back to loving it just only on weekend.
Tarrick DD Grant There are plenty of times where I miss the fun of working on cars. It usually comes when I am helping a buddy out. That way I don't have to actually work. I can just guide them and have a few beers. LOL
Mechanic of 34 years and I hated VW as well as Audi and BMW All that junk plastic that breaks whenever you touch it...Mercedes wasn't as bad, Luckily I mostly worked on domestic US vehicles, Seriously I'd never own a German car.
i was not so goal driven, i made many certifications in my few years inside dealerships. i bounced around manufacturers for a while then went independent.. love independent because i get to see everything.
Working for a dealership is like going through a meat grinder. It's always push push push, hurry hurry hurry, move move move, do more do more. I gave it up a long time ago. It was ruining my life. For the past 30 years I have been a mechanic at a vintage/classic American car restoration shop. They do not work on anything with a computer on it. Carbureted only. I only do mechanical and electrical work, no bodywork, paint, glass, interior, etc. Not only are old cars so much easier to work on than any late model car, but the emphasis is on quality, not quantity. Customers want things done right, and are willing to pay for it. It's so nice to not have to work on computers on wheels, and there is a lot of satisfaction in doing thing right. It is not like working on an assembly line.
Good Techs are talented. Talented people make opportunity for themselves. Opportunity equals choices. And choices when compared to working at the Stealerships means those technicians are going to leave for something better. Stealerships screw everyone - not only the customer who buys the car. They cheat their employees every day and talented techs know this and go elsewhere. It amazes me that people who work for Stealerships become amazed that their employer cheats them too.
techs can always look into changing what they work on, there's boat, planes and lots of other careers that still let you work on engines just in different vehicles
True! I began doing industrial maintenance (loved it but there was no career path in my area), then joined the Air Force and fixed fighters for a career, then retired and being happily job-optional took community college courses in welding and machining. I worked my way into an adjunct slot for both programs then fully retired after paying off my home shop. When I trained Air Force techs I found the two groups who made the best aircraft techs were former car mechanics and farm boys because they had the tactile experience of working with machinery. I've worked on cars all my adult life for fun and profit. A real mechanic can wrench anything!
This sucks. How you mention the techs are seen being at the bottom of the barrel is quite true everywhere. Without us, there wouldn't be any of them too. We are the backbone of this shady business.
I felt the same way (I worked at Audi in Cary). I left the industry entirely in September of last year after having 13 years in automotive,mostly VW and Audi, and joined the Army fixing helicopters. I genuinely felt that I couldn't go any further working at the dealer, or in automotive for that matter. Still too early to tell if I made the right call yet though.
Thank you for being a technician that understands the struggles of a a service advisor. It is rare that. tech doesn't have the mind set that a writer sits all day and does nothing. I'm a writer and it is a punching bag spot.
I always thought working for a stealership was just a way to get trained-up / certifications & put time under your belt. And then transfer out to a mom & pop setting..?……
BMW has lost young experience techs to Tesla too . the main reason is that is hourly and thanks to the marketing of erik musk. I work for the. Euro aftermarket the main reason was for freedom as i love to travel and many indie shops don't work Saturday but it got old quick they are so behind working on newer vehicles and they stubborn on there old ways that i want to go back to dealer
+HumbleMechanic I've known a few LEAF certified Nissan Techs that went to Tesla, I hears Tesla Treats their people like crap, on I know from Nissan Training is back working at his Dealer
Starting my 34th year at a small Chrysler dealer, I am so ready to move on, but to where? and do what? I started there in 1986, I was 20 yrs old, left my $3.35 an hour job and started there for $5.00 per hour LOL. I always been paid by the hour, but now I don't care for the new owners and if I go to another dealer I know it will be flat rate pay. I'm 52 years old now, I know I'm too old for flat rate, especially since I've never done it. I don't know what to do for sure, I just know I have to make myself go to work now, instead of wanting to go, any body else have this feeling?
When I first got out of the Marine Corps as an Osprey crew chief I took a job as an aircraft mechanic in Greensboro NC for a company called HAECO (Very nice company to work for). I met a couple of automotive mechanics there that were new to the world of aviation knuckle drag'n. I asked them ignorantly "Why would you leave a dealership if you were a master tech? Don't they make good money? Aren't the hours better?"... Well, I think everyone on this thread knows the answers to those questions by now. So, if you're burnt out of automotive wrench turning and looking for a new sense of fulfillment, aviation is an excellent Segway into your next chapter in life. To get your A&P (Airframes and Powerplants) license you have to either go through 2 years of schooling or 30 months of OJT. Either way you have to pass some relatively rigorous tests at the end. There is a current, and impending worsening labor force shortage for aviation techs. Just to tie a dollar figure to it, I am 25, have 7 years of applicable experience, and make 70k with my current company on a 40 hour base with ridiculously nice benefits. I do a lot of private side work for people who own their own private plane and charge 100 an hour. I realistically work 60-70 hours a week between the main job and side gigs and gross over 100k. This is by no means to be braggy, just to put real numbers out there. If you are willing to relocate, you will never run out of work. Even after 911, the 08 reality bubble, and this past stupid flu season. On top of all that, you rarely get as dirty working on a Cessna 150, all the way up to a Boeing 777 (worked on both) because planes are simply kept to a higher standard for obvious reasons. Rarely do you work with stripped, rounded, or seized hardware, and its never flat rate work as I hear that system of labor estimation is hot garbage. Aviation employers want you to work with a purpose, but never rush. Plus, planes and helicopters are just way cooler! Lastly, if you're a good auto tech, you'll be a fine aircraft mech, as far as mechanical aptitude goes. The biggest pitfalls I see in those who use to put food on the table through automotive work who are now working on planes is they tend to forget they are playing by a different rule book and most things in aviation are good or not. There is minimal "Sh*t'll buff* mentality. If you're interested in becoming an aircraft mechanic the first step is to Either contact a school near you who runs a "Part 147 Operation" or go to your local small town airport and apply for part time... The hardest part about aviation is getting your foot in the door. However, once the door is open, the opportunities are ridiculous.
