A vehicle mechanic can enjoy a rewarding automotive career that might allow the individual to utilise practical skills, problem-solving, and even customer service. If you choose a career as a mechanic, you could work for a company, production business, or garage, with a job title such as car mechanic, motor mechanic, automotive body repairer, or vehicle paint sprayer. Your duties might include finding faults by performing diagnostics on traditional or hybrid engines, vehicle maintenance, assembly line production, or vehicle testing and certification.
Fully qualified car mechanics have usually completed a college course or a two-three year apprenticeship. You could become a car mechanic or motor mechanic by completing a diploma in light vehicle maintenance, maintenance, installation, and repair for engineering and manufacturing, auto-electrical and mobile electrical operations, or electric/hybrid vehicle system repair and replacement.
So, if you are a student considering becoming an apprentice, a fully qualified motor mechanic looking for career progression, or have a high experience level and desire the highest salary and benefits, our career advice is invaluable. We share our average salary data and discuss how to earn more.
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Highlights And Key Takeaways:
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How much do mechanics make, UK? The full time average mechanic salary is £33,306 per annum, in the United Kingdom.
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How much money do mechanics make? The mechanic’s salary range is from £23,654, with an earning potential of £43,963 annually.
HOW MUCH MECHANICS GET PAID - MECHANIC SALARIES
How much do mechanics get paid? Here are the vehicle mechanic salaries for the most popular motor mechanic and vehicle mechanic jobs:
AUTOMOTIVE SPECIALTY TECHNICIAN PAY
The average salary of an Automotive Specialty Technician is £35,400 per year. An Automotive Specialty Technician is responsible for diagnosing and repairing complex problems in vehicles. They use advanced diagnostic equipment and have a deep understanding of modern vehicle technology.
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AUTOMOTIVE BODY REPAIRER PAY
The average salary of an Automotive Body Repairer is £38,500 per year. An Automotive Body Repairer repairs damaged vehicle bodies, including frames, doors, and windows. They use various tools to reshape and repair damaged areas, then sand, prime, and paint the vehicle to restore it to its original condition.
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VEHICLE PAINT SPRAYER PAY
The average salary of a Vehicle Paint Sprayer is £35,400 per year. Vehicle Paint Sprayers apply paint, primers, and other coatings to the vehicle's body to restore it to its original condition. They use specialised equipment to achieve a flawless finish.
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AUTOMOTIVE MASTER MECHANIC PAY
The average salary of an Automotive Master Mechanic is £34,300 per year. An Automotive Master Mechanic has advanced knowledge and skills in diagnosing and repairing complex problems in vehicles. They often supervise other mechanics and provide training and guidance to help them develop their skills.
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TECHNICAL SUPERVISOR PAY
The average salary of a Technical Supervisor is £40,700 per year. A Technical Supervisor or workshop supervisor oversees technical teams and ensures the quality of their work. They often develop and implement procedures to improve efficiency and productivity.
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BICYCLE REPAIRER PAY
The average salary of a Bicycle Repairer is £22,000 per year. A Bicycle Repairer repairs and maintains bicycles and their components, including brakes, gears, and tyres. They often work in bike shops or repair centres.
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MOTOR CLAIMS TECHNICIAN PAY
The average salary of a Motor Claims Technician is £34,200 per year. A Motor Claims Technician evaluates insurance claims for vehicles that have been involved in accidents. They determine the extent of damage and evaluate the cost of repairs.
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AUTOMOTIVE GLASS INSTALLERS AND REPAIRER PAY
The average salary of an Automotive Glass Installers and Repairer is £21,700 per year. Automotive Glass Installers and Repairers replace and repair windshields and other automotive glass. They use specialised tools and techniques to ensure a safe and secure installation.
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AUTOMOTIVE AND WATERCRAFT SERVICE ATTENDANT PAY
The average salary of an Automotive and Watercraft Service Attendant is £27,400 per year. Automotive and Watercraft Service Attendants perform basic maintenance tasks, such as oil changes and tyre rotations, on vehicles and watercraft. They often work in service centres or dealerships.
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AUTO ELECTRICIAN PAY
The average salary of an Auto Electrician is £31,300 per year. An Auto Electrician installs and repairs electrical systems and components in vehicles. They have a deep understanding of vehicle electrical systems and use specialised tools and equipment.
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DRIVER-FITTER PAY
The average salary of a Driver-Fitter is £27,900 per year. A Driver-Fitter assembles and installs vehicle parts, such as seats and floor coverings. They often work in production or assembly plants.
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AUTOMOTIVE MECHANIC PAY
The average salary of an Automotive Mechanic is £30,300 per year. An Automotive Mechanic diagnoses and repairs vehicle problems associated with engines, transmissions, and brakes. They use a variety of tools and diagnostic equipment to identify issues and make repairs. Pay may differ upon the vehicle mechanic location across the United Kingdom.
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HOW MUCH DO MECHANIC JOBS PAY?
The average total compensation for a vehicle mechanic is £33,306 per year. The average starting salary you can expect is £23,654 per annum. For those with extensive work experience, your wage could exceed £43,963 and include benefits such as a company vehicle, pension, and overtime rate. Candidates for automotive car mechanic roles could earn a wage of £31,494 annually.
