The Reasons Young Tech Quit

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[@sixoid4104]

I work at a high performance shop building mustangs. I just turned 22, make less than 18 an hour, have all my OWN tools at the shop and also my personal garage. I pay the tool truck every week like everyone else does. Some weeks I have $100 left over for myself to “enjoy” my weekend. It’s ridiculous. I just finished a $30,000 invoice build, also I install $10,000 supercharger kits into 2015+ mustangs regularly. Wiring, full engine builds, transmission replacements, clutches, suspension etc and I’m told by my boss that he will NEVER be able to pay me what I’m worth. This industry sucks ass quite honestly. Love the videos

[@CortezAutoServiceMobile]

Learn as much as you can your better pay day will come, when you go to another shop or start your own business.for now the knowledge your getting is valuable but yes you should be getting more. I remember telling my boss at one point that I could make more money at McDonald’s. But this year I might brake $100,000. So t be discouraged there’s money in this industry but you have to be very wise with your money when you first start

[@paulferreira8342]

Stick with it a while, take your lumps, learn what you can, earn a good reputation, then move on to another shop or industrial job. If you’re worth it, you’ll get there.

[@zachroberts1988]

Had the same experience working at a shop that specialized in corvettes in 2010-11... never made more than 16 an hour, i left for a maintenance job at a GE plant, all tools provided and starting pay was 25 an hour...

[@OtisFlint]

If you have a personal garage and decent skills it's time to work for yourself.

[@COBRO98]

What you are is cheap labor, you need to leave that place immediately. You can change oil at Walmart for $18/hour and they'll pay for your college classes.. actually Mcdonald's is the same. No one pulling/rebuilding engines/transmissions, installing blowers should make less than $50/hour. Here's your wake up call.

[@chuckmiddaugh7908]

I worked in a dealership where all of these happened. Low starting pay, training by fire, and general toxicity were all contributing factors.

[@crispychrispgaming9261]

I had a Mac dealer that would advice new techs about tool purchases and you could tell he genuinely cared and was about the service not just the sale. Now we have a guy who will sell you into debt. Also had a foreman a couple years ago, when I started off, tell me I wasn't a real tech unless I had professional tool truck tools

[@aaadamt964]

The last shop I was at had several younger guys. I tried to keep them off the trucks but they'd get on the snap on truck and compete who could spend the most money. One finally started asking me for equal or better tool options. They were all paying $100+ every week and barely had tools.

[@crispychrispgaming9261]

​@aaadamt964 yeah I've seen that with techs buying tool boxes and then they try to pawn or sell em cz they can't afford it

[@GardenStateNJ27]

I quit because it financially made no sense to continue. 19 an hour, spending more than half of my check for tools (HF and Walmart tools BTW), or i start in the water industry making 33.21, Union + benefits and $3 raises every 6 months for the next 5 years… it was a no brainer… I did enjoy working in a shop it was fun but I have to feed myself and my wife

[@Willyd2758]

What job did you get? I’m interested in a union Job this industry sucks lol

[@GardenStateNJ27]

@@Willyd2758 filter operator for American Water. I sit in a control room and monitor filter levels, and the chemicals that go in to the filters before it is released to the public. It’s a great job, but the hours do suck. I work rotating shifts and almost every weekend, but at the end of the month I get a 5 day weekend which is nice! See what water treatment plants by you are hiring. I recommend it

[@GardenStateNJ27]

@@Willyd2758I’m not sure why my comment got deleted. I work as a filter operator at a water treatment plant! The hours aren’t the best, I do have to work rotating shifts and weekends holidays… but I get 5 day weekend every month, and guaranteed raises and benefits.

[@zachroberts1988]

When other trades are starting new people at the $17-20 an hour range, its really hard to sell a young kid on the repair industry especially with the tool investment.

[@Adam-kk7nw]

Flat rate is downfall

[@DaleElder11]

I do believe Technicians should not only get a better wage and have have to buy their own tools: BUT also get a separate $$ amount for their tools, say 5$ to 10$ per hour just for their tools. They should be able to buy off of tool trucks if they want ( not recommended ) and that separate tool money should cover it. As a side note I am a retired engineer who is just now learning how bad auto technicians have it. I have a great amount of respect for people doing this given what they have to know, the working conditions, what tools they must supply compared to what they make. No wounder there is a shortage of techs, I'm surprised there are any.

[@COBRO98]

The USA is short over 600,000 techs as of this month, no that's not a typo. Companies used to provide a tool allowance to techs on top of their wage, very rarely do you see that anymore.

[@DaleElder11]

@@COBRO98 Thank you for the info. At some point the free market has to demand better wages.

[@CharlesJohnstone-c2n]

All my my money does go to tools. I make about 45k a year. Its not great.

