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Vehicle Technician Job Description: Top Duties and Qualifications

A Vehicle Technician, or Automotive Technician keeps vehicles in good working order. Their duties include inspecting vehicles, replacing components and making vehicle repairs.

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Vehicle Technician duties and responsibilities

Vehicle Technicians perform a mix of technical and customer interface duties. Their responsibilities can vary depending on the size of their business and the expertise of other employees. Their daily tasks include:

  • Inspecting vehicles and diagnosing any required work
  • Discussing required repairs with customers
  • Calculating the expected time and cost of vehicle work
  • Repairing or replacing components as required
  • Road testing vehicles to test repair work
  • Fitting and servicing vehicle accessories, including immobilisers, alarms and stereos
  • Performing service checks
  • Performing vehicle maintenance tasks, such as changing oil and air filters, as required
  • Cleaning and maintaining the work environment to ensure equipment longevity and workplace safety
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What does a Vehicle Technician do?

A Vehicle Technician inspects and repairs vehicles so they run safely, efficiently and reliably. Vehicle Technicians can work with different vehicles, such as cars, lorries, vans, buses and motorcycles. They work with a variety of vehicle components including engines, brakes, air-conditioning, suspension, transmission, security and sound systems. A good Vehicle Technician supports customers and makes them feel valued. They also perform high-quality work at all times, so customers can feel confident trusting them with their vehicles. A good Vehicle Technician encourages customer loyalty and positive word-of-mouth. They can help garages and workshops increase their profits and expand their customer base.

Vehicle Technician skills and qualifications

Vehicle Technicians use their technical and soft skills to keep vehicles running well and their owners happy. A successful Vehicle Technician candidate will have various prerequisite skills and qualifications that typically include:

  • Superior knowledge of motor vehicles and how to perform repair and maintenance tasks
  • Verbal communication skills for explaining vehicle work to customers in accessible terms and discussing vehicle cases with other team members
  • Customer service skills for positive interactions with vehicle owners
  • Diagnostic and problem-solving skills for determining vehicle problems and how to resolve them
  • Manual dexterity for working on vehicle parts, including sensitive sensors and electronic components
  • Competency using diagnostic equipment
  • Mathematical skills for calculating quotes

Vehicle Technician experience requirements

While businesses often prefer Vehicle Technicians with experience, this can be an entry-level role. Often, newcomers to this profession get practical experience through apprenticeship programmes or work placement. More experienced Vehicle Technicians may find work as Senior Technicians.

Vehicle Technician education and training requirements

While there are no formal education requirements for Vehicle Technicians, many companies require educational standards. Many employers ask for candidates who’ve completed at least an apprenticeship. Apprenticeships and advanced apprenticeships are available through the Institute of the Motor Industry and dedicated training facilities managed by large vehicle brands. Some employers also ask for applicants with relevant NVQs or SVQs. Some commonly required qualifications include an NVQ or SVQ in Vehicle Maintenance and Repair – Light Vehicle, Heavy Vehicle, Vehicle Fitting and Auto Electrical and Mobile Electronics and Security. New Vehicle Technicians usually receive on-the-job training.

Vehicle Technician salary expectations

According to Indeed Salaries, the average salary for a Vehicle Technician in the UK is £28,264 per year. Salaries can vary depending on location, employer and experience.

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Vehicle Technician job description FAQs

What is the difference between a Vehicle Technician and a Mechanic?

Vehicle Technicians usually focus on the complex technical parts of vehicles while Mechanics focus on the simpler mechanical parts. Vehicle Technicians use diagnostic equipment which connects to on-board computer systems. Using this equipment requires specific training that differs from Mechanic training. A Vehicle Technician may do some of the same work as a Mechanic, such as mechanical maintenance. This is common in smaller workplaces, but roles are usually more separate in larger businesses.

What should you look for in a Vehicle Technician CV?

A strong Vehicle Technician CV showcases a candidate’s commitment to excellence. Candidates with an apprenticeship and relevant NVQs or SVQs must have an outstanding level of knowledge and practical experience. Employers see candidates with automotive technician accreditation as more favourable. Accreditation is voluntary, but shows a Vehicle Technician has an excellent base knowledge.

What qualities do successful Vehicle Technicians have?

Successful Vehicle Technicians are passionate about technology and the automotive industry. This passion drives them to keep up-to-date with new developments. They are efficient people who can work quickly but accurately. They know how to follow instructions but can also work productively unsupervised.

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