Being a Technician vs Being a Mechanic ~ Podcast Episode 70

For full show notes visit the blog at humblemechanic....
Today I am joined in studio by Rusty. We had a very spirited chat about being a mechanic vs being a technician. We come at it from 2 very different angles, and that makes the conversation fun
Join Rusty and I today as we break down:
Rusty's view of what a mechanic is
Rusty's view of what a technician is
The psychology behind the words.
My view of the two words
QOTD ~ Do you consider yourself a Mechanic or a Technician?
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[@MrSealion59]

I feel the difference is: A technician is a professional, A Mechanic is a tradesman. Both are fairly highly trained and deserve respect.

[@phenej]

Workers and customers deserve respect. Time constraints seem to constrain respect also.

[@RobertLeBlancPhoto]

I’m a Local Union #1 Elevator Mechanic. I have formal training and expertise in electrical and mechanical applications. I have no desire to call myself a “technician”, because in my mind, it holds no greater value or position than the title of Mechanic.

[@rmkscrambler]

Whats the difference between a mechanic and a doctor? One washes his hands before he goes to the bathroom the other washes them after.

[@MrMichaelx3arts]

Both saves lives

[@mrthomas7511]

Ha!

[@tonydeadlock]

technician: is my car still under warranty ? mechanic: is my warranty up ?

[@DontTreadOnMeh]

To me, a "mechanic" is an old timer who works by feel, by instinct, has lots of little tricks, is good at improvising and thinking out of the box, typically working in a small local shop on a wide variety of makes, models, ages and types of vehicles. A "tech" is someone who works by the book, uses lots of diagnostic equipment, uses more specialized/expensive tools, typically working in a dealership or large chain shop on the usual "daily driver" type cars. Neither one is really better than the other IMO, these are not hard and fast rules and there's tons of overlap. It's just the image that pops into my head with one word or the other. Getting so worked up over it seems silly, but I'm also not a professional, just a hobbyist.

[@levimcdaniel]

YES.

[@HorsepowerGarageVideos]

I agree, I'm the mechanic but work at home.

[@S.Nordang]

Couldn't have said it better myself!

[@roguewarr4662]

It's very obvious you are not a auto tech .Running your mouth about, your lack of your intelligents on what it take to be a tech......And i will (DontTreadOnMe) you if you keep making stupid statements like (works by feel) what a F-N thing to say about a young or old tech...dumb hobbyist.....

[@nou8257]

I am a mechanic and kinda tech blend since being solely 1 or the other limits you imo.

[@AuMechanic]

Technician describes a person who is involved in some technical related job that has no specific qualifications. Hence it is preceded by the nature of the job. Telephone Technician, or Printer Technician however these days it has been adopted by anyone unqualified that ever held a tool of any kind so now we have Nail Technicians and a Tyre fitter is now a Tyre Technician, Exhaust Technician for a muffler fitter, and jokingly a Janitor has become a Mop Technician so the word has been diluted. A Mechanic has a recognised trade certification title, "Motor Mechanic" so there is no need for the term Technician. How it crept into Mechanics is the work of Dealers who are run by sales people not mechanics and would call yellow purple if it sold more cars. .

[@lowlife44]

Best comment hands down,end of discussion.

[@yeahitskimmel]

@@lowlife44 the guys name certainly checks out

[@easydayez]

Thats not how colleges see it

[@scooter6054]

If you talk to a Correctional Officer and call him a prison guard you'll get thr same conversation.

[@stephenbrowne33]

There is no difference between an automotive Mechanic or a Technician. It's an ego point to differentiate. The words are interchangeable. Now there are good/bad and inexperienced/veterans. People use technician as a misnomer for specialist. It's soda vs pop but you want to make it chef vs cook (again mostly an ego bias). Lube technician is a great example. Would you want the kid who's part time because he's still going to community college auto classes diagnosing and repairing your double clutch system on your GTI or a very knowledgeable Volkswagen mechanic? Why not his title has "technician" in it. Even the guy on your cast has an ego bias against "mechanics". It's an expression.

[@HumbleMechanic]

That's pretty much how I feel about it too.👍👍

[@ScorpionRegent]

Stephen Browne As a job title you are right. what you are called is not important if it's just a name. However as a skill set you are wrong. You can read my earlier comments to see where I draw the line between the two.

[@alexking358]

+Stephen Browne Agreed, I feel like technician is the stigma word. Lot tech, lube tech, detail tech. Even in construction you have carpenters, and journeymen but underneath them theres the janitorial techs, carpet techs, water techs. Its like here we think your an idiot but we don't want anyone else to know. ( Don't anybody take this personally, I do Detail and minor body as well as restoration.) I don't know when the term mechanic became a stigma to the general population?

[@JerryDurante]

+Alex King the word mechanic hasn't become a stigma to the general population it is self inflicted by the industry basically saying " i have a cool title making me better then everyone one else doing the same thing regardless of skill."

[@ScorpionRegent]

+Jerry Durante If you can make a living doing it you've got skill.

[@PongoXBongo]

In my experience of interacting with both technicians and mechanics (both self described), it comes down to the initial interaction with the customer/vehicle. Customer pulls up to the front of the shop, goes inside and begins to explain their issue (noise, light, vibration, smoke, etc.). _Neither approach is better or worse, just different._ The mechanic will go out to look at the car, have the customer start it up and try to reproduce the issue. He/she will then "get an inkling" of the problem based on prior experience, and have you/them pull around back/into the shop to "take a closer look". More intuitive and holistic. The technician may or may not go out to look at car, then say something like "well there could be several things causing the issue, let's run our "X point diagnostic test" to find out specifically what the problem is." More rational and direct.

[@161BMW]

PongoXBongo different people solve problems in different ways. To me mechanics and technicians are interchangeable and mean the same thing. A service technician is just below technician and can change parts but does not do diagnostics.

[@Tigerfire75]

Don't you want to start off confirming the customer complaint? Then you can start to diagnose the problem.

[@CVNTGETENOUGH]

I’m a KZbin Tutorial watching parts changer lol

[@HumbleMechanic]

Plenty of "pros" are too.

[@mrthomas7511]

@@HumbleMechanic huh? Really?

[@Born_Stellar]

@@mrthomas7511 well i've met some who SHOULD anyways.

[@ethansmith8813]

@@HumbleMechanic yhea. This is a big issue in the detroit area. A nightmare i swear

[@ethansmith8813]

@@HumbleMechanic yhea. Most shops are running on 3 people or less. Its an apocolypse scene due to covid shortages and what not

[@TheKillerPoncho]

I have been working on cars for just over 27 years. I never went to school but I did learn a lot by watching friends and some family show me some things and from there I was able to teach myself by trial and error. After the first couple years of trial and error and after hours trips to the junkyard, I have become better at repair and diagnosis of issues that are brought to me. I like to do diagnostics, especially on the older cars that are non-computer controlled. I will be getting a newer computer later this year seeing as ALL my friends and family come to me with their car troubles. I am happy to help but with the newer cars I am limited. As usual, love the videos. Have a great day.

