How Much Do Mechanics Make?

How Much Do Mechanics Make? UK Salary, Training, and Career Guide

Mechanics—also known as vehicle technicians—are essential to keeping the UK moving. They inspect, service, and repair cars, vans, motorcycles, and HGVs. Whether working in a dealership, local garage, or running their own mobile repair service, mechanics are in constant demand across the country.

Here’s what you need to know about becoming a mechanic, what you can earn, training routes, progression, and top employers.

Job Description: What Do Mechanics Do?

Mechanics diagnose and fix problems in vehicles using a mix of tools, technical knowledge, and electronic equipment.

Key responsibilities:

• Servicing vehicles (oil changes, brake checks, filters, MOT prep)

• Diagnosing faults using tools or onboard diagnostics (OBD)

• Repairing or replacing damaged or worn parts

• Carrying out MOTs (if qualified)

• Completing paperwork and customer reports

• Test-driving to verify issues or confirm fixes

• Keeping up with new automotive technologies

Some specialise in certain areas (e.g. electrics, hybrids, transmissions).

How Hard Is It to Become a Mechanic?

It’s not academically demanding, but it’s hands-on, physical and technical. You’ll need to develop your knowledge of engines, electronics, diagnostics, and vehicle systems. It typically takes 2–4 years to become fully qualified through apprenticeships or college.

Traits and Characteristics You Need

• Problem-solving and troubleshooting skills

• Good hand-eye coordination

• Patience and methodical working

• Ability to read technical manuals and wiring diagrams

• Customer service, especially in independent garages

• Physical stamina—you’ll spend hours standing or crouching

• Attention to detail—missing faults can have safety consequences

Do You Need Qualifications?

Yes. Most mechanics start through vocational routes.

Common training paths:

• Level 2 or 3 Diploma in Vehicle Maintenance & Repair (City & Guilds, IMI or BTEC)

• Motor Vehicle Apprenticeship (NVQ Level 2/3)

• MOT tester qualification (once Level 3 qualified)

• Hybrid/Electric Vehicle training (growing demand)

Courses can take 2–3 years. Apprenticeships let you earn while you learn, working in a garage part-time.

Levels and Specialisations

Career Level

• Trainee / Apprentice - Learning through work or college

• Mechanic / Technician - Fully qualified, works independently

• Senior Technician - Handles complex diagnostics, team guidance

• Master Technician - Top-level tech for main dealerships

• MOT Tester - Certified to carry out annual MOTs

• Mobile Mechanic - Travels to customers with tools/van

• Specialist - Hybrid, EVs, diesel, tuning or electronics

Experience Needed

• 1–2 years practical experience for Level 2

• 3+ years to become fully competent at Level 3

• Dealerships may offer fast-track or brand-specific training

• MOT testers need to log experience under supervision before certification

• Some roles (breakdown services, mobile) expect proven field experience

Benefits of Being a Mechanic

• In-demand skill—people always need vehicle repair

• Wide range of work—from simple fixes to complex diagnostics

• No university debt—you earn during training

• Option to go self-employed or mobile

• Opportunities to specialise in EVs, performance, commercial fleets

• Satisfaction of solving real-world problems

Drawbacks and Negatives

• Physically demanding – potential back, knee, or joint strain

• Grease, noise, and exposure to fumes

• Some roles involve unsociable hours or emergency callouts

• Constant need for upskilling—car tech evolves rapidly

• Tools can be expensive—some garages expect you to supply your own

• Tight turnaround times in fast-paced garages

Mechanic Salary Levels in the UK

Trainee / Apprentice: £12,000 – £18,000

Qualified Mechanic: £24,000 – £30,000

Senior Technician: £32,000 – £42,000

Master Tech / MOT Tester: £40,000 – £50,000

Mobile / Self-Employed: £35,000 – £70,000+

Tax Example:

A mechanic earning £38,000/year would pay:

• Income Tax: ~£5,786

• National Insurance: ~£3,149

• Take-home pay: ~£29,065/year or £558/week

Self-employed mechanics can deduct expenses like tools, van, insurance and parts.

What Factors Affect Salary?

• Location – London and large cities pay more

• Specialism – EV, hybrid or high-performance work pays better

• Employer type – Dealerships often offer bonuses

• Experience and certification – e.g. MOT or brand training

• Working hours – overtime and shifts increase earnings

• Self-employment – higher earning potential, more risk

• Customer service – strong client base = more work

What’s the Future for This Role?

Solid. There’s a skills shortage in the UK, and demand is increasing for:

• Electric Vehicle (EV) maintenance and repair

• Hybrid system diagnostics

• ADAS and software-related vehicle systems

• Mobile mechanics and home visits

• Telematics and digital diagnostics

Mechanics who adapt to new tech will remain valuable well into the future.

Best Companies to Work for in the UK

• Kwik Fit - National network, steady work

• Halfords Autocentre - Good benefits and structured training

• RAC / AA - Roadside technician roles

• Arnold Clark - Dealership group with internal training

• Vertu Motors - Expanding dealership chain

• Lookers / Evans Halshaw - Dealership work, bonuses for diagnostics

• Independent garages - Hands-on experience and flexible terms

• Self-employed - Best earnings once experienced

Final Thought

Mechanics are in constant demand—and with the rise of EVs and digital vehicle systems, the profession is only getting more technical and respected. While physically demanding, it offers strong pay, flexible career routes, and real job satisfaction for anyone who enjoys fixing things and solving problems.

Need help planning a training route, comparing college vs apprenticeship, or setting up a mobile mechanic business? Just ask—I can help you build it step by step.