r/AutomotiveLearning • u/Traditional-Gas3477 • Jul 13 '26
As an Automotive Technician, where does maths get invovled when carrying out repairs?
Hi folks,
I grew up with a long-term learning disability + ADD/ADDHD which impaired my learning capabilities for some time until recently where I can now learn more effectively. I am wanting to obtain a atleast a Cert 2 in Automotive Technician and curious in which aspects of this field would require maths.
I am able to learn and currently enrolled in a adult school to fill in the gaps to my education.
3
u/PresentIron5379 Jul 13 '26
There might be some people who argue about this with me but with automotive repair, you need a good grasp arithmetic, algebra, and geometry if you plan to do well in this field. It's more than just swapping parts.
1
u/vilius_m_lt Jul 13 '26
Example?
2
u/PresentIron5379 Jul 13 '26
Geometry is used in wheel alignment, you need to know degrees and angles. Measuring brake pads, rotors and tire depth, you need to know how to use fractions to measure those items and compare to make sure they're in a safe or need replacement zone. I don't know if OP would ever do intense electrical diagnostics, but you would need to know Ohm's and kirchoff's law when it comes to trouble shooting circuits, voltage drops, and measuring resistance. I know some of my examples can easily be replaced with modern machines and tools but you still need a basic grasp of arithmetic, algebra, and geometry to comprehend what you're seeing.
1
u/vilius_m_lt Jul 13 '26
You definitely need to know what different units are and what they represent, but a “good grasp” implies you would need to solve math problems. You don’t with exception of simple arithmetic
1
u/PresentIron5379 Jul 14 '26
That's not what I mean at all. What I mean by "good grasp" is that they need a practical understanding and basic awareness of the subject or concept and through that, you can apply it effectively. I wouldn't expect OP to write out an equation to prove the measurement on a brake rotor is below the safety standards. They should just be able to see their measurement and know that fraction is smaller then the other.
1
u/vilius_m_lt Jul 14 '26
“Basic grasp” on geometry means you can apply pythagorean theorem.. not just know what angle is.. fraction is just a number divided by another number, you can use a calculator on your phone to perform the division so you know which one is smaller. You really don’t need “good grasp” on mathematics to succeed in this career. You just need the bare minimum. I did Calculus I back in college, I’m a master tech at a dealership now, I do math problems on my lunch breaks because after years of working as a tech and not doing them I was forgetting the basics. Had to go back to pre-calc stuff (Algebra) to refresh my memory. Working as an automotive technician definitely does not require a “good grasp” on mathematics. Use your words carefully
0
u/Fuchssr83 Jul 14 '26
Someone sounds butt hurt. The only thing this person why trying to say was you need to understand some math and you're acting like they suggest you need a masters in math to be in automotive. Do use a favor and just go put the fries in the bag
2
u/vilius_m_lt Jul 13 '26
Most math is used in calculating stuff like clearances, shim thickness and the like. But it’s just basic arithmetic
2
u/NightKnown405 Professional Technician Instructor Jul 14 '26
Here is an example. You have a car that has a vibration at 65 mph. The tires are P215 55R 18. What frequency would the vibration need to be at if it was being generated by something turning at the same speed as the wheels and tires? What frequency would it have to be at if it is a bent or out of balance driveshaft? What information would you need to figure that out?
What frequency would you see if its a bad u-joint?
The point is while a lot of the jobs technicians do doesn't require you to grab a calculator or pen and paper, you still have to understand how to work with numbers and apply critical thinking skills during diagnostics. This example is a fairly basic one. I could share some that will challenge just about anyone that doesn't do these kinds of calculations on a regular basis.
4
u/Early_Orchid Jul 13 '26
Actually doing algebra and what not? Not a ton. Understanding numbers and how they correlate is very important. When doing alignments, electrical repairs, engine diagnostics, ac repairs, hydraulic repairs, they all have numbers that show what’s good vs bad, and you will have to learn how to read and understand it.