[@Klipschrf35]

To me a technician does specific work on a given subset of the whole. Like lube technician and tire technician. Basically like a cook. Mechanic does the whole gamut of work and is the higher tier.of it. Like a chef

[@tjlovesrachel]

Mechanic all day.... I hate pc language

[@pgs8597]

In Australia, 1972, my trade course certificate was titled Automotive Engineer, this changed to Motor Mechanic a short time later when AE was a recognised engineering stream. To me Mechanic and Technician are the same, the techs nose being slightly higher, either way both have to have a good diagnostic ear and good diagnostic sense. Rusty's comment of a mechanic applying background knowledge of what happened before to the fault experienced today, well Rusty, that's what makes a good mechanic/technician. In the "old days" no one could afford an Oscilloscope, being a year or more wages, everything had to be diagnosed with the God given senses, today diagnostic tools are semi affordable for those who are keen and can steer you in the right direction but still experience and good senses are still required. I'm a motor mechanic and proud of it.

[@spoolinwagon5350]

I don't care what you call me. Just bring cash, or a credit card with limit high enough for you to pick it up, or don't bother.

[@matiaspaik]

i would call you stupid

[@rmkscrambler]

In the circles I grew up in a mechanic was the guy that diagnosed and fixed the real problem often before the problem was recognized by the manufacturer. A technician was simply a parts changer that could never fix a problem unless he had a tsb telling him exactly what to do and even then it was a challenge. As I'v gotten older I'v found these "stereotypes" to fit quite well. Someone who considers them self a mechanic is comfortable with what they do and doesn't need the ego boost of a title. However, someone needing that ego boost needs it for a reason.

[@SirCavemaninthewest]

I have this belief that I came up with on my own and is that technicians are limited to maintenance abilities and the mechanic is the one that's fully qualified to perform the required labor to correct any issue. Oil change, technician... Stripped out oil drain plug, mechanic...

[@TheAngryHusky]

I'm a 20 year technician in the industrial automation field, and now I am service manager over a large group of techs. To me, the difference between a technician and a mechanic in my field is as follows. A technician if proficient in all areas of the game. In my field that is mechanical, electrical, IT and networking. A mechanic is someone who is good at changing parts and doing basic jobs like setting and leveling equipment, and doing basic mechanical troubleshooting. Generally if I send a "mechanic" to a technical job, he will be on the phone constantly and require a lot of remote help from a technician to get the job done. Also, based on my experience, I find that Experience > Degrees. I see a lot of guys come out of college with degrees that are complete idiots in practical applications, while "mechanics" with years of experience in the field mop the floor with them in most instances.

[@HumbleMechanic]

+SG Carter Thanks for your insight SG!

[@lezamac6]

what about a master mechanic vs a Technician?

[@jakes_liftedxj4421]

i call myself an apprentice

[@jonomotive2000]

A mechanic apprentice or technician apprentice? 🤔

[@cameronhughes2644]

I'll take a mechanic any day over a tech. I'd rather have someone who has worked on cars for 45 years and understands how all the parts of a vehicle work together, who can diagnose any given vehicle, who can not just replace parts, but fix the broken parts. To me, a tech is lost without a computer.

[@HumbleMechanic]

All true. But I will point out that is it hard to get somewhere on a modern car with out the use of a computer.

[@orangeshell8]

cameron Hughes when I hear mechanic I think of the guy who actually fixes my stuff. what do you call someone who builds. trucks/cars doing custom work?

[@OnlineMechanicTips]

theres a difference

[@tikanaza]

It’s possible, hard but possible. Been there done that, if you have computer repair, and know how to read schematics.

[@psdaengr6155]

I come from a different industry but to me the difference between a mechanic and a technician is dramatic. A mechanic can take somthing aoart, and reassemble it, replacing bad parts in the process. A technician can identify the cause of a problem, knows what's wrong before he takes something apart, understands fully why it needs to be repaired, and can repair it. A technician is more likely to be a specialist of a more complex system.

[@clarencek.8892]

I agree.

[@cman32826]

+psdaengr Hmm, I'm guessing..aviation??

[@madfiat8932]

+psdaengr Incorrect. A Mechanic can diagnose and repair complex systems. A technician may or may not be able to. Let me ask you a question: Does Jiffy Lube call its employees MECHANICS or TECHNICIANS? ... think about it... YOU GOT IT! They're Technicians. NOT Mechanics. Yet, there's no way in hell I'd let a Jiffy Lube Technician diagnose or repair my car.

[@myboy051]

+Alvin Brinson take a old school mechanic and place him or her in today's world and let them fix the cars of today without a scan tool . Not going to happen . Just way to much in the system to be able to fix today's cars without having data to look at . You have to know what the scan data means in order to get a idea of what might be going on within the very complex system. Then have the ability to strip down the engine and make the repair.

[@myboy051]

+Alvin Brinson if you want to be the top guy in the shop you have to be able to do both sides of the job . I'm a little bit of everything when it comes to automotive. I'm a HVAC , Electrician , Plumber , mechanic , computer IT tech , pipe fitter , Welder, .

[@baxtar1963]

I had the "Technicians" at Toyota replace my head gaskets under warranty recall and what a job, they had to tear off the top of my engine and put it back together. I picked it up afterwards. The service manager said it's still running rough, you need a distributor cap. I said I would handle it. When I got down the road and looked I realized that they had crossed up several numbered wires on the cap. I find it hard to believe they were talented enough to replace my head gaskets but to stupid to put the wires back on the cap in order as labeled. I raised hell with them and they played dumb. They lost a customer for life.

[@derrickblackburn2062]

thats dumb. First thing I would do is check that wire pattern if its missing and then grin and watch it reach op temp running nicely. Done this hella times on crazy old benz v8's with pos aftermarket wires and intense routings like 1 cap and rotor a head with plug wires running criss cross between heads.

[@orangeshell8]

baxtar1963 they should have checked that if it was still running rough. I always go back and check all my wires and plugs when I get done if I'm doing a head gasket on a truck I mark all plug wires and how everything was clicked to ensure it goes back together the way it came apart

[@salvipanda9646]

I feel like you say that cause your butthurt

[@dingthefries]

zach zinner marking them is a good idea but they have a lot of websites they pay for with the firing order charts they should of used.

[@DaytonCarCare]

Haha yeah had a friend that had an issue with a Mercedes where the transmission went into safe mode. The shop told him at least $3k to replace it. He said screw it and sold the car to my brother for cheap. I found the problem was just a conductor plate on the valve body $160 part. Dropped the pan, valve body, replaced plate, new filter and fluid and still shifting great today. Another car, A8 Audi, owner took it to his trusted shop because it stopped running. Shop said it wasn't worth fixing because of the expense. Sold the car to me dirt cheap and all it was was the fuel pump lol. Exterior and interior was in near mint condition. Later sold the car for 10 times what I paid.

[@niacal4nia]

If you don't use a scanner to read OBD codes, then you're a mechanic. Sometimes throwing parts on a car is cheaper than taking it to a dealer. A professional 2018 auto mechanic is technician. Junk yard vs wrecking yard.

[@gylanunderhill]

To me a mechanic is like a GP doctor, A technician is more like a surgeon as in deals more in intricate and more advanced faults. As for the trainee mechanics I would refer to those as like nurses they are needed on a lower level until a doctor is needed. For example a trainee mechanic is capable of changing fluids pumping up and fitting tyres, a mechanic is someone who can strip and rebuild an engine do engine timing and clutch's and a little bit of electrical work. And if all else fails and the vehicle decides not to run then that's when you call in s tech. That's my perception. I spent a few years working in garages, but everyone's entitled to there opinion.