[@forrestkimball6477]

The 2 shops I wrenched at were super toxic. The thing that killed me was the support system and help was not there. Oh you’ll never make it and try and figure it out and never bother to try and help out. That was the part that killed me.

[@junkyardgenius]

You're not wrong young technicians come into the shop looking at you sideways like I can make more at McDonald's by a few dollars why don't I go over to HVAC and make 5 or 6 more dollars then I'm making here and need a quarter of the tools or insert trade here in some sort of construction or mechanical trade the pain needs to get better for young technicians I don't know how they're expected to survive even without buying tools

[@emiliog.4432]

Here in Tennessee they pay young new techs $17/hr. That’s insane.

[@turboimport95]

chipotle offered 19$ to flip a burrito, which would you prefer?

[@OtisFlint]

@@turboimport95 Right, and don't need $20k in tools for the burrito

[@COBRO98]

Most dealerships are offering $13-16/hour starting out. Once you get moved to flat rate as a lube tech you're making $6/hour changing oil, entire industry is a scam.

[@GardenStateNJ27]

@@emiliog.4432 dude in New Jersey I was making 16.50 at Toyota just a year ago… in a town that you can see THE SKyline of NYC. It’s absurd to be paid that little when you work in the most expensive area of the country

[@turboimport95]

@@OtisFlint 😂 yeah no tools needed and free lunch.

[@vincesettineri]

Worked for dealership two years after I got out of the Marine corps eventually had enough, I hate flat rate went back to government contracting making four times the amount of money guaranteed weekends it's not perfect but it's better than automotive would never go back even though I love cars

[@richpowers4093]

The last shop I worked, the owner was very hard on the young techs. So they would quit and leave the industry. Several would have been very good tech's!

[@lovemym16]

We have to understand that putting a bonus program that is unattainable in place is a recruitment technique not an employee retainer. It allows the advertised salary cap to be increased to attract better techs at lower wages.

[@almightyracing]

What range is too much debt on the tool truck?

[@COBRO98]

Anything you can't pay off in 4 weeks. They get you with the interest just like a credit card.

[@vansohren9048]

The buying tools one is interesting to me I’m a Mac tools dealer here in Phoenix and I see the exact opposite for the majority of new technicians they literally buy 0 tools not tool truck tools not harbor freight tools not Home Depot tools , I have multiple young techs who’ve been promoted from lube tech to a real tech and still are working with one set of regular wrenches , no impact , 1 ratchet , etc and they complain they aren’t making money and getting hours . I see the problem so clearly but it’s really bizarre to me they don’t .

[@vansohren9048]

This money thing isn’t a young technician phenomenon it’s a 95% young generation phenomenon they want satisfaction now if they don’t spend it on tools they spend it on a new car , street bike , clothes , concerts , literally anything but atleast if they have tools it’s something useful in my opinion

[@turboimport95]

chipotle was offering 19$ per hour and free lunch included, what would you pick? get greasy as hell for 8-15$? Hell naw.

[@BehindTheCounter_TFSO]

What other industry requires such a heavy investment in tools, constant adaptation to new technologies with each model, and operates on a flat-rate pay system? It's hard to understand why anyone would want to get into the automotive industry under these conditions. I once called on a body shop that took a different approach-they provided all the tools and equipment their employees needed. Each worker had their own toolbox, supplied by the company, and no one was allowed to bring in personal tools. If a specialized tool was required, the shop would purchase it. It’s rare to see a business take this level of responsibility for the tools, but it certainly made things easier for the technicians

[@zachroberts1988]

Its becoming more common... But not fast enough!

[@COBRO98]

That's the way it's supposed to be per federal law, employers are legally required to provide the tools needed to do your job as an employee. I've seen a few brand new dealerships provide toolboxes with most tools already in them, they even have air conditioning. All shops should operate that way.

[@GardenStateNJ27]

@@BehindTheCounter_TFSO I believe the service departments in the auto industry need to split. Think of handymen with homes.. you have contractors, electricians, carpenters, plumbers, HVAC, why the HELL do we require one guy, the mechanic, to do all of this for a car? Cars have more computers than the first spaceship that landed on the moon

[@keithk1454]

The industry has been a disaster for 20 years! will be that way for another 20! my friend's kid went into the marines at 18, came home and joined mesa PD! First year 110k! He literally has money falling out of him at 24 years old! There are way better jobs than being an abused auto technician! Do some research, find something stable!

[@candicebeebe6688]

Working in Automotive is the worst Idea EVER ! My Husband worked at GM dealer ships for 25 years. Its not getting the work done, Its also the Stupid Owner, service writers, The A-Hole back parts counter guy/girl, The warranty clerk ( shaving off a few tenths ). Plus not making any money.

