Obtaining Auto Insurance Repair Jobs: A Comprehensive Guide

Auto repair jobs are in demand, with many people relying on cars, trucks, and SUVs for their daily commutes, errands, and leisure activities. Obtaining an auto repair job typically requires a high school diploma or GED, as well as formal training in vehicle maintenance and repair. Vocational schools and community colleges offer programs that provide basic skills in using auto repair tools and machinery, preparing individuals for further training in the field. Auto repair jobs encompass roles such as mechanics, automotive service technicians, and auto body shop repair techs, offering a range of opportunities for those interested in this field.

What is covered by car repair insurance?

Car repair insurance, also known as mechanical breakdown insurance (MBI), covers the cost of repairs to your vehicle in the event of a mechanical breakdown. It is sold separately from your regular auto insurance and covers major repairs to your vehicle but not routine maintenance or wear and tear.

The items covered by MBI depend on the car insurance company but typically include:

• Convenience technology (e.g. convertible top, keyless entry, sunroof)
• Cooling and heating systems
• Electrical systems (including the car's computer)
• Safety technology (e.g. blind-spot awareness system, camera)
• Air conditioning defects
• Electronic system defects
• Exhaust system defects
• Transmission defects
• Fuel system defects

MBI does not cover:

• Damage caused by poor maintenance, such as infrequent oil changes or using the wrong type of fuel
• Damage caused in a car accident
• Non-mechanical items, like vehicle trim and moulding
• Normal wear and tear, like worn brake pads and tires
• Parts or items covered by a recall
• Parts or items covered by a voluntary manufacturer repair program
• Parts or items covered by your car warranty
• Pre-existing damage before you bought the insurance
• Routine maintenance, like engine tune-ups, oil changes, suspension alignment, tire rotation and wheel balancing

MBI is similar to an extended car warranty, but the key difference is that you buy it from an insurance company. It is also typically added to your car insurance bill, which you can pay in monthly, semi-annual or annual instalments, depending on the policy.

What isn't covered by car repair insurance?

Car repair insurance, also known as mechanical breakdown insurance, is an optional add-on to your standard car insurance policy. It covers repairs to your vehicle that aren't related to accidents. However, it's important to note that car repair insurance doesn't cover everything and there are several exclusions and limitations.

In general, car repair insurance does not cover:

• Damage caused by poor maintenance: For example, infrequent oil changes, using the wrong type of fuel, or improper maintenance can void your coverage.
• Damage caused in a car accident: Collision coverage under your standard auto insurance policy typically covers damages related to accidents.
• Non-mechanical items: Vehicle trim, moulding, and other non-mechanical items are usually not covered.
• Normal wear and tear: Worn brake pads, tires, and other items that wear out over time are generally not covered.
• Parts or items covered by a recall or voluntary manufacturer repair program: If there is a recall or voluntary repair program for a specific issue, you will need to go through that process for repairs, and your car repair insurance won't cover it.
• Parts or items covered by your car warranty: If a part is still under warranty, the warranty will typically cover the cost of repairs or replacement.
• Pre-existing damage: Any damage that occurred before you purchased the insurance is not covered.
• Routine maintenance: This includes oil changes, engine tune-ups, suspension alignment, tire rotation, and wheel balancing. Car repair insurance is intended for unexpected breakdowns, not scheduled maintenance.

Additionally, car repair insurance has eligibility requirements that vary by company. It is typically only available for newer vehicles with low mileage. There may also be restrictions on when and how you can purchase this type of insurance, and it often needs to be bought within a specific window of time after purchasing the vehicle.

How to get an auto repair job

Auto repair jobs are in demand, and many people rely on cars, trucks, and SUVs for their daily commutes, errands, and leisure activities. This reliance on vehicles has created a need for skilled auto mechanics and repair professionals. Here are the steps to help you get an auto repair job:

Education

• Complete your high school diploma or GED.
• Pursue formal training in vehicle maintenance and repair. You can earn a certificate, diploma, or associate degree in automotive technology from a vocational school or community college. These programs will provide you with the basic skills to use auto repair tools and machinery and prepare you for further training as a new hire.

Job Roles

Auto repair jobs encompass various positions, including:

• Mechanic
• Automotive service technician
• Auto repair technician
• Highway assistant repair technician
• Auto body shop repair technician
• Parts delivery driver
• Estimator

Job Duties

As an auto mechanic or automotive service technician, your primary duties involve inspecting car issues, diagnosing problems, performing repairs, and conducting regular vehicle maintenance, such as oil changes and tune-ups. If you work in parts delivery, you will be responsible for fulfilling orders for vehicle parts and delivering them to clients, including auto body shops and service departments.

