If you’re interested in becoming a mechanic, it’s safe to say that you’ll spend plenty of time repairing all types of vehicles. As vehicle technology becomes more advanced, the methods of repair that mechanics must become familiar with are increasing in complexity and sophistication, especially when working on newer models. However, there are some vehicles that are still relatively simple to repair, despite advancements within the auto industry. If you’re pursuing a mechanic career, here’s how to determine whether a vehicle is easy to repair, and which vehicles you can rely on to make your job a little easier.
What Makes a Vehicle Easy to Repair?
We know that some vehicles require more complex repairs than others, but what is it that determines whether a repair is going to be easy? The complexity and difficulty of a repair can depend on a number of factors. For one, access to parts is an important determinant in whether a car will be easy to repair. If the vehicle has been in use for longer and is relatively popular, finding replacement parts shouldn’t be a problem. However, if the vehicle is a rarer model or was only in production for a short period of time, finding the necessary parts can be a bigger issue and can lead to a more lengthy repair process.
The size of a vehicle is another factor that influences the difficulty of repair. If a vehicle is bigger and there is ample space underneath the hood, it’s easier to access damaged areas or remove parts that need replacing. However, if a vehicle is smaller, the repair process may become more time-consuming as those with auto mechanic training must take additional measures to access the components which need fixing.
Here are 10 vehicles that may be fairly easy to repair once you become a mechanic:
1. Toyota Tacoma
Toyota Tacomas are easy to repair due to their relatively simple design, as well as the fact that they’ve been in production for over 40 years without undergoing significant changes to their basic configuration. Additionally, these trucks have lots of room under the hood for mechanics to work.
2. Honda Accord
Honda prioritized functional access when it created the Accord, making it one of the easiest vehicles for mechanics to conduct repairs on. Its layout and engine spacing allow professionals to get a clear view of the Accord’s parts, making the repair process more straightforward and efficient.
3. Jeep Wrangler
Jeep Wranglers are a favourite of mechanics for their accessible internal components and clear layout. Since it’s a vehicle built for off-roading, the Wrangler is designed to allow drivers to be able to conduct emergency repairs themselves, making the job a simple one for automotive school grads.
4. Mazda Miata
The Mazda Miata is unique as it’s a sports car that hasn’t strayed too far from its original design in more recent iterations. Its simplistic and largely manual components make it a breeze for most mechanics to conduct repairs without too much confusion.
5. Toyota Corolla
This classic model tends not to create too many problems for mechanics due to its popularity, which has made replacement parts widely available. Additionally, Corollas use a timing chain instead of a belt, and a simple four-speed automatic transmission instead of six- or eight-speed transmissions, which can be more complicated to repair.
6. Subaru BRZ
BRZ is one of the easiest Subarus to work on, which is saying something. Subaru tends to make the job of mechanics a lot easier by colour-coding different components under the vehicle’s hood, allowing for easy identification. BRZ’s design offers interchangeable engine bolts and easy engine access, simplifying the repair process.
7. Chevrolet Silverado/GMC Sierra
Silverado and Sierra are both popular pickup trucks, contributing to a wealth of replacement parts. Additionally, their large bonnet gives mechanics ample room to work, speeding up the repair process.
8. Nissan Frontier
Nissan Frontiers have been in production with few changes to their design since 2005, making it easy to track down the necessary parts to perform repairs.
9. Lada Niva
Despite being in production since 1977, Lada Niva has the same classic and user-friendly design, making it a favourite of mechanics everywhere.
10. Ford Crown Victoria
Ford’s Crown Victorias have been used as police vehicles and taxis for years, speaking to their reliability and ease of use. Ford specifically designed this vehicle to make the replacement of its parts a seamless process, equipping them for a long life on the road.
How Advancements in Technology Have Affected Repair Processes
While the above list of vehicles remain among the easiest to repair, advancements in technology will continue to change the way mechanics conduct repairs. Advancements in vehicle technology have made repair processes much more complex over the past several years, and many vehicles which have undergone few changes throughout their production are getting sophisticated upgrades. Most modern cars are equipped with intricate electronic engine management systems, as well as innovative safety features.
In order to conduct repairs, mechanics must be equipped with knowledge of these advanced systems, equipment that is compatible with a vehicle’s technology, and the proper diagnostic tools to address the root of the problem. Attempting to conduct a repair without the compatible tools can cause further damage to these systems, and can cost owners some serious expenses. However, the technology that modern vehicles are equipped with often makes them more reliable, requiring less frequent repairs and resulting in fewer mechanical problems. After all, there’s a reason that auto manufacturers are taking advantage of these technological advances.
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Learn how to repair cars with a program at ATC Surrey.