[@eddiepearson7377]

I quit because I took an $8/hr pay cut following the pandemic. Dealership cut a bunch of guys a week after promising they wouldn’t “buy into the media bullshit” Worked at a few independents paying much less than the dealer because they were small enough to not have to pay the state mandated rate. Had to work a second job on the weekends to make it. Being an automotive tech taught me a lot of important skills but I would never do it as a profession again.

[@mechtechtools838]

Fixing cars is a great hobby and bit horrible career choice. You will be better off choosing pretty much any other trade

[@JeffRobertsFix]

I’m 33, when I was 18 I went to a community college for automotive. I didn’t like it at the time so I just stopped after 4 semesters. In 2019 I got my state inspection license (Maine) and started working as a dealer tech in 2020. I did 3 months hourly and was then furloughed for a month. Came back on flat rate and was never really a fan. No one showed me how to track hours and understand if I’m be shorted or not. I ended up leaving in September of that year, but it opened a lot of doors for me to make much more money in similar industries. Currently I’m looking to start a mobile mechanic business while working my day job.

[@superseaner]

sounds like your working way too hard for life.

[@jasonkoplen2554]

Idk if the industry is even salvageable at this point. Decades of stagnant wages can’t be fixed overnight, employers and the public couldn’t handle the sticker shock. Not to mention other industries are offering better pay benefits right out the gate so any young person that might be even slightly interested in this hellscape of a career is going to jump ship when they see the grass is greener on the other side of the fence.

[@1971_Chevelle_SS]

And when they’re on the other side of the fence they’ll find something to bitch about there too.

[@robertomilanecky]

I went into the heavy duty field. Got a service van, they paid for my schooling over 5 years, 401k, benefits, 40 minimum, unlimited OT, the list goes on. I’ve made around 6 figures since 19. I’m 32 now. Go heavy equipment, screw the light duty vehicle industry

[@jakeledman9097]

Expensive tools, constant disrespect from managers and coworkers and customers, shitty work conditions of cold and hot and dripping ice down your back and eye, flat rate can fuck itself, abuse on your body, want me to go on lol

[@jasontinkham5570]

I put more than a third of my pay back into tools for about the first ten years. Didn't have sources other than tool trucks back then.

[@AyyoBalake]

Benefits and a 401k is a big one too. Not many shops seem to offer decent benefits and most don’t even offer a 401k so it makes it harder to want to stay when there’s no planning for the future available. If you’re a 20 something year old kid, those are two very big things to have. Nobody wants to work until they’re 80.

[@nickl3872]

We have been having real bad trouble hiring some people lately here in Florida. You have to make 100k here just to live and its terrible. And you need tools

[@1971_Chevelle_SS]

You should move, plenty of families making it here in Alabama on $25k a year. Sounds like Florida no state income tax isn’t free after all. I wouldn’t think there’d be lots of $100k+ jobs there, not very much unionized industry in that state. Must be some high dollar jobs bilking elderly retirees I guess.

[@flyingcarguy]

Young techs need to listen to this guy. 100% correct. I made a few of these mistakes and recovered later in life but you could save yourself a bunch of pain listening to this guy.

[@cindyeva7454]

We have to remember that there is about twice as much to know starting out than there was when a lot of us started out, and the industry has not adapted it training regime for that, not to mention the kids don’t get exposure at home or in school to anything helpful to repair work, no shop class ect. Industry expectations of new techs are obsolete in today’s world.

[@precisionpropertymanagemen662]

100 percent

[@guyconnell2250]

Think about the whole concept of flat rate. It promotes "fast" jobs and, really, the only one with anything to lose is the tech. If the tech tends to works slower, be more meticulous, whatever, it costs the tech money for not "beating the book". But no skin off the shop's arse. I would add that, when a tech, or anyone in any industry working flat rate or the equivalent, figures out the game, they may start cutting corners, doing parts changing or procedures that may or may not fix the problem, and end up burnt out because deep down they realize they are cutting corners and not making proper diagnoses. And why would they? It costs them money. So there is potentially a conscience issue.

[@COBRO98]

The flat rate system does nothing but nurture and create scam artists. It takes a 19 year old who likes holding a wrench and turns him into a criminal that lays in bed at night questioning his own humanity. Entire industry needs to change.

[@1971_Chevelle_SS]

Don’t know the right answer, but I worked in a unionized steel mill that is the complete opposite of flat rate. The problem arises is nothing is anyone’s job, the professional grade tools the company provides are stolen in mass and what’s not is abused, lost or wasted. Wages and benefits are exorbitant, yet no one gives a rip and belly aches all day how the companies screwing them. No one ever looses their job over performance and overtime is guaranteed whether there’s something needing done or not. Makes one understand why auto shops can’t go that route, auto repairs would be so exorbitantly expensive anything beyond oil changes and tire rotation would make the vehicle uneconomical to repair.

