I would be very poor at working as an auto mechanic dealing with defective car parts. The main reason is that I have no concept or experience remotely close to auto repair. It is just as strange to me as letting a dart fly at the board without seeing it. Well, I have no clue when it comes to car engines, transmission, electronic or anything that’s within a recent model car.
Of course, I can solve simple problems such as changing the flat tire or putting more wiper fluid; nevertheless, such tasks do not imply genuine mechanical operations. Working on real mechanical or electrical issues is something I am unable to do, as it would demand certain knowledge and skills. It is impossible for me to just come and start testing the car’s engine or wiring without prior information.
For example, let a client come to the car shop with an issue concerning the engine in the car and I wouldn’t understand how to even start diagnosing the problem. I wouldn't be able to identify parts like the alternator, radiator, or fuel injectors based on appearance alone. Inspecting the engine for problems, as mechanics do when searching for the root cause of a failure, wouldn't be helpful in my case.
I'm not even familiar with many of the tools found in an ordinary auto shop, including specialized wrenches, lifts, and jacks. If by some miracle I noticed a design flaw or a faulty part, I doubt I could remove it, fix it, or replace it properly. This applies to other complex issues in brakes, steering, air conditioning, and all the other systems in modern cars.
Achieving high performance with complex mechanics, tools, and technologies requires a lot of acquired talent and experience. Tasks involving intricate electronic components or rewiring a car's computer are particularly daunting to me.I suffer from a lack of fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination required in such work.
It is also important to note that car technology is dynamic and hence from time to time mechanics need to upgrade their skill set. I believe that if I were to enter this line of work with little prior knowledge, it would be impossible for me to keep current on new vehicles.
In short, it would be impossible for the average person to correctly diagnose and repair any mechanical or electrical problems beneath a car’s hood. I have no prior working experience in the field of automotive engineering and repair which makes me a completely wrong candidate for the position of a mechanic. Lack of technical knowledge of current vehicles, and important practical experience in car repair make me realize that this job is not suitable for me at all.
I've always struggled with anything related to fixing cars. If I were left to repair any defective car component that people bring to the shop, the results would be disastrous without the help of a trained professional. My attempts at auto repair would likely cause more harm than good, potentially leading to dangerous situations for drivers.
However, as mentioned earlier, cars and other motor vehicles are no longer associated with mechanical problems alone. Modern-day vehicles are computers with wheels, and they have advanced electronics systems that regulate nearly every part of the vehicle. I personally do not know anything about fixing cars mechanically or even electrically; therefore, I will be a liability in any auto repair shop.
Another important aspect which can be linked to safety is that in case of improper car repair some serious dangers may occur. An improperly installed brake system, for instance, could result in an accident and people getting hurt. This sort of exercise demands not only competence but also an understanding of how this part or that part influences the safety of the vehicle and how efficient the car is likely to be.
Moreover, auto mechanics should be able to express themselves well to their clients inclusive of explaining certain situations to the clients and give a probable charge for the work to be done. Lacking such knowledge, I would not be able to provide this important service, which can result in misinterpretation of information and customers’ disappointment.
To sum up, while I do appreciate the work of any professional auto mechanics and do understand that this is something I am capable of doing myself, it is undoubtedly the last thing I can do. Due to these requirements that include mastery of certain technical expertise, ability to effectively apply various procedures, commitment to lifelong learning, and accountability for safety, the job is one that I am ill-prepared to do. Still, I certainly do not want to compromise something as serious as auto repair; for myself, future employers and, first of all, car owners.
All images are mine