Repair Tracker Software: How Visibility Combats Uncertainty in the Auto Repair Industry

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May 22, 2023

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Read time: 3 min

We’ve all fallen under a “fear of the unknown” spell—whether it stems from waiting for your doctor’s results to come back, or not hearing that check-in text alert from your kid while they’re out with friends. The waiting game can cause our imaginations to run wild with thoughts of “what-if’s.”

Similarly, auto repair customers like the ability to see what’s getting done to their car, if any additional issues were found, and exactly where their car is in the repair process. You can build customer loyalty and enhance your customer service by giving them the ability to see and confirm that everything is going smoothly and according to plan with their vehicle repairs.

Visibility and transparency go beyond just shop-to-customer; it also helps bridge imagination and productivity gaps within your shop.

Tracking with Transparency in the Auto Repair Industry  

The fuel behind a transparent approach is trust and efficiency. If either of those are lacking, the perspective of what’s going on can become askew.

Technicians should have the ability to visibly track each of their tasks throughout the day and move things along at an efficient pace, and service advisors should be able to show customers what’s going on with their vehicles.

Auto shops are no strangers to tracking. At any given moment, someone is tracking…

  1. Parts
  2. Repair orders (RO’s)
  3. Inventory
  4. Their workload for the day
  5. Where their car is in the repair process
  6. Repair times
  7. Repair costs
  8. Metrics and finances    

As you’re reading this list—whether you’re a technician, shop owner, or service advisor—you’re likely thinking of a few additional items worth tracking throughout your day.

So, how do you stay on top of tracking with a solid and consistent level of transparency? Let’s see how shop management software and its tracking features can provide greater visibility for your customers and team.

Service Advisors: Keep Track of Everything in One Platform

Once a customer walks into the shop, you need to be able to access exactly what repairs are in-progress and what times are available to fit customers on the schedule. Repair tracker software provides a birds eye view of which tech is where and also shows which tech will be available for the next RO.

How Tekmetric Gives Service Advisors More Visibility:

1. Keep track of everything and easily navigate with Tekmetric’s Job Board

The job board’s navigation helps you easily see the status of jobs all in one platform. You can see which jobs are active, saved for later, in accounts receivable, paid, and deleted. Taking it one step further, you can fully customize what you’re viewing and how you’re viewing it; don’t like the default column view? Switch it over to the list view! Want to see specific jobs that haven’t been started yet? Populate that by selecting “RO Status” and checking “Not Started!”

2. Stay on top of all relevant repair info with Tekmetric’s unique customer profiles

Any time you create a job in Tekmetric, you can pull up a complete history of each customer’s visit to the shop. All previous work, declined jobs, digital vehicle inspections (DVI’s), CARFAX report, etc. are logged in Tekmetric’s repair tracker software.

3. Maintain transparency through real-time job updates

If any additional work needs to be done to a customer’s vehicle, you’ll be the first to know so you can get back with the customers for authorization. Tekmetric’s digital authorization system limits back-and-forth paperwork and cuts right to the chase.

Give Customers Visibility into the Repair Process

Let’s put ourselves in the shoes of your customers. Say the customer is dropping their car off for  worn down brake pads to be replaced; but during the DVI a tech noticed that the drive belt is cracking and needs to be replaced as well.

If your shop has repair tracker software in place; the scenario would go something like this:

  • The tech finds an additional problem with a customer’s car and logs it in their DVI,
  • The service writer sees the finding in the tracker software and gets to work on notifying the customer of the work and its quote, and
  • The customer gets a text from the service writer with the update, and marks it off as “approved” or “declined.”

If your shop didn’t have repair tracker software, the chances of the technician’s findings getting lost in translation are higher. Let’s say the service writer forgot to notify the customer, so when the customer comes by to pick their vehicle up, they’re upset and confused. Not to mention, you run the risk of facing chargebacks on the “unapproved” work, which is never an ideal situation for auto shops.

With repair tracker software, the customer has the ability to see what is going on with their car, the findings, the costs, and they can facilitate what gets approved.  

How Tekmetric Helps You Stay Transparent with Customers:

1. Approve, decline, or hold off on jobs at the click of a button

Customers are more likely to approve recommended repair work if they have the ability to see what’s going on. With Tekmetric, your shop’s customers can see estimates and images of what repairs need to be done conveniently on their cellphones. Once alerted, they can check off whether they “approve” or “decline”. If they approve, they can use the digital authorization system to authorize the repair work. If they decline, the findings will still be saved so the service writers can remind them next time they stop by the shop.