[@guyconnell2250]

@1971_Chevelle_SS excellent reply. I have also seen that side of it and you're right. Of course every Union employee doesn't sandbag like you are describing, but enough do such that the effect is like mortar sand in a transmission. I also understand the idea behind flat rate as far as motivating employees to not stand around, not sandbag, etc. I think a solution would be some combination of an hourly rate, a formula for bonus pay based on productivity, and a method to fairly compensate for "bottomless pit" jobs. Lastly, it is also harmful that "the book" so often is not realistic as far as time for a job. This contributes highly to the corner cutting but also to the cherry picking that goes on.

[@COBRO98]

Let me play advocate here. Jobs should be charged per basis, if you live where there's salt, which is the majority of North America, every job can take many hours longer because now you're fighting every single rusted fastener. You're always one broken bolt away from a 60 minute job turning into a 3 hour job, that's not fair. It's not your vehicle and you didn't break it, the customer should pay for all of your time just like any other industry. Every other nation charges by how many hours the job takes, not a set time. Book times are set by manufacturers with engines out of the vehicle, then they get reduced even more over time. Like I've said the entire industry has been warped to screw the guy doing the work, the mechanic. Flat rate is the biggest scam there is.

[@cnbwllkm]

What about the lack of mentorship. I’ve seen shop take a new guy and throw him to the wolves. No help from senior tech and no help from management.

[@COBRO98]

That's virtually every shop now. Low pay, tool cost & that sink-or-swim throw them to the sharks mentality.

[@1971_Chevelle_SS]

Senior techs have their own fish to fry and managers hire techs to do the work, if they had to do it they wouldn’t have the need for techs.

[@chuckfirman3249]

The sad part is that I'm gently trying to guide at least one of my sons away from wrenching and more into the engineering field or stationary diesel work. The horrible start up costs, trying to just break even, dealership life trying to weasel out of pay... It's just become such a racket.

[@GarenP]

I grew up around mechanics, all of whom strongly advised me to not become one. They were right, I've seen how friends of mine have struggled, broke down their bodies, squandered years of their lives away and don't have much to show for it. I recommend becoming an engineer of any kind, and avoid any kind of job that requires you to directly interact with external customers. Time will tell if I'm successful with my own son, for all I know he'll just do something else to spite me lol.

[@nickmayo2974]

I can’t tell you how many young guys have a shiny name brand roll cab and hutch with no tools in it. I don’t wrench anymore but when I did 90% of the tools I need fit in my Jamestown cart. That needs to be where they start! Not a “look at me, my toolbox proves my competence” setup.

[@addacdd]

I'm 29 been in the industry for about 3 years. My previous background was IT and Medical. I am thankful for what I learned and enjoy being a mechanic at my local dealership. I live in California and our base pay is $32. It's not really a lot especially when I have to buy tools etc. My beef is the flate rate system. I'm punished for learning something new. Management says to us we need at least 75% and there's a big ass score board with all 50 technicians on there. We only get our bonus if we get 85%. With how fucking hard it is with the economy we barely get customers. So of course we all have to share work and on top of that it's slow. My average now is between 68-70%. And I work my ass off and put in always 100%. My issue is that I already gotten written up for "low" averages. On top of that I was already threatened with my job. I have 2 daughters and my wife takes care of them at home. I am the bread winner in the family. So every time management threatens me it stresses me out and makes me not wanting to work as a mechanic anymore. I always worked 2 jobs but I got laid off from my other job. So now I'm down to one, I really want to become a diesel mechanic but to do so I gotta take my time to learn the basics at least. However being punished for learning is what it seems like. In all honesty I'd rather work hourly and have a consistent pay check. Looking towards a fleet shop at the moment.

[@bosborn1]

Putting the young guys on flat rate is not all bad. I’ve seen that most young guys don’t have the sense of urgency that previous generations have. I’ve seen that many times they are breaking even on hours because they are goofing off. If you pay them hourly it seems that you have to ride them to keep them moving. It’s really tough to teach work ethic. Flat Rate helps weed out those who don’t want to hustle. I don’t want the industry to go away from flat rate. I would never want to do this work for hourly pay. If we get all the young guy use to working hourly then we will bring the industry down as a whole. If you hustle it’s not that hard to make $120-$130k a year in this business. It will be really tough to get shop owners to pay that as a salary.

