Automotive mechanic salary in the USA can be a good income option for people who like working with cars, engines, tools, and vehicle technology. In 2025, the median salary for automotive service technicians and mechanics was about $50,620 per year, or around $24.34 per hour. Some entry-level auto mechanics earn less while experienced and highly skilled mechanics can make more than $80,000 a year. An automotive mechanic salary also changes by state, employer, experience, certifications, and the type of vehicles being repaired. In this guide, we look at the average automotive mechanic salary, auto mechanic salary per hour, monthly income, salary by state, dealership mechanic pay, experienced mechanic salary, and how much an automotive mechanic can make in the USA.
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Automotive Mechanic Salary in the USA
An automotive mechanic is a person who checks, maintains, diagnoses, and repairs cars and light trucks. Today, the job is not only about changing oil or replacing brake parts. Modern vehicles use computers, electronic systems, sensors, cameras, and many other technologies, so mechanics also need to understand vehicle computer systems and diagnostic equipment.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for automotive service technicians and mechanics was $50,620 in May 2025. The median hourly wage was $24.34. This means half of automotive mechanics earned more than this amount and half earned less.
The salary range can be quite different depending on the mechanic's experience and workplace. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $34,660 per year, while the highest 10 percent earned more than $81,790 per year. So, an automotive mechanic who develops strong diagnostic skills, gets certifications, and works in a higher-paying market can move well above the basic mechanic salary level.
How Much Does an Automotive Mechanic Make a Year?
The median automotive mechanic salary is about $50,620 a year. But this is not a fixed salary for every mechanic. A new mechanic may start closer to the lower end, while an experienced automotive technician working for a dealership or specialized repair business can earn considerably more.
Pay can also be affected by the kind of work a mechanic performs. General maintenance work may have a different pay level than advanced diagnostics, electrical repair, transmission work, or other specialized automotive services.
- Median automotive mechanic salary: About $50,620 per year
- Median hourly pay: About $24.34 per hour
- Lower 10% salary: Less than $34,660 per year
- Higher 10% salary: More than $81,790 per year
- Projected employment growth: 5% from 2025 to 2035
- Projected annual openings: About 66,200 per year
These figures show that automotive mechanic work can provide a stable income, but the salary range is wide. Where you work and what type of mechanic you become can make a big difference.
Automotive Mechanic Salary Per Hour
The automotive mechanic salary per hour is around $24.34 at the national median level. For someone working full time, that can come to roughly $4,000 per month before taxes when calculated using a normal full-time work schedule. Actual monthly income can be different because some mechanics work overtime, receive bonuses, or are paid using different shop compensation systems.
Hourly pay is especially useful for comparing mechanic jobs because some automotive shops pay technicians by the hour, while others may use flat-rate systems or combine hourly wages with incentives. A mechanic with advanced diagnostic skills may have more opportunities to earn above the basic hourly rate.
Automotive Mechanic Salary Per Month
If we divide the national median annual wage of $50,620 over 12 months, the monthly amount is around $4,218 before taxes. This is only a simple annual-to-monthly calculation and does not mean every mechanic receives exactly this amount every month.
An entry-level auto mechanic can earn less than this amount, especially during the first years of the career. On the other side, experienced technicians, dealership mechanics, and mechanics with specialized skills can have a higher monthly income.
- Entry-level mechanic income can be below the national median.
- Experienced automotive technicians can move into higher pay ranges.
- Overtime can increase total yearly income.
- Dealership and specialized repair jobs may pay more in some markets.
- Location is one of the important factors in mechanic salary.
Automotive Mechanic Salary by State
The automotive mechanic salary by state is not the same across the United States. Some states have much higher median wages than others. Cost of living, demand for mechanics, number of vehicles, local labor markets, dealerships, repair businesses, and the type of automotive work available can all affect pay.
The following table gives the 2025 median annual salary for automotive service technicians and mechanics by state. It is useful for comparing where an auto mechanic may earn more or less across the country.
