One piece of advice my boss gave me when I started out and has stuck with me all these years was, don't let a vehicle leave your bay unless you would be comfortable putting your family behind the wheel.

i started out as a helper, the 'hand me this' guy. the master mechanic tells me 'hand me that wrench', 'hand me that no.14 socket', 'clean this part and that'..etc. seeing how he does things, overhauling, fixing, replacing parts. not for long i was doing most of what he did and learning new things along the way. fast forward, now when a new guy is intently watching me work and helping out, i can see the spark in their eyes, the willingness to learn, so i let them do it guiding them and seeing them feeling accomplished and more confident makes me love my job even more!

If someone is explaining how to do something, even if you know how to do it, listen, you may learn something new or they may be trying to steer you in the correct direction before you make a fool of yourself.

"Fear of failure" or "analysis paralysis" or "perfectionism" could be cause of not wanting to try.

About trying it first... When I was still in school 2 of classmates had to rebuild the engine on a 1.4 mk4 golf. They took the engine apart not knowing what the heck they were doing. And left it like that for almost a week. Then the teacher walked up to me and told me to drop what I was doing and finish the golf engine. I had never rebuild an engine before, but being one of his best students he had the confidence that I could make it work. So he gave me a list with the torque specs and told me where to find the parts and materials needed. I was really unsure if I could do it. But at the end of the day the engine was back together (without any instructions or help) and the next day we put the fluids in and it started right up. After that I was a lot more confident about trying new things.

Something I always recommend to guys just getting started is- Never Stop Learning. You should be reading daily. Not just Facebook posts but get into the shop manuals. Learn theory, wiring schematics, diagnostic flow charts, disassembly/assembly procedures etc. Do your learning at home not on a customers car and your feeling pressure to get it done. It's OK to ask other tech,s questions but do your own homework first.You will earn your reputation. You don't want to be the guy that asks a lot of simple questions.

Not being afraid to ask questions no matter how dumb they may seem is another good tip. I've seen it many times with new people, unsure on what they're doing just going ahead, no questions asked, taking on a job that's way over their head. If you're unsure on a job ask someone who knows.

Lead tech: take out the trash. FNG: Roger that sir. FNG: The trash is empty, the floors have been swept, and the toilets are clean. May I have another. Lead tech thoughts: Well fuck, help me pull this fuel tank out.

Just got my first full time job at Honda as an express technician, I feel so great about myself especially since I have a great group of coworkers that want me to succeed and do the jobs right. First day was just watching and learning how the shop works and the second day I was able to do a few cars on my own. Yes it’s just oil changes and rotations and smaller jobs to start but I was able to do them on my own after watching the procedures the guys take in getting these cars in and out. First and foremost is making sure you do the job right and build a routine to stick to so you know if you haven’t done something in the car or if you have. The hours are great and they know I’m the new kid fresh out of a (bad) tech school and they want to help me grow as a technician. I was so nervous to do this but I officially started my career this week and to anyone thinking about doing tech school try to apply to these dealerships before you do so because they told me that I would’ve already been at Honda for 1 year if I hadn’t done the schooling I did.

Stickers, it takes stickers to be a better technician.

Just noticed the awesome Chris Fix sticker on the drawer!

I'm a journeyman flat rate tire stacker.

makes complete sense! I know that sweeping the shop or making a fresh pot of coffee (or cleaning the bathrooms!!!) has nothing to do with working on cars. It has to do with management observing my level of work ethic and discipline

Another good tip is to ask questions. When I first started off I was nervous to ask questions about something I didn't know for fear of being thought of like I didn't know what I was doing. But not everyone knows everything. So if you're not sure how to get that harness off the battery in the trunk of the BMW. Ask the guy in the bay next to you. Chances are he's done a few of them himself and struggled with it how you are and may have found a trick around it. Don't be afraid to admit you don't know something.

