Auto Mechanic Interview Questions

Predicting how many people will come into an auto repair shop every day is difficult. Auto mechanics don't know the extent of damage a car has suffered before a detailed inspection.Some people need to wait before getting an accurate estimate of their repair costs and time. A good auto mechanic should be able to give accurate predictions and prioritise their clients effectively. What to look for in an answer:

• A consistent, proven strategy for multitasking and prioritizing clients
• Communication skills to explain wait times and repair costs to clients
• The ability to provide high-quality customer service to set client expectations

Knowledgeable auto mechanics should be able to work on a variety of different vehicles, from classic cars to the latest electric vehicles. This question assesses the candidate's familiarity with unusual makes and models and their ability to research information when needed. What to look for in an answer:

• The ability to solve problems and think creatively when needed
• Extensive mechanical knowledge and expertise
• A positive attitude and the ability to overcome challenges

Auto mechanics need to communicate with clients to do their jobs. Customers expect mechanics to find and fix problems promptly. Sometimes they're in a rush and don't want to wait, or are upset to find out they need a costly repair. Candidates should be able to communicate complex vehicle terminology and repair needs to customers who may not have any mechanical knowledge. What to look for in an answer:

• The ability to prioritise customers' needs
• Interpersonal skills
• Communication skills to explain mechanical concepts simply

Inspecting vehicles is an auto mechanic's primary responsibility. Candidates should understand which components are most important to check and how to perform routine test drive procedures. What to look for in an answer:

• A logical process for checking all car systems to diagnose existing and potential issues
• Knowledge of computerised diagnostic systems
• A strong understanding of vehicle testing and repairs

A candidate's answer to this question lets you know which types of vehicles they have the most experience with and which repairs they make most often. An excellent answer should exhibit:

• Extensive experience with a variety of vehicles
• The ability to investigate abnormalities and discover their causes
• An interest in learning and honing their skills

Auto mechanics often work as part of a team. This question lets you evaluate a candidate's ability to interact with others. What to look for in an answer:

• Teamwork and respect for coworkers
• The ability to consider the opinions of others and listen to opposing points of view
• Communication skills

This question gives the candidate an opportunity to exhibit their practical knowledge. You can ask several variations about different vehicle symptoms to assess their ability to diagnose mechanical issues. What to look for in an answer:

• Knowledge of the most common car problems and likely causes
• Logic and reasoning skills
• Excellent attention to detail

This question tells you how current the candidate's knowledge of vehicle diagnostic software is, and whether they're familiar with industry technology. It also reveals how much on-the-job training a candidate needs to learn the software used by your auto shop. What to look for in an answer:

• An interest in software
• The ability to learn new technologies quickly
• Experience with several kinds of diagnostic programmes

The best way to find out about a candidate's mechanical knowledgeis by asking technical questions. This question gives people a chance to prove their mechanical knowledge. What to look for in an answer:

• Extensive mechanical knowledge
• Ability to explain mechanical concepts clearly
• Experience working with these auto parts

Auto mechanics use various tools to help them identify and fix mechanical issues. This question tests the candidate's knowledge of common scenarios in their profession. What to look for in an answer:

• Knowledge of what a multimeter does and how to use it correctly
• Experience diagnosing and repairing mechanical issues
• Logic and reasoning skills

In many provinces and territories, auto mechanics require specific certifications to practise. This question lets you know whether the candidate is qualified and can legally work for you. What to look for in an answer:

• Relevant certifications
• Knowledge of provincial and territorial requirements
• Adequate educational background

This question assesses the candidate's willingness to ask for help when needed. In an answer, search for:

• Patience in a variety of situations
• Troubleshooting and critical thinking skills
• Diligence to identify and solve mechanical issues

This question evaluates the candidate's enthusiasm for the job. It provides insight into their passion and long-term career goals. What to look for in an answer:

• Passionate about the role
• Enthusiasm for daily tasks and manual labour
• High mechanical aptitude with knowledge of several vehicle models

This question assesses a candidate's ability to take responsibility and learn from experience. What to look for in an answer:

• Ability to acknowledge and address mistakes
• Initiative to correct errors
• Ability to learn from experiences and avoid repeating mistakes

This question gives the candidate a chance to tell you why you should hire them. What to look for in an answer:

• The ability to persuade customers to get regular maintenance and repairs
• Enthusiasm for the position
• A good work ethic and the desire to help people