2. Stay in the loop via two-way texting during the repair process

Tekmetric’s two-way-texting provides an easy back-and-forth communication among the shop and customers. Texts (or emails) can alert customers on issues found, the work that’s being done, and when their vehicle is ready for pick up. If the customer has any questions on the work being done, they can quickly send you a text, giving the service advisor the ability to respond or call them back to explain their findings more in-depth.

3. Easily make secure payments through Tekmerchant

Repair payments can be confusing at times with unnecessary amounts of paperwork. Tekmetric’s payment processing system, Tekmerchant, makes it easy for service advisors to send an invoice, as well as track who’s paid and who hasn’t. On the flip side, the customer has the ability to see exactly what their total is and what work was completed. When they’re ready to make a payment, they can do so via email or text message—and to make the payment process even more convenient, there’s text-to-pay.

Technicians: Keep Track of ROs Every Step of the Way

Techs, when you’re in the zone, the last thing you want to do is worry about what your next assignment will be, or when the parts for the truck you’re working on are getting in. An important component of your day is the ability to flow from one task to the next, without worry.

At the same time, putting your blinders on and focusing on one specific task is typically not possible in the auto repair industry. Tunnel vision also prevents you from seeing what’s going on around you and will cause you to feel somewhat unprepared for the next task on your calendar.

Avoid being thrown off at any point during your day by cleanly moving from RO to RO. With repair tracker software you can easily see your day fall into place—you’ll know your next assignment coming up, you’ll know when those parts you need are in the shop, and you’ll feel more present throughout your day.

Being present means you have the ability to tune back into what you’re working on, no blinders this time, and can focus with transparency through your day.

How Tekmetric’s Repair Tracking Software Gives Technicians More Visibility:

1. Easily access your repair orders through Tekmetric’s Tech Board

Rather than shuffling through endless amounts of paperwork or post-it-notes, the Tech Board provides technicians the ability to access their ROs, as well as any detailed notes, keeping them in the loop with no time wasted.

2. Keep the customer and service writer updated with findings in real-time

When you’re working on an RO and come across an issue, the last thing you want to do is chase down a service advisor. As you’re working on vehicles, you can log it in the RO by marking it to “in-progress”; once complete, you check off “completed”. If additional issues are found, you can select “add a comment” and choose who to notify. Now, if you were working on a DVI and found an issue, not only will Tekmetric log the inspection, but it will also give you space to manually add any additional findings. An added plus is that if an issue was found, if applicable, Tekmetric can automatically generate a canned job to that finding.

3. Know when the parts you need arrive at the shop via instant text alerts

Once a customer has approved of a job (logged as a blue banner with a thumb’s up icon), the service advisor can check if those parts are in their shop’s inventory already or  order the needed parts. Once the needed parts are delivered to the shop, service advisors can click “notify technician” and the technician will instantly receive a notification via text or email.

Shop Owners: Keep Track of How the Shop is Running  

Shop owners, ideally you’re out of the repair process so you can focus on the shop you’ve worked so hard to build. As we touched on earlier, though, uncertainty can lead to doubt and stress; so having the ability to track how repairs are moving along, what the hold ups might be, and how efficient everything is running will allow you to work on your shop rather than working in your shop.

Letting the service advisors and technicians take the reins on repairs lets you focus on what’s important: tracking performance, financing, average repair orders (AROs), profit, and reports.

How Tekmetric’s Repair Tracking Software Gives Shop Owners Visibility:

1. Stay in tune on your team’s productivity while focusing on additional tasks

It’s no secret that shop owner’s are busy, so Tekmetric gives you the ability to see your shop’s performance—whether month-to-month or week-by-week—while allowing you to hone in on your daily tasks. Tekmetric’s repair tracker software gives you the ability to evaluate service writers’ ratios or sales numbers at the click of a button.

2. Easily build, access, and update reports

Tekmetric automatically generates reports based on your shop’s data, trends, and information. And the cloud database allows you to pull up reports from anywhere on labor, parts, fees, discounts, job categories, declined jobs, taxes, accounts, and marketing resources in one shop management system.

3. Track your shop’s income, expenses, and payroll as they happen

Staying on top of your shop’s financing in real time makes it easy to plan ahead and gives your shop room to grow and thrive. Tekmetric’s repair tracker software can build reports for transactions in real-time, giving you a variety of metrics for you to analyze.