I worried a lot about how I was even going to get into this field. I went to UTI for one month, got sick, never went back, so on paper I have no experience. Since that happened though, I did a transmission, head gasket, water pump, timing belt kit, and misc replacements. Pretty extensive stuff for not being educated on it. I wanted to work in a shop so bad I started going to all the shops in a 20 mile radius, just for the chance, and I finally got it. It's my 2nd week, and I'm still getting my ears wet, but I couldn't be happier. You said just try it, and absolutely. I was told to tear apart a v8 from a Cadillac Deville. Did I do it? Hell no, but I got a good bit of stuff out of the way for the head gasket replacement, and showed my promise that I wouldn't back down from a job, even if it was intimidating. I also learned a lot just from that engine, and that's important in this field, learn as much as you can. That's why I spend at least an hour a day on Ericthecarguy, EngineeringExplained, HumbleMechanic, and ChrisFix. You will have something to watch from these people, and it will be rewarding. I'm pretty sure I commented on this video before, but I wanted to rewatch and share my experience thus far. Thanks again HumbleMechanic

Step # 1: Grow a kickass beard.

Perfect timing i have my first day of work as a technician tommorow at valvoline :) THANKS!

I have two weeks until I start my apprenticeship with Honda, but from a company called Fish Bros. I had a one week work trial where by the end of it (I will state I had no car mechanics experience before this), I was trusted by the tech who was training me to change a tyre and balance the wheel, and inspect all the suspension struts and brake conditions myself. I worked my arse off in that week which is why I got the position and then a few days ago, I went back and asked if they had any training manuals that I could read in the time I had off, to get a head start on the training and so I'd be further on than the other apprentices. Now I'm reading Honda institute electrics I and II and Hillier's fundamentals of motor vehicle technology to do that. I've also been in while not even employed at the time, to help with an engine rebuild, just because I was curious. The workshop manager couldn't believe what he was seeing 😂

I just put in my first day at a new garage in an entirely new city I just moved to as a 19 year old tech school graduate and it’s really reassuring to hear your story of how it takes time to learn and become fluent. There is times I still need GPS where I’m at but I’m passionate about cars and it’s really my end goal to learn and excel as a technician to become better. Thank you for the video, being the new guy is tough but good things don’t get handed to you

This is a great video! Should be very helpful for some newbies getting into the industry.

Awesome tips, all of them are spot on. I love how Todd Gordon brought up paying attention to detail.

one thing about the work ethic. (doing the crap jobs and staying busy) if you where the boss who would you invest in? (training, promotion and pay raise). but in this line I would add one other thing. be willing and eager to learn. 'hey boss, how do I get (blank) certified?' 'hey would you mind letting me help you with that alignment?' 'if I do the oil change for you would you mind showing me how to....'

I've been a mechanic for 23+ years. you couldn't be more right. also for the new guy. Put Down The Dam Cellphone. I'll send them playing video games during work.

This is great information for my little cousin. I just got him a job working for the dealership I worked at b4 I was disabled. I would add 3 things. 1.) If there’s a option, choose the bay closest to parts.(just to cut down on ur walking time) 2.) Make friends with the rest of the technicians, help them in your down time so they’ll be more inclined to help you. 3.) This goes along with yours as far as staying busy, but take everybody’s parts to them. (The more you help everyone, the more you will get help once you’re on commission.

this video should be made DVD and issued with new hire package.

speed is a byproduct of accuracy!

Thanks for the tips!I've just started as a tech for sears automotive, I've found my self doing all the things you just listed. It's really daunting actually DOING stuff because I have the mindset of "should I be doing this right now" all the time and I'm always nervous to touch things and do stuff on customer vehicles. I'm learning slowly and I'm still stacking tires and cleaning all the time but luckily the fellas are giving me oil and tire jobs to do by my self. I just keep in mind what you've said in the video. Thanks dude

I’m 3 months into my motorcycle mechanics apprenticeship and I gotta say this is a huge help, I’m always looking to prove myself and this has helped to show me the little things that I can do to be where I wanna be, many thanks you bearded Buddha, keep doing what you’re doing!😝

my first task was to check the coolant level on a 1973 beetle. it took me 30minutes.

hey man, im done stacking the tires. what do you want me to do

Thanks for putting this advice out there for a new mechanic like myself. It’s my first week on the job and I found tip number three very helpful!

This entire video can be applied to most any job.

I just started as a small engine mechanic in a shop that fixes lawn tractors, zero turns and domestic mowers and these tips are just as applicable.. Thanks for the tips!

Thanks man! I start tomorrow and this made me feel so much better!!!

