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What does a Mechanic do?

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$53,625
Based on 10000 salaries
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Mechanics' primary duties are to perform routine checks and service to vehicles. Not a day goes by when they are not examining and diagnosing malfunctioning vehicles, identifying issues, and finding ways to fix them. Depending on the damage or problem that presents itself, Mechanics will need to dismantle the engine or other parts of the vehicle to examine the working or malfunctioning pieces more closely.   
   
If there is significant damage to any part of the vehicle, Mechanics will be responsible for requesting replacement parts and conducting the repairs. Mechanics will need to examine the vehicle's underbody to gain access to car parts not accessible from the front hood. Mechanics and body shops will have the equipment, including hydraulic lifts, to mount the vehicle to access the underbody. Mechanics should closely follow all safety measures to prevent unnecessary injury. This process should always be handled with extreme caution for the safety of workers and clients alike.   
   
In addition to hands-on work, Mechanics are also responsible for providing clients with a report explaining all repairs performed. Some Mechanics must have a sales mindset to upsell products and services depending on the shop they work in or what expectations their employer has for sales tracking. 


Roles & Responsibilities of a Mechanic

A Mechanic's primary role is to work on and test vehicles before they leave the property. They perform regular maintenance and status checks and follow specific instructions for different types of engines and vehicles. Here's a non-exhaustive list of everyday tasks Mechanics are required to complete:
  • Checking the levels of essential fluids (e.g., motor oil, coolant, and brake fluid) and refilling them as necessary, inspecting and replacing filters when required. 
  • Checking the battery and the electric systems of the vehicle. 
  • Conducting a thorough and complete diagnosis of the status of the vehicle using specialized hardware and software. 
  • Inspecting and calibrating brakes. 
  • Checking the condition of the tires, including air pressure, alignment, and tightening loose screws and bolts. 
  • Dismantling the engine for cleaning or looking for malfunctioning parts, performing general and specific repairs, and replacing malfunctioning parts. 
  • Extracting malfunctioning parts following diagnosis and using specialized tools (e.g., wrenches, screwdrivers, pliers, and hydraulic lifts). 
  • Requesting replacement and spare pieces when a repair is not possible and testing the proper functioning of new elements.  
  • Documenting and reporting all vehicle repairs to employer or customer. 
  • Creating a budget of the expected expenses for the repairs and keeping track of all the pieces and parts changed, repaired, and replaced. 
  • Providing clients with a bill explaining all purchases and repairs completed. 
  • Following safety measures and protocols when performing repairs, including using all necessary safety tools and gadgets (e.g., safety goggles, gloves, and suits) to avoid injury. 
  • Adhering to safety regulations when using heavy or dangerous machines and tools (e.g., hydraulic lifts, power tools, and welders). 
  • Keeping track of all transactions, purchases, and services provided and performing all the administrative tasks necessary. 
  • Paying taxes and submitting financial records to the correspondent government agency. 
  • Managing payroll operations, including sales and services commissions for employees when necessary. 
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