Automotive Technician Interview Questions

What do you like most about working as an automotive technician?

An auto technician should have a strong working knowledge of regular tasks, tools and technology. While you may like a particular aspect of the job, the hiring manager wants to know what you know about the trade.

Example answer: "I have been working as an auto technician since I graduated from technical college. My favorite part of my job is actually repairing cars. I take pride in my work and find comfort in a job well done. I also have a great relationship with my coworkers and together we work as a team to solve challenging problems."

What is your preferred method of communication with other technicians?

Your answer will show how you work with others in your job. Explain that talking is your preferred method of communication, and then explain why. This is an opportunity to illustrate your ability to effectively communicate while also working independently.

Example answer: "I like to talk with my coworkers because we can exchange ideas and help each other become better technicians. I also take the time to make sure all of my coworkers have the resources they need to do their jobs effectively. As a team leader, I also check that my team members have all of the tools they need to do their job well. However, I still like to work on my own. I enjoy the solitude of individual work because it allows me to put all of my focus on the task at hand."

What is your least favorite type of vehicle to work on?

This is a variation on the "favorite" interview question. Hiring managers are interested in hearing about your strengths and weaknesses. This question can help employers determine your previous experience with vehicles and your ability to learn new vehicles.

Example answer: "My least favorite job is changing oil in diesel vehicles. The smell of the hydraulic fluid can be overpowering. Aside from that, I am proficient with diesel engines and can work on those efficiently."

What do you like least about working as an automotive technician?

Employers ask this question to gauge your level of commitment and interest in the job. It's important that you be honest. Even if you like the work, there are always aspects of a job that could use improvement. In this answer, you should focus on responsibilities you are less interested in, such as paperwork, as well as the physical aspects of the job. You can highlight your willingness to learn or your ability to adapt.

Example answer: "I have to file all of my paperwork myself, which is time-consuming. I am less interested in focusing on the paperwork. My interest is in working on cars. If I had to choose, I would like to perform all of the physical labor because I enjoy that aspect of the job, but all aspects of the job are important."

What is your favorite type of car to work on?

This is an easy interview question. Once you have stated your favorite type of car, explain why it is your favorite. This will show the interviewer that you are interested in the work and can hold a conversation with them about it.

Example answer: "I really enjoy working on German cars. The engineering that goes into them is excellent. You can tell they were made with care. I also like working on older cars because you can see so much history in them. I have even bought several old cars to fix up myself."

What is your favorite type of vehicle to work on?

A good technician should know the basics of all the vehicle types, but will have an area where they are particularly knowledgeable. You should demonstrate that knowledge in this interview answer. Be sure to also mention that you work on more than just one type of vehicle and demonstrate an understanding of the main differences to convey your broad understanding of the topic.

Example answer: "My favorite vehicle to work on is the classic car. I have a special interest in older cars because they are rarer and require additional care and attention. I am also interested in the evolution of mechanics, so it is interesting to see how different things have changed over time."

What is your least favorite type of car to work on?

This question is a way for employers to find out if you are easily frustrated with your job. They want to know if you will take care with customers' vehicles, or if you are likely to rush through mechanical work in order to get to another task. A good answer should indicate that you enjoy every aspect of your job without complaint.

Example answer: "I really enjoy working on any type of vehicle. I'm passionate about cars, so it's my dream to work as a mechanic. Whether it's a classic car or a newer model, I love working with them all. But if I had to pick the type of car I enjoy working on least, I would say it's a hybrid. Since these vehicles have so many different systems and moving parts, they can be difficult to diagnose."

What do you think are the most important qualities a technician should possess?

No matter what kind of technician position you are interviewing for, the interviewer will want to know that you understand the position and are capable of performing the job. A good answer should include a few important qualities you have that make you a good fit for the job. Make sure to tie these qualities to the skills the role requires.

Example answer: "I have a strong commitment to my work. I like to get my hands dirty and solve problems. I understand the importance of safety precautions and I always follow them in the workplace. I also really enjoy the satisfaction that comes from a job well done and the knowledge that I did a good job and did it right."

What is the first thing you do when diagnosing a car problem?

A mechanic is responsible for the repair and maintenance of cars. This is a critical question because it enables the employer to determine whether you have a logical and methodical approach to any situation. A good answer includes an outline of the steps you take to test whether a car is in good working condition.

Example answer: "I first check to see how the customer self-reports their vehicle issue. I also check their dashboard to see if there are any error codes. If possible, I will try to recreate the problem they are experiencing. After I have a good idea of what is wrong, I inspect all the fluids and mechanics to see if there is an obvious problem. Then, I determine whether I can perform basic repairs and if any additional parts need to be ordered. So far, this process has allowed me to correct most problems."