[@ArmandoMelendez-y6s]

Young techs go into tech jobs more pay and less stress

[@shr00m7]

I'm nearly 40 and going back to school (from a really good paying corporate career) for Welding and Fabrication- and got a job at a chain Tire & Lube shop while I am in school. I am fortunate that the shop manager and crew is awesome to work with and I have learned a ton about working on/diagnosing cars and the industry as a whole. I love working on cars and this job hasn't killed that yet. BUT I am glad this is just a temporary thing, because from a financial standpoint this industry makes NO sense for the mechanics/technicians. I've seen the margins- every mechanic/technician that is working for a dealership or corporate-owned shop is getting ROBBED. There is money to be made in this industry but only if you're working for yourself. Like, the Math ain't Mathing even if you're the best most efficient flat-rate technician on the planet, you're not getting paid enough for the value you provide, especially compared to other trades like Plumbing, HVAC, or electricians. And the knowledge base for those trades is pretty damn comparable to what a modern auto technician has to know, but with a much lower tool investment costs.

[@COBRO98]

Dealerships have upped their pay rate about $5 over the last 30 years. Lube techs are still paid the same rate I was 20 years ago starting out. That's why they've kept the flat rate system, it provides more money into the company's pocket than the mechanic's. Dealerships making roughly 60% of their profit off of mechanics yet the mechanics are the lowest paid employees by far.

[@twostroke12v71]

Ive tried to change to a better paying shop and i have been shocked by the attitudes of the old head shop owners. I have been asked in all of my interviews what brand if tools I carry. They will reach out to the local tool truck franchisees as a character reference. They see how you are as a customer on a tool truck. I dont have debt and i do not support the local tool routes besides Cornwell which looks bad on me. -_- Im ready to dust off my comptia linux and MSCE certs to go back to IT!

[@vicpetrishak7705]

Younger mechanics go to working on heavy equipment at large Union construction companies . Or change fields in other crafts : Sheet metal Union Pipe fitters Union Elevator Union Do not let employers tell you how bad the Union is ! Forget about Flat Rate ! Municipal workers are steady work !

[@cashdingo6386]

Leave for automation or cnc maintenance, the industries have little to no mechanics compared to vehicle maintenance, and it pays way better in average because it’s more specialized. I got my foot in the door at a fully automated warehouse fixing the machine and the same at a large companies cnc warehouse. The jobs are out there, always be applying to a new iob

[@ajchiappetta8795]

If mechanics are not happy, start a mobile service like I did, saved my money and got my own shop. I worked at a dealership for five years, left that crap and started a little mobile service, I never bought good tools until I got my shop. I made thousands of dollars with my mobile service using cheap HF and local auto parts store tools . I graduated UTI in 2013, it’s 2024 and now have my own shop and have a decent life and am quite happy.

[@gwall1789]

I treat every vehicle as if it were my own. That’s why I’d never survive at flat rate. I slowly worked my way into diesel fleet which is hourly with no time standards and I’m making more now than I ever have. Granted, I’ve been turning wrenches for 40 years. I have most everything I need, but I’m still buying tools here and there. Mainly specialty or new innovation, but no more tool truck. I’ve become quite good at sourcing quality tools at the best prices, but I will never get my money back. I’ll probably leave my tools to my sons.

[@MrAdamGC]

I worked as a fleet maintenance tech for 12 years with nothing but Pittsburgh/Craftsman/Husky tools in my box and I only ever broke one 3/8 ratchet (from auto parts store) during that entire time. Sure, I wore out a few impact sockets and air guns over the years, but just replaced them with the above and kept going. I never spent a dime on any tool truck and with pretty much all the big box store brands offering lifetime warranties on hand tools there shouldn't be any real reason to these days.

[@tommythiffault6839]

Kids love cars but not fixing them that’s simple. Yes it’s complicated but it’s what I love about being a mechanics, it’s challenging. You don’t really learn that till you are in the real world imo. And nowadays, good tools are affordable and available everywhere now, like you said, it’s all in educating them

[@ryanwilson3632]

I think this is one of the best videos you've released in a long time. You really nailed it. Why come into a job that you make less then other jobs and have to supply your own belongings. Honestly this video isn't just about young techs either this is anyone coming into the industry. Cars are getting more and more complicated and very hard to work on. Hopefully the industry shifts to better pay systems. Soon enough there will be a major shortage and they'll be forced too.

[@ford300rippergarage]

Made the switch from auto to working on heavy equipment. Hourly pay and no more rushing for waiters.

[@peteralessandroni3442]

The pay to b.s. scale teeters way too much on the b.s. side. It's all about the learn or earn. If you exhausted all the knowledge you can gain. Move on. Earn it in another trade.