This video answered a huge problem I had in my life regarding being a new guy at work. Long story short, I misunderstood what the guys were trying to do and I am now looking for work again. I thought they were just being toxic when I think they were just sizing me up. Now I feel dumb... Thank you HumbleMechanic!

just started my career as a diesel engine mechanic doing all the cleaning jobs now but hope it will worth it

your point on where speed comes from repetition really reminds me of one of my favorite saying which is "slow is smooth, smooth is fast"

Great tips! I love this man. This applys to any job forsure.

Damn man tip 4 made me feel so much better about myself. Thanks man

Awesome Video Charles, I work as an I.T. Gaming Technician (slot machines). Just want to let you know how spot on this video is. I have 2 years Automotive Body Repair and Refinishing training but got a lucky break into I.T. these 5 points match what we look for in our FNGs almost perfect. swap engine for a backplane, or transmission for a monitor or logic box. the points are universal. Awesome Video!

This is great advice man. Im starting in a few weeks, so listening to this made me more confident, I know I can do it. I will keep watching ur videos and other great tech youtubers. Thank you for breaking out my fear.

Thank you for this video! I am 17 and trying to look into how I can get myself started in the automotive industry because at this point I have never ever worked on a car since my parents won't let me lol and don't know anybody who knows about cars. I am trying to look up a ton of different KZfaq videos about car repairs and stuff but I know nothing beats hands-on try and fail learning. I am trying to find car porter jobs at dealerships and stuff similar to that in order to get my step in the door and maybe learn about more things. I've also been trying to look for jobs at places like Take-5 where I could learn things like oil changes and stuff without needing any prior experience. But thank you for the videos because they give me a better idea of how to navigate unknown territory. Thank you!

Thanks a lot for your good 5 advices. I really appreciate them.-

Speed comes later is great advise. When I started doing injector changes on a locomotive i couldn't finish half in a shift (8). Now I'm done with all (16) with time left to clean up and set up for timing.

Slow is smooth is fast.

I totally agree, patience is a huge thing and also trying....you have to try and even as you try you need to realize that it's ok to ask questions if your not sure even if you have figured it out....for instance..."these are the three bolts I need to remove on this starter right?" ( even after the battery has been fully disconnected.) Most the time I'm right...but a always double check with my superior who knows more than me.

Hey, parts counterman here. I can't speak for all of us but I sympathize for getting your parts quick. Been in the parts department for 5 years and I'm new to the counter but a lot of this applies to both ends of parts too. Right now I have my slow moments but I faster at some things then the older guys. Enjoy your videos, may never be a certified mechanic but I certainly enjoy working on cars. The techs are all cool enough at my work to bounce ideas off to help me diagnose my own projects.

The "try it" point was spot on. People always tell me that they could never do the stuff I do (I repair broken electronic devices) . The truth is that I don't know how to do the things either before I do it. I just try it and read up on the subject.

For those of you going to school or just starting out. If you want to work at a dealership. Find your brand of cars (ford, Honda, chevy). And look into tech schools for that brand. I work at a ford dealer and went through a ford program to get me certified in all ford areas. This puts you at a advantage over a general auto program. And also think about the fact that at dealers you do have to deal with warranty but in most cases dealer techs get paid way more than most independent shops. There are techs multiple making 6 figures at my shop.

Thank you for this video, Im starting tech school in a week and this video really reassured me that my personality and mindset makes me excited to go into this.

I've learned alot from your vids dude. Thanks for sharing your knowledge.

One year in and this video is still one of the most helpful things I found and I use these tips everyday.

thanks for all of your advice videos dude. as a new mechanic, watching your vids has been a huge help.

#3 is exactly how I know how to build cabinets, do carpentry, repair jeeps subaru,eagle talons, and my favorite 80's trans am.

f'n hit the nail on the head. this video should be mandatory for all new mech's and techs.. even new management. Applicable to other careers also.

As a tech finishing school, these videos are incredibly useful. You should make a series out of this topic.

Thank you so much... I'm a new tech and I was really anxious about this field... because where I work there are some pretty good technicians here and I just felt left out but I now see that this thing is all about time and as such taking the time out to learn what I need to and do my job correctly...thanks brahh...💯💯💯

i have worked at a high end east coast dealership for about 3 years and EVERYTHING you said is exactly on point. when service writers come out asking if a cars done yet i say "do you want it done now, or do you want it done right?"

