Engine repairer, vehicle

What does a motor repair technician within vehicles do? – Tasks and work environment

Vehicle motor repair technicians mainly work with servicing, diagnostics, and repairs of various types of motor vehicles – from passenger cars to light trucks and sometimes heavy vehicles. Tasks include identifying faults in engines, gearboxes, braking systems, and electronics, as well as performing both scheduled and emergency maintenance. Many times, work involves using diagnostic tools and computerized systems, especially in modern vehicle fleets. The work environment is often workshop-based, involving both physical labor and technically advanced tasks. Contact with customers and suppliers occurs, along with teamwork with colleagues.

Salary development over time

Over the past three years, salary development for vehicle motor repair technicians has been steady. In 2022, the average salary was 31,900 SEK per month, increasing to 33 200 SEK in 2023. In 2024, the average salary is 34 400 SEK, which represents an approximate 8% increase over the period. This positive trend can largely be explained by increased technical complexity in modern vehicles, which raises demands for skills and specialization. There is also a shortage of qualified motor repair technicians, further driving up salary levels. Regional variations exist, but overall demand remains stable and wages have developed in line with the industry's need for technically skilled personnel.

Motor repair technician, vehicle salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 34 400 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 30,100 SEK/month (female, public sector, 3-year vocational education)
• Highest salary: 36,300 SEK/month (male, regional sector, up to 2-year vocational education)
• Hourly wage: 207 SEK (based on 166 working hours/month)
• Men's average salary: 34 500 SEK
• Women's average salary: 32 500 SEK (94% of men's level)
• Regional differences: Present, especially between big cities and rural areas

Education and qualifications

The path to becoming a vehicle motor repair technician usually goes through the vocational program in vehicle and transport, with specialization in passenger car technology or equivalent. After high school, practical training or an apprenticeship at a workshop is often required to deepen professional skills. Some employers also require specific certifications or further training in particular car brands or technical fields.

• High school education: Vehicle and transport program, 3 years
• Certifications: Brand-specific training and industry certificates
• Practical training: Apprenticeship or internship often required
• Prerequisites: Interest in technology and troubleshooting
• Additional training: Online courses or YH programs in vehicle technology

Common benefits and compensations

In addition to base salary, benefits such as wellness allowances, work clothing, skills development, and sometimes bonuses based on performance or workshop results are common. Other typical compensations include overtime premiums for evening and weekend work, as well as discounts on spare parts or services. Pension contributions and collective insurance agreements are common in both private and public sectors.

Competition and challenges

The job market for vehicle motor repair technicians is characterized by high demand but also paradoxical recruitment difficulties, with both vacant positions and relatively high unemployment in the profession. The technological development, with increased digitalization and electrification of vehicles, means continuous skills development is essential to remain attractive on the job market. At the same time, keeping pace with new diagnostic tools and advanced systems can be challenging, especially for those who have been in the profession for a long time without further training. Physically demanding tasks and sometimes stressful work environments are other factors influencing competitiveness and the profession's attractiveness. Regional differences in job availability occur, especially between metropolitan regions and rural areas.

Tips for those wanting to become a vehicle motor repair technician

To succeed as a vehicle motor repair technician, it is good to combine technical interest with a troubleshooting mindset and precision. Staying curious and keeping up-to-date with new technologies makes it easier to keep pace with developments and quickly fix complex faults. Good teamwork skills are important, as the work often takes place in teams and involves contact with colleagues and customers. Physical endurance and stress resilience help during heavy lifts and high-paced situations. Lastly, flexibility and willingness to further educate oneself are appreciated, as the industry changes rapidly and new skills are continuously in demand.

Key facts about Vehicle Motor Repair Technician

• Education level: High school education, often supplemented with practical training
• Work environment: Workshop, often physically and technically demanding
• demand: Great opportunities for employment nationwide
• Special skills: Diagnostic tools, electronics, and digital systems
• Work form: Full-time, often daytime but sometimes shifts

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, there are good opportunities to further specialize, for example in electrical and hybrid technology, or to move into supervisory roles such as workshop manager or site supervisor. The Employment Service's forecasts indicate that job opportunities in the vehicle repair profession remain strong and are expected to be unchanged over five years. Despite a potential pool of unemployed in the industry, recruitment difficulties are reported—especially for those with updated technical skills. There are also opportunities within the profession for those interested in working with training, customer service, or technical support. Currently, there are 481 job openings in the field, underscoring stable demand.

Frequently asked questions about Vehicle Motor Repair Technician

• What is the average salary of a vehicle motor repair technician?
  - The average salary is 34 400 SEK per month.
• What are the salary differences between men and women?
  - Men earn an average of 34 500 SEK and women 32 500 SEK, which means women earn 94% of men's salaries.
• What education is required to work as a vehicle motor repair technician?
  - The most common is the high school program in vehicle and transport, often with internships and sometimes additional courses.
• Are there regional salary differences?
  - Yes, especially between big cities and rural areas, salaries can vary.
• What are the future prospects for the profession?
  - Job opportunities are plentiful, and demand is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years.
• What benefits are common in the profession?
  - Wellness allowances, work clothing, skills development, and pension contributions are common.
• What is the highest and lowest salary for a vehicle motor repair technician?
  - The highest salary is 36,300 SEK (male, regional sector), and the lowest is 30,100 SEK (female, public sector).