Electronic Equipment Installers and Repairers, Motor Vehicles
Electronic equipment installers and repairers for motor vehicles install, diagnose, and repair communications, sound, security, and navigation systems in cars, trucks, and other vehicles. They work in auto repair shops, dealerships, specialty installation facilities, and sometimes mobile service units, focusing on the electronic components that keep vehicle systems functioning.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against electronic equipment installers and repairers, motor vehicles and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
A typical week involves diagnosing equipment malfunctions using diagnostic tools, removing and reinstalling components like radios and security systems, testing installed equipment to verify proper function, and consulting wiring diagrams and technical manuals. Installers may spend time in repair bays working on multiple vehicles, meeting with customers about equipment issues, and ordering replacement parts as needed.
Who this work suits
Holland code RCI. Realistic work is hands-on, practical work with tools, machines or the outdoors. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
You're detail-oriented and prefer working with concrete systems and procedures rather than abstract concepts. You enjoy troubleshooting technical problems methodically, following established processes, and seeing tangible results from your work—making you well-suited to the hands-on, systematic nature of equipment installation and repair.
What it takes
Preparation: Medium preparation (vocational training, an associate degree, or related experience). Most people in this occupation hold a certificate or training program.
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kentucky | $44,780 | $64,570 | $65,850 | 40 |
| New York | $50,090 | $60,220 | $74,610 | 290 |
| Colorado | $48,600 | $60,070 | $62,070 | — |
| Georgia | $46,020 | $59,550 | $78,420 | 300 |
| Washington | $50,560 | $59,010 | $59,020 | 120 |
| Arizona | $45,080 | $57,280 | $63,340 | 40 |
| Indiana | $47,350 | $56,730 | $60,900 | 470 |
| Oregon | $49,830 | $56,000 | $63,350 | 200 |
| Idaho | $46,590 | $55,760 | $59,630 | 90 |
| Iowa | $47,250 | $55,160 | $61,480 | — |
| West Virginia | $35,120 | $51,890 | $52,580 | 40 |
| Montana | $47,940 | $49,920 | $55,120 | 40 |
All 39 states
Certifications people in this field hold
- Electronic Systems Technician (EST) — National Center for Construction Education and Research
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against electronic equipment installers and repairers, motor vehicles and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 49-2096.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.