The interview process can be intimidating—both for experienced mechanics looking to make a change and for recent trade school graduates entering the labor force. To secure the job, you must thrive in the interview, and this fact may cause you to feel nervous and excited. Tame your nerves by remembering to be two things: prepared and confident. Let us help you achieve an entry-level role in automotive repair! Get started with these job interview tips.
Interview Questions for Automotive Mechanics
The best way to prepare for a job interview is to practice questions you think the interviewer is most likely to ask. It might be helpful to think about two types of interview questions: general questions and technical questions. General questions help you and the interviewer ease into the meeting. They also help the interviewer get to know you on a personal level, including your motivations and background. Some general mechanic’s interview questions may include:
- Tell me about yourself.
- Why do you want to work in the automotive field?
- What do you know about this company?
- Tell me about your education/certification and what you learned.
- What are some skills you’ve gained at other jobs or at school that you feel you could use in this position?
After asking general questions, the interviewer may gradually switch to technical questions. Technical questions give you the opportunity to showcase your trade knowledge. These may include:
- Can you describe the automotive vehicles you have worked on and are most familiar with?
- Tell me about an automotive problem or challenge you couldn’t solve. How did you handle it?
- If you saw a coworker making a mistake or being unsafe, what would you do?
- What are your long-term automotive career goals?
Sample Answers
- What do you know about this company?
ABC Auto Repair is a long-standing company. I know it’s family-owned and operated, and it’s dedicated to providing cutting-edge service to customers. ABC’s mechanics specialize in routine maintenance, tire services, and roadside assistance. Your motto is “A safe journey, every trip.” I really like that motto because it means that your fast and friendly service is also reliable. Reliability is something I strive for in my mechanic work and on a personal level.
- What are your long-term automotive career goals?
Right now, I’m looking for a company that I can grow with. My goal is to work for my ideal company for at least five years. This timeframe will give me the opportunity to make an impact as an automotive technician, as well as develop new skillsets as the industry evolves and progresses.
Questions to Ask Before You Leave
Before the interview ends, make sure you ask the interviewer several questions. It’s true that this is your interview, but you should also pretend that you’re interviewing the company! You want to work in an environment that you enjoy, so find out a little about the culture with these questions.
- Are there opportunities for training or advancement within this role?
- What is the biggest challenge the company is facing right now?
- What would a successful person be doing in this role two months from now? Six months from now? A year from now?
Related: What Is the ASE Certification for Auto Mechanics?
What to Wear to an Automotive Job Interview
How should you dress to impress at an automotive job interview? Generally, automotive techs wear durable coveralls or pants with a protective shirt when they’re on the job. It’s okay to wear this if you get the role you’re interviewing for, but it’s a good idea to dress professionally for the interview.
Professional attire may look like slacks, a button-down shirt with a collar, and dress shoes. Avoid wearing jeans to job interviews. Make sure all clothing is free of wrinkles. Accessories like a belt and a watch can bring the outfit together.
How to Get a Job in an Automotive Repair Shop
Hands-on experience is one of the best ways to prepare yourself for an automotive technician job. At Apex Technical School, we offer students 900 hours of instruction, split between the classroom and the shop. Students are taught entry-level skills for automotive repair by dedicated instructors. Our friendly Job Placement Assistance team is available to help students access support with resumes, cover letters and interview preparation.
Interested in starting your future at Apex? Classes are enrolling now! Contact us today.
