Auto electricians work in vehicle fitting, installing electrical and electronic systems and accessories. Their work also involves detecting and repairing electrical faults in motor vehicles.

Most modern vehicles have a wide range of electrical and electronic equipment controlling all aspects of their performance. The majority of vehicle accessories, from in-car security devices to entertainment systems, are also electrically controlled. An auto electrician will work with all of these.

Some of the more common systems include:

• electronic ignitions, alarms, immobilisers and tracking devices
• electric windows, mirrors and seats, towbar electrics and air-conditioning
• customised LED or neon lighting kits, parking warning systems and reverse cameras.

Auto electricians also deal with in-car phones, audio, video, DVD and TV, and satellite navigation installation, service and repair.

In modern vehicles, auto electricians connect laptop PCs or hand-held devices to an engine's electronic control unit (ECU). This measures performance and locates problems, such as loose wiring or faulty parts. Auto electricians also test and repair the ECU if it develops a fault. In an older vehicle, they manually check and test wiring and components, using portable instruments. They also refer to manufacturer's circuit diagrams and specification manuals.

Once they have found the problem, they repair or replace the faulty part and test the system to make sure everything is working correctly and safely - this may include road testing the vehicle. They also fill out a repair sheet detailing what they have done for the customer.

Auto electricians can specialise in light vehicles (cars, vans and motorcycles) or heavy vehicles (lorries, buses and coaches). If they work for a motor manufacturer, they may specialise in one particular vehicle model.

Hours and Environment

Auto electricians work 40 hours a week, Monday to Friday. Some firms work evenings or Saturday morning overtime. Garages operating a 24-hour breakdown service have a shift rota or on-call system. Some heavy vehicle companies only service vehicles at night.

You normally work in a garage or workshop but if your job includes call-out duties, this may be outside and in all weathers. You wear overalls and protective clothing where necessary.

Skills and Interests

As an auto electrician you need:

• good practical skills for using a range of tools and electronic instruments
• the ability to work methodically and pay close attention to detail
• good problem-solving skills 
• the ability to read electrical wiring diagrams
• the ability to work as part of a team and on your own
• good communication and customer care skills
• the ability to keep up to date with developments in engine and electrical technology
• an awareness of health and safety issues.

Entry

You may be able to start as an apprentice in auto electrics or vehicle servicing and repair. You will need four GCSEs (A-C)/S grades (1-3), including maths, science, engineering, design and technology or an appropriate equivalent. For more details about apprenticeships, see Carter and Carter or the Automotive Skills website below.

If you are not eligible for an apprenticeship, you may be able to take other relevant qualifications, which are open to all ages. These include:

• City & Guilds Vehicle Maintenance and Repair: Auto Electrical (4101) at levels 2 and 3
• BTEC National Certificate/Diploma in Vehicle Repair and Technology (Auto Electrical).

Further education colleges and training centres offer these throughout the country. Check with them for details.

You often need a driving licence for this work, which might include LGV (lorries) or PCV (buses), depending on your area of work.

For detailed information about careers in the motor industry, contact Automotive Skills in Further Information.

Training

You normally receive on-the-job training once you are working for a company. You can work towards a number of NVQs/SVQs, for instance, Vehicle Maintenance and Repair (Autoelectrical) at levels 1, 2 and 3.

Manufacturers also run their own specialist training schemes, which can lead to technician status.

You can take a Certificate in Advanced Automotive Diagnostic Techniques (4121) at Level 4, if you are an experienced auto-electrical technician.

The Institute of the Motor Industry offers details about Automotive Technician Accreditation (ATA). This is a voluntary programme backed by the automotive industry and designed to enhance a technician's career prospects. It has three levels: Service Maintenance Technician; Diagnostic Technician; and Master Technician. Each level has a series of practical exams and online knowledge tests. For more information see the IMI website in Further Information.

Air-conditioning
Forthcoming EU legislation is likely to include requirements that anyone installing or servicing air-conditioning units have to be qualified to a minimum level. At the moment, there are two stand-alone qualifications for auto electricians, which cover this possible requirement. These are:

• IMI Level 3 Diploma in Automotive Air Conditioning and Climate Control
• City & Guilds Level 3 Certificate in Mobile Air Conditioning Systems.

Contact the IMI and C&G for more details.

Opportunities

Opportunities for qualified technical staff are good. As more vehicles include integrated electronic control systems, demand for suitably experienced technicians should rise.

You can find work with:

• garages
• dealerships
• fleet hire companies
• breakdown companies
• road haulage firms
• specialist auto electrical fitters.

Your opportunities for promotion include moves into supervisory and management positions, vehicle sales or marketing. You can also set up your own business, for example mobile auto electronics and security installation.

Annual Income

Figures are intended as a guideline only.

Trainee auto electricians earn between £7,000 and £11,000 a year, depending on the stage of training.
Salaries for newly qualified staff are between £14,500 and £17,000.
Experienced auto electricians can earn between £17,500 and £21,000.
Senior auto electricians can earn up to £25,000.

Further information

Tel: 01992 511521 Tel: 020 7294 2800 Tel: 0800 093 1777