Are You Too Old to Be A Mechanic?

I get asked all the time about getting into the auto repair field as a career, but sometimes I get asked the same question from someone who may be older and looking to change careers. In this video I share my feelings on this topic of being too old to get into the auto repair industry.
What age do you think is too old to get into auto repair?
Thanks for watching!
#ETCG1Video
Become a Premium Member of EricTheCarGuy.com: www.ericthecar...
My Patreon Account: / ericthecarguy
The best place for answers to your automotive questions: www.ericthecarg...
EricTheCarGuy FAQ Page: www.ericthecar...
Related videos
Should You Get Into Auto Repair?: • Should You Get Into Au...
Do You Need an Automotive Education?: • Do You Need an Automot...
How To Become a Professional Technician: • How to Become a Profes...
Working in Extreme Temperatures: • Working In Extreme Tem...
Health Hazards: • Health Hazards -ETCG1
The Tool Factor: • The Tool Factor
The Flat Rate System: • The Flat Rate System
Being a Technician (Part 1): • Being A Technician Part 1
Being a Technician (Part 2): • Being A Technician Par...
Being a Technician (Part 3): • Being A Technician Par...
Experience Matters: • Experience Matters -ETCG1
Workplace Dynamics: • Workplace Dynamics
How Did You Get Started in Auto Repair?: • How Did You Get Starte...
Outmoded: • Outmoded -ETCG1
Will Electric Vehicles Put your Neighborhood Mechanic Out of Business?: • Will Electric Vehicles...
What is the Future of Technicians?: • What is the Future for...
Do I Regret Becoming a Mechanic?: • Do I Regret Becoming a...
What I Would Tell Myself 25 Years Ago: • What I Would Tell Myse...
**Answers to your automotive questions found here: www.ericthecarg...
Social Network Links
Facebook: www.facebook.c...
Twitter: / ericthecarguy
Instagram: / ericthecarguy
Wanna see more stuff like this from ETCG? Information on Premium Membership: www.ericthecar...
Stay Dirty
ETCG1

[@masonstorm5463]

I started in the collision side as my dad owned a shop. I remember being about 17 years old working full time with my dad. He wanted me to at least try something else before making a career choice staying with the industry. I did out of respect to my dad. I hated it. Long story. So I entered as a starting mechanic at 37 years old at Firestone. I was with them for 5 years. Then good year for 1 year. I am now 44 and working in a private mom and pop shop. Best thing right there. The owner is teaching me everything I know. I learned, and can do, a hell of a lot more because of his training. He has me doing everything. No regrets here going back to automotive repair. It's my home. No aches and pains, nothing. I recommend to others, as I do this, exercise, lift weights, stretching, biking, hiking, eat healthy, is all key to a good long time in the field. I do these all time. It helps a lot. I love my mechanic buddies and looking forward to retire with the ones that do. May even go service writer at 65. Shit, that's still young. LOL. 95 is old to me. Hails and Beers!

[@ronwatson4902]

I just finished installing upper and lower ball joints and control arms on my son's Explorer in the driveway. I'm 70 and it;s harder than it used to be.

[@559806]

Right. We don't get up and down as quickly and easily as we used to. And don't even talk about trying to work while resting on your knees.

[@cward1954]

It's never easy when you're working in the driveway. Last major project I did in my driveway was pulling an old transmission and reinstalling a rebuilt one. Hard to believe that was 10 years ago. I still have that truck too.

[@warrenpuckett4203]

Yep took me all day to replace the filler neck on a Trailblazer.

[@vetbcrazy]

I’m 68 and I don’t think it’s harder. I think it’s almost impossible.

[@warrenpuckett4203]

@@vetbcrazyAt 74 it just takes way more time and leverage I have a 86 year friend that still drives a '59 Ranger and took him 3 or four weeks to replace the gas tank. He also has a 59 Corsair Convertible show car.

[@andrewthacker1389]

Best mechanic I know is Ernie Pahl, he runs Pahl's Auto Service in Burdett Alberta. He's in his mid-late 80's, probably pushing 90. He works 6 days a week and has done so his whole life. Recently, people have started bringing him stuff from 100s of miles away because other mechanics can't fix it, which he finds amusing (like air cooled vws for rebuilds, old european sports cars, split rim truck wheels, obsolete farm equipment, etc). If Ernie can't fix it, you're fucked. I think one of the reasons that his body has held together this long is that he uses his brain rather than his brawn, and he probably has a lot of old school tricks up his sleeve

[@rickdacosta9727]

Sounds like a guy who has to like you before he will work on you stuff or he will just tell you to get lost. That's my retirement strategy, small shop in the boondocks with a full machine shop and other fun stuff. The sad part is we are the last of the bunch. Within 20 years, anybody who can fix anything built before 2000 will be dead.

[@83K5Blazer]

“If Ernie can’t fix it, you’re fucked”. 😂 great logo for the building 👍

[@southhillfarm2795]

@@83K5Blazer funniest thing I’ve read in a while.

[@Fizzydaylia]

Got into the industry when I was about 25, trained for two years went out into the field and spoke to many older guys in their mid to late 40's and they've all told me the same thing, do this for your hobby, not to make money. Ten years later, Im inclined to agree, pay isn't that great and you do lasting damage to yourself with all the chemicals and whatnot you're exposed to every day.

[@comiu]

I just turned 39 and I only started DIY work on my car 1.5 years ago. I wouldn't make a career change but it gives me satisfaction working on my car. Besides learning new things, every job I perform gives me the satisfaction of achieving something and I also saved a lot of money. From easy jobs like changing the oil to more complicated stuff like changing a motor mount or a power steering pump, your channel gave me valuable guidance in my endeavors of staying dirty.

[@erikburrell1595]

I got out of it back in the mid2000's and never happier. I was in my 30's and the money wasn't there in the town I lived in.

[@valjean2036]

What did u go into instead?

[@STREETSTANG07]

I will be 67 in November. I started a small car repair business when I retired 9 years ago. Two things that makes it hard is the heat of the summer and a cold winter. Besides that I’m still at it 5 days a week. I really enjoy the customers I have accumulated and the friendships that followed with some. Also I really enjoy your channel. Thanks

[@dangerboy1111]

There is no ac in dealership of car mechanic shop

[@danielwoodhouse1870]

I’m 43 years old and a year ago I went from a career in IT to being an apprentice motorcycle mechanic. Certainly following a passion rather than a sound financial decision. My body feels better so far. Sitting at a desk for 20 years brings its own chronic aches and pains.

[@rhymeface]

Did you find it easy to get into an apprenticeship? I feel like this video was made for me and your comment mirrors something I'm considering at the moment - 14 years in web design and want to do something more mechanical. No idea if it would be a good idea or not

[@danielwoodhouse1870]

@@rhymeface Hey Rob. I was lucky to be able to fall into an Apprenticeship. As an adult its quite attractive to an employer compared to an 18 year old. I have been doing mechanics as a hobby for a few years so was already probably about 70% useful to my employer straight away. The pay cut is a big shock. Also going from 23 years IT were I was extremely knowlegeable and could solve everything to doing a trade with little real exprience took some adjustment. Quite Frustrating. I did this with the mind set that if it does not work out, then I can go back to IT. There is always a shortage of web designers so you could aways go back to it too if it did not work out I would imagine.