[@HumbleMechanic]

Gylan Underhill Thanks for your insight!

[@ScorpionRegent]

Gylan Underhill I would add that a mechanic might be able to charge a AC system and maybe change some parts, but when a weird problem shows up call the tech.

[@Hook_em1108]

Everyone knows Nurses really do run the hospital. Ask any Dr, Nurses do the grunt work then the Dr comes in heres your meds prescrip. Techs learn by computer without electronics they couldnt do shit. Mechanics, real mechanics can look, hear or feel the issue and fix it. WITHOUT using some 10k tool.

[@melindamccain4091]

Without mechanical abilities, a tech and his expensive array of electronic equipment is useless. Servicing / diagnosing the computer controlled fuel injection system does little good if the engine needs rings or a valve job.

[@rcworks9762]

I am a tech, there is one other tech in the shop, the other 4 goony birds are mechanics. I am the guy they come to when all else has failed. It's both a blessing and a curse...

[@rjprescott4742]

I'm sorry but when I hear Technician I think someone who is book smart and practical skills ignorant. Long before the word Technician was in use I worked as a Mechanic. I developed a really bad distrust of some of the tech data the manufacturers put out. An example of this was one model had a chronic oil leak problem by the time the last one came out of warranty there were 20 different bulletins on how to fix it. The guys who understood the real problem could fix most of them, but not the way the factory told us. The problem on about 25% of them was a porous casting issue. To me a Mechanic has a great deal of common sense and does not just swap parts out he probably can fix the the broken part, he probably knows how to weld, operate a drill press, and maybe a mill or a lathe.

[@imparticle9]

The one that is "book smart" is the engineer.

[@MrRoyalblunts]

RJ Prescott Considering you can be a technician in other fields with no education your reasoning doesn't make sense. A mechanic has a ticket they went to school for.... that says technician on it lol but my point is not all technicians are educated. Generator technicians generally don't have a ticket. Maybe a certification for a specific brand but I digress. But when I see a mechanic they better be a journeyman.

[@rjprescott4742]

Can he weld can he operate a lathe or a mill the guys I worked with could and the new guys that came in with their pieces of paper could not. Now admittedly this was in the days before massive amounts of electronics. Now I might have to rethink this but based on the early people that came out of schools I was not impressed.

[@salvipanda9646]

RJ Prescott Some of the best mechanics I've met, went to school first to become technicians. Some were going to school and putting work in the shop also. Not all techs are just "book smart" some of us didn't just get our positions by being book smart but by actually working in the field.

[@DaytonCarCare]

I ran across that in the computer industry. Us lowly QA techs with hands-on experience vs the kids ripe out of college with a Masters in Computer Science. They were still clueless with everyday common issues out in the field.

[@mrman17]

I don't know if this is a difference in the UK, or whether it's just my own preference. When I was in the VW main dealer, my official job title was "Motor Vehicle Technician". I always felt this was because it just "sounded" better than plain old "mechanic". In other words, was basically marketing rubbish. Perhaps snobbery.is a word that could be used. I think now technician has replaced mechanic, partially for the reasons Rusty outlined, maybe partially it's an evolving thing as cars get more advanced, but also because garages want to sound better. I now see there is perhaps a more of of a gap between mechanic and technician, although I feel it interchangable. You get good and bad technicians like you do with mechanics. However, where there is a *real* difference is between a "fitter" and a technician or mechanic. A "fitter" (I don't know if this is used in the US) is someone who may work at a quick service centre that mainly does tyres, exhuasts and maybe oil/filter changes, etc. They don't have anywhere near the skill of a trained mechanic/tech.

[@dimmn82]

I hope one day to be good in the field. I just graduated from school and you don't come out of school knowing everything. This is a lifetime learning business because everything is constantly changing. So when people that aren't in the field think we aren't very smart and all we do is hook up a scan tool and it tells us what to replace, it feels insulting.

[@HumbleMechanic]

+Brian Adams Yeah, that part can be for sure. But I don't blame them. There are a lot of folks in the industry that do a great job of short selling how hard this job is. That is why it's so important to talk with your customers and help them understand this type of thing.

[@madfiat8932]

+HumbleMechanic My dad used to have a sign on the wall of his shop saying that a Doctor just had to learn ONE design and that design never changed. A Mechanic has to know just as much, but about all different models, and they change every year. One smartass said "Try fixing the car with the engine running", to which my father replied "OK" and he proceeded to tune the carburetor and set the valve lash - with the engine running.

[@joecummings1260]

A technician is some guy working at a dealership or a chainstore with really nice customer waiting areas and really clean bathrooms that upsells cabin filters and engine flushes. A mechanic is a guy who can handle anything thrown at him, auto and truck repair, heavy equipment, industrial machinery, emergency generators, large industrial high pressure boilers, sewage lift station, VFD motor controls, etc

[@PhattyMo]

I have no formal training,but I'd call myself a Technician. The reason being,is that I like to put some thought into the process,rather than just turning a bolt,and changing a part. First,I'd want to do some troubleshooting,and be sure of what failed,and why. Maybe check on some other things,and do some basic tests to make sure nothing failed 'further up the line',etc. Plus,I work with computers and electronics all day long,so I have some knowledge/insight into how that stuff works,and how to find,and then fix,faults. Anyone can turn a wrench,some of us like to know why we're turning the wrench,and if we are even turning the wrench on the right part.

[@ScorpionRegent]

PhattyMo You may not have the formal training for tech work, but you certainly have the proper mindset.

[@psdaengr911]

A chicken can call itself a duck, but that doesn't make it one. Unless you demonstrate the abilities associated with a profession/craft to others of the same profession/craft, you won't know if what you are doing is what they do, and you won't have a clue how well you are performing.

[@airtylerb]

I'm an airframe and power plant technician student (or as some may call it a aircraft mechanic student), we've discussed this in class and the defining factor I always hear is education. A mechanic figures out how to fix something with a mild understanding of the system and tries to fix it using trial and error, a technician weather it be for cars, boats, or aircraft, they understand the entire system down to every last nut bolt and screw, how each individual system works, how they cooperate with each other, how it works in different environments, how and why something breaks down, how to fix it and if they don't understand how to fix it rather than do things via trial and error, they know where to find the information to fix it.

[@madfiat8932]

+tyler beyl Except that many mechanics do understand entire systems and many technicians fail to do so. That's an artificial distinction you're drawing based on something that's not reality. For example - does a Jiffy Lube technician understand what oil is best for my turbocharged engine by understanding the engine's operation fully, and the exact specifications of each oil they sell in a laboratory and real world setting? No. They sell what's in the 50 gallon barrels in the basement of the shop. I tell them my car REQUIRES Pennzoil 5w40 Euro Platinum Synthetic, they go downstairs and see only Mobile 1 0w30 synthetic, guess what they're going to sell me?

