Who is a car mechanic and what do they do? The car mechanic’s work includes maintenance, adjustment and repair of road vehicles.
What are the activities of the car mechanic? Activities involve: inspecting cars to diagnose defects, deciding on repair procedures, assessment of the degree of wear and the functional condition of separate parts with regard to optimum vehicle operation, carrying out repairs and replacements of various parts, their assemblies and sub-assemblies and accessories (i.e. motors, gearboxes, clutches, brake systems, alternators, mechanical, hydraulic and pneumatic car assemblies, manufacture and renovation of car parts, assembly of car accessories, systematic maintenance and guarantee inspections/repairs and carrying out overhauls and large-scale repair work.
Where is it done and under what conditions? Typically in, and outside, service stations and in small and large car repair shops. Negative aspects of the work environment include grease, uncomfortable and awkward conditions and, sometimes, changing weather conditions.
What tools/equipment do they use? The tools most often used include hand tools and instruments, e.g. wrenches, screwdrivers, grease guns, gauges, circuit-testing detectors, diagnostic instruments. Dexterity and agility are also important requirements.
What do you need to succeed? You need vocational training, manual skills, manual dexterity, technical imagination, spatial vision, patience, accuracy, ability to organise your work, good eyesight and overall fitness.