[@actionjackson9290]

Had a same thought, I'm in IT for over 20yrs and I was laid off TWICE after my employer shutdown. Still in IT and I didn't have the same courage as you did! Good luck

[@Dodgedude_]

Was 30 when I left the military and was signed up as an apprentice at a Ford dealership. Much more happier now following a passion then anything else.

[@nudawas]

I'm 39 now and I'm polish living in France . For 20 years I've been professional chef . Last 10 cooking for high end clients in Monaco and I'm making good money . Since few years I'm dreaming about becoming motorcycles mechanic because that is my passion. I really don't know how to do it 😕. Money it's a big concern

[@duranbailiff5337]

Agreed 100%! I have a maintenance (aviation) background and there is no denying that age takes a toll on the mechanic/technician. The interest and passion are still there, but the strength and endurance are definitely on the wane. I feed my mechanical passion by maintaining the wife's car and my truck, but I am not kidding myself in thinking that I could be a full time mechanic. At the age of 58, my weakest link is a tired and deteriorated back. Good luck for those willing to invest their talents into the field of maintenance- just remember that there will come a day when the carcass will not be able to keep up with the demands. 🤔🤓😎

[@6pistons]

Auto repair work puts a toll on the body period, and when you reach 50+ you find that your work pace slows down a lot due to all the things associated with age and exposure to the elements of auto repairs over the decades.

[@MrTheHillfolk]

Yep , I'm 48 and a gen tech ,outside most of the time. Not sure I wanna be standing in a foot of snow during a storm changing a blown voltage regulator out for someone who's down when I'm 58, so I gotta figure a few things out here kinda soon.

[@SmittySmithsonite]

That started happening to me at age 40. I'll be 48 soon. I've slowed WAY down in that amount of time. Installing a lift was a huge help, but I find myself taking on bigger jobs, and the engineering is INFURIATING on modern junk. Surprised I haven't had an aneurysm yet from screaming and flipping out!

[@6pistons]

@@SmittySmithsonite ahhhhhh yep I know what ya talking about. I suggest leaving them “complicated junk” to the computer techs and focus on the cars you specialize in. Not worth bursting a blood vessel man.

[@tonyharris8466]

I'm soon to be 55 yrs old, got my first car when I was 13. Had to fix it before I could drive it. Been doing it ever since. Yes it does take a toll on the body but at 55 how can you change careers??

[@6pistons]

@@tonyharris8466 you can be a operations manager or supervisor position

[@learningchesseasily]

Always loved the work, but always had a major problem with management........ Pay and management drove me out of the field.......

[@Mistyfgdf]

What you do now?

[@thewizzard3150]

@GreenJr management and pay will drive you out of every profession. You just have to like the job enough not to be bothered about that.

[@iamasmurf1122]

thats why you work for yourself

[@iamasmurf1122]

@@thewizzard3150 you dont have to put up with it , you have an option in working for yourself

[@thewizzard3150]

@@iamasmurf1122to start a business. who puts up the money?

[@wysetech2000]

I started working on cars when I was 15. I retired from being a tech last year at 71. I don't regret a minute of it. I still tinker at home. I was never rich but I married, raised a Family and own my car and house. I have COPD now and it limits what I can do but again No regrets. Would I start all over today? I don't think so.

[@cruisepix]

I didn't factor in the COPD and chemical exposure! Brake and clutch dust prior to asbestos being outlawed!

[@wysetech2000]

@@cruisepix Yes, in the sixties we blew out drum brake dust with shop air. Gasoline was leaded. In the seventies and eighties we had plastics the would take your breath away if you hit them with a torch. In the nineties we used fuel injector cleaner with the product dangers all over the can. Then came brake cleaner. I was a heavy smoker when I was younger. I guess they all ganged up on me.

[@bighands675]

I feel overall health may be biggest concern for the “old” mechanic I couldn’t imagine trying to keep pace with constant back pain, best wishes to those that do!

[@SinCityAnimal]

It sure does suck when you have back pain factored in with age. I had to stop working for someone else for that exact reason. At least now I can work at my own pace minimizing any further damage to my back. Cheers to all the "oldtimers"!!!

[@bighands675]

Just the mere thought of it is disappointing

[@sirjohnahayfalcon]

The cure for backpain is working out yur abs. Yo

[@stevewilliams2725]

Agree on the back issues, I try daily routine of stretch and yoga moves, it helps some but got back into weights at age of 53 and has made a difference. I find challenge to have energy left at end of day for exercise.

[@thewizzard3150]

@@stevewilliams2725 I did exercising, but back pain got me and my mechanic friends in the end.

[@fdems330]

Very interesting. I'm 55 and I'm just starting the auto tech program at a local community college. I'm currently a registered nurse and have been for 17 years and with 13 years prior to nursing working as a paramedic. I've always been interested in automotive repair and I enjoy working on my project truck which is a 1998 Ford Ranger. I decided to return to school mostly for improvement and expansion of my own skills and knowledge. I'm thinking about working as an auto tech after I retire but I'm not sure. Most people I go to school with want to start their own shop after finishing school, but that sounds like a bad idea. Interesting video and comments.

[@jasoneas]

I'll stick to one or two hot rods. Full time mechanic at 43 sounds exhausting

[@yafois988]

Milwaukie makes wonderful battery powered impacts that do most the work now, you just align part and pull trigger to since it up.

[@loganshotrod4x464]

Right there with you on that!

[@BareRoseGarage]

Not only that, but Hot Rods & Rat Rods are so liberating. Funny how the fun comes back when you work on Toys, even if it's for someone else. You work on their Daily, and they are pissed off at the bill and the time it took. You work on their "toy"? Time and money aren't as important, and they are happy you did it.

[@SmittySmithsonite]

I love working on the old stuff! It's like a vacation. So sick and tired of modern junk! It's INFURIATING to work on. I did a transmission swap in my '07 Silverado 1500 4x4 - took me 2 weeks with a lift! Mostly because I had to walk away SEVERAL times, or else I'd have lit the torch and tossed it in the cab. Everything fought me, from the stupid plastic grille, to the stainless steel manifold flange studs that snapped off and had to be drilled out. Oh, and that friggin bolt GM decided to put in the bellhousing, right at the 12 o'clock position!! I could've strangled every GM engineer that day ...

[@jamies8973]

As a person who loves wrenching on his own vehicles, it gets harder and harder getting up and down from the floor and out from under a vehicle as one moves past 40.

[@timgraham7851]

That's what lifts are for. 😁

[@vijayantgovender2045]

Eric I am a Diesel mechanic it is very hard work I am 48 I am from South Africa thank you for sharing your wonderful videos

[@jamesdavidoaks]

Semi retired Mechanic. 56 years old. I have been wrenching professionally since 84 and was a shade tree before that at age 12. I have worked on almost everything with a diesel or gas ICE except planes, trains and helicopters. Diesel was my specialty for 20+ years but the rigors and physical requirements of that field are very demanding and can break you down in time. I still work on all types of equipment but I am very choosy about what jobs and which customers at my age. The reasons I still work on equipment is that I do enjoy diagnosing and then repairing something that is broken and I have acquired tools over that time frame that would just rust and become useless if not used. Working for dealerships is a tough gig and I would not recommend it because of flat rate system and the good ole boy system that always permeates those places. Working for yourself takes an immense amount of capital and you will eventually reach a point that no matter how many hours you put in , you can only make so much money. I also recommend to new and seasoned mechanics that are looking to start out on their own to look at a multiple bay facility. Keep one for yourself and lease the others out. This will maximize your earnings potential and ensure income whether you can turn a wrench or not that month due to health or injury issues when the candles on the BD cake get to numerous to count. National, State and Local government regulations along with insurance are also huge factors. It is a tough field to get rich in regardless of your skill level and experience.