Tekmeteric tracks the total RO’s, hours presented, hours sold, close ratio, and effective labor rate, then calculates the following metrics: ARO sales, ARO profit, ARO profit margin, gross sales, and gross profit. Visualize your shop’s finances either from end-of-day sales or monthly gross profit in percentages or dollars.

Shop owners, next time you’re reluctant to step away from the shop because you can’t visibly see what’s going on, try to think of ways you can add more transparency. Being able to visibly keep track of what’s going on while you’re away will give you the ability to sit back and enjoy the present moment.

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Whether you're just getting started in the world of auto mechanics or you're a seasoned professional looking to sharpen your skills, having the right books in your toolkit can make a world of difference.

In this guide, we’ve rounded up the best 10 books for anyone looking to master automotive repair—five books for beginners and five for professionals. Whether you're diving into DIY oil changes, understanding electrical systems, or prepping for ASE certification, these books can help you become the car mechanic others rely on.

Top mechanic books for beginners.

Top 5 Mechanic Books for Beginners

1. Auto Repair For Dummies by Deanna Sclar

Deanna Sclar, a trusted name in car books, breaks down automotive repair in a clear, engaging way. Topics include basics like changing oil, identifying car parts, and performing simple diagnostics. Updated editions also include guidance on hybrid and electric vehicles.

This book is great for high school students, DIY car owners, and anyone who wants to enhance their car repair knowledge. It teaches vehicle maintenance fundamentals and gives you the confidence to handle everyday car repair tasks.

This book is available in paperback and audiobook format on Amazon and Goodreads.

2. How Cars Work by Tom Newton

“How Cars Work” is an illustrated mechanics book designed to make complex automotive technology digestible. It covers everything from internal combustion engines to carburetors using simple diagrams and descriptions.

Ideal for visual learners and those completely new to auto mechanics. This is a great first book for beginners, high school students, and anyone wanting a strong visual foundation. This book is available at Amazon, Goodreads, and Walmart.

3. Service Repair Manuals

Service repair manuals offer detailed, step-by-step instructions specific to various makes and models. Whether you're working on a Chevy or a lawn mower, there's likely a repair manual for it.

These manuals walk you through every procedure—from basic maintenance to full rebuilds—making them excellent for DIY mechanics. The manuals are great for car owners who want to perform their own maintenance and repairs, especially oil changes and part replacements.

4. Auto Repair and maintenance for Beginners by Dave Stribling

This is a more recent release that blends practical guidance with a conversational tone. It’s designed for car owners who want to understand what’s under the hood without going back to school.

It breaks down diagnostics, basic electrical systems, and essential car repair projects with clarity and confidence. DIYers, automotive technology students, and anyone just entering the field will benefit from this resource. This book is available on Amazon and Target.

5. ASE Study Material

While not a traditional repair resource, these ASE guides cover specific topics you may be interested in. In addition, these resources can also help you study for your ASE exams/certification. These study guides cover everything from refrigerant to engine diagnostics.

These resources are great for beginners looking to become ASE certified or just want to deepen their technical knowledge of car repair. You can find these ASE resources on the ASE website.

Top 5 Mechanic Books for Professionals

1. Automotive Technology: A Systems Approach by Jack Erjavec & Rob Thompson

Used in technical schools and ASE training programs, this comprehensive study guide covers every vehicle system in detail. From brakes to diagnostics and internal combustion engines, it’s a powerhouse of professional knowledge.

Excellent for instructors, professional auto mechanics, and shop technicians. It’s also used as a curriculum base in many accredited auto mechanic programs. This book can be found on Amazon and Goodreads.

2. Engine Repair (A1) – ASE Test Prep Study Guide by Delmar Cengage

If you’re serious about becoming ASE certified, this study guide is one of the best tools to prep with. It’s focused on the A1 Engine Repair certification exam and is updated with the latest questions and procedures.

It contains practice questions, answer keys, and step-by-step breakdowns of engine troubleshooting and repairs. Mechanics pursuing ASE certification and current techs looking to refresh their credentials will benefit from this book.

3. Bosch Automotive Handbook

This is not your average repair manual. The Bosch Automotive Handbook is a dense, technical reference filled with precise definitions, formulas, and design principles behind modern vehicle systems, including electrical systems and diagnostics.

A must-have for those working on diagnostics or developing automotive systems. Not ideal for beginners, but invaluable for seasoned pros. This book is available on Amazon.