State Wise Automotive Mechanic Salary
| State Name | Salary Amount |
|---|---|
| Alabama | $45,640 |
| Alaska | $60,840 |
| Arizona | $49,570 |
| Arkansas | $44,160 |
| California | $64,980 |
| Colorado | $61,280 |
| Connecticut | $60,220 |
| Delaware | $58,410 |
| Florida | $48,260 |
| Georgia | $49,060 |
| Hawaii | $52,160 |
| Idaho | $48,420 |
| Illinois | $49,170 |
| Indiana | $49,360 |
| Iowa | $50,510 |
| Kansas | $47,790 |
| Kentucky | $44,890 |
| Louisiana | $46,400 |
| Maine | $52,040 |
| Maryland | $57,520 |
| Massachusetts | $60,760 |
| Michigan | $54,120 |
| Minnesota | $58,390 |
| Mississippi | $37,820 |
| Missouri | $49,160 |
| Montana | $58,740 |
| Nebraska | $50,560 |
| Nevada | $48,290 |
| New Hampshire | $59,020 |
| New Jersey | $56,610 |
| New Mexico | $47,300 |
| New York | $54,120 |
| North Carolina | $48,200 |
| North Dakota | $57,360 |
| Ohio | $48,710 |
| Oklahoma | $46,560 |
| Oregon | $58,520 |
| Pennsylvania | $49,800 |
| Rhode Island | $51,770 |
| South Carolina | $48,100 |
| South Dakota | $51,160 |
| Tennessee | $50,290 |
| Texas | $48,310 |
| Utah | $46,570 |
| Vermont | $51,630 |
| Virginia | $59,330 |
| Washington | $57,270 |
| West Virginia | $37,660 |
| Wisconsin | $54,350 |
| Wyoming | $51,330 |
State salary figures are 2025 median annual wage estimates for Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics. Salary can vary by employer, experience, location, specialty, and compensation system.
Highest Paying States for Automotive Mechanics
If you are searching for the highest paying states for auto mechanics, the state data shows a noticeable difference between markets. California is among the strongest-paying states in this data, with a median annual salary of about $64,980. Alaska, Colorado, Massachusetts, Connecticut and other states also show relatively high median wages for automotive service technicians.
A higher salary does not always mean the job gives the best lifestyle because living costs can also be higher in some states. A mechanic should compare both salary and local expenses before deciding to move for a job.
- California — about $64,980
- Alaska — about $60,840
- Massachusetts — about $60,760
- Connecticut — about $60,220
- Colorado — about $61,280
- New Hampshire — about $59,020
- Virginia — about $59,330
- Montana — about $58,740
- Minnesota — about $58,390
- Oregon — about $58,520
How Much Does an Auto Mechanic Make?
So, how much does an auto mechanic make? The simple answer is around $50,620 a year at the national median level, but there is no single salary for every mechanic. Some workers start below $40,000, while experienced technicians and highly skilled mechanics can move above $60,000 or even $80,000 a year.
The type of employer matters too. A mechanic working at an automobile dealership may have a different earning opportunity than someone working at a small independent repair shop. BLS data for May 2025 shows a median annual wage of about $59,920 at automobile dealers, compared with about $49,630 in automotive mechanical and electrical repair and maintenance.
This is one reason why the phrase automotive technician salary can cover a fairly wide range. The same job title may involve very different skills, workloads, vehicles and pay systems depending on the workplace.
What Does an Automotive Mechanic Do?
An automotive mechanic works on cars and light trucks and helps keep them safe and running properly. The job can include simple maintenance as well as difficult repairs. A mechanic may inspect a vehicle, find the reason for a problem, replace damaged parts, test the vehicle and explain the repair to the customer.
Modern auto mechanics also use computerized diagnostic equipment. So, being an automotive mechanic today is not only about having strong hands and knowing tools. A good mechanic also needs to understand vehicle electronics, sensors, computer systems and diagnostic codes.
- Inspect cars and light trucks for mechanical problems.
- Use computerized diagnostic equipment to find vehicle problems.
- Change oil and check fluids.
- Replace brake pads, wheel bearings, sensors and other worn parts.
- Check electrical and electronic systems.
- Test repaired parts and vehicle systems.
- Keep records of repairs and parts used.
- Explain vehicle problems and repair options to customers.
- Follow manufacturer repair specifications.
- Use hand tools, power tools and specialized automotive equipment.
Automotive Mechanic Job Description
The automotive mechanic job description can be different from one shop to another. In a small repair shop, one mechanic may handle almost everything from oil changes to engine repairs. In a large dealership, technicians can have more specialized responsibilities and may work on specific vehicle systems.
