Mechanics who perform general automotive repairs have the task of ensuring that a vehicle’s mechanical and electrical systems are in good working order. A mechanic uses various tools to diagnose a vehicle’s malfunctions. These tools include complex test equipment such as ohmmeters, voltmeters, and compression testers. He also uses his own judgment to determine how a repair should be carried out. In some cases, a mechanic uses commercial manuals to diagnose a malfunction.
Mechanics also perform regular maintenance on vehicles, such as oil changes, fluid maintenance (such as engine oil, transmission fluid, and coolant), and tire rotations. Tires should be checked regularly for tread depth, cupping, and sidewall damage. Mechanics should also check for under-the-hood items, such as belts, hoses, radiators, and air filters. They also check tire pressure when the vehicle is cold and during a tire inspection. The mechanic will also recommend the most suitable tires for the vehicle.
The United States Census Bureau estimates that there were 192,000 automotive repair services in the U.S. in the late 1990s. However, the general automotive repair industry was dominated by small independent service stations, and by mid-1990s, the industry was facing stiff competition from large chain service centers. As a result, the industry experienced a decline in the mid-1990s.
In addition to competitive forces, the complexity of modern automobiles necessitated a rise in the specialization of automotive mechanics. Manufacturers of both new and used vehicles redirected repair resources away from small service stations and into larger automotive chains. These chains had the this website advantage of name recognition, and charged lower prices than independent garages. In addition, they were able to attract consumers with their high levels of general automotive repair.
As a result of these trends, independent service stations and gasoline stations experienced a decline in the mid-1990s. The industry was also faced with the threat of competition from the large chain automotive centers, and the auto manufacturers that operated them.
Many of the auto manufacturers that operated chain automotive centers were guilty of performing unnecessary repairs. This was confirmed in a study performed by the University of Alabama at Huntsville. In fact, five of the major chains were found guilty of this. The study suggested that consumers should take a second opinion if they were concerned about a repair’s cost or complications.
The automotive repair industry was faced with another significant change in the early 2000s. Manufacturers offered warranties covering repairs and replacement parts. Many consumers were able to purchase new cars because of zero-percent financing. This drove down the value of used cars. The weak economic conditions also caused many consumers to keep their current vehicles.
In the United States, four types of businesses offer general automotive repair services. These businesses are service stations, auto dealerships, independent garages, and independent auto parts distributors. Each of these types of businesses has its own specialties. A service station typically installs about half of the aftermarket products installed on vehicles. A dealership typically has a larger selection of specialists than an independent garage. A dealership has the advantage of offering more advanced training to its mechanics. Some automotive repair shops specialize in specific systems, such as transmissions or air conditioning.