Our salary information indicates that the city where you work will affect how much you earn. For example, a job search in the Reading location results in an average salary of £39,135 per year. Other cities in England, Wales, and Scotland where mechanics’ jobs pay above the average salary include London, Birmingham, Leeds, Edinburgh, Leicester, and Liverpool.
HOW TO EARN MORE AS A MECHANIC
We recommend following our automotive career advice to advance your career and earn more as a motor mechanic. Our career advice resources include advice on how to ask for a pay rise and free CV templates.
You may earn a higher motor mechanic salary in the automotive sector through:
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Age: A motor mechanic earns more with maximum experience, which usually occurs in the age bracket of 40-49.
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Geographical location: Working for a company or garage in a certain location may offer a better per hour rate. Carry out a salary information search for a region or city in England, Wales, Scotland, or Northern Ireland, such as Inner London or Outer London.
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Qualifications and skills: Your training and earning new qualifications, certifications, and associations can help you secure a pay rise or promotion. You should keep ahead of the competition by training on new technology, such as hybrid and electric cars.
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Set up your own garage: You could become your own boss and create a business with a fixed location or visit clients in the field.
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Become a further education teacher: With experience, you could teach a course in motor or vehicle mechanics to supplement or replace your income.
If you seek one of the highest-paid jobs in the UK, begin your job search here.
Career Progression and Salary Growth
A vehicle mechanic’s career journey is marked by significant salary progression, mirroring their growing expertise and responsibilities. Entry-level or junior mechanics starting their careers can expect to earn an average of £23,418.02. With dedication and acquiring new skills, they advance to intermediate roles, where the average salary leaps to £34,625.06. The zenith of this progression is seen in senior mechanics, who have honed their skills over the years, earning an average of £34,714.60 annually. This upward trajectory in earnings is a testament to the value and demand for experienced mechanics in the automotive industry.
Specialisations within the Field
Specialisation within the vehicle mechanic industry significantly influences earning potential. For instance, mechanics in the automotive sector earn an average of £31,576.51, while those branching into areas like advertising and marketing can see an impressive average of £43,548.08. Similarly, mechanics in the education sector earn around £42,000.00, showcasing the lucrative opportunities in diverse industries. Mechanics in the technology sector also enjoy a higher-than-average salary of £40,955.37, reflecting the demand for specialised skills in these areas.
Regional Salary Variations
The earnings of vehicle mechanics also vary by region, reflecting local economic and industry factors. For instance, in London, mechanics enjoy one of the highest average salaries in the UK at £35,790.01. In contrast, Northern Ireland offers a more modest average of £28,868.00. Other regions like the South East (£34,654.50) and Scotland (£32,810.69) also offer competitive salaries. This geographical salary variation is crucial for mechanics considering relocation or those seeking the most lucrative areas to practice their trade.
Impact of Education and Certifications
The role of education and certifications in a mechanic’s career cannot be overstated. While starting salaries for junior mechanics are around £23,418.02, those with additional certifications and training can expect a substantial increase in their earning potential. As mechanics move to intermediate and senior levels, the value of continuous learning and specialisation becomes evident. Mechanics with specialised certifications, particularly in high-demand sectors like technology and education, can command salaries well above the average, underscoring the importance of ongoing professional development.
AVERAGE VEHICLE MECHANIC SALARY FAQS
Here we answer your questions on mechanic salaries and pay.
HOW MUCH DOES A MECHANIC MAKE IN THE UK?
According to our data, the average salary for a mechanic in the UK is around £23,654 to £43,963 per year. However, the salary can vary depending on the type of mechanic, level of experience, and location.
WHAT IS THE HIGHEST PAID MECHANIC?
The highest-paid mechanic jobs in the UK are typically those that specialise in high-end or luxury vehicles such as Ferrari, Porsche, and Rolls Royce. These mechanics can earn salaries upwards of £53,500 per year.
IS A MECHANIC A GOOD JOB UK?
Yes, being a mechanic can be a good job in the UK. The demand for skilled mechanics is always present, and the job provides a stable income and opportunities for career progression. Additionally, many mechanics find the work fulfilling and enjoy working with their hands and solving complex problems. However, like any job, it has its challenges and may not be suitable for everyone.
WHAT IS THE AVERAGE SALARY FOR VEHICLE MECHANIC JOBS UK?
The average UK salary for a vehicle mechanic is £33,306 per year.
HOW MUCH DO CAR MECHANICS MAKE?
Car mechanics, an essential part of the motor industry, have a salary range that reflects their skill level and experience. In the role of a motor vehicle technician, the starting salary is typically around £22,880. As they gain experience and possibly specialise, the average salary increases to £31,494. In certain locations, such as the East Midlands, these figures might vary slightly due to regional economic factors. For those who reach the level of a senior technician, the salary can peak at around £43,000 per year. This progression highlights the growth potential within this field.
WHAT IS THE HIGHEST PAID MECHANIC FIELD?
Within the spectrum of mechanic specialisations, the Automotive Specialty Technician stands out as the highest-paid field. These technicians, who often have advanced training in specific vehicle systems, earn an average of £38,300 per year. This niche within the motor industry requires a deep understanding of complex vehicle mechanics and technology, justifying the higher salary range. Specialists in this field are highly sought after, especially in areas with a concentration of vehicle mechanic locations, where their expertise is in great demand.
ALL MECHANIC SALARIES
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