Five Ways Cars have Changed in the Last Decade
Over the last decade, the auto industry has significantly changed the way we build cars. There have been major improvements and advancements that were seemingly impossible 10 years ago. It’s equally as interesting as it is important for aspiring auto technicians to take note of these changes. Here are five ways cars have changed in the last decade:
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1. Navigation systems were once considered a luxury option. Ten years ago, having a navigation system in your car cost $2,500. Instead, most drivers relied on printable directions from sources such as MapQuest to get from point A to point B. Today, the majority of new cars have a navigation system—usually a touch screen—that comes standard. A report by Berg Insight Research showed that roughly 155 million vehicles on the road today have in-dash navigation systems.
2. Cars are much safer today. Guess how many airbags a car commonly has today. Probably around four, right? Most cars have at least this amount, while some have upwards of 10 airbags built around the vehicle. Ten years ago, the majority of cars had, at most, two front airbags. And now, cars also have accident avoidance features such as collision warning systems, blind spot recognition, and alert sensors. Some cars are even prototyping exterior airbags to prevent collision damage.
3. Fuel Economy didn’t matter 10 years agoThe average price of gas 10 years ago was $1.78 per gallon, so having a car with a high mpg rating wasn’t that important. Throughout the last decade, however, we’ve seen gas prices skyrocket to upwards of $4 per gallon. Because of that increase, more and more fuel-efficient models have hit the market. Hybrids, electric cars, and cars with the highest mpg ratings are in demand. Fuel efficiency today is one the top priorities for automotive manufacturers.
4. Your car has a sense of self-awareness. New cars can tell you all about themselves. For example, your car can tell you when a tire’s pressure is low, how much gas you have left in the tank, or if you left your truck open. Some cars can even parallel park themselves. Most cars have Bluetooth options to pair your phone and contact list so you can communicate hands-free while driving. Voice commands allow you to verbally give directions to your car, and your car will respond to them. Ten years ago, it would have been amazing if your car had an auxiliary input so you could play “Confessions” by Usher from your iPod Mini.
5. More cars on the road means more advancements. There are approximately 58,000 more cars on the road today than there were 10 years ago. More and more people are turning to cars over public transportation for their traveling needs. The auto industry keeps pumping out awesome new features and advancements in vehicles to keep consumers’ interest levels high and keep people on the road. This has lead to the installation of safety cameras, headset TVs, steering wheel gearshift paddles and night vision with pedestrian detection capabilities. These advancements that keep people on the road are also the reason why we have higher safety standards than 10 years ago: More cars means more accidents.
It’s important for aspiring automotive technicians to know about these changes because 10 years from now, we may see an even greater difference between cars now and cars then. Staying on top of these trends and changes will allow you to continue to succeed in the automotive technical field.
If you’re interested in learning more about the future of the automotive industry, download our free eBookFacts and Myths About Hybrid Engines.
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FAQs
It's not hard, but if you don't enjoy it you will not be to good mechanic. Most mechanics start by fixing their own stuff like bicycles at 10 years old and perform well in shop class and begin with smaller engines like lawnmowers and mini bikes.
What questions are asked in an automotive technician interview? ›
10 questions to ask in an auto tech interview
- Can you describe your experience as an automotive technician? ...
- Are you more experienced with specific makes or models? ...
- Do you have any certifications or training relevant to automotive repair and maintenance? ...
- How do you identify and troubleshoot problems?
The same can be said for the repair order (RO)! To be worth the price charged for the repair or claimed via warranty, ROs must capture the 3C's: complaint (beginning), cause (middle), and correction (end).
What are the changes in the automotive industry? ›
As cars become 'computers on wheels', more value comes from digital technology design and software. Manufacturing is going modular, with less in-house production and greater focus on design and assembly. The shift to EV as well as supply chain challenges are causing a rethink of manufacturing footprints.
What is the hardest mechanic job? ›
Engine swap or replacement An engine swap sounds like a major auto repair and it is. Your auto mechanic can't just pull one engine out and drop another it - it's a lot more complicated than that. Your engine is connected to the rest of the car with tons of wires, hoses, cables, and more.
Is 30 too old to become a mechanic? ›
No age is too old to retain you to become a mechanic as long as you are in good health!.
How to ace a mechanic interview? ›
DO
- Talk about safety this is one of the most important things for most hiring managers, you want to give the impression you are a safe worker and that safety is important to you.
- Be Prepared.
- Be Polite.
- Sell Yourself.
- Make sure before you leave you tell them you are interested in the job and that you hope to hear from them.
My excellent mechanical and technical skill set makes me a good fit for this position, and I'm excited about working with other experienced mechanics. I understand you also need someone to conduct preventive maintenance of mechanical systems, which is an aspect I'm particularly skilled at."
What do I wear to a mechanic interview? ›
Collared shirt (button-up or polo), pressed. Slacks, pressed. Nice, clean shoes with a matching belt. Neutral colors, no bold prints.
How to motivate automotive technicians? ›
Right from the start, offer them a training plan and possible timetables, so they can see their future mapped out for them. This gives your employees a sense of purpose that can provide some powerful motivation. You can provide training and development as part of your employment to set you apart.
The term "3C" in the automobile industry refers to the three dimensions of a car, specifically: Comfort, Convenience, and Control. Comfort refers to the level of comfort provided by the car's interior, such as the quality of the seats, the temperature control, and the level of noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH).
What is the 4C in automotive? ›
The four C's of automotive repair are, complaint (or concern), cause, correction, confirm. As a technician, utilizing the four c system will ensure you repair a vehicle properly.
What is change management in automotive industry? ›
Change management is the process of helping individuals, teams, and organizations transition from their current state to a desired future state. In the automotive industry, change can be particularly challenging due to the complex and interconnected nature of the product development process.
What are the key drivers in the automotive industry? ›
Driving the automotive agenda: Five key trends shaping the automotive industry in 2024
- Electric vehicle revolution. ...
- Autonomous driving technology. ...
- Connectivity and smart cars. ...
- Challenges for OEM subscription models. ...
- Change in retail trends. ...
- Conclusion.
How are car manufacturers using data? Companies are embracing innovative technologies in all areas of the business, such as simulation testing of vehicles, operational efficiencies, predictive maintenance, autonomous vehicles or enhancing in-car experiences. All of this helps to improve passenger and vehicle safety.
How long does it take to learn auto mechanics? ›
Formal training for auto mechanics in California can take 6 months to 2 years, depending on where you enroll and which program you choose. Some schools offer 6- to 10-month-long certificate programs, while others let you earn a diploma in 12 to 18 months. Two-year associate's degree courses might be available as well.
Is becoming a mechanic worth it? ›
Many people would be satisfied with a career that presents strong progression chances. It is even better with a healthy work-life balance, minimal stress, and a competitive salary. Additionally, with technologies steadily growing, various inspection schools provide the best automotive training in the market.
Is there a lot of math in being a mechanic? ›
A Mechanic will use basic arithmetic, such as addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division, which is essential for tasks like measuring and ordering the right amount of materials, calculating torque specifications, and determining proper fluid levels.
Can you teach yourself to be a car mechanic? ›
Many drivers perform car maintenance, like oil or brake changes, on their own by using their car manuals and buying the necessary supplies. There are also many videos online that walk you through step-by-step auto repairs. However, it can be challenging to become a competent auto mechanic without professional training.