4. Advanced Automotive Fault Diagnosis by Tom Denton

Tom Denton is a trusted author in the world of automotive technology. This book focuses on advanced diagnostics using real-world case studies and troubleshooting processes.

It covers OBD systems, scan tools, sensor data interpretation, and diagnostics strategies used in modern repair shops. ASE certified professionals, diagnostic techs, and repair shop leads will appreciate this book. This book is available at Walmart and Amazon.

5. Motorcycle Basics Techbook by Matthew Coombs (Haynes)

Auto mechanics often expand into motorcycles. This Haynes book explores motorcycle maintenance and repair with the same detail they bring to their car repair manuals.

Great for mechanics who want to branch into motorcycle repair or work at specialized repair shops. This book is available on Amazon and Thriftbooks.

Other Mechanic Resources

While books are still relevant, many mechanics have transitioned to other resources like YouTube videos and podcasts. Here are some of our favorites.

YouTube

YouTube is a gold mine for car repair veterans and DIYers alike. Some of our favorite channels include:

Reddit

Reddit can be another powerful resource for new techniques plus an online community to answer questions you may have. Some of the best subreddits include:

Podcasts

Podcasts can be entertaining and an easy way to learn while working or driving. Some of our favorites include:

Final Thoughts

Investing in a good book isn’t just about reading—it’s about building your skills, your confidence, and your future in the automotive industry. Whether you’re just learning how cars work or studying classical mechanics principles, there’s a resource here that can guide you. The best mechanics know that their education never stops.

10 Best Automotive Mechanic Books (2025 Guide)

April 23, 2025

Read time: 3 min

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In the ever-evolving automotive industry, staying ahead of the curve means constantly learning and growing. For automotive service technicians, certifications aren’t just credentials—they’re powerful tools that open doors to better job opportunities, increased pay, and credibility with customers and employers alike.

Whether you're just starting out or already working in auto repair, understanding the most common types of mechanic certification can help you create a successful, long-lasting career. This guide will break down the most recognized certifications, how to attain them, and why they matter for every auto mechanic who wants to stand out.

Image showing the various type of mechanic certifications.

Types of mechanic certifications

Mechanic certifications come in many forms, each tailored to different specializations and career goals. The most common types include:

1. ASE Certifications

Issued by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE), these certifications are the gold standard for automotive mechanics. They cover a wide range of specialties, from engine repair to electronic systems and air conditioning.

ASE certification is considered the most prestigious and widely accepted credential in the automotive world.

More about ASE

Founded in 1972, the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence sets the benchmark for automotive service technicians. ASE offers over 50 different certification tests in categories like:

  • Engine Repair
  • Brake Systems
  • Air Conditioning and Heating
  • Suspension and Steering
  • Electrical/Electronic Systems
  • Engine Performance
  • Manual and Automatic Transmission/Transaxle
  • Light Truck and Diesel Engines

Master technicians

There’s also a separate path for master technician status, which is achieved by passing all certifications in the required testing areas for that series. For example, technicians certified in tests A1 through A8 are Master automobile technicians.

Master technician status is not for life. You must keep each one of those certifications current to maintain master technician status. If you lose master technician status due to the lapse of one or more required certifications, it can be reinstated by taking and passing the recertification tests.

How long does it take to become ASE certified?

To become ASE certified, expect to spend anywhere from 1–3 years, depending on your work experience and whether you’re currently enrolled in training programs. Each certification test typically takes 1 to 2 hours to complete and can be scheduled at a local test center.

Being ASE certified shows you’ve mastered the skills needed for the job. It’s a badge of excellence recognized by employers, repair shops, and even customers looking for reliable service.

2. Student certifications

Geared toward high school and post-secondary students in automotive technology programs, these ASE certifications offer a head start in proving foundational knowledge.

What are student certifications?

Student certifications validate entry-level knowledge in core areas of vehicle repair and maintenance. These don’t require work experience and serve as a stepping stone to full ASE status.

Programs approved by the ASE Education Foundation often include student certification exams as part of their curriculum. These are excellent options for students at auto mechanic schools or in a community college training program.

Student certifications are valid for two years and help you build confidence before entering the workforce as an entry-level technician.

3. Manufacturer certifications

These certifications are specific to vehicle manufacturers and offered by companies like Ford, Toyota, GM, and others. Often, auto technicians working in dealerships will pursue these to show mastery of brand-specific systems.

For repair technicians who want to specialize in a particular brand, manufacturer certifications are essential.