Some mechanics spend more time doing regular maintenance, while others focus on diagnostics and major repairs. A mechanic may also spend a good part of the day talking with service advisors or customers about what is wrong with a vehicle and what needs to be repaired.
Because modern cars have more computer-controlled systems, diagnostic ability has become an important part of the job. A mechanic who can quickly find an electrical or computer-related problem can be more valuable to an employer than someone who only knows basic maintenance.
Automotive Mechanic Work Environment
Most automotive mechanics work inside automotive repair shops, garages or dealership service departments. The shops are generally designed to have good lighting and ventilation, but the work can still be dirty and physically demanding.
Mechanics can spend many hours standing, bending, reaching and working in uncomfortable positions. They may work around oil, grease, chemicals, vehicle fumes and loud equipment. Some jobs also require lifting or moving heavy tires, parts and tools.
Most automotive mechanics work full time. Depending on the business, evening or weekend work may also be required. A dealership with longer service hours may have different schedules than a small local repair shop.
- Most mechanics work full time.
- Some jobs include evening or weekend shifts.
- The work can involve noise, fumes, grease and chemicals.
- Mechanics may spend a lot of time standing.
- Some repairs require uncomfortable body positions.
- Heavy tires, tools and vehicle parts may need to be lifted.
- Safety procedures and protective equipment are important.
BLS reports that automotive service technicians and mechanics have one of the higher rates of workplace injuries and illnesses among occupations. Proper lifting methods, safety procedures and personal protective equipment can help reduce these risks.
How to Become an Automotive Mechanic
There are several ways to become an automotive mechanic in the USA. Some people start after high school and learn while working in a repair shop. Others complete an automotive service technology program at a technical school or community college before looking for a full-time mechanic job.
Automotive technology programs can teach students about engines, brakes, suspension, electrical systems, diagnostics and other vehicle systems. Someone who already has practical experience may enter the occupation faster, but formal training can make it easier to understand newer vehicle technology.
BLS says automotive service technicians and mechanics typically complete a postsecondary automotive service technology program, although some workers enter with a high school diploma and learn on the job. Apprenticeships can also combine paid work with technical instruction.
- Finish high school or an equivalent program.
- Learn basic automotive repair and maintenance.
- Consider an automotive technology program.
- Get practical experience through a shop, internship or apprenticeship.
- Learn computerized vehicle diagnostics.
- Develop skills in brakes, electrical systems, engines and suspension.
- Consider industry certifications.
Automotive Mechanic Education Requirements
The automotive mechanic education requirements are not the same as they are for many professional careers. A four-year college degree is normally not required to enter this occupation. A high school diploma can be enough for some entry-level positions, especially when an employer provides on-the-job training.
However, completing an automotive service technology program can be useful. Vehicles are becoming more computerized, and employers may prefer applicants who already have some technical training.
A person can start as a trainee technician, technician helper or lubrication worker and gradually learn more advanced work. This route can take longer, but it lets a new worker gain real shop experience while learning the trade.
Automotive Mechanic Certification
Automotive mechanic certification is not always required for every mechanic job, but it can be useful for career growth. Employers may prefer certified technicians because certification shows that a worker has demonstrated knowledge in specific automotive repair areas.
There are certifications for different automotive specialties, including brakes, electrical and electronic systems, automatic transmissions and other areas. A mechanic can build certifications over time as their skills increase.
For technicians who work with vehicle refrigerants, the EPA requires certification for proper refrigerant handling. Employers may also help pay for relevant training or certification programs.
ASE Certified Mechanic Salary
Many people search for ASE certified mechanic salary because certification can help a mechanic show employers that they have tested knowledge in automotive repair. Certification by itself does not guarantee a particular salary, because pay still depends on location, employer, experience, specialty and performance.
However, an experienced mechanic with strong diagnostic skills and several relevant certifications can have better opportunities than someone with only basic entry-level skills. Certification can be especially useful when applying to dealerships or larger repair businesses that have specific technician requirements.
It is better to think of certification as one part of a mechanic's career path rather than a guaranteed salary increase. Experience and the ability to correctly diagnose and repair difficult vehicle problems remain very important.