[@BareRoseGarage]

So true. Everything about Diesel is HEAVY, BIG, and Awkward. Something as simple as changing a tire can send you to the hospital, or the grave. Heavy Equipment & Agricultural work will send you into the Field at all hours, rain snow or shine with 1/4 of the tools you really need with someone standing over you wanting it done yesterday because they are loosing money every min it's not running and being abused. There is always going to be a need & demand for this field of work, but it is beyond Hard WORK.

[@autotech1100]

I’m 51 years old. I began my professional automotive career in 1994. I worked at Acura for 10 years and was an Acura master technician. Very similar

[@donaldswens8560]

Yup stress is big , don,t have a heart attack like i did ,get out while you still can.

[@chadvalliere8697]

I’m 42, been doing collision work/painting for 23yrs. I’m spent, burned out and just plain hurting.

[@JimmyMakingitwork]

People sometimes tell me i’m too old, but I don’t listen… because I can’t hear anymore.

[@nikodimosmarkose6962]

I’m just a DIY guy working on my vehicles and just once on my younger brothers. Still learning from your channel and will continue to tune in. Thank you so much for the knowledge you’ve been sharing with us over the years Eric!

[@arthurfricchione8119]

Eric I’m seventy and I’ve been an aircraft mechanic since I was 17 yrs old. I’ve worked on my own cars since I was a youngster. I’m still taking courses in automotive electronics to learn today’s cars for myself and whoever else would need some assistance. Although I love purchasing tools that is the biggest expense. I know have complete sets of SAE plus Metric. Plus all the scanners and scopes and test gear used on today’s cars which are constantly needing updates. I guess I’ve followed you and your premium channel for about 10yrs plus a few others. My body has layer in jet fuel tanks and squeezed into ares humans can’t fit but I will never give it up. I can still keep up with the younger crowd because I know how to work. Yes I’ve had my share of stitches and surgeries but I will never give it up. It’s in me till I kick the bucket. Stay Dirty and safe and well Artie 🇺🇸👍

[@ETCG1]

You sir, are an inspiration. Thanks for your comment and viewership. Both are appreciated.

[@jasonelizanigel9381]

Holy crap, I just realized after so many years watching this channel, my birthday on July 19 falls on a Monday! Even more of a reason to get out of this depression rut with a digital cake.

[@divinesoda7186]

Hope you feel better man ❤

[@kevinpelanne9417]

Lol me too july 19th ,I. 52 and soon to be 53 ,been doing since 95

[@jtjones4727]

I been trying to climb out of that rut for a long time now, best of luck.

[@tinkerscorner54]

I hadn't worked under the hood of a pick up in years and I haven't worked on a GM product since 1979 ('67 Impala w/327). I mainly do my own maintenance and repairs, OCASSIONALLY. The other day, a buddy of mine asked me to look at his 1999 GMC 2500 5.7L, that he was sure that the distributor was one tooth off (a crate engine with less than 1500 miles on it, he was mostly right). it ended up being that and the fact that the distributor gear was worn to razor sharp edges. Between the first distributor and installing the new one, and not having the correct timing mark, no manual and no help (Thank God for KZbin), I pulled and installed the distributor a total of five times, turning the engine over by hand with a ratchet each time. You know, I never could do a one handed push up in PT, but it's amazing how many times that you actually do them while working under the hood of a rather large truck. It was a "Day of 10,000 push ups and 5000 leg presses". I was so sore the next day that I didn't get anything done at all, except maybe groan a little bit every now and then. At 61, I'm in reasonably good shape but I can attest that it takes a whole lot longer to recover from a full day of climbing around and wrenching on a GM, which I very seldom have to do that with Fords. Not to mention that I haven't even SEEN a distributor since 1991 and it was on an '84 F-150 and never gave me any problems. That was on Tuesday, today is Friday and I'm finally sort of ready to get back out and cut some grass. Even my butt muscles are still sore.

[@joe2531007]

Boy, you hit it on the head. I got into RV repair late in life, but I had a lifetime of experience by then. The problem as I see it is you've amassed this experience on so many levels that improve your value as a mechanic but you're still up against the clock. Some shops recognize your skill and work ethic and put you on hourly, but I'm sure they're few and far between. Flat rate works out great for the shop owner, not so much for the mechanic.

[@michaelmckinney1409]

I started in1986 and went to work for a GM dealer in 1992. I worked for the same dealer for almost 20 years and Have over 300 GM certifications including Corvette Specialist, Duramax and alternative fuels. I specialized in electrical issues and started working for myself and NOT doing much mechanical work. I assist shops with diagnostics and program ECUs in GM and Ford vehicles mainly but I paid my heavy line dues and want no more of it. I am 58 now and my clients understand my position and pay me for my knowledge and training instead of grunt work.

[@Ken-wu6hr]

I’m 54 Professional Auto Mechanic than Technician for over 30 years. 1986 was a Army Wheeled Vehicle Repairman. 6 yrs got out Mechanic always. ASE master L1. My Body Hurts. Still working usually 7 days a week

[@imafarmboy2]

I'm 45 and been in the equipment repair for over 25 years. I was always the one that had the goofy electrical and hydraulic issues to try to figure out. My body is starting to give up on me and my tolerance for BS is at zero. I've just been in too many battles to start another war. I'm on my way out. Good luck to the rest of you, I wish you well.

[@bigdogmobilemechanic1647]

ill be 41 in september i started doing mechanic work in 2005 i started working on my own cars,friends and family but i decided to go to an automotive college in 2018 i graduated and have advanced pretty well even before i went to college i was reading,studying books some people are just naturally mechanically inclined such as myself ive been a mobile mechanic for over 2 years and am doing pretty good on all my work i consider myself a b level mechanic i dont have any ASE certifications but i plan on getting some all i do everyday is study and learn new things everyday i try to stay as updated as i can on cars i love this work and will never stop until im completly unable to work

[@jimb4978]

As an auto DIY & former appliance tech after the age of 35, I started an excersize regiment, which helped me with the physical nature of my career. I agree, that the physical stress will take its toll on your body over the years,& advise from your doctor on an excersize plan can extend your career, as I believe that it extended mine .

[@jdhern9078]

Eric do a video on an approximation on how much you have spent on all tools (lifts, compresses , wrenches, etc)…

[@bensanders2871]

I have worked as a mechanic in some form or fashion since I was 17 now 65. Owned and operated my own biz for 16 years ran a shop with 6 mechanic for a fleet for 13 years. worked as field mechanic for oil field service company 10 years that was a extremely tough environment to work in now working for truck dealership. I have always enjoyed going to work . Yes it is tough on the body but so is setting in a office all day every day. i have always enjoyed the challenge mentally and physically to get the job done. Most definitely not a job anybody can do or want to do.