I'm a Service Engineer at a electrical engineering company, I basically do the same kind of role as Tech/Mechanic but on electrical gizmos, and I've been doing it around 10 years now, I genuinely think everyone who works in any kind of workshop environment needs to see this video. I've seen Graduates thinking they know everything on day one, I see Graduates standing there looking into the air whilst a huge row of units need electrical testing, waiting for someone to hold their hand through every single step, it's frustrating to see, I would rather someone blow up a brand new unit trying to learn than staring into space not doing anything.

The problem with this is that shop owners don't care about "100% correct", what they care about is "200% speed", "How much money did we make this week?" "How can you make me more money so i can go buy another Porsche?". They aren't tech's, they usually come from sales management, at least here in Sweden. They only care about numbers, they don't look at how the job is done, as long as the customer doesn't come back angry. There's just one bottom line, you make me enough money and i'll hire you. And the problem is, THEY are the ones who make the decisions... Also, i think your logic is contradictory. "So, just try it. If you mess it up it's ok. Look, you're gonna make mistakes anyway." "Take your time, do it 100% correctly first" I might be stupid, but these two things aren't compatible in my brain. I kinda get what you're point is, but the problem is your telling us; don't ask me how to set that clock (or whatever it may be), try it yourself. You're saying i should figure it out myself, the information is somewhere, owner's book, repair manual, other technicians: Wait what? You just said earlier that i'm not supposed to ask you, the other technicians, but figure it out on my own. Why do you always think that people are lazy because they want to do their job 100% correctly? They always say "Just try it, don't ask me, i don't have time, you'll mess up my flatrate pay, figure it out on your own." Then when you mess it up they say: "Why didn't you ask first? Just ask first if you don't know how to do it. Now i gotta take care of something you messed up." Catch-22

I'm starting an automotive course march 9th. Thank you for this vid.

Nah first step: is to watch a chrisfix video lol

Having just started out at a VW dealer in the service express area if my stalls are empty and I have no cars to bring in what I personally like to do is make rounds around the shop and lend a hand in whatever the other techs need in or take the trash out and empty the bay buddies etc. It's a fun career placement and I am looking forward to moving up in the future

I really love your content,keep it up!

These are all great tips no matter what industry you’re in. Great advice!

I came out of school without any auto experience, so I taught myself and so far I have been doin a pretty good job on most of the stuff i learned on my own vehicle. But I am also able to challenge the automotive 1st year exam as well...

thanks, really helpful, I'm the new guy at the moment and am slowly getting there!

Great advice! Very similar to what the guys at work say to me, being a 1st year light vehicle mechanic. It is difficult from time to time to just be cleaning and packing things away most days but i know in the end it'll defiantly be worth the greif!!!!!

amazing video very helpful really enjoyed the advice good mechanic

Just got a job at some tire shop, thanks for the tips!

This video was extremely helpful! I just got hired at a shop and I start on Tuesday. Not bad for being 17 lol

You are awesome your video helped me and made me want to get involved more in the field I definitely will be checking out more of your content thank you

When I was in school in 1981 I got a job at the county garage, work at several different county shops and the pay was good and benefits, they also have the equipment you need because they have thes $$$ well worth checking out.

Really looking forward to start working and learning. I finished school.

Charles I hope you read this! I'm a huge fan. I've been at a collision and restoration shop for three and a half years now. I can relate to so many of these things. In any trade, the new guy does need to "prove himself" in terms of work ethic, willingness to work, self-motivation. You describe the "new guy" topic to a T. I really enjoy these types of videos from you. ETCG also does more personal videos such as this, and they are great! Hearing from those who are 15+ years in the trade is great!

Good advice. The one thing I learned over the years is respect the veteran techs, if they tell you to do something do it. They have more experience and they are there to help. Plus it builds relationships and in the long run everyone gains from it. The new guy helps the vet and in return the new guy gets on the job training. Respect goes a long way. I went by this motto the first day I started as a tech 20 years ago and I have reaped the benefits from it.

Yesterday was my first day on the job as a lube tech at Nissan, and first day I forgot to put the oil cap back on lolol

Brilliant and universal observations...I forwarded the link to my management. Not in automotive but a computer systems engineer.

Thanks man! This is really accurate.