Manufacturer training programs

  • Toyota T-TEN
  • Ford ASSET
  • GM ASEP
  • Honda PACT
  • BMW STEP

These accredited programs often partner with dealerships to offer real-world, hands-on experience while you earn your credential. These programs can take anywhere from 12 to 24 months and typically require completion of automotive technology coursework alongside on-the-job work experience at a brand-affiliated repair center.

Why they matter

Manufacturer-certified auto technicians often have a faster path to high-paying roles within dealership networks and brand-specific repair shops. These certifications also prepare you to service increasingly complex vehicle systems, especially as brands continue to innovate with hybrid and electric vehicles.

4. Specialty certifications

You’ll also find credentials related to diesel engines, heavy truck systems, collision repair, and even hybrid/electric vehicles.

Each of these certification types plays a unique role in an automotive technician’s career path, and in many cases, earning more than one will make you significantly more marketable in repair shops and beyond.

Depending on your interests, you may also want to pursue:

  • A/C Refrigerant Certification - Necessary if you want to be able to to buy refrigerant and work on air conditioning service.
  • Diesel Mechanics Certification – Focused on diesel engines used in commercial fleets and heavy truck applications.
  • Collision Repair Certification – Great for auto mechanics looking to work in body shops.
  • Hybrid/Electric Vehicle Certification – A growing field with high demand.

Each of these certifications typically requires completion of a specialized training course and a passing score on certification exams. These programs may be part of a broader certificate program or offered as a standalone credential.

Tek-Tip: Another way to get ahead as a young technician is to be experienced with auto repair shop software so your employer doesn't have to teach you how to use their system.

Benefits of mechanic certifications

Getting certified is one of the most direct ways to turn your hands-on experience into a long-term career asset. Mechanic certifications do more than look good on a resume—they deliver real-world advantages. Here are some of the benefits of completing automotive certifications:

  • Increased Pay: Certified mechanics typically earn higher wages. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), certified automotive mechanics can earn higher hourly rates, especially in competitive markets.
  • Job Security: The more certifications you have, the more valuable you are to auto repair businesses.
  • Professional Credibility: Certification demonstrates a commitment to quality and standards, building trust with customers and employers.
  • Career Advancement: Certified automotive service technicians are more likely to advance to roles such as shop foreman, master technician, or service manager.
  • Mobility: Certifications make it easier to move between different types of employers—whether that’s independent repair shops, starting a mobile mechanic business, dealerships, or specialty service centers.

What does the certification process look like?

Most mechanic certifications follow a similar pathway but always refer to the specific instructions for your program.

Step 1: Enroll

Start by enrolling in an automotive technology program. These are offered by community colleges, trade schools, and accredited auto mechanic schools. Many programs are supported by the ASE Education Foundation, ensuring alignment with real-world industry standards.

Look for certificate programs or associate degrees that offer hands-on training. Financial aid is often available for eligible students.

Step 2: Gain work experience

Work experience is critical for most certifications. For ASE certification, for example, you need at least two years of on-the-job experience—or one year plus a diploma from an accredited program. You’ll need to show that you’ve worked on everything from brake systems and axles to manual drive train repairs and electrical systems.

Step 3: Pass certification tests

Most mechanic certifications require passing written or computer-based certification exams. These are typically held at a certified test center. The exams cover a variety of topics depending on the specialty, including engine performance, electronic systems, and automatic transmission repair.

Tek-Tip: Some auto shops/employers will pay your test fees for you.

Step 4: Maintain certification

Many certifications require recertification every five years. Staying current ensures you’re up to date with the latest automotive repair techniques, tools, and systems.

Final thoughts

Becoming a certified mechanic takes dedication, but the payoff is worth it. From better job prospects to increased credibility, mechanic certifications help you build a successful, respected career in automotive repair.

Invest in your future. Get trained, get certified, and become a leader in the ever-growing world of automotive repair.

Automotive Mechanic Certifications: The Complete Guide

April 8, 2025

Read time: 3 min

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Mechanic interviews are challenging for both the employer and candidate because the right candidate has to be a fit in personality and technical ability. Plus, the numerous certification types, manufacturer nuances, and shop needs make it even more challenging.

This guide can be used to help repair shops/dealerships ask the right questions and also help technicians be prepared for questions they will likely encounter. Below you will find the most common car mechanic interview questions broken down by mechanic and service advisor level plus tips to ace your next interview.

Top mechanic job interview questions

While every auto repair shop differs in how they run their job interview process, these are some of the most common questions you can expect. Ranging from technical questions to customer service, be prepared to answer these common questions before your next interview.

