An auto mechanic is a mechanic who specializes in automobile maintenance, repair, and sometimes modification and design. Education is usually post-secondary or secondary vocational education, although apprenticeship under a master mechanic is also an accepted method of learning the trade. A good mechanic must be proficient in mathematics, physics, electronics and computer science as well as logical processes used for diagnosing problems. Most reputable mechanics are ASE certified, which is a standardized method of testing skill level. The technology used in automobiles changes very rapidly and the mechanic must be prepared to learn these new technologies and systems. The auto mechanic has a physically demanding job, often exposed to temperature extremes and well as lifting heavy objects and staying in uncomfortable positions for extended periods as well as exposure to gasoline, solvents and other toxic chemicals. Related jobs include motorcycle repair and small engine repair.

Auto 'mechanics' are today professionally referred to as 'technicians', due to the level of technological competency now required to diagnose and perform needed repairs. Fading quickly is the day of the 'shadetree mechanic', who needed little knowledge of today's computerized systems. Today's technician must have knowledge of these systems, as well as more basic mechanical principles.

Due to the increasingly labyrinthine nature of the technology that is now incorporated into automobiles, most automobile dealerships now provide sophisticated diagnostic computers to each technician, without which they would be unable to diagnose or repair a multitude of common failures.

External links

• P rinceton Review, Career Profiles
• HowStuffWorks, auto section