I would like to take the liberty here to describe what I feel like is an important subject. Of course it’s near and dear to my heart, and I’m referring to what it takes to be a true automotive professional.

A skilled and experienced mechanic is worth his or her weight in gold. To be successful and productive, the current day automotive mechanic is more than a technician. He or she is the closest thing to a scientist. They have to know how an engine breathes, how it utilizes the air/ fuel mixture to convert heat energy to mechanical energy.

In addition to knowing engines, they must understand complex automatic transmissions, vehicle drive train dynamics, heating, ventilation, air conditioning, plumbing, wiring, audio, video, upholstery, and weatherproofing, just to name a few.

They must be knowledgeable in electricity and electronics, computer logic and function, pneumatics, hydraulics, and possess a working knowledge of the incredible number of intricate systems found in late model vehicles.

Can you name another tradesman or technical professional that is expected to know and understand all these systems?

With the ever growing number of safety systems like Traction Control, ABS brakes, Dynamic Vehicle Stability Control, Intelligent Air Bags, Smart Seat Belts, and even Anti-Whiplash Headrests, the modern era automotive mechanic has more responsibility than ever to do the job right.

Years of experience, countless hours of technical training, and enough tools to supply an emerging third world nation are all part of being a professional mechanic that can provide the necessary services and repairs vehicle owners deserve and demand.

You will probably notice by now that I have called these incredible people “Mechanics”. “Technician” is the buzz word adopted a few years ago in an attempt to raise the status of mechanics. The change from “Mechanic” to “Technician” may or may not have improved the consumer’s perception of true automotive professionals, but I personally like mechanic better.

Anyone can be taught to perform certain function utilizing a manual, and proper training. That is a “Technician”
Technicians may be great for computers, copy machines, washers and dryers, and other consumer products, but it takes a real mechanic to properly analyze and repair a complex vehicle.

A mechanic is someone who can use his or her skills, experience, and training, coupled with a great deal of deductive reasoning to properly diagnose and analyze a problem.

Correct diagnosis is critical to performing the right repair the first time, with lasting results. So bear with me as I refer to myself and those whom I have the utmost respect for as “Mechanics”.

Being a mechanic is a tough job, with less than ideal working conditions even in the best service centers. Mechanics are exposed to all kinds of unpleasant vapors, fumes, and irritants. They work in a wide variety of weather conditions, physical contortions, and are expected to make a machine that they didn’t design or build, perform to the owner’s expectations.

I chose my career path as an automotive mechanic, and never looked back. For over forty years, being a professional mechanic has provided me with a solid lifestyle and a tremendous sense of satisfaction every time I made a broken car work again. Only those on the inside can know exactly what I mean.

My goal here is that you might read these stories, and look at the pictures that chronicle each event, and walk away with a better understanding and greater appreciation for “what it takes today”.

You might also ponder these questions;

Here are some of my answers to consumer’s questions about how to locate a good mechanic.

Always ask friends and relatives where they go and check out a shop’s references. If a shop won’t provide you with solid references, they aren’t worth a second look. Good shops are proud of their achievements! Check with the Better Business Bureau, and use your best judgment.

My next suggestion applies when you find a service outlet with mechanics that you feel can meet your automotive service needs, form a bond with them. Most good service shops will allow you to request a specific mechanic to work on your vehicle. Now it becomes a personal relationship.

Get to know that person and take the time to show them how much you appreciate them, and all they do to keep your vehicle safe and dependable. In my opinion, the most critical part is to develop a mutual trust. This kind of relationship can pay you big dividends when it comes to reliable, affordable automotive service.

I hope you will derive some useful information from each article we post in this segment of Sam’s Garage.

Our first installment is the story of a
SAAB 9.5 with an inoperative
heater / air conditioning assembly.

The problem may sound simple enough, but its not. Once you have read this story and viewed the accompanying pictures, you should have a better understanding and appreciation for the complexity any seemingly simple repair can take on.