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Introduction

Tire Repairers and Changers are responsible for installing, balancing, rotating, and repairing tires on cars, trucks, and other vehicles.

This career is often an entry point into the automotive repair industry, giving workers hands-on mechanical experience and opportunities to advance into more specialized auto technician roles. Tire repairers play an important role in driver safety, since properly maintained tires reduce accidents, improve fuel efficiency, and extend vehicle performance.

What Does a Tire Repairer and Changer Do?

• Installation: Mounting and balancing new tires.
• Repair: Patching punctures, fixing leaks, and replacing damaged tires.
• Rotation & Balancing: Extending tire life and improving performance.
• Inspections: Checking tread wear, pressure, and alignment.
• Customer Service: Explaining tire issues and recommending solutions.
• Shop Work: Operating hydraulic lifts, tire changers, and balancing machines.

Most work is performed in auto repair shops, tire retailers, and service centers. Some may also work in roadside assistance.

Average Requirements

Education

• Minimum: No formal education beyond high school required.
• Preferred: Automotive repair vocational training helpful but not necessary.

Skills

• Basic mechanical aptitude.
• Ability to operate shop equipment safely.
• Physical strength for lifting tires and wheels.
• Attention to detail for safety-critical work.
• Customer service skills.

Certifications & Licensing

• Most positions don’t require certification.
• OSHA safety training may be required.
• Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) certifications help for advancement.

Earnings Potential

• Entry-Level (0–2 years): $26,000 – $32,000 annually.
• Mid-Career (3–7 years): $32,000 – $38,000.
• Experienced (8–15 years): $38,000 – $45,000.
• Supervisors / Shop Leads: $45,000 – $55,000+.

Hourly pay usually ranges $13–$20/hour, with opportunities for overtime.

Growth Stages & Promotional Path

Stage 1: Entry-Level Tire Changer

• Installs and balances tires under supervision.
• Learns shop safety and equipment.

Stage 2: Tire Technician

• Handles full rotations, inspections, and simple repairs.
• Works more directly with customers.

Stage 3: Certified Technician

• Gains ASE or manufacturer certifications.
• May begin learning brakes, alignments, and suspension.

Stage 4: Senior Technician / Lead

• Supervises junior techs.
• Specializes in performance or heavy-duty tires.

Stage 5: Shop Manager / Business Owner

• Runs a tire or auto repair shop.
• Expands services beyond tires.

Education & Training Path

• High School Prep: Shop classes or mechanical electives helpful.
• On-the-Job Training: Most learn by working under experienced technicians.
• Certifications: Optional ASE certifications for advancement.
• Continuous Learning: Training in tire technology, safety standards, and automotive systems.

Employment Outlook

• Projected Growth: ~4% through 2032 - steady.
• Drivers of Demand:
  • High demand for tire replacement (tires wear every 3–5 years).
  • More vehicles on the road each year.
  • Increased use of performance and specialty tires.
• Industries Hiring:
  • Tire retailers (Discount Tire, Goodyear, Firestone).
  • Automotive service shops.
  • Fleet maintenance companies.
  • Roadside assistance providers.

Would You Like This Career?

This career may be ideal if you:

• Enjoy working with your hands in an automotive setting.
• Want a quick entry point into the auto repair field.
• Value steady demand and job security.
• Don’t mind physical labor.

It may not fit if you:

• Dislike repetitive tasks.
• Want a high-paying trade immediately.
• Prefer indoor or office-based work.

If you’re considering becoming a Tire Repairer and Changer, a great step is to evaluate whether your natural motivations and strengths align with this career. Take the Free MAPP Career Assessment at Assessment.com to see if this role, or a broader path in auto repair,  matches your potential.

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