[@masongulizia9491]

It's simple, the amount of investing you have to do in yourself as a technician and the pay do not compliment eachother. Can be very overwhelming for new techs

[@reggiebannister1080]

you are no longer the flat rate master you dont work as a tech stop using the title.. you now make same vidoes over and over again like this one and collect a youtube check make your content better like tool reviews etc etc.. all you do is talk and talk and talk about the sammme thing over and over again

[@aldonco]

Only a fool would work for peanuts. At some point, owners will have to pay a decent wage.

[@salvador62633]

Dude my dealership throw hourly guy on flat rate in less then a month and they end up quitting poor kids barley know how to do brakes it’s sad

[@serbiansfinest]

Very true automotive field is not for everyone. I am 17 years into it and I am at the point in my career where I can't see my self doing anything else.

[@fumanpoo4725]

Anybody know if Dow flamed out?

[@firstlast---]

Flat rate. Literally that is 98% of the time what it all boils down to

[@fordtechchris]

I wish I would have left the industry 20 years ago when I first walked in to a dealership.

[@1971_Chevelle_SS]

No time like the present.

[@radcoolade1481]

100k in tools what a jip.

[@ImmVract]

I worked at a john deere dealer, we were salary with bonus. Our bonus was based on how many hours we billed in the month. The issue is that my service manager would always intervene on my quotes, sometimes taking a quote that was 5 hours and says so in the book that it's 5 hours to do it and cutting it in half because the customer would bitch about the price. Another common issue was we didn't receive credit for those hours until the customer paid their bill, this is where the real problem would lie. A co worker of mine managed to bill out 400 hours in a month, this happened because he had 2 200ish hour jobs be paid out in the same month. His bonus was supposed to be like 18k, they gave him 8k and said that he "sandbagged" the system so they wouldn't pay him the rest. Never again, I'll only work hourly, I'm not going to work for free. Fuck that shit, fuck that place. I enjoyed working on tractors, but not for a low based salary and a system where management works against me. Currently working for a rental company, love it, best thing I ever did.

[@1971_Chevelle_SS]

Salary pay should be outlawed, just a way around paying folks for all the hours worked and getting around paying time and a half over forty hours OT.

[@stephendinan5622]

After the pandemic and the unofficial minimum wage going to $15-20 an hour for jobs that require no tools or skills why would any young guys want to go into automotive. Even the construction industry as a whole has been gutted by raising the minimum wage to now unskilled people are making 2/3s plus of a skilled electrician in my area.

[@1971_Chevelle_SS]

Supply and demand, there’s too many techs and too few restaurant workers. Have you looked at Americans waistlines lately? If you had, you’d realize what’s the most important priority these days.

[@brandond6724]

Honestly most of this young generation are completely soft!! can't show up on time, lazy as he'll, can't get off their phones, vaping alldamn day,I go to work for a paycheck I won't mentor this generation.

[@GardenStateNJ27]

😂😂😂 the new generation soft but the old generation will gladly get underpaid and treated like a** for 40-80 hours a week??? Who’s the real softy who won’t stand up to their bosses??? Foh

[@1primacron]

The automotive trade is a underpaid mess.

[@1971_Chevelle_SS]

Everyone I’ve ever met thinks they’re underpaid, no matter the trade. You realize if everyone’s pay was doubled tomorrow they’d still be in the same financial position, the ensuing inflation it caused would have everyone essentially back in the buying power state in no time.

[@1primacron]

@@1971_Chevelle_SS No, the automotive industry is completely different. We are the lowest payed industry out of ALL the other trades. Why would you do a 4 year apprenticeship or spend thousands of dollars at automotive school to get the near the same money as someone working at Walmart When you can become a electrician or plumber and get much better money? Second, service advisers get better money then us and most of them don't have any mechanical experience. Third we spend the most amount of money on our own workshop tools then any other trade. Most qualified technicians have spent in excess of $60K on tools. Forth, Warranty times (at dealerships) are beyond the joke to repair vehicles which is a massive problem for technicians on flat rate or bonus structures. Fifth, This trade is not like many other trade in regarding technology change as vehicles keep changing and evolving meaning that you MUST keep up to date with training. When you are an electrician, plumber, carpenter ext, these trades have barely changed in the last 60 years so minimal extra training is required. But don't take my word for it, look at the many video's on KZbin of mechanics venting there frustration with the industry.

[@1primacron]

​@@1971_Chevelle_SS You Listen to the media to much about the causes of inflation. High inflation has been caused by reckless government spending and greedy large corporations which have monopoly's on a large majority of consumer products. Pay rates in a lot of trades (even more with automotive) are far below inflation rate. Watch Robert Reich Inflation and nobody wants to work anymore videos which explains this. Those other tradies that you have spoken to are right, they are underpaid but auto technicians are in a worse spot because they are SERVEREY underpaid.