What a great guy. I like his attitude with the fresh guys that first start up, because he knows knows how it feels, shiting bricks the first day not knowing what the rest of the team will think about you what job you are going to take e.t.c I would love to have someone like this guy with the mighty beard to help out a newbie and not comment on anything

I love this videos man . Always giving great tips examples and stuff man keep it goong

Thanks for this video man.

And you are sooo right about work overall and working not so fast but effectively as you are an early Mechanic. Make sure it's done RIGHT.

Great advice! A big mistake I made early in a non-auto career was to give the wrong answer to this question: “Are you busy right now?” Big boss saw me stuffing envelopes and hit the roof. 😰

Some absolutely wonderful tips! Well done, Charles! :D

What an excellent video! I appreciate the tips as I am starting an apprenticeship as a forklift technician in around a months time, i now feel alot more comfortable with starting. :)

I worked as the porter and lube tech trying to earn my way into a real tech position I’m about a year in and already have gotten a couple raises and hopefully I’ll be a tech very soon it’s a passion I’ve even heard guys on KZfaq say don’t become a tech and tbh I love doing it too much not to LOL love your vids man great content

im joing an automotive technology class in 2 months so im looking for good tips on how to look like a good student. i will definitely put these tips to good use.

Awesome video and great advise for not just new tech's but those going into new shops. Almost every shop has a different way they want stuff done and that can be confusing. New techs shouldn't be afraid to ask questions and if they forget something ask again. It might be embarrassing to ask again but better to do it right the first time. I am a new subscriber via Thomas EXOVCDS's channel. I look forward to checking out more of your videos.

Stay busy, that is golden advice man. For 1, it makes the time go. Sitting there doing nothing makes the time drag on and on and on. I'll wipe down tools, sweep floor, clean the solvent tank...... something anything just to stay busy while I'm waiting on parts or in-between jobs. I'm honest with it. I always did well in all my jobs, because I was always doing something that needed to be done. Even if it was to make the time pass quicker so I could get home and work on my own stuff.

My first job as a tech was rebuilding an automatic trans. Lol. I just layed it out in order on my bench. Sure it took me a bit longer but it was right when I was done.

Hi Im from Czech Republic and i was so saad that i get thinks i cant get done or as u sad i was standing in the middle of the shop cuz i didnt have anythink to do and nobody gave me anythink but after this video u made my day so much better thanks man! And for the new mechanics i got the same tip as you and its try your hard even tho u get mad cuz of the job or somethink it wont help you so try harder every day

I'm in school right now wanting to be a mechanic in the future. Thanks for the advice when I start working

I''ve been in the field 35+years and still learning read everything and ask questions their are no dumb questions

Graduated a 2 year full time auto program and starting a job Monday. My nerves are absolutely racked. I feel highly prepared tool wise and knowledge wise. Hoping it all goes well.

I found most of these tips apply for most technical jobs when/if you come directly out of school. My area is embedded software development (i.e. small, built in, computers) and if you don't have the drive to take on the "boring" parts and are not willing to figure out how stuff works you will not get anywhere.

i start tomorrow, thanks for the tips brother.

Hey great videos try to take all the pointers you give out. I'm a new tech in a shop under 1yr in industry I flag about 6-7hrs a day working 8.5hrs on top of that I clean the shop empty all the oil containers sweep the bay's pick up rotors etc... Make sure all the other tech bays are ready to go and the work I do ranges from oil changes to ball joints struts welding exhaust electrical diagnosis etc... The response I keep getting from my service manager is that I'm not moving fast enough and I should be able to flag 3 more hours a day and so they will not give me a raise I felt I was truly doing well for a new tech w less than a year experience what your opinion

I got my first job monday and nothing went how i expected. I felt like giving up Saturday morning. But so coincidentally this video appeared on my KZfaq. Thank you for reminding me why i went to mechanic school.

Actually Charles, I just graduated my first year of college (albeit for MUCH cheaper than you all pay down in the states for UTI certificates and what not - not to brag about my el cheapo education) - with a guy who has been working at subaru locally here for ~11000 hrs. Well on his way to being a master tech/red seal here in Canada. Actually ended up working with him and a couple guys from the same class at the Subaru dealership. Love your channel man, keep it up, idk how I wasn't sub'd before my little binge tonight. Have a good one (despite the name, ahah). Hope your weekend was solid, here comes dat Monday. Siidenote; first actual 7-3/8-4 mon-fri job I've had. feelsgoodman.jpg