Test driver, motor vehicle

What does a vehicle inspector do? – Tasks and work environment

A vehicle inspector is responsible for conducting technical tests and inspections on various motor vehicles to ensure they meet safety and functional requirements. Tasks include driving tests, functional checks, and sometimes troubleshooting mechanical and electronic systems. The work environment can vary between workshops, test tracks, and office settings where documentation and reporting are performed. A vehicle inspector must often handle physically demanding tasks and work in environments with noise and exhaust fumes.

Salary development over time

Vehicle inspectors have experienced a gradual decrease in salary levels over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 29,900 SEK per month, which decreased to 29 500 SEK in 2023 and further to 28 200 SEK in 2024. This approximately 5.7% decline over two years may be due to changes in demand for the profession and increased competition within the transport sector. The relative stability in salary indicates a saturated market with an oversupply of labor, negatively affecting wage development. However, education level and specific certifications can still influence individual earning potential.

Vehicle inspector salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 28 200 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 23,600 SEK (male, private sector, less than 9 years of education)
• Highest salary: 36,300 SEK (male, public sector, less than 9 years of education)
• Hourly wage: 169 SEK (based on 166 working hours/month)
• Gender differences: Women earn on average 29 100 SEK, which corresponds to 104% of men's 28 100 SEK
• Regional differences: Data is lacking, but salaries may vary depending on location and sector

Education and qualifications

The pathway to becoming a vehicle inspector often includes a vocational vehicle technical education supplemented with practical experience. Profession-specific certifications and courses in vehicle testing are common to ensure competence in the field.

• Vocational vehicle technical education (3 years)
• Certification courses in vehicle testing and safety
• Internship or traineeship in a workshop or testing environment
• Prerequisites: Basic technical understanding and a driving license
• Additional self-study and online courses in vehicle diagnostics
• Tip: Choose education focused on motor vehicles and safety testing

Common benefits and compensations

Typical benefits for vehicle inspectors include wellness allowances, pension schemes, and opportunities for training and skill development. Some employers also offer travel allowances and favorable collective agreements, especially in the public sector.

Competition and challenges

The profession is characterized by relatively high competition in the job market and an oversupply of available workers. This limits salary growth and makes recruitment opportunities limited. Challenges also include the need for continuous technical skill development and staying updated with new regulations and vehicle technologies. The work environment can sometimes be demanding, involving physical work and varying working hours.

Tips for aspiring vehicle inspectors

To succeed as a vehicle inspector, it's beneficial to combine technical curiosity with a careful and responsible attitude. Having a strong interest in motor vehicles facilitates learning complex systems and troubleshooting. Patience is important, as tasks often require precision and attention to detail. Good communication skills help in interactions with colleagues and customers to explain technical results. Finally, flexibility is valuable to adapt to different work environments and schedules.

Key facts about vehicle inspectors

• Education level: Vocational vehicle technical education
• Salary range: 23,600–36,300 SEK/month
• Work environment: Workshop, test track, and office
• Hourly wage: About 169 SEK
• Demand: Expected to be unchanged with limited job opportunities

Career paths and future outlook

After 3–5 years as a vehicle inspector, career opportunities include specialist roles in vehicle testing, technical expertise, or transition to leadership positions within testing organizations. Some choose to further their education in vehicle or safety-related fields. According to forecasts from the Employment Service, demand for the profession as a whole is expected to remain unchanged, with a labor surplus in the market. There are approximately 412 job openings in related fields, providing some mobility in the job market.

Common questions about vehicle inspectors

• What does a vehicle inspector earn?
  - The average salary is approximately 28 200 SEK per month with an hourly wage of around 169 SEK.
• What education is required to become a vehicle inspector?
  - Most commonly, a vocational vehicle technical education supplemented with certification courses and practical training.
• Are there gender differences in salary?
  - Women earn on average 104% of what men do within the profession.
• What are the future prospects for the profession?
  - Demand is expected to remain unchanged with limited opportunities for new jobs.
• In what work environments do vehicle inspectors work?
  - Usually in workshops, test tracks, and office settings.
• Can salaries vary regionally?
  - Yes, but detailed data is lacking for clear regional differences.
• What personal qualities are important?
  - Accuracy, technical understanding, and stress resilience are key qualities.