[@timgeloff7685]

I am an ASE certified automotive technician by trade, in ten plus areas of testing or certification. Have been since 1984 (dating myself here) and have been certified ever since. Now here is a perspective on this question and I think my comment should sum it up for everyone. An automotive mechanic is trained and can do most work efficiently and correctly by themselves either with help whether it be by paper books or electronic media, (YT videos, repair sites, personal experience, etc.) Now an automotive technician is someone that has proven to themselves and or others they have the knowledge and capability and experience and have taken tests and passed these tests through different means like ASE (Automotive Service Excellence) you know the blue gear icon. To prove to others and proudly display the diplomas recognizing themselves as being dedicated to this field or career of fun work and staying certified in what ever field(s) they desire. Hope this helps out most of you. This means and signifies this person is dedicated and has proven and others can see these Technicians are recognized for their accomplishments. Now most of my customers that come into my auto repair shop are impressed with my credentials being ASE certified for so long, they feel better knowing my shop is dedicated to this career knowing my shop has taken the initiative and dedication to prove to them we are keeping up with testing and knowing we are dedicated to this career.

[@orchestracelloplayer]

My title is "Lead General Maintenance Mechanic" basically main duties are changing oil, tires and inspections. I'm hourly, but I do get thrown quite a few alignments a week and a couple brake jobs and some other steering and suspension parts replacement. The next step up would be a technician. We also call them "installers". Techs do not do heavy diagnostics, they mainly find failing parts and replace them on approval. Next after tech is senior tech. They get larger jobs and more diag stuff. After that is the "lead tech" and they handle the biggest jobs and hardest diags. They usually have 5 or more ASE or equal experience. Senior techs usually have at least 3 ASE certs, techs have 1-3 typically. Maintenance mechanics usually have none or one. I am studying my A4 and plan to take it in November. Hopefully in spring I'll become an installer. To me it's just a job title, master mechanic and master technician have the same meaning to me.

[@codymackenna8157]

Regardless of my company name I am more a technician. Simply due to the fact that I methodically create a process for every job, regardless if it's an inspection, diagnosis, repair or maintenance. Definitely a hot topic, and I feel that there is a need for it to be standardized and proven on a international scale. I like that you use A, B, C, D level tech's. This should determine multi level door rates to support and reward techs at different pay scales. This is not the 80's anymore and not about who has the biggest tool box in the bay but the biggest tool box in their head.

[@HumbleMechanic]

Cody MacKenna "not about who has the biggest tool box in the bay but the biggest tool box in their head" I like how you put that!

[@ScorpionRegent]

Cody MacKenna Technician is not a job you do with a monday morning hangover. I like the titles apprentice technician, technician, lead technician. The same grade can be applied to mechanics. If I had to structure a shop the bottom wrung would be apprentice mechanic, next step would include mechanic and apprentice technician, the third step would include lead mechanic and technician, the top would be lead technician. The truth is that as far as a job title goes on steps two and three the main difference is whether person wants to spend extra time training or just wants to make it a day job.

[@ShiftingSkys]

I Love both fo your replies. 1/5 mechanics at my shop show up hungover- 0/2 of our technicians show up hungover. When we shop up hungover shit doesnt get diagnosed properly.

[@angusdewar5933]

I would consider myself a mechanic. As i am pretty much a one man band i do all the diagnosing and repairs that need need doing. On this side of the pond i think it only really the larger garages and main dealers that have technicians. The rest are mechanics or fitters

[@patrickwhitehead7584]

Dude, I was a tech at a Caterpillar dealership, then a Peterbilt dealership, then working on Cats for a fleet. Try to explain this shit to a truck driver! XD When I started they were great, but while we were getting more advanced, fleets were racing to the bottom of the talent pool. Leaving commercial transportation in favor of industrial maintenance was the best career move I've made.

[@HumbleMechanic]

Nice! I have always thought commercial trans would be a tough gig.

[@jacob.s3619]

+HumbleMechanic commercial trans in Australia or as I'm called here "heavy vehicle road transport mechanic" is a tough gig, it's probably why we are paid almost twice as much as a light vehicle mechanic and those boys always do a conversion course to be a heavy vehicle guy. Pays a lot better, but the work is so much harder, and trucks are just a technical as modern cars now, it's 50/50 tools and computers for us too.

[@patrickwhitehead7584]

Jacob Stofmeel you hit the nail right on the head. Also, in every shop I know about, we get paid hourly, not flat rate. During spring and fall, I do miss big trucks, but once winter comes around, I sure do enjoy my nice, cozy power plant. I haven't had a block of salty snow fall on me in a couple of years now, or dragged the back of my pant leg through an ice-cold puddle while rolling around on my creeper. The one thing I miss the most- pulling the cylinder head off of a c15 or a c13 that dropped a valve. Something about seeing that carnage once you fly the head off with the overhead crane...damn.

[@glenparris9176]

20 years ago there were mechanics no technicians.

[@travismongeau9698]

I am a heavy equipment field mechanic. Which means I work on yellow iron usually broken out in the field. So I work out of a service truck with a 12k crane. Mechanic vs technician? I think both many times I am using Cat ET (Electric Technician) to find sensor or electrical faults but also things wear out, break mechanically or dumb choices by operators cause me to physically see the problem and fix or re-engineer parts

[@tompackage]

I've been a main dealer specialist technician for Audi & VW for 19 years now & this is how it was explained to me when I started : Apprentices = we all know what these are ! Improver Technicians = these are apprentice's that are newly qualified Auto Electricians = purely electrical diagnosis & repair Mechanic = service work, any mechanical repair & some diagnosis of mechanical systems Technician = all of the above and much much more including in depth diagnosis of anything on any car, also within that are different qualification levels of technician such as master tech,high voltage tech or various types of specialist techs... The list goes on....

[@sranjesuper]

I don't know bout ya'll but here, people call you whatever they want to call you. Technician came out with the colleges pushing it and then dealership catching on. But what many people don't realize is that, many "mechanics" work at " dealerships " and many technicians work at "shops" . It makes no difference where you go.

[@rcworks9762]

I have 37 years in the trade, if you're not a tech by then you haven't paid attention. I came out of Naval Weapons in 1980 with electrical and electronics training and homebrew computers as a hobby.(Pre IBM PC.) I came into the field as a hobbiest. I never intended on making it a career. I was fresh out of the Navy and needed to feed my face and have a place to live and it was a job that paid enough money. After a couple of years it just seemed like a good fit as those around me hated anything to do with wires and I made doing what the others guys hated my own turf. I came into the field at a time when tech was coming to the field and was fortunate enough to have experience with it. I feel sorry for the new guys just trying to get a start in the field. So much to learn just starting out. I'd suggest starting in a shop as an apprentice rather then a tech school... No tuition, no loans and the real life experience of actual repairs.

[@Jasonandsonsgarage]

I call myself a mechanic, I work on Tractor-trailers. I'm a Diesel mechanic. Awesome videos

[@Dad84]

Same, I’m a Construction Equipment Mechanic. Don’t care for the term tech

[@geoffreyfloyd5901]

The way it was put to me was a technician has a formal education in addition to on the job training and experience that allows him or her to more accurately diagnose and resolve customers automotive problems. Currently i am a mechanic working towards being a technician.