Entry Level Automotive Mechanic Salary
The entry level automotive mechanic salary is usually below the national median because new mechanics have less experience and normally start with simpler jobs. An entry-level worker may begin with oil changes, tire services, inspections, basic maintenance and assisting more experienced technicians.
As the worker learns more systems and becomes faster at diagnosing problems, the earning potential can increase. The first few years can be important because this is when a mechanic builds practical experience that employers look for later.
- Basic maintenance skills are useful for getting started.
- Diagnostic skills can improve earning potential.
- Experience with electrical systems can be valuable.
- Certification can strengthen a job application.
- Dealership experience may provide access to manufacturer-specific training.
- Learning newer vehicle technology can help long-term career growth.
Experienced Automotive Mechanic Salary
An experienced automotive mechanic salary can be much higher than the pay of a beginner. The national median is about $50,620, but the highest-paid 10 percent of automotive service technicians and mechanics earned more than $81,790 in May 2025.
Experienced mechanics who can diagnose difficult problems, repair advanced electronic systems and work efficiently may have stronger earning opportunities. Some also move into lead technician, shop supervisor or service management positions after gaining enough experience.
Experience with a particular vehicle brand can also be useful. Dealerships may look for technicians who understand the manufacturer's systems and repair procedures.
Automotive Dealership Mechanic Salary
The automotive dealership mechanic salary can be higher than the overall mechanic median. BLS reported a May 2025 median annual wage of $59,920 for automotive service technicians and mechanics working in automobile dealers. That compares with $49,630 in automotive mechanical and electrical repair and maintenance.
Dealership technicians may work on newer vehicles and receive manufacturer-specific training. Some dealerships also have bonus or incentive systems. The actual income can still vary widely between dealerships and locations.
For a mechanic considering a dealership job, salary should not be the only thing to check. Training opportunities, benefits, working hours, overtime, bonus plans, tools and advancement opportunities can all matter.
Auto Repair Shop Mechanic Salary
An auto repair shop mechanic salary can vary depending on the size and type of repair business. Independent shops may handle many different vehicle brands, which can give mechanics broad experience. A smaller shop may also allow a technician to work on many different types of repairs.
BLS reported a May 2025 median annual wage of $49,630 for automotive service technicians and mechanics in automotive mechanical and electrical repair and maintenance. This is close to the overall occupation median, but individual shop wages can be higher or lower depending on the market and worker experience.
How Much Do Auto Mechanics Make an Hour?
If you are asking how much do auto mechanics make an hour, the national median was about $24.34 per hour in May 2025. This is a useful national number, but actual hourly pay can be quite different from one job to another.
Some repair shops pay technicians on an hourly basis, while other shops use a compensation system based on the amount of work completed. This means two mechanics doing similar work may not always receive the same weekly paycheck.
Mechanics with more experience, certifications and advanced diagnostic skills can have better earning opportunities. Overtime or incentive pay may also increase total earnings.
Do Auto Mechanics Make Good Money?
Do auto mechanics make good money? For many workers, yes, especially when the career is compared with jobs that require similar education. A four-year college degree is normally not needed, and a person can enter the trade through technical education or on-the-job training.
At the same time, automotive mechanic work is physical and sometimes dirty. The job may involve standing for long periods, lifting heavy parts, working around chemicals and dealing with difficult vehicle problems. So salary is only one part of deciding whether this career is a good choice.
For someone who likes cars, enjoys fixing things and is comfortable learning new technology, automotive mechanic can be a practical career with opportunities to increase income through experience and specialization.
Automotive Mechanic Salary Based on Experience
Experience is one of the biggest factors that can change an automotive mechanic salary. A person who is just entering the automotive repair field normally does not earn the same amount as a technician who has spent many years diagnosing and repairing vehicles.
During the first stage of the career, a new mechanic may mostly perform routine maintenance and basic repairs. With more experience, the mechanic can start handling complicated engine, electrical, transmission and computer diagnostic problems. These advanced skills can lead to better-paying positions.
There is no fixed salary increase after a certain number of years because every employer and location is different. But experience can help a mechanic qualify for better positions and take on more valuable work.
- Entry-level mechanic: Usually starts with basic maintenance and simple repairs.
- Mid-level mechanic: Handles a wider range of repairs and diagnostics.
