What Does a Tire, Wheel & Rim Mechanic Do?

Tire, Wheel & Rim Mechanics diagnose faults in tires, wheels and rims, and make repairs, replacements and/or recommendations to meet vehicle requirements.

Job -Related Skills, Interests and Values

  • Knowledgeable about provincial Department of Transport regulations pertaining to wheels, rims, tires, and the Ontario Health & Safety Act
  • Assessing customer need or complaint
  • Jacking and hoisting the vehicle safely, utilizing the proper equipment such as hoists, jacks, jack stands, blocking or cribbing
  • Inspecting and examining rims, tires, undercarriage in order to recommend the extent and nature of the work to be done
  • Inspecting and testing tire pressures, rim/wheels for damage, and for compliance with manufacturers specifications
  • Removing different types of tire and wheel assemblies, decorative covers, wheel security devices, clamps, spacers, washers and wheel nuts and related hardware with the correct tools
  • Demounting tires from single, five-piece and multi-piece rims using a variety of tools and equipment
  • Repairing tires using manufacturer's specifications and by selecting appropriate repair techniques, materials and equipment
  • Mounting, installing and replacing tires, including Solid Industrial and Pneumatic, on single piece or multi piece rims using a variety of tools and equipment
  • Computer balance tires off vehicle so that tire life and ride comfort are achieved
  • Finishing balance wheel assembly on the vehicle to achieve a fine tuned balance
  • Conducting final inspections to ensure that work detailed on work order has been completed to meet customer need/company standards
  • Preparing cost estimates, parts requisitions and work plans 
  • Communicating with customers and service managers about the scope and cost of repair/installation/replacement
  • Reading manuals and consulting with manufacturers re: tire specifications

What Preparation and Training Do You Need?

Completion of Grade 12 with a secondary school diploma, with credits in Math, Science and English is recommended. Enrolment in OYAP, coop, or obtaining technical credits in the automotive or truck vehicle mechanic area would be a definite asset. You can obtain a Certificate of  Apprenticeship after completing @ 4000 hours (a combination of on-the-job and in-school training).

Apprenticeship Subject Pathways provides additional information for students/parents/educators: http://www.edu.gov.on.ca/eng/training/apprenticeship/skills/pathwaye.pdf

What’s Your Future as a Tire, Wheel & Rim Mechanic?

Tire, Wheel & Rim Mechanics (also known as Tire Technicians) usually work indoors in repair shops, and may be required to lift loads weighing up to 25 kilograms. A standard 40 hour work week is the norm, with shifts, evening or weekend work required. Career progression within the trade can include Supervisory/Management positions. Check out the Ontario Trucking Association web page for more details at: www.ontruck.org/careers/fleet.htm# and for information about other careers in this growing industry. Employers that hire Tire, Wheel & Rim Mechanics include:

  • Automotive Dealerships
  • Automotive Repair shops
  • Trucking companies
  • Truck Service & Repair companies

Wage Rate

  • Apprentices generally earn less than Journeypeople
  • As your skills and expertise increase, so does your wage
  • On average, fully qualified Tire, Wheel & Rim Mechanics can earn $16.00/hour and up according to the Peel Halton Dufferin 2000 Wage Book.

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Ask Yourself: Is Working as a Tire, Wheel & Rim Mechanic for You?

Do you have a mechanical aptitude and enjoy learning about and fixing truck/automotive systems and components?

Yes      No

Do you enjoy communicating with co-workers and customers?

Yes      No

Do you have the physical stamina to work long hours and overtime if required?

Yes      No

Are you able to bend, lift, kneel, stoop, and crouch?

Yes      No

Do you like to diagnose and find problems, then implement solutions?

Yes      No

Do you enjoy keeping up with and learning about new technology?

Yes      No

Do you take pride in persisting until the job is done safely and correctly?

Yes      No

If you answered Yes to most of these questions, a career as a Tire, Wheel & Rim Mechanic may be for You!

You may also want to explore other careers that require similar interests and skills, such as:

  • Motorcycle Mechanic
  • Recreational Vehicle Mechanic
  • Small Engine Repair
  • Automotive Service Technician
  • Heavy Equipment Mechanic
  • Farm Equipment Mechanic