[@carissaswatton6774]

A technician has the knowledge and ability to diagnose problems and failures and be able to fix them. My partner started out as a Fitter and Turner before he went into the Automotive Trade. Hes been in the Motor Trade around 20 years and his skill level is very high understanding on every system if something fails. Hes gets a lot of people asking him to diagnose electrical issues that he knows what happened. what my partner said and made it very clear that is people only know the Mechanical side. People think that you put a computer and clear codes ect.. There is a lot more then what people think when it comes to the point, till people work in the Trade people know nothing to be honest.

[@adthar9340]

I don't know if you've covered this topic in another episode, but i thought it was interesting some of the comments in this episode about customers' low perceptions, or perhaps ignorance, of technicians and what they do. I'm just wondering if part of the problem is the modern dealership's obsession with keeping customers away from the technicians and workshop? As a customer, i hate this! i never get to speak to the person who actually touches my car...heck i can't even see what's being done. how can a customer build trust etc that they are actually being looked after by the dealership? i hear of people resorting to marking bolts to see if they actually get touched. Pretty crazy. so long story short....why do dealers keep customers and technicians away from each other?????

[@AnHRTBus]

I guess I would definitely be what this gentleman calls a "shade tree mechanic"; my buddies got stuff needing done I'll do it. I can't do the things a tech does, I mean I have VAG Com but there are some tools I don't have here at my house, a sturdy tree for example, or engine crane. No lift obviously, or dyno boxes. Got a check engine light? Bring it over, I can tell you exactly what's wrong, so you are better prepared when you go looking for the repair. Got a brake job needed, new struts or hubs, intake piping, basically anything that can be done with some hand tools and basic mechanical know how, I can do that. So even though I can do some basic diagnosis, I definitely don't qualify as a Tech. A tech has taken his or her time to go to school, get certified for a specific brand or repair, your Mechanic is a general wrencher, your tech is brand or repair specific. Honda or Volkswagen Tech. the "tech" in my head is like the honorary doctorate lol.

[@lilhazerd]

I'm probably a little late on this but I wanted to add how I think of it. It may be where I live but during my time driving truck and taking my car to shops I did divide technicians and mechanics as 2 separate positions. Even in the same shop I have always thought of a technician as a person that does diagnostics, tires, brakes, oil, plugs, electrical, etc. and a mechanic as a person who does repairs like striping and rebuilding a motor or trans. and other such repairs that are more in depth on the mechanical side of auto repair. An example is when my semi needed an engine rebuild. I thought of the first person who handled my truck as a technician. He did the diagnostic work and identified the problems such as combustion gasses leaking into the coolant among othet tests he preformed. And the person who did the tare down and rebuild of the engine as a mechanic. For the question of the day I don't think I'm qualified enough for either technician or mechanic but would lean more towards mechanic for myself because I like to work on the mechanical side rather than the electrical.

[@mikemcchesney3141]

I have been building and racing cars since the late 1970s. To me, a Technician plugs a laptop into the OBD Connector, and it tells him what to replace. A mechanic can hear a car being driven into a service bay, and tell whomever is working on it where to start (exhaust leak, bent pushrod/rocker, bad lifter, worn waffle valve, misplaced kanimblin pins, etc).

[@terryeffinp]

When I think mechanic I think about someone who does primarily mechanical work. Brakes, hydraulics, air systems, drivetrain, overhauls, engine swaps, steering/suspension ect. When I think of Tech I think of the guy with a multimeter in hand programing modules digging through software revision release notes troubleshooting fuel systems emission system/aftertreatment problems. In my shop there is no one person who does just mechanical work. Or just troubleshooting. We all do everything. I guess what I call myself depends on what I am doing that day. One of the guys I know put it this way. 50 years ago you had to know how an engine works and how to fix it. What leaking valve sounds like popping back through the exhaust. What causes a bearing failure. Things like that. Today you need to know everything a mechanic needed to know 50 years ago plus common rail fuel injection aftertreatment systems high speed CAN links have a thorough understanding of electricity refrigeration the list goes on and on, and it is only going to get more complex.

[@andrewa2859]

to the question of the day, it all depends on who I'm talking to. I usually refer to myself as a tech but when they don't seem to understand what that means I'm a mechanic. and I also believe they are completely interchangeable, you either have the knowledge experience and integrity to be good a tech or you don't. no matter what you want to call yourself!

[@TheRebuilt1]

Parts diagnostic vs application/module diagnostic. I undersatnd both sides and remember being a teenager working on cars and having family member who were mechanics who would say if a car wasnt working say "is it getting fire, fuel and air." A lot has changed this as relays, modules other electrical components that can prevent fire or fuel being delivered. A lot of people can r&r parts but dont understand function of parts and how to test. This was a great discussion and upload by Charles as awlays.

[@63stratoman]

A mechanic is someone who changes parts, does a brake job, puts an engine or transmission together, Etc. A technician is one who is able to make a proper diagnosis because he or she has a knowledge of what is going on, how things should work properly, and what is going wrong so the mechanic can replace the proper part. Therefore, you have had mechanics and technicians throughout automotive history - long before everything was computerized and you had all of the fancy, expensive diagnostic equipment!

[@Joey-jg1su]

Someone who works in the field needs to be both. The tech side of it is being able to diagnose a problem to the cause. The mech side is being able to replace/fix the issue and all the steps to doing so. Basically a long answer for mentally a tech and physically a mechanic

[@manrightchea]

I embrace the term mechanic, because I feel a mechanic can truly diagnose a vehicle through sound , experience, and very detailed know-how of all of the Machinery that makes this device function. I respect that a lot more then someone that looks at a computer screen to try to find out what's wrong with a car. My issue with the perception of a technician is that many can over complicate the process, why should I read outputs from 4 sensors to know a engine is running lean when I can pull a spark plug and 15 seconds and know the same thing. So I take the term mechanic with pride because only a mechanic can take that machine down piece-by-piece and put it all back together properly piece by piece.

[@devoncoolman88]

My opinion of this argument is. A mechanic can competently repair the mechanical end of a vehicle ie brakes, suspension, minor engine repair. A technician can do all of that plus diagnostics, major engine/trans repair, differential repair.

[@boydiesel69]

Understanding the fundamentals of how an engine or vehicle components tie together and function how they do if futile to being a technician or mechanic. Doesnt matter what you label yourself as, in order to do the job properly and diagnose vehicles accordingly , fundamentals of the engine and chassis is something everyone should try to understand.

[@HumbleMechanic]

yep

[@stansuchevits9884]

I'm a Mechanic ! That's a moniker that I am proud to wear, 45 years now. A Technician is is someone in a white coat , analyzing piss samples in a lab. The difference between a Mechanic and a doctor is, I don't practice, I have to know what I am doing or I don't get payed. I'm held to a higher standard.

[@Johnyrocket70]

My brother was mechanic for multiple high end auto dealers after serving in the military as a mechanic. He quit all those dealer shops because he was uncomfortable being involved in the lying to customers of unneeded repairs & the parts were never replaced with brand new parts they were charged for at all of the shops .

[@klausphx]

When first meeting Someone I tell them i'm a Automotive Master Mechanic&Technician 37+years Experience and Boom their Reaction is Very Good. Know what you are talking about and don't be a Bull Shiter than all is good. Just be Very Positive and Explain things well. When you Fix their Car right You'll get Respected Either Way by telling them your a Mechanic or Technician or both.

