Follow us today…
A recent post on the r/MechanicAdvice Reddit forum shows how tough it can be for high school graduates to sort through the negativity surrounding the automotive repair industry.
The OP shared his dream of becoming a mechanic after falling in love with cars at a young age. He explained:
“I’ve loved cars since I was little… I always end up back at being a mechanic. I finally chose it as my career path, but online, all I see is negativity. Mechanics saying not to do it, people saying there’s no money in it. Honestly, I don’t care too much about money as long as I can eat and have a roof over my head. I just want to hear from mechanics who love what they do.”
Like many aspiring mechanics, his dream isn’t just to work on cars—it’s to restore older vehicles so that future generations can appreciate them. But the pushback he’s encountering raises an important question:
Is becoming a mechanic worth it in today’s world?
Why So Much Negativity Around Becoming a Mechanic?
If you’ve ever told someone you wanted to be a mechanic, chances are you’ve heard the warnings:
- The pay is low.
- The work is physically demanding.
- Tools and training are expensive.
- Burnout is common.
And in many cases, those points are true. But like any career, the automotive repair field has pros and cons that depend on your goals, expectations, and passion.
One seasoned Reddit user, Colorado_Car-Guy, explained it this way:
If you like cars, don’t just work on someone else’s beater. Aim higher—assembly plants, engineering, or even a race team. When I was younger, I worked seasonal jobs at a racetrack, doing inspections and track maintenance. I had way more fun doing that than changing oil on someone’s old clunker.”
The takeaway? If you want to “do what you love,” aim for the best version of that career path, not just the first entry-level job available.
My Own Experience: Crushing a Dream Without Meaning To
This career dilemma reminded me of a conversation I had with my neighbor’s daughter. She wanted to be an EMT with hopes of moving into paramedicine. Having worked as both an EMT and paramedic myself, I immediately warned her about the long hours, low pay, and burnout.
In hindsight, I realized I was projecting my own experience onto her. Just because I struggled didn’t mean her path would be the same. I suggested she try ride-alongs, volunteer work, and shadowing professionals before committing.
The truth? Mechanics face many of the same challenges EMTs do: stressful environments, demanding hours, customers (patients or other non-professionals) second-guessing your decisions, etc. But that doesn’t mean the career has no value.
The Wisdom of Pros and Cons
Advertising
One retired mechanic on the thread, LipchapSnodgrass, gave perhaps the most balanced advice:
As a retired mechanic who also loves cars, I can tell you the drawbacks. But more importantly, I can tell you how rewarding it was.”
Here’s a breakdown of what he and others have shared:
Pros of Becoming a Mechanic
- Turn Passion Into a Career – If you love cars, working on them daily is deeply rewarding.
- Tools Are an Investment – Expensive, yes, but they build independence and speed.
- Lifelong Learning – Cars evolve, and so will your skills.
- Trust and Reputation – Honest mechanics are always in demand.
- Practical Life Skills – Even outside the trade, you’ll save time and money.
- Independence – Many techs eventually run their own shop or side business.
Cons of Becoming a Mechanic
- Physical Wear and Tear – Injuries and strain are part of the job.
- Health Risks – Chemicals, fumes, and long-term exposure add up.
- High Tool & Training Costs – Always another tool or certification to buy.
- Tough Work Environments – Not all shops are fair or supportive.
- Dirty, Demanding Work – Long hours, heavy lifting, grease, sweat.
So, Is Becoming a Mechanic Worth It?
The old saying “Do what you love, and you’ll never work a day in your life” is misleading. You will work. It will be dirty, tiring, and sometimes frustrating. But if your love for cars outweighs the downsides, it can be one of the most satisfying careers you can choose.
The best way to find out? Test the waters first.
- Shadow a mechanic.
- Volunteer at a racetrack.
- Work part-time at a shop.
If the passion sticks, you’ll know you’re on the right path. And even if you decide the career isn’t for you, the skills you gain will stay valuable for life.
Related article: Dealership vs. Independent Garage? I Don’t Care What Anybody Says…People Are Generally Miserable in the Dealership Setting. They Throw On That Fake Smile, but They’re Dying Inside.
Final Thoughts
If you’re considering a career in automotive repair, don’t let online negativity (or that old neighbor guy) crush your dream. Instead, gather real-world experience, talk to seasoned mechanics, and weigh the pros and cons of being a mechanic carefully.
The auto repair industry will always need skilled, honest technicians. And if cars truly run through your veins, it might be the perfect fit.
What about you? Are you a mechanic or someone considering the trade? Share your experience in the comments below.
Timothy Boyer is an automotive reporter based in Cincinnati who currently researches and restores older vehicles, often incorporating engine modifications for improved performance. He also covers modern cars—including EVs—with a focus on DIY mechanics, tool use and selection, and other topics related to automotive repair. Follow Tim on Twitter (@TimBoyerWrites) and Facebook for daily updates and insights on new and used cars and trucks.
Image Source: Deposit Photos
Follow us today…
Source: torquenews.com