[@rickwilliamsjr.4003]

needs to be an alternative to flatrate.

[@patrickzambori473]

Agreed. One of my non-negotiable rules has been that I refuse to work for flat rate pay. The working climate of a flat rate shop becomes cut throat competitive and doesn't foster good customer service long term. Flat rate hours billed were always tracked, shop efficiency and productivity managed, and bonuses given for goals attained as a team. Annual pay adjustments based on overall profitability, kept the bottom line fairly close to what flat rate would have been, without all the stress.

[@obsessedwithcars219]

I'm 29 now, ill be wrenching until the day I die. It never gets tiring when you love what you do

[@Fishingmaniac1]

Started as a mechanic at age 39 I’m 42 now, no plans on stopping anytime soon but I have noticed some of the wear and tear on your body.

[@johnfinch8173]

Although I had to retire from being a master tech a few years ago due to a prolapsed disk (69 years of age in a couple of months) I often do odd jobs to keep my mind and tools busy. The new technicians are not taught about plugs, points and condensers and setting up timing with a timing light etc. My ex boss requests my services quite often specifically on old British vehicles and on old VW Beetles and Campervans to overhaul and set up SU and other carburettor types including the correct procedure for setting valve clearances and hydraulic lifters etc to specification. These types of jobs are also used to teach the young technicians the ropes as used in the old days. I always preferred working for owner/private operated garages as the variety of vehicles worked on kept me keen over the years.

[@bobbybouchersdad8405]

Dad just got his social security at 62 and is semi retired, he still clocks in part time at a shop in SD, been at it since the mid 80s. Cars never cease to fascinate him.

[@bige9830]

I tell the children at work all the time , go to college learn something. In my opinion it doesn't Matter How old you are when you become a technician ,This is a hard life. But it's not supposed to be easy. And it's unbelievably rewarding. If it was easy everybody would do it.And if you're the guy that can figure out it's the airbag control unit that's causing the no crank no start.You're gonna make a lot of money. But in Order to do any good in this business you have to live and breathe the automobile. You have to learn from your mistakes and you have to learn from everybody else's mistakes. But you also have to learn from your accomplishments. With the way things were going in this industry. You're gonna want to be with a dealership. And you're gonna want to be with a busy dealership. And if you have any intentions of making any money don't work on American cars. High warranty low customer pay low customer retention. There's a lot to be said for repetitive repairs. When you're working on the same manufactured day in and day out. You recognize problems quicker. You know where the weak spots are. And if you're good enough, and if there's enough repeat repair their. Next thing you know you're doing an 8 hour transmission in 3 . I speak for 35 years of experience. And the one constant is we're all low life scumbag technicians.

[@supersabrosinho]

I was 21 when I got OUT of the industry. Body felt like I was 55 yr. Went back to school got a degree and a much better job. Auto Repair simply doesn't pay well for the amount of work

[@Perly53]

Glad to hear this Sabroso. Best wishes.

[@nalgas5569]

🤣🤣🤣

[@chrismannifield3222]

You werent even in the industry at 21....

[@mikejohns3104]

@@chrismannifield3222 I entered the industry at 17.

[@bigeric8334]

Damn guy you a quitter lol

[@RatDogDaddy]

I was a diesel mechanic and welder since age 19 and was able to get by. We had 6 kids so you know where all the money went. At age 48 I was done and decided to become an RN, Went to West Teas A&M University and got my Bachelor of Science Degree in Nursing. Passed the NCLEX and started my new career at the local Hospital as an ER nurse. I hung in there for two years but my body broke down at age 52. I wound up having two neck surgeries. Went to work at a clinic as a nursing supervisor and by the time I reached 62 I was ready to retire. If I did not retire early I knew there would not be much of my health left to enjoy retirement. Now at 67 I still do stuff but mowing my grass and another widows grass is about the max for me. I wish I had gotten into nursing right off and I would be okay now. As it is about all we have is social security to retire on. My wife is still working so we do okay with all the kids grown and gone. YMMV

[@ganeshnarayan5505]

I'm 53 now but i been working on cars since when i was 14 yrs old just love working on cars. I would NOT trade this job for anything.

[@freq4323]

I'm 46 years old. In 2005 I quit my job at a Toyota dealership and got my CDL and start driving a truck. I have a huge shop with a two-post lift tire machine big huge air compressor a big tool box full of tools welders Milling machines and equipment. Now I just do it for fun and it's much more satisfying

[@Roberto-mr9mv]

At 78 am retired now from my own shop in México. Just..loved it.

[@ken-iy3pq]

Hi Eric,ive been in the trade since 1980..im 59 now.im still going. Thankfully i draw a salary by the hour and not flat rate.ill keep going as long as i can,not just for the money,but because i love what i do. I know retirement is not far away,but even then ill stay dirty.

[@christopherkassner8894]

I started professionally working in a shop at 41. I was a commercial industrial electrician for 22 years prior.. I’m now 56 and one of the top diag techs in a very large company. The big advantage I had was my extensive knowledge of all things electrical. Using oscilloscopes was a no brainer to me.. I am very strong where many techs are very very weak. I’m also ambitious which makes doing day to day work easier. As far as the pay. That has been a problem in the industry for a long time. And is only getting worse. Their are very few decent techs left at this point. Also the flat rate system doesn’t lend it self for someone getting up in years. If you’re the type that gets by on busting out work. By the time your 50 your pretty much burned out.

[@jeremypilot1015]

I started as a mechanic when I was 18 out of high school. Being 6'2 I was always bending over as SUV weren't really a thing yet. By the time I was 23 I had to look for a different career as the sciatica from bending all the time has left me with lifelong pain. It's a rough job, dirty, nasty and sometimes thankless. The only real satisfaction I got from the job was the fact that I made something good again. Love the channel and your information Eric. Keep up the great work so I can continue to live vicariously through you. Been watching ten years now.

[@ClassicGBodyGarage]

Hey Eric. I was a tech from 1996-99 and saw the light and the way the industry was headed back then and jumped ship. Went back to school for business marketing. Very happy I went that route as I still talk to the guys that still work st that same dealership 25 years later and getting ready to retire near or at 50 years old. They tell me stories about how miserable things are especially now and how I made a great choice to get out when I did. I enjoy cars strictly as a hobby. Always have and always will but never as a career. Thanks for the video.

[@frugalprepper]

I am 47, I work on cars on the side, I am a Network Engineer for my day job. I do it for a select group of customers, and I am not currently accepting any new customers. I have had months where I make 4-5 times my day job pay. I will do brakes, and suspension work, mechanical repair, but I do a lot of electrical diagnosis and repair. At some point shops and customers are going to have to realize that modern cars have changed, they are full of computers and electronics, and you are paying me for what I know, what I can trouble shoot (kind of how network engineers get paid), not just for my time. I never went to school, I watched KZbin videos, Scanner Danner premium, and I work the problems that I come across till I figure them out. I have invested 3K in a Picoscope, I have 3 laptops, multiple J-Boxes, scan tools, etc. The problem I see with working at a shop, is trying to make money. If you have to chase down a broken wire in a harness it can take hours and hours, to verify that wire is the issue, and get to the harness open it up and test it till you find the break. Or a module replacement. I can suspect it is a BCM, but verifying it has to to be the BCM before making the call takes time. A normal shop just isn't structured to do this. They will either throw parts at it, or just say could not reproduce after looking at it for 15-30 minutes, or just say it's electrical and we don't do that. I can't tell you how many times I have seen someone throw $1000's of dollars at parts and I find a broken wire or a bad ground is the issue. I charge $75 an hour for my diagnosis. That is for all of my time. Scanning the computer, sitting and thinking, looking up wiring diagrams, etc. No shop would pay me for that as an employee, but I have come into many shops and gotten paid that as and outside contractor to fix a problem. We don't need more mechanics, we need more technicians, that are willing to lean how to do electrical and computer work on cars. So many shops I have been too, are at there wits end with a car. When I do finally fix the problem, they don't even care to hear how I found it. They don't want to learn anything new, because they are just trying to make flat rate time doing brakes and stuff.