[@nathanstatham]

Klaus Schreyer do you wake them up after you tell them your title! Jeez. I’d take a nap if someone told me that was their job title 😂

[@colepeterson9961]

Its just semantics really all that matters is how much knowledge one has and how much pride one has in their work I'd rather have a good mechanic than a bad technition. Plus everyone at places like jiffy lube are called technitions but I'd never let them touch my car ever for anything ever.

[@thevoxdeus]

I think there is a difference between a dealer tech and a non dealer tech, which in some ways corresponds to this discussion of technicians vs mechanics. If you're in a dealership, you're going to probably see more complex problems on average (because uncle bob can fix the simple/easy to diagnose stuff) but you also have a lot more support. I'm trained and certified as a tech for several major diesel truck manufacturers. The process is similar regardless of manufacturer, with variations in the quality of technical information and tools, but it's largely the same process. Confirm the complaint, inspect, then test, trying to rule out as many causes as possible with each step, doing simpler steps first if possible. Part replacement is done only after you are certain (or nearly certain) that it can only be that part. If you have a problem, call the factory or corporate help line. I can tell you, as a fleet mechanic, a lot of that is inapplicable. Where I work, I don't have reliable schematics, because my equipment is from 8 different manufacturers, and all of it has been modified to some extent with after market equipment. In some cases, the entire electrical system apart from the ECM is after market. I rarely have software that allows me to actuate or disable components that are multiplexed, even though that's a very fundamental part of the way a dealer tech will diagnose certain issues. If I want to actuate something, I'm literally hooking up a power probe and providing voltage or ground directly, vs clicking a button in a piece of software that will actuate it through the correct module. If I have an intractable problem, I can't call the factory or tech support. 99% of the time I'll need to figure it out, through trial and error if nothing else, because the cost of my labor is cheaper than a dealership's shop rate by a factor of 5. If it takes me two or three times as long, it's still cheaper, and thus, better for my employer. Of course I still want to confirm the complaint, inspect, test, and try to rule things out in a logical fashion, but the idea of making an accurate diagnosis with just software and schematics is virtually unheard of. A lot of the time the fastest, most efficient way to diagnose a problem is to put on a known good part, see if that fixes the problem, and if not, move on to the next suspect part. That's a "shade tree mechanic" way of working, but a lot of times it's actually the fastest, most cost effective method to get to a reliable conclusion. A lot of times, if a problem is complex enough, it's going to go to a dealership, not because I lack the attitude, aptitude or even training to diagnose it properly, but because I don't have the tools. And the point here is: There are different approaches, and the "technician" approach is often the superior approach, but what separates a "tech" from a "mech" is often times not the person, but the circumstance. It's useful for a service writer or a manager at a dealership to say that all of his people are technicians (it helps to justify those higher shop rates), but it's also useful for every one to understand that those "technicians" would have a very steep learning curve in order to achieve any kind of results outside of a dealership environment. And if you have equipment that's custom, or obscure, the tech is probably going to be worse at diagnosing it, unless it's the equipment he's been trained and specialized in. So you can take pride in the fact that a "tech" will probably get a diagnosis faster than a non tech, while understanding that qualitatively, there may be no difference in the level of professionalism, intelligence, attitude towards quality, or experience.

[@psdaengr911]

I agree partially with what you say, that the difference CAN be a matter of a technician having access to better tools. The lack of those tools means that the person, regardless of his potential ability and knowledge, is working as a mechanic. If he never has that access that's all he ever will be, and there are limits as to how car his mechanical aptitudes can carry him. But having access to the right tools does not guarantee that a someone is a technician. Additional aptitudes, training and experience are needed . Make no mistake; I have equal levels of respect for a first quality professional craftsman as for a first quality diagnostician. The skills are complementary and rarely found in one individual because of the time and experience needed to achieve excellence in any profession. We need both skillsets, and a better way to employ and compensate them fairly for what they do than dealership opened shops. The best I've seen are independently repair shops that specialize in a limited range of vehicles, such as only Asian or only German cars. Those that provide an oportunity for a mechanic who is interested, to see if he/she has the capability of learning to be a technician, and vice versa,have the best chance of bringing out the best in each automotive service/maintenance worker.

[@TheRebuilt1]

Im just curious who is Rusty and what are his credentials. My thought is that in general terms a technician is someone who has gone through so formal training whether at the manufacturer dealership they work at or some training at via official training and being ASE certified via UTI or some institute. You can still be formally training and have non methodological processes of diagnosing and repairing a car properly.

[@butwhytharum4811]

i call myself an engineer (stationary engineer). the systems i work with are the exact same as they would be in a car so my knowledge of that stuff is easily transferable but the things i dont know how to do is the actual fixing of parts i look at the term "technician" as someone who would be very good at diagnosis of problems and the term "mechanic" as someone who knows how to physically tear things down and fix the problem efficiently

[@faheemraqib1035]

The word mechanic is also interchangeable especially here in New York City where we have tons of elevator mechanics. But you could say that auto mechanic is the most popular type of mechanic.

[@markwalls8754]

I am a self taught mechanic. I grew up on a farm and learned at a early age how to repair farm equipment and keep it running. As a teen ager I took a job as journey mechanic for a construction company work on large equipment and large diesels. From my years there I learned a lot about working on many diesels and soon became a road mechanic for theme. That was 30 years ago. I now own my own business and I still consider myself a mechanic even though many diesels today come with computers and anti smog controls I am still just a mechanic according to you fellows. Well I'm proud to be one then.

[@Jake-ug2mf]

Technician to me implies a dealership mechanic who has had training for a specific manufacturer or manufacturers for certain systems used in their vehicles. I.E. At the ford dealership that I worked at we had a Diesel Tech, Alignment Tech, Trans Tech , and a pair of guys who worked together on all the heavy duty vehicles (F450 and larger, and Ambulances). Mechanics are people who can Diagnose a problem and fix it efficiently with a high standard of quality,, one who can't diagnose is merely a parts swapper and one who can but not fix efficiently is a sub standard mechanic. The specialty performance shops that do custom builds with turbos and other non-bolt on mods with high quality I believe are worthy of being called Techs even though they are typically thought of as just mechanics.

[@jamesdoyle9220]

I have always called myself a mechanic. I've seen too may "technicians " miss the diagnosis. In fact, I still use the term "troubleshooting". It takes a good combination of knowledge and know-how to be effective at finding and correcting problems on modern vehicles and equipment. The BMW dealership could not find the cause of my daughter's air suspension repeatedly collapsing at highway speeds, nearly causing loss of control. Or my other daughter's Honda Fit stalling when cold. That turned out to be a simple valve adjustment, something that many "technicians" did not even think of. I really admire your moniker "Humble Mechanic", emphasis on HUMBLE. Like all modern business and sales people, the managers and service writers have to constantly come up with glitzy terminology and trendy buzzwords to sound smart.

[@wscott9779]

As a customer I assumed going into this video that mechanic was the more desired title. What came to my mind first is Master Mechanic, and the Technician is the guy who just handles oil changes and the like. Thanks for explaining the difference.