- Experienced technician: Can diagnose more difficult mechanical and electrical problems.
- Senior technician: May handle advanced repairs and help train newer mechanics.
- Lead technician: Can take responsibility for difficult jobs and other technicians.
Automotive Mechanic Salary With Certification
Certification can be useful for a mechanic who wants to move beyond entry-level work. One of the best-known certification organizations in the automotive industry is the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence, commonly known as ASE.
An ASE certified mechanic may have an advantage when applying for some technician positions. Certification can show that the worker has demonstrated knowledge in a particular automotive service area. It does not automatically guarantee a higher salary, but it can support career growth when combined with practical experience.
Mechanics can also receive manufacturer-specific training. This can be particularly useful for dealership technicians because newer vehicles often use advanced electronic and computer-controlled systems.
Automotive Technician Salary vs Auto Mechanic Salary
The terms automotive technician and auto mechanic are often used for the same type of work. In many job listings, a technician may be expected to perform both traditional mechanical repairs and computerized vehicle diagnostics.
The word technician is becoming more common because modern vehicles require more electronic and computer knowledge than older vehicles. A technician may use scan tools, digital testing equipment and manufacturer software to identify a problem before replacing a part.
This means someone searching for an automotive technician salary should also look at auto mechanic and automotive service technician jobs. The actual duties and pay can overlap considerably.
- Auto mechanic
- Automotive technician
- Automotive service technician
- Automotive repair technician
- Automotive maintenance technician
- Automotive diagnostic technician
Car Mechanic Salary in the USA
The car mechanic salary in the USA is generally discussed under the broader occupation of automotive service technicians and mechanics. The national median annual wage was about $50,620 in May 2025.
However, not every car mechanic performs the same type of work. A general repair mechanic may spend more time on brakes, tires, oil changes and suspension. Another technician may specialize in electrical diagnostics, engine performance or advanced vehicle systems.
Because of this, the salary of a car mechanic can range from relatively low entry-level pay to much higher earnings for experienced and specialized technicians.
Automotive Mechanic Salary for Electric and Hybrid Vehicles
Electric and hybrid vehicles are changing the skills that automotive mechanics need. Traditional mechanical knowledge is still useful, but technicians may also need to understand batteries, electric motors, high-voltage systems, electronic controls and specialized diagnostic equipment.
As more electric and hybrid vehicles enter the U.S. vehicle market, mechanics who learn these systems can add another useful skill to their career. This does not mean every electric vehicle technician automatically earns more, but advanced training can create additional job opportunities.
Working on high-voltage vehicle systems can involve serious safety risks, so technicians need appropriate training before performing this type of work. Mechanics should follow manufacturer procedures and workplace safety requirements when dealing with high-voltage components.
Automotive Mechanic Salary for Diesel and Heavy Vehicles
Some mechanics choose to specialize in diesel vehicles, trucks or other heavy equipment. These jobs can be different from standard light-vehicle automotive repair and may require additional training and experience.
Diesel mechanics can work on engines, fuel systems, transmissions, electrical systems and emissions equipment. A mechanic who develops specialized skills may have access to different employment opportunities than someone focused only on passenger cars.
When comparing a diesel mechanic salary with a standard automotive mechanic salary, it is important to make sure the occupations are actually comparable. Heavy vehicle and diesel occupations can have different wage data and job requirements.
Automotive Mechanic Benefits
Salary is not the only part of an automotive mechanic's total compensation. Full-time employees may receive benefits from their employer, although benefits differ between dealerships, independent shops and other workplaces.
Some mechanics may receive health insurance, retirement benefits, paid vacation, paid holidays or other employee benefits. Dealerships and larger automotive companies may also provide manufacturer training and employee discounts.
- Health insurance
- Retirement plans
- Paid vacation
- Paid holidays
- Training programs
- Manufacturer-specific training
- Employee discounts
- Performance or productivity incentives
- Overtime opportunities
When comparing mechanic jobs, it is useful to look at the complete compensation package instead of only the advertised hourly wage.
Automotive Mechanic Career Growth
An automotive mechanic does not have to remain in the same entry-level repair position for the entire career. With experience and additional training, there are several possible directions for career growth.