Auto repair jobs in demand

Auto repair jobs are in demand, especially those for auto service and repair technicians. This is because many people rely on cars, trucks, and SUVs for their daily commutes, errands, and leisure activities. This reliance on vehicles as a primary form of transportation translates into a need for skilled auto mechanics and other auto repair professionals.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that the demand for auto repair jobs will increase by 6% through 2026. This is expected to result in about 67,700 openings for automotive service technicians and mechanics each year, on average, over the decade.

Job Roles in Auto Repair

Auto repair jobs encompass a range of positions, including:

• Mechanic
• Automotive service technician
• Auto repair technician
• Highway assistant repair technician
• Auto body shop repair technician
• Parts delivery driver
• Estimator

Qualifications and Skills for Auto Repair Jobs

To obtain an auto repair job, completing a high school diploma or GED is typically the first step. The specific qualifications needed for different roles within the auto repair industry vary. For instance, to become an auto mechanic or automotive service technician, formal training in vehicle maintenance and repair is required. This can be obtained through a certificate, diploma, or associate degree in automotive technology from a vocational school or community college.

Employers generally prefer candidates who have completed a program at a postsecondary institution. Additionally, industry certification may be required once an individual is employed.

Some of the key skills and attributes that are valuable for auto repair jobs include:

• Customer-service skills
• Attention to detail
• Dexterity
• Mechanical skills
• Organizational skills
• Physical strength
• Troubleshooting skills

Salary and Work Environment

The median annual wage for automotive service technicians and mechanics was $47,770 in May 2023. The lowest 10% earned less than $30,600, while the highest 10% earned more than $77,630. The specific salary can vary depending on factors such as experience, location, and the specific role.

Most auto repair technicians work full-time and may have to work evenings or weekends. Overtime is also common in this industry.

Auto repair technicians typically work in well-ventilated and well-lit repair shops. They use a variety of tools, ranging from computerized diagnostic equipment to common hand tools. It is common for experienced workers to invest thousands of dollars in their personal tool collection.

Job Outlook

Employment in the auto repair industry is projected to grow. The increasing number of vehicles in use, along with the trend of people keeping their vehicles longer, is expected to drive demand for auto repair services. However, the growing prevalence of electric vehicles, which generally require less maintenance and repair, may have an impact on future demand.

What to do after a faulty repair

Getting a faulty car repair can be frustrating, especially when you have to spend more time and money resolving the issue. Here are some steps you can take to protect yourself and your vehicle:

Step 1: Understand your rights

Before taking any action, it is important to understand your rights. If you have paid for a repair service, you have the right to expect the problem to be fixed. If the issue persists, you are entitled to seek a remedy, which could be a repair or a refund.

Step 2: Contact the mechanic/garage

The first step is to get in touch with the mechanic or garage and explain the problem. It is recommended to communicate calmly and professionally, avoiding accusations or threats. Compare the work done to the contract or work order and note any discrepancies. You can specify the outcome you are hoping for, such as a reduction in the bill or a second attempt at the repair with no additional charge.

Step 3: Take further action

If you are unable to resolve the issue with the mechanic, you have alternatives. You can pay the garage to get your car back and continue your case by paying 'under protest'. This indicates that you are paying the full amount but further action is likely. You can also use a trade association, such as The Motor Ombudsman, to negotiate and resolve the dispute. Another option is to use an Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) Scheme, which is a method of resolving problems without going to court. A third party will mediate to reach an agreement.

Step 4: Take the car to another garage

Taking your car to another garage is a risky option, as you will likely need to go to court or use a trade association to claim reimbursement for the extra money spent. There is no guarantee that you will get your money back. Assess whether your vehicle is safe to drive before attempting to take it to another garage.

Step 5: Report the garage to Trading Standards

If the garage is quoting one price but charging another, or using misleading advertising or unfair tactics, you can report them to Trading Standards. This may help prevent future customers from being misled.

Additional Tips:

• Keep a record of any extra money spent on rental cars or travel during the dispute, as you may need to prove these expenses later.
• If your car is still under warranty, the dealership may be obligated to fix the problem at no additional cost.
• You can also take your car to another dealership or an independent mechanic for a second opinion.
• If the problem is widespread and the dealership cannot fix it, you can file a complaint with the manufacturer's customer service department.

Frequently asked questions