[@1337penguinman]

I've had the exact opposite experience. I find "technician" to be a term very often used for less than skilled labor. "I'm not a janitor, I'm a sanitation technician." It's too generic for my taste. I have no issue being called a mechanic or referring to myself as such.

[@rycrawford5126]

I agree here. Other than as a tech in my experience I did basically all of the diagnostics and also did all of the physical labor..... Very rarely does a vehicals change bays when being paid flat rate unless the diag or repair is over someone's head.

[@olenaerhardt7725]

I was appealed by the name of the film and reputable channel of course. I was surprised to learn that a technician is someone with more knowledge than a mechanic. Before this film I (like some people write in comments as well) thought that a technician possesses just certain skills, like on brakes, on oil change and alike, and a mechanic would be with more broad general knowledge and skills on everything in the car (maybe restricted somewhat on certain models). I also want to remark here that usually people say "mechanic", not "technician". Whoever works on their own cars would call themself a DIY Mechanic, not DIY Technician (at least I've never heard of such term). The main thing is the level of knowledge, scrupulosity and honesty of course. I appreciate somewhat bad mechanics (or technicians), since bcs of them I myself started to work on our cars (in our family). At one dealership they replaced the compressor to help w/not working AC, and then kept replacing exploding compressors over and over again without bothering to replace a condenser and dryer before installing a new compressor. They've never fixed it. Who they were: mechanics, technicians? I assume technicians (it was a reputable place, Jupiter dealership in Dallas). After several years I came back to that issue, replaced compressor, condenser, dryer, several hoses (to be on the safe side), and flushed well Evaporator (1st w/Isopropyl Alcohol, and then w/a special Flush, several times 4-5). Now the car is blowing arctic cold air. I would call myself DIY Mechanic. The film is very educational, thank you.

[@vincentknight5358]

I am just a well equipped hobbiest, became interested in doing for myself due to inept part replacers and Techs. So invested in my own tools and equipment

[@zmotorsports62]

Good video and I know everyone has their own opinions, but after being in the industry for nearly 3 decades I consider myself a mechanic moreso than a technician. In my opinion a technician is a person who specializes in a system. A mechanic is someone who diagnoses and repairs those systems and how they ALL inter-connect. I consider myself someone who diagnoses the problem no matter what system the issue is with and then repairs it. I know some people think the new buzz word is technician but whatever someone needs to make them self feel better. I am a mechanic who fixes, builds, repairs, modifies things no matter electrical, mechanical or structural. It's funny I know people who get offended if they are called anything but a "technician" and can't find their ass with both hands and a road map around a car, but they're a technician.

[@madfiat8932]

+zmotorsports Agreed. For example, Jiffy Lube has technicians, not mechanics. Yet I would never let a Jiffy Lube technician diagnose or repair my car.

[@justinjj8767]

I just want to say this....I got my entry into shops through a company called NTB. I was considered a technician....I didn't know shit. When I went to a better paying, more reputable, shop, I was considered a mechanic. Now I was still green then but everyone in the shop save for the tire and oil change guys, including myself, used all the diagnostic equipment and started buying specialty tools. To me its semantics. You are right with the psychology of it though. Technician sounds more reputable than mechanic when speaking to customers.

[@kevinc.8869]

I think it all depends on where you work. I've worked at some places where I was referred to as a mechanic and other places where I was referred to as a technician. And I can do it all.

[@billrussell7672]

im a master mechanic and the reason i'm here is I started under a shade tree this whole word game is just that, I'm a navy trained diesel mechanic and a navy trained gas turbine technician and technicians are hemmed in by their own boundaries

[@Desmodonis69]

in my opinion the difference between mechanics and technicians is by foundation, technology. the computer aspect assists technicians in finding things wrong with sensors and mechanical problems but as Rusty mentioned, "shade-tree" machanics learned from experience back in a day when mechanical know how was most of what you needed to learn from, not how computers can affect functions as well as mechanical flaws.

[@K.Kelly87]

Most of the mechanics I know think this way: The mechanic diagnoses and is able to do the repairs properly. Then you have "parts-changers" that read the code and change a part.

[@78katz]

Yeah, when I hear technician I think the guy may only be qualified to do oil changes. Where as a mechanic can rebuild an engine if needed. So mechanic carries the premium connotation in my mind.

[@andrewensley4121]

Technician doesn't just mean automotive computer (which mostly do the engine monitoring then "fuel and air adjustment") it mean that the person working on the car has a great understanding of the systems on and car, in order to be able to identify, locate and fix both mechanical and electrical problems with the vehicle. To say that a technician Fixes by the use of the cars' computer mean that the technician knows where to began to look at the engine or other car componnets after reading the code or "information" about the engine or other car components as identified by the computer "information" or code.

[@robakagyser2300]

Reminds me of Handyman vs Carpenter OR Carpenter vs Builder I know in manufacturing and perhaps some other fields you have Engineers, Technologist, Technicians, Assemblers, etc. But each have and require different levels of education, skill, and experience. The Engineer requires at a four year bachelor degree or more, with two or more years of experience in order to become registered and licensed. A Technologist requires either a four year college bachelor degree or in some cases a college two year associate degree. A Technician usually requires at least a 18 - 24 month diploma from a vocational technical school or in some cases a combination of Vocational Technical education and/or on the job training/experience. An Assembler is often trained on the job and / or has aquired experience from work in similar type work experience. But often times it is likely to see overlap between these above mentioned position, where certification/licencing and such do not prevent such overlap. Just my observation. Perhaps mechanic vs automotive Tech/Technician has similar overlaps. I personally think it has more to do with the person's skill and ability and level of training, than it does with what title is given to or assumed by the individual. Education and formal training can be good if the aquired information becomes true knowledge and then is developed into real skill in one's occupation. Simply have formal education does not mean you have aquired knowledge or developed skill actually, it must be tested in a real life setting and skills must be honed; and honing skills take time. This is why so called mechanics have what some call "feel" or intuition. Because they have experienced similar situations before and therefore are able to detect a problem without the aid of a computer or machine. It is like going to the doctor. Often times after accessing a patient's symptoms a doctor is able to diagnose a patient without having to perform a test. Only an examination is needed. But it is good that the doctor also has the skill to perform test if necessary. I think personally that it also holds true with the mechanic vs tech debate, where the tech also needs "feel" and intuition of mechanic skills, and the mechanic would be enhanced in their skills if they had the diagnosis skill of the tech. Why spend more money on running a diagnostic procedure where the problem is already clear. Save the diagnostic for the scratch your head situation is my opinion. -Rob

[@HumbleMechanic]

More to do with the person’s ability and skill. 100000%!!!

[@TheSavageBerzerker]

i agree on the differences a technician uses all the proper tools to properly diagnose the vehicle. where mechanics are parts changers. this is not an ego driven thing. I am still a technician I came from the heavy equipment world who rebuilt engines, axles, electrical systems, hydraulic systems. A technician always gets thrown onto a hard problem.

[@mmikee407]

I guess the best term would be a technician mechanic. It has the best of both worlds. Some who have a technical knowledge of how modern vehicles systems work through computerised electronic networks and he can also have the mechanical know how to undo vehicle parts correctly and replace damaged parts or fix parts that can be fixed and put the vehicle together in a properly and safely working order.

