Mechanic

An auto mechanic (or car mechanic in British English and motor mechanic in Australian English) is a mechanic who specializes in automobile maintenance, repair, and sometimes modification. A mechanic may be knowledgeable in working on all parts of car or may specialize either in specific area or in specific make (модель) of a car. In repairing cars their main role is to diagnose the problem accurately and quickly. The mechanic uses both electronic means of gathering data as well as their senses. Their job may involve the repair of a specific part or the replacement of one or more parts as assemblies.

Basic vehicle maintenance is a fundamental part of a mechanic’s work in some countries, while in others they are only consulted when a vehicle is already showing signs of malfunction. Preventive maintenance is also a part of a mechanic’s job, but it is not possible in the case of vehicles that are not regularly maintained by a mechanic. One misunderstood aspect of such maintenance is scheduled replacement of various parts, which occurs before failure to avoid far more expensive damage. Because this means that parts are replaced before any problem is observed, many car owners will not understand why the expense is necessary.

With the rapid advancement in technology the mechanic’s job has evolved from purely mechanical to include electronic technology. Because vehicles today posses complex computer and electronic systems, mechanics need to have a broad base of knowledge. Nowadays the term “auto mechanic” is used less and less frequently and replaced by “automotive service technician”. Most automobile dealerships now provide sophisticated diagnostic computers to each technician without which they would be unable to diagnose or repair a vehicle.

A mechanic may opt to engage in other careers related to his field. Teaching of automotive trade courses is almost carried out by qualified mechanics in many countries.

There are several other trade qualifications for working on motor vehicles, including panel beater, spray painter, body builder and motorcycle mechanic. In some countries these are separate trade courses, but a qualified tradesman can change his occupation. This usually requires that they work under another tradesman in much the same way as an apprentice.

Auto body repair involves less work with oily and greasy parts of vehicles, but involves exposure to particulate dust from sanding bodywork and toxic chemical fumes from paint and related products. Salespeople and dealers often also need to acquire an in-depth knowledge of cars and some mechanics are successful in these roles because of their knowledge.

Pit crews are a specialized form of work undertaken by some mechanics for motor racing. This work requires high skill level, and it is highly paid.

ANSWER THE QUESTIONS: 1. What are the main qualifications for working on motor vehicles? 2. What does a job of a mechanic involve? 3. What kind of a job/a specialty do you choose? Why?