[@justinsnyder6881]

Im 40 and getting started as a lube tech on Monday. Im in better shape than most and could still pass as a mid 20 year old. I think I can last 20yrs. There are weak people at all ages. I choose not to be.

[@darrenp1549]

Best of luck. But you'll learn that anything past lube tech work WILL take it's toll..

[@brucesteger2699]

I left the farm after getting a Mechanical Engineering power train degree and worked for Mercury Outboards/Stern-drive division for a year realizing it was not my thing. I overhauled many truck&tractor engines repaired many transmissions while on the farm and going to school. Left Wisconsin ending up in Miami working for a large Caterpillar dealership/repair shop. 7 months later transferred to the Key West shop as a marine/truck mechanic for over 6 years. Ended up getting training in refrigeration at the local Community College as we got many refers at the shop with problems as well as shrimp boats that went to refrigeration rather that ice to keep the shrimp cool. Left to pursue a girl I met, I married her 6 months later, going to Fort Lauder Dale getting a job with UPS Truck Leasing in Pompano Beach. Worked there for ten years wanting a transfer to Orlando but, THEY refused to let me go even though four shops in Orlando wanted me because of my experience. Quit and got a job with Ryder Systems retiring in 2008 at 62 years old! I was making close to $50 an hour because I was fast at diagnosing and 99.9% right plus I was efficient getting the repairs done quickly with almost NO comebacks. My two large toolboxes are still loaded with tools that now I only get to play with maybe 15% of them. My neighbors her in Lake Tahoe heard I was a mechanic but I tell them only small engines now just to stay busy when we are not having fun. My grandson just turned 16 and I bought him a Bronco II 1987 with 90,000 miles. We plan to trick it out to have fun together and Jackson is very interested in becoming a mechanic. Who knows but I may give him some of my tools to start out with.

[@JohnnyFrickinRico]

I'm over 40 and just took my first Automotive class. Been working on cars most my life but I really want to learn more to keep my personal cars in great shape.

[@steveutter7137]

I’ve been in the industry for a long time and I retired when I was 50 no I’m glad I’m not in it anymore I just work on my own cars and that’s about it and people still wouldn’t want my knowledge

[@frankpaya690]

Around the country a lot of people don't grow up working on "cars" , they don't have auto shop or any shop classes in a lot of the high schools anymore, whereas I first used a table saw when I was 11 in junior high school. it used to be a rite of passage to get an older car and work on it yourself if you were a guy, that "culture" isn't there anymore.

[@jayhockley8841]

@@frankpaya690 You are right . Its because people don't start out in an old car anymore and have to maintain it . Everybody has to lease a new car . They're all spoiled and most of them don't know a radiator cap from a washer fluid one .

[@darkdelta]

@@frankpaya690 You are so right! It's a shame the education system abandoned the trades. I guess with so much of the manufacturing going offshore, there wasn't a need for a high school introduction to the trades. I worked (now retired) in a NICU with mostly young 20 something nurses, from what I gathered their husbands/boyfriends didn't pull wrenches on anything. There are the exceptions, one of the ladies husband has a shop and a four post lift, and the husband involves his son, but that is the exception I'm 75 now, around 71 years of age, I had 2 cars and a pick up, none made in this century. I got rid of the cars, both have warranties. I still tinker with the pickup, I do the small jobs, anything major, it goes to the guy I mentioned with the lift.

[@Mkewl2006]

Thank you for sharing your video. I started in the profession at 18 and I’ll be 62 in October And still going strong. I’ve always been the light duty mechanic drivability and electrical problems which I have thoroughly enjoyed. Started my own shop 23 years ago and I’ve been very blessed not to have health issues that would Detar my ability to enjoy my profession. You live every day but die once. If you feel that you have the passion to get in there and learn and enjoy then go for it no matter how old you are. Stay blessed my friends.

[@RichipaIdi]

I have done different jobs. I sold cars and loved it. Then did customer service in different places, 4 years doing wood work and now, for the last year, I’m a mobile mechanic. I’m 44 and extremely happy. I love getting oil on my hands, diagnosing, helping people out. Doing wrenches started as a hobby 6 years ago and I can tell you that passion is what drives me. I lived with chronic depresión for the last 20 years and doing wrenches has been the best therapy I’ve had, it even pays instead of me paying someone. Probably found my element late in my life, but at least I can say I’m alive and waking up every day happy. Morgan Freeman was around 50 when he started acting. He didn’t need a 20 year career or an acting degree. To me it’s the best decision I’ve made in my life.

[@coache1nine]

I'm 55 and I'm a parts mgr. I've been in automotive for over thirty years and this is what I will do until I retire. I just recertified my ASE's, for the last time, I'll be 61 when they expire. I do side work for certain people and just bought an Autel because I get jobs that require an advanced scanner. I do not plan on being a full time tech ever again, but the knowledge I have and being able to explain systems to customers is worth it's weight in gold. There is no replacement for knowledge, so I intend to pass it on. I'll be the old guy at the parts store, sneaking out the back to have a cigarette, pissing off customers, but the people in the neighborhood love me because I help them keep their vehicles running and I'm cool with that

[@danielsheaffer3166]

went to tech school for 2 years thinking i knew everything about auto repair...sooo wrong .took me 20 more years to be considered a master tech...only plus to this line of work is you can get a job anywhere...but you will not become rich....continuing education is a must and there are always new special tools to buy....i retired at 64.. now but still work on harleys and small engines..i am now 70 and still not rich....i must be nuts!!!!!

[@morgangallowglass8668]

Yet another reason I confine my car work to a fun hobby, not a way to pay the bills.

[@mattfoley6082]

Occasional DIYer here. Huge ETCG fan. I'm 59 and retired from a desk job. Love reading these comments, so honest and real. Even though I'm not a mechanic I think we all have similar struggles, namely, you will always wonder if the grass is greener at another job, you will have days when you hate your job and don't want to go in, you have to deal with ahole coworkers and managers and customers, you feel unappreciated, you question your career choice, etc. I was able to retire because I'm a frugal person who has always lived beneath my means. I paid off my mortgage in 18 years, I always bought used cars, never new, I always paid my credit card in full (never pay interest!), I only watch broadcast tv and never paid for cable, I contributed as much as possible to my 401k or IRA. Lesson being if you can't control everything at your job you CAN control how you save and spend your money.

