Most car owners are particular when it comes to the care of their vehicles. Your car is probably one of your biggest investments. It makes sense that you want the best service possible. Nowadays, with ever-advancing technology, it can be wise to be sure your automotive service provider has the knowledge needed to work on your vehicle’s specific systems. One thing that might help is to understand the differences between a mechanic and a technician. These words are often used interchangeably. They have similarities, and each requires a great deal of training. However, there are some key differences that set them apart. Here’s what you need to know.
What Is a Mechanic?
A mechanic is an automotive professional who is trained to assess mechanic problems in vehicles and to repair those issues. They also have the know-how to provide the necessary maintenance required to keep vehicles running. Most mechanics have a wide range of knowledge and training to be able to work on the comprehensive needs of the vehicles they service. There are some mechanics who specialize in a specific type of repair. They may have specific knowledge of things like tires, brakes, or transmissions. You’ll find mechanics employed in garages, repair shops, and car dealerships.
What Is a Technician?
Technicians have essentially the same duties as mechanics. These professionals are also trained in the overall workings of all sorts of automotive vehicles. They can assess mechanical issues, as well as repair and maintain engines and other parts of the vehicle. The primary difference in their role is that they specialize in diagnostic services in order to determine what may be causing problems within the automobile. To do this, they use various computerized equipment and devices to diagnose precise issues. Technicians possess additional training that provides them with the expertise to properly use and read these diagnostic devices. In addition to working in the places that mechanics are employed, technicians are often utilized for very particular automotive work such as on a race team’s pit crew. Technicians may also have specific manufacturer training that lets them assess and repair certain vehicles that a general mechanic or technician cannot.
Differences Between Mechanics and Technicians
There truly are more similarities between these two types of automotive professionals than differences. However, it is important to note that they aren’t exclusively interchangeable terms. Automotive technicians are a specific type of mechanic. While both jobs require a range of skills pertaining to the repair and maintenance of automobiles, not all mechanics have training in the use of computerized diagnostic tools. A technician must obtain additional instruction or specialized certification in order to earn that title. In addition, technicians may be certified to work specifically with a particular manufacturer’s vehicles. For example, if you need Mini Cooper repair in West Chester PA, your best bet might be to search for a Mini Cooper qualified technician.
Job Responsibilities of Each
To provide a further understanding of the differences between mechanics and technicians, let’s look at some of the duties, tasks, and responsibilities each holds. Besides their primary focus on assisting customers by providing repairs and maintenance on their vehicles, each job varies somewhat.
A typical day for an auto mechanic may include:
- Providing vehicle maintenance and repairs
- Performing auto inspections
- Making recommendations and several automotive tasks well. Oil
- changes, fluid checks, and changes, brake inspections, engine tune-ups, and tire replacement are all examples of the kinds of work both
- professionals will do throughout the day.
Now that you understand the differences between a mechanic and a technician, you can better determine which you need for your particular automotive needs. If you have questions, it’s always wise to ask your professionals if they are trained in the type of work you require.
