17 Engine Mechanic Interview Questions and Answers

An engine mechanic is responsible for the maintenance and repair of engines in vehicles, such as cars, trucks, buses, and boats. They inspect engine parts, diagnose issues, and perform repairs.

To become an engine mechanic, you need to have a high school diploma or equivalent. You also need to complete a formal training program at a trade school, community college, or technical school. Many employers also require engine mechanics to be certified by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence.

If you’re interested in becoming an engine mechanic, you’ll need to know how to answer engine mechanic interview questions. In this guide, we’ll provide you with sample questions and answers to help you prepare for your interview.

Are you certified in any areas of engine repair?

Employers may ask this question to see if you have any certifications that show your expertise in engine repair. If you are certified, explain what the certification is and how it relates to working as an engine mechanic. If you aren’t certified, you can still answer by explaining which areas of engine repair you feel confident in performing.

Example: “I am not currently certified in any specific area of engine repair, but I do have a certificate from my community college for completing an introductory course on engines. This class gave me a basic understanding of all aspects of engine repair, including troubleshooting, maintenance and diagnostics. I also completed several hands-on projects during the class, giving me experience with common issues related to engine repair.”

What are some of the most common engine problems you have encountered in your previous work as an engine mechanic?

This question can help the interviewer gain insight into your experience and expertise as an engine mechanic. Use your answer to highlight some of the most common problems you’ve encountered in your work, but also discuss how you solved them.

Example: “One of the most common issues I have seen is a car’s engine overheating. This problem usually occurs when there is a leak or crack in the radiator that causes the engine to lose coolant. In my previous role, I would first check for leaks by visually inspecting the entire system and then using a pressure test to find any cracks. If I found a leak, I would replace the damaged part with a new one.”

How would you go about diagnosing a problem with an airplane engine?

This question can help interviewers understand your problem-solving skills and how you apply them to a variety of situations. Use examples from previous experience that highlight your ability to analyze problems, troubleshoot and communicate with others about the issue.

Example: “When diagnosing an airplane engine, I first start by reviewing all available documentation on the aircraft’s maintenance history. This helps me determine what repairs have been made in the past and if there are any recurring issues or patterns. Next, I inspect the entire engine for any visual damage or abnormalities. If I notice something out of place, I will take additional measurements to ensure it is not just a result of wear and tear.

After inspecting the exterior, I will then check the oil levels and fuel supply. If everything looks normal here, I will move onto testing the functionality of each system. For example, I may run through a series of checks to make sure the ignition system works properly. Once I’ve completed these steps, I will be able to diagnose the problem and develop a plan for repairing it.”

What is the proper procedure for handling and storing hazardous materials in a shop environment?

The interviewer may ask you a question like this to assess your knowledge of safety procedures in the workplace. Use examples from your experience to highlight your ability to follow protocol and keep yourself and others safe while working with hazardous materials.

Example: “In my last position, I was responsible for handling and storing all types of hazardous waste generated by the shop. The first step is always to make sure that no one else is around when removing hazardous materials from their storage areas. Then, I would transport them to an area where they could be safely disposed of. For example, if it was oil-based waste, I would take it to the designated oil disposal site on the property. If it was non-oil based, I would take it to the local recycling center.”

Provide an example of a time when you went above and beyond to help a customer and solve a problem with their engine.

Interviewers ask this question to learn more about your customer service skills and how you handle challenging situations. Use examples from previous work experiences where you helped a customer solve a problem or worked hard to meet their needs despite challenges.

Example: “At my last job, I had a customer who brought in his car for an oil change. After the oil change, he drove away but returned shortly after because of a loud noise coming from under the hood. We checked the engine and found that one of the belts was loose. Rather than charge him for another oil change, I tightened the belt myself so he wouldn’t have to return again.”

If a customer brought in an engine that was covered in oil, what would be your initial reaction and the steps you would take?

Interviewers may ask this question to see how you would react in a challenging situation. They want to know that you can handle unexpected situations and will use your problem-solving skills to find the best solution for the customer. In your answer, try to show that you are confident in your abilities as an engine mechanic and that you have experience with similar situations.

Example: “If I saw an engine covered in oil, my first reaction would be to determine if it was leaking or if the oil had just spilled on it. If it is leaking, then I would need to fix the leak before moving forward. If there isn’t a leak, then I would clean off the excess oil so I could inspect the rest of the engine.”

What would you do if you were working on an engine and you discovered that one of your coworkers was not following proper safety procedures?

An interviewer may ask this question to assess your leadership skills and how you would handle a situation that could potentially put the safety of others at risk. In your answer, try to show that you value the importance of following proper procedures and emphasize that you would take steps to ensure everyone on your team was aware of these policies.

Example: “If I noticed one of my coworkers wasn’t following safety protocols, I would first approach them privately to discuss why it’s important to follow these rules. If they were resistant or continued to disregard the rules, I would talk with my supervisor about what happened so we could come up with an appropriate solution.”

How well can you follow written instructions when diagnosing or repairing an engine?

Interviewers may ask this question to assess your ability to follow written instructions and protocols. They want to make sure you can work independently while also following the directions of a supervisor or manager. In your answer, explain that you value the importance of following procedures and protocols. Explain that you are willing to learn any company policies and procedures if necessary.

