Automotive service technicians use their
high-tech skills to inspect, maintain, and repair
automobiles and light trucks that run on gasoline,
ethanol and other alternative fuels, such as
electricity. The increasing sophistication of automotive
technology now requires workers who can use computerized
shop equipment and work with electronic components while
maintaining their skills with traditional hand tools.
(Service technicians who work on diesel-powered trucks,
buses, and equipment are discussed in the Handbook
section on
diesel service technicians and mechanics. Motorcycle
technicians—who repair and service motorcycles, motor
scooters, mopeds, and, occasionally, small all-terrain
vehicles—are discussed in the Handbook section on
small engine mechanics.)
Small engines powering
motorcycles, motorboats, and outdoor power equipment
share many characteristics with their larger
counterparts, including breakdowns. Small engine
mechanics repair and service power equipment ranging
from racing motorcycles to chain saws. Mechanics usually
specialize in the service and repair of one type of
equipment, although they may work on closely related
products.
Motorcycle mechanics
repair and overhaul
motorcycles, motor scooters, mopeds, dirt bikes, and
all-terrain vehicles. Besides repairing engines, they
may work on transmissions, brakes, and ignition systems
and make minor body repairs. Mechanics often service
just a few makes and models of motorcycles, because most
work for dealers that service only the products they
sell.
Motorboat mechanics, or
marine equipment mechanics,
repair and adjust the
electrical and mechanical equipment of inboard and
outboard boat engines. Most small boats have portable
outboard engines that are removed and brought into the
repair shop. Larger craft, such as cabin cruisers and
commercial fishing boats, are powered by diesel or
gasoline inboard or inboard-outboard engines, which are
removed only for major overhauls. Most of these repairs
are performed at the docks or marinas. Motorboat
mechanics also may work on propellers, steering
mechanisms, marine plumbing, and other boat equipment.
