Is tire changing a good business?
Tire changing technicians are a basic position in the automotive repair industry, suitable for practitioners who like hands-on work and want to enter the industry quickly. The following is the complete path to becoming a professional tire technician:
I. Basic Requirements
1. Prerequisites
- Age: 18+ (some chain stores accept 16-year-old apprentices)
- Education: Middle school diploma or higher (no strict requirement, but high school/vocational training is preferred)
- Physical Fitness: Ability to handle manual labor (bending, lifting tires daily)
2. Core Skills
- Operate tire changers, wheel balancers, and other equipment
- Understand tire specifications (size, load index, speed rating)
- Basic automotive repair knowledge (e.g., TPMS systems)
II. Learning Pathways
1. Vocational Training (Fastest Entry)
- Short-term courses (1-3 months):
- Tire-specific programs at auto repair schools (e.g., Northern Automotive, Lanxiang)
- Cost: ~¥3,000-8,000
- Certifications (Optional but beneficial):
- ASE (Automotive Service Excellence) Tire Certification
- China’s "Auto Mechanic" Vocational Skill Certificate
2. Apprenticeship (Learn While Earning)
- Apply directly as an apprentice at tire shops or 4S stores (lower pay: ¥2,000-4,000/month) but gain hands-on experience
- Key learning areas:
- Equipment operation (e.g., Corghi tire changers, Hunter wheel balancers)
- Tire brand characteristics (Michelin quiet tires vs. Goodyear durable tires)
- Customer communication skills
III. Career Paths & Salaries
| Job Type | Monthly Salary | Career Growth |
|---|---|---|
| Tire Shop Technician | ¥4,000-8,000 | Can advance to shop manager or franchise owner |
| 4S Store Tire Specialist | ¥5,000-10,000 | Transition to auto repair/service advisor |
| Mobile Tire Service Technician | ¥6,000-12,000 | Flexible hours, independent jobs |
| Fleet/Racing Tire Technician | ¥8,000-15,000 | Requires expertise in performance/racing tires |
IV. Career Advancement Tips
- Skill Specialization:
- Learn tire repair (mushroom plug/patch techniques)
- Master wheel alignment equipment (e.g., Beissbarth)
- Certifications:
- Obtain ASE or national vocational certificates
- Transition to Management:
- Start your own tire shop after gaining experience
- Become a regional technical supervisor for chain brands
Conclusion
Becoming a professional tire technician typically takes 6 months to 1 year, with hands-on practice being key. As electric vehicles become more common (heavier tires, higher equipment demands), skilled technicians will see rising wages. If you love cars and dislike desk jobs, this career is worth considering!
Next Steps:
- Search for local tire shop apprentice openings
- Enroll in short-term training programs for basic certifications
- Follow tire brand technical training (e.g., Michelin "TyrePlus" certification)
Need recommendations for training schools or equipment brands? Tell me your city, and I’ll help analyze local opportunities!