[@budgaugh66]

Considering someone a technician or a mechanic is one thing, but I tend to see the terms as separate skillsets.. For example: Somebody may be very mechanically inclined, but isn't so keen on the technical, advanced aspects of vehicles. On the other hand, there may be a guy who is very knowledgeable and comfortable with diagnosis, but doesn't know how to use a torch or pull a broken stud.. Most techs or mechanics are quite well-rounded, but there can be alot of variation between the two general skillsets.

[@03yamiR6se]

Very good conversation. I'm a tech and a mechanic. I service copiers and printers to pay bills and went to school to service motorcycles and do it for fun and spare cash. Oh and i can tune and sync carbs and points.

[@SRH13purps420]

I feel that mechanic describes someone who does something because they have seen it done or read the steps on how to do it, where a technician can figure something out that is totally new by using critical thinking and previous experience togther

[@Justin-yk1du]

Technician- brand specialist, more resources, usually hired for dealerships. Mechanic- general repair multiple brands, specializes in systems and not brands, usually works independent or for a independent shop.

[@Justin-yk1du]

Master mechanics and Master techs are both capable of same general certifications. I think his definition of mechanic is actually more of a hobbiest or weekend warrior.

[@garygardner9677]

The term technician was started by the marketing departments of the manufacturers. It was done so that customers would perceive that having a dealer do the work means that the guy working on their car is more highly skilled than the mechanics that work for independent shops. Guys used to learn by on the job training (OJT) Now there are more guys that have gone to schools for training. OJT guys are parts changers. Guys with training on the theory are better equipped to diagnose complex problems.

[@theloosemoose8200]

a tech is someone who fully understands the cars system and knows how to use the specific equipment to find all issues.... I personally know some great "techs" that aren't that great at actually getting in there and completing the job, they can tell you 100% what the issue is through....

[@jamesdoyle9220]

What about all those independent repair shops that use the subscription services like Alldata where you type in the details like make, model, mileage along with the complaint symptoms and it gives you the most likely cause? Sounds pretty sketchy if you depend too much on it.

[@fasfgasdfagadsf]

A mechanic can work and fix anything mechanical or electrical. A technician sends it back to the dealer to replace what is bad. A mechanic turns garbage into gold A technician polishes gold. A mechanic fixes the problem part. A technician replaces the problem part With the same part that will fail again. Mechanic works on machines any machine. A technician will work in specific applications. (Auto)(computer)(cable)(industrial) (diesel)(electrical)(transportation)(network)______ tech vs a Mechanic Who does them all.

[@cg1735cg]

I dont know a mechanic that know anything about electrical but thats just me

[@kontakt4321]

I call myself a practical engineer, who happens to be both a mechanic and a technician. My father was an EE, and my grandfather was an ME. I can troubleshoot both a circuit board, and a carburetor. On my own gear, or when time is flexible I would much rather puzzle something out than look at the book if that's even possible. I feel that I learn more personally by going through that process than by reading the procedure. That is as much to do with my personal learning style as anything else. I often use the book for a wiring or vacuum diagram without even glancing at the step-by's on how to do the procedure. I would not call myself a "master technician" or "master mechanic," for sure. I have great respect for that 'm' word preceding a title, and find it has far more value than the title itself. It's not necessarily true, but I expect a master tech to be a mechanic, and vice versa simply because of the likelihood that their experiences overlap. If you're good enough and paying enough attention to become a master at one, you will surely have absorbed enough of the other to get most jobs done.

[@kontakt4321]

I'll also work on modified cars all day long. I've often been the guy that other techanics (SWIDT?) bring hacked up piles of shit to, particularly wiring hack jobs. For most people that is a miserable task, but for me I find it therapeutic almost, provided I'm not on a tight deadline. I do that kind of work in my spare time, and don't really care how well I'm being paid for those hours. I care that I brought a machine back to life. I care that I kept a friend on the road. I love what I learn along the way.

[@supercharged00gtp]

I went through the GM ASEP program back in the mid 90's and the instructors stressed that we were technicians not mechanics. Working with OBD2 diagnostics and along with multiple other computer systems all communicating really upping the diagnostic game it takes more than just being a 'mechanic'.

[@rycrawford5126]

I got certified in heavy diesels in college. Ended up getting a job being a diesel and auto tech for Ford motor company. Worked there for almost 5 years and got certified by Ford to do anything that could possibly be asked of me. Ended up leaving because of poor management, then worked for a private shop for a couple years. Now I'm considering getting into working on boats and ships because of the pay increase.

[@68magnum1]

I understand why you guys are debating difference between a technician and a mechanic however did you ever hear a customer say my technician no it's always my mechanic, so the customers mine a technician and a mechanic is the same. So it should be for everybody else to. After being in the business for 45 plus years as I have in achieving what I've achieved I always refer to myself as a master technician. So as you guys are talking what I hear you saying what a mechanic is. Is what I would call a parts replacer. Parts Replacer is someone who has to be told what part to replace or he just keeps replacing parts until he may fix a problem or until he gives up and usually create a new problem. A mechanic is someone who can see a problem and perform basic diagnostics. And if he can see it with his eyes you'll probably get it fixed correctly. Your basic diagnostic technician can diagnose and find an issue and repair it. Top Line diagnostic technician/master technician should be able not only diagnose and find the problem but once a problem is found should be able to tell why it happened, why the part failed and what the correct procedure is to fix it so it doesn't occur again if possible.

[@GlennPire]

Hey man, I’ve been in the industry for awhile. My father owns a used truck dealership. So I grew up around the “shop”. Now it being hard to work for family I’ve found myself at an aftermarket shop, in a very busy high income area. I have found out how much I actually DONT know! I’m finding your podcast very informative, thanks for doing what you do brother. Can’t wait to get caught up on your episodes.

[@danr5105]

In the aviation world there still is a classification called A+P (airframe and powerplant) Mechanic. No disgrace at all to be called a mechanic. In regards to your evap system example. What harm is there in installing the gas cap you have laying around and see if that fixes it before you take the time to hook up the smoke machine? I think stubbing in an easily accessed part is at times the smart and fast way to go. Now do not get carried away with the stubbing in a known good part technique but do not dismiss it entirely, use it when the situation fits.

[@boomstickkid]

If you work at a dealer, youre a "technician" if you work anywhere else, youre a "mechanic" its is simple as that. Every shop has the guys that can diagnose and the guys that are "nuts and bolts"

[@CameronDC-Grimes]

I think there shouldn't be a distinction between mechanic and technician. As long as they both have the diagnostic know how for all the systems on a vehicle they are professional. If they only parts cannon it, then they are not a professional. How fast they do it determines how much they make, especially flat rate techs/mechs. I still consider myself an apprentice auto mechanic because I'm still learning new diagnostic methods

[@mechanacae811]

I think this is just a simple misunderstand arising from the ambiguity of the terms. Technician would be electronic/diagnostic systems; Mechanic is the purely mechanical aspects; E.g. Steering, drivertrain, suspension, etc; and what Charles refers to as "technicians" attitude of specificity skill (E.g. Make) by "mechanics" (scene @ ~ 13:00); I think this would be better termed as Specialists (another category, independent).