[@1primacron]

​ @1971_Chevelle_SS You Listen to the media to much about the causes of inflation. High inflation has been caused by reckless government spending and greedy large corporations which have monopoly's on a large majority of consumer products. Pay rates in a lot of trades (even more with automotive) are far below inflation rate. Watch Robert Reich Inflation and nobody wants to work anymore videos which explains this. Those other tradies that you have spoken to are right, they are underpaid but auto technicians are in a worse spot because they are SERVEREY underpaid.

[@1primacron]

​@@1971_Chevelle_SS ​You Listen to the media to much about the causes of inflation. High inflation has been caused by reckless government spending and greedy large corporations which have monopoly's on a large majority of consumer products. Pay rates in a lot of trades (even more with automotive) are far below inflation rate. Watch Robert Reich Inflation and nobody wants to work anymore videos which explains this. Those other tradies that you have spoken to are right, they are underpaid but auto technicians are in a worse spot because they are SERVEREY underpaid.

[@b0lbi]

As a auto tech you have to be: Mechanic, Electrician, IT specialist, hvac tech, fabricator, welder AND have the tools for all of those jobs while getting paid less, and more irregularly than ANY 1 OF THOSE JOBS.

[@huasohvac]

As an HVAC tech, you don't really know what my job entails

[@zachroberts1988]

Hate to break it to you but every trade is like that... Youre never "just" a plumber or just a welder or just an electrician... Tools are the main deterrent for the repair industry though...

[@COBRO98]

@@huasohvac Auto techs understand how HVAC works on a fundamental level, that's why they go into that field and thrive within months. Your vehicle's HVAC system operates the same as any other. The electrical aspect is also a given, once you understand the theory and operation of how a system works. Not saying HVAC is easy, but it's nowhere near as complicated as a modern automobile. You basically have to be an engineer in every field to work on modern vehicles.

[@jasonkoplen2554]

@@huasohvacI don’t think OP was trying to be insulting to other industries. Just pointing out that modern vehicles have many complex systems that require a lot of different skill sets/tools to repair , but don’t offer comparable compensation.

[@huasohvac]

@@COBRO98 you do realize that HVAC isn't just the refrigeration cycle right?

[@StrongerThanBigfoot]

I have a years experience as a diesel mechanic and can’t seem to get hired at any dealership and don’t know why. I’m everything an employer would want. Hardworking, eager to learn, and loyal. I’m just going on my own if I can’t find another shop. Ill get all data and make it on my own. I haven’t yet because I don’t fully confident in diagnosing electrical issues which I’m doing everything I can to learn but doesn’t all data give you for the most part diagnosis steps

[@chuckmiddaugh7908]

Keep trying. Consider an independent shop. Boldly ask during an interview what characteristics you need to be hired. For that matter, call back the places that rejected you and ask them. In the meantime, go watch Scannerdanner videos to get a KZbin degree in electrical diagnostics.

[@lawrencethomas645]

Plus 1 on the Scanner Danner. His videos have helped me tremendously with electrical. Also don’t rule out fleet jobs ie. UPS, FedEx, USPS, local city, county, state, etc. A lot of the times those have great benefits and provide the tools and equipment needed. Don’t give up yet and keep your head up

[@BlackRam57]

Alldata does have some info but not much sometimes

[@Daniel-uf1xx]

I just wanna say, I agree with what you’re saying. Last night I was looking for a new job because I feel that I’m underpaid or equal to a fast food restaurant(nothing wrong working at fast food) but it is not worth it anymore in the agricultural field and beating up my body. Got curious on the mechanic jobs and I must say for 17-19$, asking for 3 years experience, buy your own tools is a slap on the face in my opinion. But! I will say this.. you don’t like your job or your pay go somewhere else because I think if you know your stuff and you work hard, know your value and stick with it but yourself because it’s a doggy world and you gotta look at it like companies point of view that they’re trying to save money, you try to get as much money as you can too.

[@Scars_House]

I’m trying to determine if the dealership I’ve been at for just over a year is worth staying at. I’m getting kinda sick of the politics around here. A hourly helper doing 8 hr tickets while me flat rate struggling to hit 6-7 and two other tech late everyday hitting 50 hours a week. It gets old having to pull 30+ cars in and out everyday. 5-6 days a week. Just you see a decent check

[@johnleinen7167]

Yes! Tools, we just did the BMW N20 timing chain and cam phaser job, 450.00 in special tools before you can turn a wrench! Then you must learn how to properly install tools to perform this job, nope there's no putting paint marks on pulleys with this one!.