A technician can become a senior technician or lead technician and take responsibility for more difficult repair work. Some experienced mechanics move into service advisor, shop supervisor or service manager positions. Others eventually open their own automotive repair business.
- Automotive service technician
- Senior automotive technician
- Lead technician
- Diagnostic technician
- Shop supervisor
- Service advisor
- Service manager
- Automotive shop owner
Business ownership can provide a much different income opportunity, but it also comes with costs and risks. A shop owner has to pay for equipment, rent, insurance, employees, parts and other business expenses. Therefore, business revenue should not be confused with personal mechanic salary.
Automotive Mechanic Job Outlook
The automotive mechanic job outlook in the USA is relatively stable. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of automotive service technicians and mechanics is projected to grow 5 percent from 2025 to 2035.
BLS also projects about 66,200 openings each year on average during that period. These openings are not only created by new jobs. Many will come from workers leaving the occupation or retiring and needing to be replaced.
This means there should continue to be opportunities for people entering automotive repair, even as vehicle technology continues to change.
Why Are Automotive Mechanics Still Needed?
People sometimes ask whether electric vehicles and improved vehicle technology will reduce the need for mechanics. Vehicle technology will certainly change the work, but cars still need inspection, maintenance, diagnosis and repair.
Even electric vehicles have brakes, tires, suspension, steering, electronics, cooling systems and other components that require maintenance or repair. Traditional engine-related work may change as the vehicle market changes, but technicians with updated skills can continue to find work.
For this reason, learning modern automotive electronics and diagnostics can be a smart part of a long-term mechanic career.
Skills Needed to Become a Good Automotive Mechanic
A successful mechanic needs more than physical strength. Good problem-solving ability is very important because the same warning light can sometimes be caused by different problems. The technician needs to test the vehicle and identify the actual cause instead of simply replacing parts.
- Mechanical problem-solving
- Computer diagnostic skills
- Knowledge of vehicle electrical systems
- Attention to detail
- Ability to use hand and power tools
- Physical stamina
- Communication skills
- Time management
- Basic mathematics
- Ability to learn new automotive technology
Communication is also more important than some new mechanics expect. A technician may need to explain a complicated vehicle problem to a service advisor or customer in simple language. Being able to explain what was found and what needs to be repaired can make the whole repair process easier.
Is Automotive Mechanic a Good Career?
Is automotive mechanic a good career? It can be a good career for someone who enjoys working with vehicles and solving practical problems. The occupation does not normally require a four-year college degree, and there are different ways to enter the field.
The career also offers a path to higher responsibility. A mechanic can continue learning, become a diagnostic specialist, move into management or eventually operate an independent repair business.
But it is not an easy desk job. Mechanics can work in noisy environments and may spend many hours standing, bending or working around vehicles. Someone who does not like physical work may find the occupation difficult.
For a person who likes cars, tools and hands-on work, though, it can be a useful trade with a reasonable salary and long-term career possibilities.
How Much Can an Automotive Mechanic Make?
How much can an automotive mechanic make? The answer depends mainly on experience, location, employer, specialty and skill level. The national median was about $50,620 per year in May 2025, while the top 10 percent earned more than $81,790.
A mechanic who remains at basic maintenance work may have a different income path from a technician who specializes in diagnostics, advanced electrical systems or difficult repairs. The highest earning opportunities are usually connected with valuable skills, experience and the local job market.
Mechanics should therefore think about salary growth as a career path rather than expecting one fixed salary number. Learning new vehicle systems and becoming better at diagnosing difficult problems can make a real difference over time.
Automotive Mechanic Salary by Employer
The employer can have a major effect on an automotive mechanic's income. A dealership, independent repair shop, fleet company and specialized automotive business can have different pay structures and job expectations.
- Automobile dealerships: Often work on specific brands and may provide manufacturer training.
- Independent repair shops: Mechanics may work on many different vehicle brands and models.
- Automotive parts and repair businesses: May have different technician roles and service responsibilities.
- Fleet operations: Mechanics may maintain vehicles owned by companies or government organizations.
- Specialized repair businesses: May focus on specific systems or vehicle types.
BLS May 2025 data shows automobile dealers had a higher median wage for this occupation than automotive mechanical and electrical repair and maintenance. But an individual job can still vary based on experience, location, schedule and compensation structure.