[@randymiller1604]

I’ve been a mechanic full-time for 50 years I wish I could say I know it all there’s so much to learn I think starting at Age 40 would be a joke unless you pick one part of a car and specialize in it you might have a chance if you are a smart really smart

[@mikeske9777]

I went from 1977 to 1987 as a heavy line mechanic (7 years in the Air Force as a vehicle mechanic) and then went back to school and became a aircraft mechanic. I then spent the next 30 years as a aircraft mechanic and it was the best move I ever made. I early retired 4 years ago. I have a my shop next to me in my pole building and the first thing I did was got rid of my engine stand, transmission jack and lift. I will not do that work as at my age I don't need nor desire that work. I did it once and I was done. I don't mind doing minor maintenance but to do anything deeper I just hire it out and I have several friends in the field and have their own shops so they can easily do the heavier stuff. My thoughts are that the vehicle mechanical work is a young persons game (no matter the age) I would know after having a broken hand, several knee operations and general aches and pains I know I be much worse if I had stayed longer hunched over a vehicle.

[@rickybobby5950]

Just discovered your channel and you speak a lot of truth! I was a tech in my 20’s for several import brands and a few performance shops but I noticed that even the older techs were not that much further along than I was after a couple of years, they just had bigger tool boxes and a lot of problems with their bodies. After getting a few starter tools and getting clowned on for not having Snap On or Matco, I took on a tool bill that felt like I was trying to pay off the mob and I could never refuse that shiny new tool in that big beautiful, air conditioned tool truck that came around once a week to collect. It was like the ice cream truck but for grown men and there were 3 tool companies that came through each week and I owed every one of them a portion of my check. I loved what I did and I was a decent technician but after about 5 years I decided that my body just wasn’t going to hold up to that kind of wear and tear for long. That was also around the time that many shops went to a team structure where 2 or 3 techs end up carrying a specialist (usually a trans, electrical or engine/drivability tech that does high book hour jobs), an oil change guy and a team lead where each team member gets an average share. This worked for the dealerships but drastically limited an individual tech’s ability to make the big money they once did. We all hated it and the first few months of the new system many senior techs either went elsewhere, became service advisors or opened up their own shops. In the end I went back to school for an engineering/tech field where I get to play with computers and network servers. I still have my tools and I wrench on my own cars and I can tell you, I am close to that 50 mark and I just don’t enjoy it like I used to and it takes me days to get over even a simple maintenance job. I thought about opening a performance shop recently but the EPA and other alphabet agencies are trying to kill the aftermarket industry and the combustion engine in general and it’s just not worth the headaches and hoops these days. Godspeed and good luck on the new shop, Eric!

[@richardwillard]

yes because the skin of the hands just cant heal as fast. I am a really experienced tech, I never work on my own cars because all of them have never broke down, but I would never let some other bobo touch my babies. And I would never work on some one elses car, because then they start bothering you, you dig? but I gave you a thumbs up because this is what you want to do, ok

[@mindthependulum6245]

I started putting collagen protein in my morning coffee and my skin heals faster now.

[@williamoneal3947]

I am almost 82 and have always done my own repairs...no matter what needs to be done. I find out by talking with a lot of todays mechanics, many are not as knowledge as me....go figure. But I guess it has always been that way....some good, some not.

[@richardwillard]

or being so old and lazy u just cut the bolts off then get new ones. so I just use a torch and a hammer now.

[@ClintsStreetMachines]

Great video Eric. I'm 56 and have been in and out of the custom and fabrication industry for a while. For me, the physical demands have greatly changed the focus of my labors. I had to leave a premiere custom shop because my feet hurt so bad I could no longer walk! I still do it but only for my KZbin so I can control my schedule and pain levels. It is definitely more physically demanding than you would think once you're doing it at a 9 to 5. And I've found that once you factor in the experience and tools, the pay is not good at all. I still do it though because I love it and I hope to be one of those 90 year olds that is still wrenching. Love your channel, thanks for the video.

[@AntonioClaudioMichael]

Your experience is 100 times more important then Education you can have every degree you can get and have no idea of what your doing because you have no experience great topic @ETCG1

[@mechanic1955.]

The problem is younger mechanics don't want to turn wrenches, they only want to mess with the computers. It's starting to be a dieing art.

[@davidrte.664]

Couldn’t agree with you more. I got out when I was 37 not because I couldn’t do it but I could see what was coming. When a opportunity came along I took it, I didn’t wait until I just couldn’t do it anymore. For me I was fortunate to get a position teaching at in a Vocational program. I know the old adage, those that can do those that can’t teach. First I challenge anyone who believes that to try it. You better stay at the top of your game as far as knowledge and learn a whole new set of skills, or you will get eaten alive. I agree with you suggesting they get into heavy duty. Much more I could suggest but I will leave that too you excellent advice Sir.

[@stephenboudewyn8281]

Been into it a long time and packed it in at 53 body couldn't take it anymore and I'm a pretty fit guy.love watching,take care.

[@metalbill]

I started in 1994 right out of high school, started with lawnmowers and worked my way up to Big Rigs. I was done at 42 then went into professional custom hot rod building, Then I was done at 43. I now work on Traffic Signals. Way less labor intensive. Not as much money right now, but will top out higher real sooner that wrenching and I will last longer. I keep hot rod building for my personal enjoyment and guess what... 25 years of tool collecting and all that is at home now!!! I love it!

[@Avrelivs_Gold]

Life is a marathon. You can only do what you're indifferent to for a short time, otherwise your brain will melt. Much more fulfilling is just to do what you can do all day in any mood. Like they say, do what you'd do if you had that million of dollars. This is what you should be doing, no matter your age.

[@clayfree7428]

You are right in a lot of ways…. I’m a 34 year commercial/industrial HVAC mechanic here in Alabama (where it’s like working in hell outside several months out of the year) and am 54 years old. Starting my line of work at my age would have it’s challenges also… case in point, I spent yesterday with a young mechanic replacing some piping on a big piece of equipment. Let’s just said…. I’m sitting here today watching your channel and others RECOVERING from the working end of a 48” pipe wrench with a 4 foot extension pipe on the end of it! 😆 I’m hurting today!! But, your right. Any job that requires you to be physical at my age is going to tell on you quick . My trade has paid me well over 34 years. I’ve raised and got four daughters through college and working. I’ve learned a lot about my trade and am in a position to teach younger mechanic the business. I also teach Commercial/ Residential HVAC and Refrigeration at night at our local trade school. Hopefully …….for another short few years before I tip my hat and leave the room and retire and possibly keep on teaching. People my age can do my work and yours but… need to think about the money, cost of tools, retirement, health care and the physical challenges it will put on you. If I was my age wanting to change careers, I would take the time and explore options that would put my mind to work more than my body.. Oh yeah…..that’s slowing going too….🤣 Great video!

[@vr6swp]

I'm 56 and looking for a way out of the nightmare that is working as a service tech. For the guys that don't know, mechanic work is or at least can be hard, frustrating work that (in 2021) typically doesn't pay well. If you are just starting out, or maybe have been in the field for a minute, definitely keep your ear to the ground for better opportunities. I struggled for a few years, then lucked my way into a field service rep gig with a Gov't contractor. Fairly easy gig that paid decently and I was able to ride that contract for almost 10 years. Right now, shops are having to pay more, because it's getting really hard for them to find techs. This happens when the economy is good, and there's easier better paying jobs available. When the economy is slow, shops want to pay you McDonalds wages and tell you you're lucky to have a job. Current moment I'm making all the gravy money I can and focusing on my side hustle, hoping that will be a cash money maker after I retire. I'm looking forward to retirement and being a burden to the federal gov't. Wish me luck.

