Tyre or exhaust fitter
Replace worn or damaged tyres and exhausts on cars and other vehicles to make sure they are safe to drive.
Also known as: tyre technician, fast-fit technician
About the job
What it's like
You would replace worn or damaged tyres and exhaust systems in cars and other vehicles to make sure they are safe to drive.
You would usually work in fast-fit centres or workshops alongside motor vehicle technicians, fixing vehicles while the customer waits.
You would:
Check tyres or exhausts for defects
Replace or repair faulty tyres or parts
Balance and re-align wheels
Repair punctures, where possible
Advise customers about keeping tyres and exhausts in good condition.
You would work out the costs and tell the customer before doing the work. You might also need to handle payments.
With a larger company, you may receive training for other tasks, such as repairing suspension systems and brakes.
You might work on vehicles ranging from cars and small vans to coaches and lorries. You might also go out to help at breakdowns.
Industrial tyre fitters work on large vehicles such as forklift trucks, diggers or agricultural vehicles. For this work you might need to travel to the customers’ sites to do the work.
You'd use a combination of tools and computerised fault-finding equipment as part of your job. Following health and safety regulations would be important.
Environment
You would work in garages or workshops, often in awkward, cramped conditions. You'd use power tools, workbenches, ramps and sometimes pits. The work is likely to be oily and greasy and involve a lot of standing, lifting and bending. It is likely that there will be fumes and smells.
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Related industries
Many jobs can be done in lots of different industries. We've highlighted the ones we think are most important for this job.
Engineering and manufacturing
Top skills
Skills are things you're good at. Whether you know what yours are or not, everyone has them!
It's useful to learn which ones are important in a job so you know the areas you need to brush up on. It can also help you work out if you're suited to a career.
Top specialised skills
These are the top specialised skills that have been found in job vacancies across Scotland. From March 2024 to March 2025.
- hand tools
- power tool operation
- tire repairs
- vehicle inspection
- automotive services
- flatbed truck operation
- tire maintenance
- tires
- tire balancing and rotation
- pneumatic tools
Meta skills
Here are some of the meta skills you'll need to do this job.
- implementing ideas
- filtering
- attention to detail
- observation
- resourceful
- listening
Your skills are important
Our unique skillsets are what make us stand out from the crowd. Learn about each skill in depth and discover what employers look for in your applications and interviews.
Getting in
Explore each section to find more information about getting into this career.
Colleges and universities will list subjects you'll need for entry to a course. Some useful subjects include:
Engineering Science
Practical Craft Skills
Practical Metalwork
Skills for Work: Automotive Skills
You do not need formal qualifications to enter this job but many employers look for a good general education (SCQF level 4-5) to enter an Modern Apprenticeship.
Once in an Apprenticeship you will work towards relevant qualifications such as the Scottish Vocational Qualification in Automotive, Vehicle Fitting (SVQ level 2) or Specialist Tyre Fitting (SVQ level 2).
You may have to pass an aptitude test when applying to enter Modern Apprenticeship jobs.
Qualifications that demonstrate physical fitness/strength and practical skills such as Skills for Work Automotive Skills (SCQF level 4).
Many employers will require a driving licence.
You should be fit, as this is role involves heavy lifting and working in awkward positions.
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