An image highlighting the top job interview questions for mechanics.

General interview questions for car mechanics

These common questions cover basic automotive repair experience and relevant work history.

  • Tell me about yourself and your experience as an automotive technician.
  • Why do you want to work for our company/shop?
  • How do you stay up to date with new automotive technologies and repair techniques?
  • What certifications do you currently hold (ASE, manufacturer-specific, etc.)?
  • Are you comfortable working weekends, evenings, or overtime if needed?

Technical interview questions for mechanics

These technical interview questions cover more specific hand-on experience and tools/equipment.

  • Which repairs are you best at?
  • How much would you estimate your tool inventory to be worth?
  • What steps do you take when diagnosing a check engine light?
  • What tools and diagnostic equipment are you most familiar with?
  • Have you worked with hybrid or electric vehicles?
  • Do you believe in factory recommended vehicle maintenance intervals?
  • How comfortable are you with OEM scan/diagnostic tools?

Experience & situational questions for mechanics

These questions help employers understand how you would handle various shop situations and also helps them understand your communication skills.

  • Can you describe a time when you had to work under a tight deadline?
  • How do you deal with angry customers?
  • How do you prioritize tasks when you have multiple vehicles to work on?
  • What would you do if you made a mistake on a repair? How do you handle accountability?
  • What do you do if you encounter a vehicle with an issue you've never seen before?

Additional questions to expect

  • Are you comfortable serving those in need once a month?
  • Are you comfortable doing a DVI on the majority of vehicles you touch?
  • How do you handle a high-pressure environment when the shop is busy?
  • How do you handle a situation where you're unsure about how to fix a problem?
  • Tell me about a time you went above and beyond for a customer?

Top interview questions for service advisors

While the interview questions for service advisors will be similar to mechanics, there will be small differences. Typically, service advisors will be more customer facing and shops will tailor their questions to focus more on customer service and communication style.

General interview questions for service advisors

  • Are you comfortable selling repair services?
  • Are you comfortable working on a commission based salary structure?
  • Who do you believe has the best after market products?
  • Which shop management software is your favorite?
  • How do you deal with a customer saying that you are more expensive than their last shop?
  • How do you win back angry customers?
  • How do you handle over the phone quotes?

Technical interview questions for service advisors

  • What are your greatest strengths as a service advisor?
  • Who do you trust for moving electrical parts?
  • How do you handle working in a fast-paced environment?
  • Are you comfortable meeting sales goals and upselling services?
  • How do you stay up to date with new automotive technology and service trends?
  • How do you handle stress during busy hours?

Experience & situational questions for service advisors

  • How do you explain complex vehicle repairs to a customer who doesn’t understand cars?
  • What steps do you take to build trust with customers?
  • Have you ever had to deal with a miscommunication between a technician and a customer? How did you resolve it?
  • Can you describe a time when you turned a dissatisfied customer into a repeat customer?
  • How do you handle multiple customers needing assistance at the same time?

Additional questions to expect

  • How do you explain the importance of routine maintenance to a customer?
  • What experience do you have with automotive service software or point-of-sale systems?
  • How do you prioritize repair orders and schedule work efficiently?
  • How do you explain repair estimates to customers?
  • How would you respond to 1-star reviews?

Job interview tips for mechanics

  • Research: Not all shops are created equal so make sure to research before applying to make sure they are a good fit. You can also look at online reviews to see what their customers are saying.
  • Preparation: Use the commonly used questions above to help you prepare for the interview. Practice how you would answer each question and ways you can present yourself well.
  • Attire: You have 7 seconds to make your first impression and attire is a big part of that. Dress to showcase your professionalism and experience.
  • Highlight your experience/certifications: Showcasing your certifications and experience can go a long way to in making sure you land the job.
  • Ask thoughtful questions: Some interviewers will allow you to ask questions during the conversation. Make sure you have a few questions to ask that help you learn more about the shop.
  • Follow up: if you haven’t heard back from the shop and you are still interested, give them a call and remind them of your interest in the position.

Final thoughts

Interviews are challenging in any industry but mechanic interviews can be even more challenging with the shortage of talent available. This guide will help you either prepare for your next interview or provide you with common questions to ask your next hire. Lastly, always hire for culture fit and talent second. Culture problems are a lot harder to correct than technical car knowledge.

Top Interview Questions for Automotive Mechanics

March 25, 2025

Read time: 3 min

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