Auto mechanics and service technicians have fast-paced jobs working at auto companies, dealerships, auto part stores, and repair shops. You’ll work on motors, transmissions, drive belts, and more. You will also need to be proficient in the advancing technology of the automotive industry; many components of the car are controlled by computers and electronics, and will be more so in the coming years.
What is the Salary of an Auto Mechanic?
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average annual pay for an auto mechanic in 2023 was $51,940, with the top 10 percent earning $77,630 or more. Most auto mechanics may work 40 hours a week, plus overtime hours. However, slow days do happen, and your check can reflect the slump depending on how you are paid.
Mechanics typically work under an hourly rate or a flat rate.
Hourly rate means you are paid for the time you are clocked in. No matter how short or long a job takes you, you’ll get paid for those exact hours.
Flat rate mechanics get paid by the job. If a job is estimated to take one hour, yet you have to spend three on it, you only get paid for one hour. But flat rate pay can work in your favor - if a job is estimated to take three hours to complete, and you finish in one hour, you still get paid for three.
Employers will ensure mechanics aren't sacrificing quality to take advantage of a flat rate structure.
Most dealerships use flat rate compensation, while hourly pay is most common in smaller independent shops.
Increasing Your Income
No matter what your starting pay is or the pay structure you're under, there are opportunities to increase your earnings as a mechanic.
Get certified
Auto mechanics who have post-secondary education and are certified will have a higher chance of being employed and paid more than those who learned the trade through hands-on experience. Receiving certification from the National Institute of Automotive Service Excellence is attractive to potential employers, and can earn you between 20-30 percent more than mechanics who are not ASE certified.
Choose a niche
The more specialized you are as an auto mechanic, the more marketable you are, which can lead to larger paychecks. Specializing in electric or luxury cars is something to consider.
Also, being brand-specific can help raise your income. You’ll be extremely familiar with the problems that come in and be able to diagnose and fix them that much faster, which really adds up on a flat rate pay structure.
Do more than the required
Keeping up with the latest trends in automotive technology repairs as well as continuing your education through classes will keep you fresh and in demand. Employers like to see initiative, and having drive to learn more can set you apart from colleagues.
In addition, being thorough and staying honest with your client base will almost guarantee repeat customers who, through word of mouth, can bring in more clients. Take time to answer all of your clients’ questions, and ask what else you can do for them. A little extra effort can go a long way.
Go After What You Want
It's always ideal if you can make a living doing something you love. If you want the better position or bigger check, then additional training, specializations, and a great work ethic and attitude can get you there. Ready to get started? Find an auto mechanic school near you.