[@darrylparks617]

I worked as an apprentice at 2 dealers ford, gm. I did buy alot from mac tools but never took it out of hand i only bought a tool here and there and didnt get another till the one i had was paid off. Example torque wrench was my first purchase and only really got special tools from the tool truck. Did that for 4 years, left the industry in 2021 now im a truck driver making way more money and doing way less work

[@haldooley4940]

38 plus years and still wait and holdout to buy a tool, what hurts buy it and use it once in a year cause I was borrowing it from a fellow tech

[@MsFireboy2]

Let’s not forget management.

[@herbertwatson5101]

You working in a shop again

[@murdered4269]

For me it’s not the tool debt it’s the performance parts debt. Buying parts for my trucks in payments is the only thing that hasn’t made me feel miserable when working on cars cuz ik that on the weekend i have parts to install on my projects. But the pay doesn’t allow me to finish quick enough to make quick flips

[@murdered4269]

I’ve also noticed that most techs my age that leave the industry tend to go into the real estate field

[@samwittstruck.6685]

Benefits

[@Bobbob1951-b7x]

I was thinking the same thing no retirement and health insurance.

[@COBRO98]

You get zero paid benefits, minimal PTO that you won't be allowed to use, no holidays. Most companies don't even provide uniforms anymore. Retirement? Most auto mechanics will work until they're 70 because they can't afford to retire. Assuming lung/throat cancer doesn't kill them first.

[@Bobbob1951-b7x]

@@COBRO98 Your right I work with a guy at the railroad he was a master technician for 25 years I asked him why he left car dealership he told me retirement and health insurance.

[@Ogtonyg]

HVAC techs are in a similar boat. Most shops supply a few of the big expensive tools, but I spent probably around $2000 on tools during my first 6 months. Yes they will pay for themselves over time, and not a huge deal if you have savings and are younger living at home, but there's many other factors that make people leave.

[@COBRO98]

In automotive it takes $2000 or more just to have what you need to start out changing oils efficiently. By 6 months you'll be investing thousands more in tools and larger box. Tool costs are out of control.

[@GardenStateNJ27]

@@Ogtonyg $2000 in the automotive industry is just getting you started…

[@Adam-kk7nw]

Plus, within 10 years from now, ai is goings take over anyways

[@LoneWolfSparty]

Ai is going to take over vehicle repair? Umm...?

[@chuckmiddaugh7908]

@@Adam-kk7nw 😂

[@Adam-kk7nw]

@@LoneWolfSparty with robotic and agi ai , 70 percent job can be replace by ai

[@Andy-ms9vi]

They've been trying to implement robots for a few years now, but most of the robots just quit when they see how shitty the job is. Same thing happened when they tried to use monkeys back in the '50s.

[@LoneWolfSparty]

@@Adam-kk7nw disagree. For a bunch of reasons.

[@yanglue611]

I went into Diesel Mechanic trade. Didn't get the job due to not having enough room for another mechanic. I understand and I'm glad that I didn't pushed too far into it. Otherwise, doing car mechanic at home in place for my dad, working at manufacture job, and doing PCA for my dad. I've been really busy working 24/7. I've only take jobs within my capabilities but my parents accept a very hard job was replacing a motor for one customer's car, however, I'm not just working on that customer's car. I'm working on both customer's car and family vehicles. It's been busy for me.

[@SALEEN961]

Lots of younger techs have unreasonable pay expectations and want to take lots of time off from work. Getting 6 or more weeks of PTO isn't completely unreasonable, but it certainly isn't the norm in this industry. I've seen way too many young techs get upset when they aren't making 100K in their 3rd year of employment. Lots of techs get upset when their career isn't advancing as quickly as they think it should, but who's to blame when they aren't ASE certified and only get basic, low paying work given to them as a result? I was ASE master certified after my first year working in the field because I spent my own money making it happen, I didn't wait for someone else to pay for it.

[@zachroberts1988]

Pretty much every tech school lies to them just so they can keep a constant flow of students coming in...

[@Willyd2758]

Well yeah, but I know multiple 18 year old union guys making $100k a year after taxes, because they’re in union. If I can make $65 an hour with no skills why should I make $15 an hour

[@GardenStateNJ27]

@@SALEEN961 well younger mechanics are lied to and promised all of that sooo of course they’ll be upset if they don’t get anything but boat load of debt from tools and school

[@SALEEN961]

@Willyd2758 What union starts new hires at $65/hr and scales up from there?

[@SALEEN961]

@@GardenStateNJ27 I do have sympathy for the fact that young techs are often lied to, but actual wage data is very easy to find for those that take the time look.

[@jaymechanic1228]

We can't get an apprentice to go over 3days yet... we have a really good fleet workshop, it's just they don't want to work

[@huasohvac]

Maybe it's the shop....

[@zachroberts1988]

thats a shop problem...

[@COBRO98]

More like the shop is treating them like a slave dog for a wage they could make at TacoBell..