[@shoominati23]

I know of a guy who worked for over 15 years at some of the best known high end street and custom rod hot shops, enjoyed it dont get me wrong. but now after the pandemic reshuffle took a job with a leading brand dealer workshop and says he's enjoying the workflow more and is making more money than he ever made even when he was building show winning hotrods that made national magazine covers.

[@gerrye114]

I'm 41. I just left a machinist job to start as the new guy in automotive. I'm the happiest I've ever been. Perhaps I'll only do this for ten years before moving on, and I'm totally fine with that

[@alblake5994]

Been there done that , I was involved with collision repair since I was 17 and other than Vietnam and made it to 55 before the memory went out . I made the most money painting and would have stayed with it . Your right about money and its hard to come by, Just to get by I had to flat rate 60 hours in 40 to make a paycheck and your running wide open all the time . Tools are the biggest expense, I couldn't put a figure on it and the mechanics had twice as much as I did. You also have to be an accountant to make sure that you are paid for every operation on a vehicle. If you get any redo's you eat the time yourself not the shop . Basically you are a subcontractor . Now with new technology things have changed considerably and you will need waaaaay more equipment and education and a spouse that works .. Good luck .

[@johngriffin8853]

I have said this before my dad has been a mechanic all my life but doesn't make me one! I did learn a lot from him and I tried working with him witch didn't really work out. I'm a CNC Machinist by trade for over 35 years at 55 years old finding it's getting a lot harder moving around working on my own car and I seen this with my dad when he was 55 years old he had to go on disability

[@LK-pc4sq]

I remember watching you and of course, you were much younger, no beard and no grey hair. I started in the mid 1990s as a mechanic "Bad choice" and struggled to make a decent living. Should have looked into another career. However I was and always have been a good tech. Former USAF Sikorsky mechanic in Special Ops. I left the field and entered into IT collage. Graduated and started employment as a contractor at Microsoft. Made 20.00 a hour! and I was employed in a warm cushy office with a nice employee. I lasted a year before Windows 2000 was released to the general public so lost my job "everyone does". Re-interviewed with other groups never got a offer. The issues with being a mechanic over 50 is as follows: join pain! yes its real. 2: mental health. Mine is worse now then 20 years ago and I have ZERO interest in working on a car. I gives me flash back of the BAD times times as a mechanic. 3. Stamina and metabolic rate...I am more tired now. I am still sharp in troubleshooting but the "DRIVE AND DESIRE" to work on cars from Honda's to Porsche is just not their anymore.

[@davetaylor9313]

been fixing cars for people most of my adult life,i just turned 50 this month,last year i finally had enough,youre right about the job stress and being hard on the body,i can still get under a car ok,but getting back up takes it out of me. these days im buying junk motorcycle fixing and reselling,im a lot happier working on my own stuff,and its pretty rare that i have to crawl around under a bike!

[@onofframp]

Starting out as a "shadetree apprentice" at age 11 working with my dad building hotrods and modifying cars, I was pretty well prepared to become a wheel and track mechanic in the Army. Once out ( after 14 years) I had a pretty good grasp of all kinds of things, but really - master of not a lot. Still, I continued hotrodding (beginning with VWs and progressing thru Porsches and BMWs) until one day I started noticing that getting up off a creeper was becoming harder, and my hands/arms/shoulders and back were complaining more. But at that point I had two large toolboxes and a cart filled with good tools, so it was kinda hard to quit. Eventually pain and inconvenience made all of this not fun anymore so I pretty much quit around age 60 and don't regret it. Mostly.

[@timothykeith1367]

Become a mobile mechanic. They mostly do easier and quick repair jobs. I recently asked twenty mobile mechanics to pull a timing sprocket from an engine and the only responses that I got was this task was beyond the scope of their skills and tools. They can make plenty of money by doing brake jobs, replacing starters and alternators, often just cleaning battery terminals and a jump start.

[@rocnnrollbus]

Became a diesel mechanic at 39 after retiring from the Air Force and turned wrenches on big trucks and buses for 5 years. First wrench I ever turned in any capacity was on large military transport jets at 19 years old. Been a helluva ride but I'm 47 and all of my tools are at home now; I wrench when I feel like it. More fun that way. I'm not even looking for full time employment anymore; currently drive OTR motorcoach part time and couldn't be happier.

[@macias1751marcos]

Easiest possible position to have is fleet maintenance. Bus , or car fleets.

[@dekinekind]

I've always worked on my cars since high school. I even restored a 1925 Model T Roadster which I drove to college and had a ball with. I'm now 77 and moved to a condominium that's three stories up with no work area. It was a blessing in disguise as working on my cars is no longer a fun thing to do. I just bought a brand new 2021 Subaru as my old 2006 needed much more repair than I had a desire to take on. I ended up purchasing their 10 year warranty that takes care of anything that could possibly go wrong and it gives me piece of mind to know someone else will put in the time to take care of any issues that might arise. In a way it took a big load off my chest. That doesn't stop me from watching Eric's videos as he's so professional and I still enjoy picking up new tidbits of knowledge. Also, since I no longer work on my friends cars, I simply refer them to Eric's website to fix the problems themselves. So thanks Eric, you've really helped me through the years and now I pass your knowledge on to others in complete confidence.

[@HouseCallAutoRepair]

LOL! I'm 55 and literally just getting deeper into turning wrenches and getting tangled in test leads!. I even have my own channel trying to copy you... just kidding. I share the idea of HELPING people fix their own cars! (safely and correctly) Your channel is one of the primary reasons I am now on youtube! Thanks for everything Eric! As long as I can get out of the chair, while holding my BFH, I'm still in the game!

[@ETCG1]

Good luck with your channel and thanks for the comment.

[@ahmadghosheh3104]

I wouldn't get started as a tech at late age and use it as a main source of income. That's said, I am 64 and got serious about it only 4 years ago and had the money to buy a decent set of tools, spent around $3000 mostly harbor freight, hoping for a good autel maxicom soon for $650. I only work on Toyota and sometimes Honda to keep my specialized tools limited. I still have a full time job and do this as part time. The main complaint I have is it's hard on my body. I don't have a lift and going up and down under the car is definitely wears me down. When I retire in couple of years I will have my social security and investment income as main stay and this as a side fun work, better than watching TV all day 😂. I wouldn't do it at a shop either, this will be my home shop and for limited number of cars. But again, it all depends on your time, lifestyle, savings, and physical abilities. BTW, keep a large Tylenol bottle handy 😂😂😂😂

[@YourTransmissionRepair]

A long one... Eric, The reason people ask me about changing careers to automotive repair is usually that they aren't making the money they feel they deserve. Going into auto repair at that stage of the game is going to exacerbate the 'Not enough money'-syndrome. I started doing transmission right out of high school. I sold the business in 2015 ($330K) and eventually sold the real estate in 2020 ($2.8M) so I could comfortably retire at 60. Auto repair of any kind is a young man's game, sort of like football. Would somebody over 40 (yes, I said 40) want to change careers to playing pro football? I think not. I absolutely loved what I did. Sort of like a 40+ y.o. football player becomes a coach, I became a shop owner in my 30s. It's much like being a coach. On your channel, you're a coach, too. As a current holder of an ASE Master Technician certification(s), I have to say I agree with virtually 99.2% of the time. (Est.) When asked about changing careers later in life, here's what I would ask: "Why do you want to change careers?" "How much are you making now? "Do you realize you're going to have to purchase >$50K in tools in a relatively short time span?" "Do you know there's no retirement plan in being a tech; only if you're a shop owner." You have to make your own retirement, usually through the sale of the shop and property. Let the question-asker answer these 4 questions and they will give themselves their own answer. J. Larry Bloodworth, CMAT SLC, UT [e-mail] 801-960-2475

[@williamoneal3947]

You made many wise decisions.....Enjoy retirement.