Example: “I am very good at following written instructions when diagnosing or repairing an engine. I have always been someone who values following rules and regulations. If there is ever a situation where I don’t understand something, I would definitely ask for clarification. I am confident in my abilities as an engine mechanic, so I am more than happy to take direction from a supervisor or manager.”

Do you have experience working with other shop employees to schedule appointments and coordinate work orders?

This question can help interviewers understand how you work with others and your organizational skills. Use examples from previous experience to show that you are a team player who is willing to collaborate with other mechanics, technicians or engineers.

Example: “In my last position as an engine mechanic, I worked closely with the shop’s lead technician to schedule appointments for customers. We would discuss what repairs were needed and when they could be completed by our team of mechanics. This helped us ensure we had enough staff on hand to complete all necessary repairs in a timely manner while also meeting customer needs.”

When performing maintenance on an engine, what is the ideal amount of time you should allow for the job?

Interviewers may ask this question to assess your time management skills and ability to prioritize tasks. When answering, it can be helpful to mention a specific amount of time you’ve allowed for similar projects in the past and how that affected the outcome.

Example: “In my experience, I find that allowing at least two hours per job is usually sufficient. This allows me to complete all necessary maintenance checks without rushing through them. If there are any issues or concerns with the engine, I have enough time to address them thoroughly.”

We want to improve our customer service reputation. What ideas do you have to help us do this?

Interviewers may ask this question to see if you have any ideas for improving the company’s reputation. They want to know that you can help them achieve their goals, so they might ask you about your own experience with customer service and how you could apply it to their organization. In your answer, try to think of a few ways you could improve the company’s reputation by providing better customer service.

Example: “I’ve worked in several different organizations throughout my career, and I’ve noticed that some companies are more focused on customer service than others. For example, when I was working at my last job, we had a goal to provide excellent customer service every time someone called or emailed us. We did this by having weekly meetings where we discussed what customers were saying about our products and services. Then, we brainstormed ways we could improve our customer service.”

Describe your personal philosophy on safety in the workplace.

Employers ask this question to make sure you have a strong commitment to workplace safety. They want to know that you will take all necessary precautions when working on their engines and equipment. In your answer, explain how you ensure the safety of yourself and others around you. Share an example of a time you put safety first in the workplace.

Example: “Safety is my top priority at work. I always wear appropriate PPE while performing any tasks. If I notice something unsafe about the workspace or equipment, I address it immediately with my supervisor. For instance, once I noticed some loose wiring on a piece of machinery. Rather than continue working, I reported it to my supervisor so they could fix it before anyone got hurt.”

What makes you the best candidate for this engine mechanic position?

Employers ask this question to learn more about your qualifications and how you can contribute to their company. Before your interview, make a list of all the skills and experiences that make you an ideal candidate for this role. Consider including any certifications or training you have, as well as any past experience working with engines.

Example: “I am passionate about cars and I love learning new things. In my previous position, I was able to work on many different types of engines, which helped me develop my knowledge and skills in this field. I also completed several courses online that taught me how to troubleshoot common engine problems. These skills make me the best candidate for this position because I know I can help your team get back up and running quickly.”

Which areas of engine repair do you enjoy the most?

This question can help the interviewer determine if you are a good fit for their company. They may want to know that you enjoy working on engines and have experience in several areas of engine repair, such as:

Valve adjustment Cooling system repairs Fuel injection systems They may also ask this question to see if you would be interested in continuing your education or training to work with newer technologies. If you are asked this question, it is important to answer honestly about what you enjoy most while also showing interest in learning new things.

Example: “I really enjoy working on fuel injection systems because they are so complex. I like figuring out how all the different parts interact with each other and making sure everything is running smoothly. However, I am always looking for ways to improve my skills and learn more about other types of engines.”

What do you think is the most important skill for an engine mechanic to have?

This question can help interviewers learn more about your skills and abilities as an engine mechanic. When answering this question, it can be helpful to think of a specific skill that you have that helped you succeed in previous roles.

Example: “I believe the most important skill for an engine mechanic is problem-solving. I’ve worked on engines where there were multiple issues, and being able to solve each one was crucial. In my last role, I had a client who brought their car in because they thought it needed new spark plugs. After testing the spark plugs, I found out that none of them were bad. Instead, I discovered that the ignition coil was faulty. By using my problem-solving skills, I was able to save my client money.”

How often do you perform maintenance on your personal vehicle?

Employers may ask this question to learn more about your mechanical skills and how often you perform maintenance on your vehicle. If you don’t have a personal vehicle, you can answer by describing the maintenance you performed on previous vehicles.

Example: “I do regular oil changes every 3,000 miles and rotate my tires once a year. I also check all of the fluids in my car at least once a month. My last vehicle lasted me for 10 years before it needed major repairs.”

There is a noticeable leak in the oil pan. What is your diagnosis?

This question is a great way to test your problem-solving skills and ability to work independently. When answering this question, it can be helpful to provide the steps you would take to diagnose the leak in the oil pan.

Example: “The first thing I would do is check for any obvious signs of leakage. If there are no visible signs of leakage, then I would remove the oil pan from the engine and inspect the gasket for damage or wear. If there isn’t any damage to the gasket, then I would replace the gasket and reattach the oil pan to the engine.”