[@YourTransmissionRepair]

@@williamoneal3947 Thanks! However, I made a whole lot more bad decisions.

[@NattyGymBro]

I was in diesel working for a fleet and got out because of the low pay, having to work the 2nd shift, and with the ever-changing technology, having to constantly learn new systems. I figured if I'm going to have to learn something new, might as well obtain an entire new skill so I became an accountant. Couldn't be happier with the change.

[@andylong6589]

currently 42. had been a diesel tech since 98. in 2008 started a new job at an Ag dealer as technical communicator (office job). the Ag industry is booming.

[@eoleol4750]

I keep seeing and hearing that I was doing it backward. I drove trucks on and off for many years. A few years ago, I went back and started taking diesel repair classes. I loved it and I could stay in a shop all day. I'm in my 50's. My point is moving around and exercise is good for you as you get older. Everyone was telling me, older diesel mechanics usually become truck drivers at my age. You have to be very careful with anything you do. Truck drivers are known for being out of shape, with health problems. Sitting in a fix position for long durations is not healthy either. Now the problem I ran into was company job interviews for entry level mechanic positions that really wanted me to drive a truck for them or entry level positions that really wanted a young person to change tires and do brakes all day.

[@petem6291]

At 55 , One of the biggest problems is to be able to work at a pace to keep and maintain a job, at the end of the day the boss just looks At the the bottom line , Years ago you could be a superstar Doing exhaust systems power steering rack’s timing belts water pumps. Cars require different things today that all seem to pay less ..That less comes out of the mechanic end ...

[@leehelppie4544]

i agree with you. i'm 66 y/o and have exercised 5-6 days/week for my entire life. when i was younger i was a painter and a truck company dockworker. i do auto repairs on my own cars and anything that is beyond a minor job beats me up. i got my cdl at age 61 and that was doable, but the long hours are tough. you may be right about diesel mechanics getting paid better...but , those shops tend to be dirty, and everything in diesel is big and heavy. i picked up a starter from a freightliner and that thing must've weighed 40#. it's not an easy job...btw i've watched your channel for about the 10 years you've been doing it...thanks...

[@MotorScotti]

Here in Switzerland mechanics don't have to buy their own tools when they are employed. The workshop that employs them owns the tools and they use it. When you move somewhere else you leave the tools at the workshop. It belongs to the shop. A bit like working in an office; your employer provides the laptop. When it comes to age as a mechanic: most mechanics start with a federal apprenticeship at 16, do their apprenticeship that lasts 3 to 4 years and than work as a mechanic for a few years, but most guys will eventually either switch careers completely or just move up the ranks over time: either within the workshop and become head of the workshop or customer service or go and do additional studies in engineering and go that route, or project management or marketing for an importer. The possibilities are plentyful and it's always good to have had the mechanic foundation in order to actually understand the real life challenges of the technology behind it.

[@richardshewbert3123]

Great video, your right about wear and tear on the body, ive been doing auto repair for 44 yrs now since 1981, from flat heads to elec cars alot has changed over the years, and iam a general mech, meaning i work on everything, but will sublet auto transmission work, at this time i work and the biggest auto body repair shop in the usa, my advise to new mechanics is over time try to mirror a older mechanic tool box, and ask alot of questions on why your doing a repair a certain way to understand how to do it. The cost is a lifelong commitment, i use 5 different tool boxes to do different repairs, i take alot of pictures of before and after to keep a log of what i can do, they pay me well, but i know of some mechanic making 150,000. A year, never sell yourself short, and never be afraid to say i dont know, if your going to do side free work do i only for family and co-workers personal cars. No friends or friend of a friend, good luck to everyone, try to find a shop with great equipment, and people that are in shop.

[@93sundance]

Been a tech for 16 years. Just turned 50 this year. I have had back problems on and off for 10 year's. My knee crunches and makes noise walking. Another guy just a bit over 40 is about to have an MRI on his knee, has back problems and elbow problems.

[@6bblbird104]

68 years old. Got back into the field working for the USPS. NO stress at all. don't have to supply my own tools and you don't work on a wide variety of vehicles. I love it!

[@marcelsmeding513]

At some point, your to old for almost everything. :0p

[@suzumr2754]

The sad truth

[@junkyardgenius]

One take care of yourself and two you only ever get like that if you do stupid s*** if you don't take care of yourself because that just sounds like a loser's mindset

[@marcelsmeding513]

@@junkyardgenius doesn"t matter how you live your life. If you take care of your self it will take longer, but in the end we "all" are ending the same way. In a chair behind the windows.

[@junkyardgenius]

@@marcelsmeding513 bro my grandfather is 107 and he still gives up every day and Moses lawn fixes his truck and his house so you can make whatever excuses you want as you get older but always comes down to provided you don't have any serious health conditions there's no excuse

[@marcelsmeding513]

@@junkyardgenius that's great and very very respectable at such age. But the elder who still are that vital at such age, you can count them by one hand. I personaly don't want to get even near that old. 80 85 is old enough.

[@tomp538]

Started working on motorcycles in the late '60s. Some years later with a family and a mortgage it was no longer fun. You nailed all the reasons I got out... Good fortune and circumstance saw me to the retirement finish line. My advice about going into auto repair; do it if it makes you happy. Get out when it stops.

[@ahighervibe4086]

Funny you'd address this ... I'm 53(!!!) And do quite a bit of wrenching these days, and have been considering doing it full time. My main concern? My BODY! Wrenching is HARD on the human body and while I'm in wayyyy better shape than most men my age, I still feel it when I spend a lot of time "behind the wrench", so to speak. That being said, I've been doing my work with NO lift. If I had a lift, it would be much easier....but not THAT much easier. My takeaway? IF you are in DAMN GOOD SHAPE, ok... But... You had BETTER be in DAMN GOOD SHAPE!

[@shieldcracker]

Thoughtfull points made here. Becoming a successful independent or shop mechanic is the US is tough at any age. First you need lots of training to start working and lots more to stay working [$$, tt]. You need lots tools & specialized instruments [$$$$, t]. You need to rack years of experience [tttt] at job so you can EFFECTIVELY apply your skills to fix vehicles and turn a profit. Business management and people skills are a must if you are running a shop or working in one and want to earn a living. Working as a mechanic is not just another job it requires undivided comitment of one's resources: money, time, energy. Most guys enter this trade because they enjoy working with vehicles and are passionate about it. Assuming you are fit and healthy Age won't disqualify from becoming a mechanic but it can be a complication, because at some point in life you really become too old to afford to fail.