Yes, the automotive aftermarket is a good career path and the industry is a vast and dynamic field that offers many opportunities for career growth and development. From servicing and repairing vehicles to manufacturing and supplying parts, the aftermarket industry offers a wide range of roles and specializations that can be tailored to your individual interests and skills.
One of the key benefits of a career in the automotive aftermarket is the potential for long-term stability and growth. The global automotive aftermarket is projected to reach a value of $947 billion by 2025, making it one of the fastest-growing industries in the world. This growth is driven by factors such as increasing vehicle ownership and the need for regular maintenance and repair, which creates a steady demand for skilled professionals in the field.
Another major advantage of a career in the automotive aftermarket is the diversity of roles and opportunities available. From sales and marketing to manufacturing and engineering, there is a wide range of jobs available in the aftermarket that suit different interests and skills. Many of these roles also offer the opportunity for advancement and professional development as you gain experience and expertise in your field.
Additionally, automotive aftermarket jobs also have a relatively low barrier to entry, you can start your career with a high school diploma or vocational training and gain experience through on-the-job training or certification programs.
However, the industry also has its challenges, such as the shift of vehicles towards electric and hybrid powertrains, which may lead to new technologies and less need for traditional internal combustion engine parts.
What does the automotive aftermarket do?
The automotive aftermarket refers to the market for products and services related to the maintenance, repair, and modification of vehicles. This includes products such as replacement parts, accessories, tools, and equipment as well as services such as repair and maintenance.
The aftermarket is made up of a wide range of companies, including manufacturers of replacement parts and accessories, distributors, and retailers, as well as repair and maintenance service providers such as independent garages and service centers.
The automotive aftermarket industry plays a vital role in supporting the maintenance and repair of vehicles, which is essential for keeping them safe and running efficiently. The industry also provides an opportunity for vehicle owners to customize and improve their vehicles, which has led to a rise in the demand for aftermarket products and services in recent years.
Some of the main types of products and services provided by the aftermarket industry include:
- Mechanical parts – Engines, transmissions, and suspension systems.
- Collision parts – Body panels, mirrors, and lighting.
- Electrical parts – Batteries, starters, and alternators.
- Accessories – Wheels, tires, and audio systems.
- Tools and equipment – Diagnostic tools, lifts, and air compressors.
- Maintenance and repair services – Oil changes, tire rotations, and brake repairs.
- Customization services – Performance upgrades, custom paint jobs, and audio system installations.
How much is the automotive aftermarket worth?
The automotive aftermarket industry is worth billions of dollars. According to a report from ResearchAndMarkets.com, the global automotive aftermarket is expected to reach $746 billion by 2027, growing at a CAGR of 3.9% during the forecast period 2020 to 2027. However, it’s worth noting that the value of the aftermarket industry can vary depending on the region and the specific segment of the market being considered.
What is the world’s largest automotive industry?
The largest automotive industry in the world is that of China. According to data from the China Association of Automobile Manufacturers, China produced and sold over 28 million vehicles in 2020, making it the largest automotive market in the world. China’s automotive industry has been growing rapidly in recent years, driven by factors such as a growing middle class and increased government support for the industry.
Additionally, many global automotive manufacturers have established production facilities in China to take advantage of the large market and lower labor costs.
How many people work in the automotive aftermarket industry?
The size of the workforce in the automotive aftermarket industry can vary depending on the region and the specific segment of the market being considered. However, it is a significant industry with a large number of employees worldwide.
According to the Automotive Aftermarket Industry Association (AAIA), the automotive aftermarket industry in the United States alone employs over 4 million people. The industry includes a wide range of jobs, including those in manufacturing, distribution, and installation of automotive parts, as well as those in repair and maintenance services.
Furthermore, It is important to note that this is an estimate, and actual numbers may vary from region to region and over time.
Is there a future in automotive industry?
The future of the automotive industry is likely to be shaped by a number of factors, including changing consumer preferences, advances in technology, and government regulations.
There is a growing demand for electric and autonomous vehicles, which is expected to drive innovation and growth in the industry in the coming years.
Electric vehicles (EVs) are expected to become more prevalent as governments around the world set targets to phase out internal combustion engines and decrease emissions. In addition, the development of autonomous vehicle technology is also expected to play a major role in the future of the industry, as it has the potential to improve safety and efficiency on the roads.
Additionally, the industry is expected to see a significant shift towards connected and shared mobility solutions, such as ride-hailing and car-sharing services, which are expected to reduce the number of cars on the road and change the way people use transportation.
Furthermore, government regulations and policies such as fuel efficiency standards, emissions standards, and safety regulations will also continue to shape the industry.
Overall, the automotive industry is expected to continue to evolve and change in response to these and other factors, and there is likely to be a continued demand for vehicles and related products and services in the future.
15 Best Paying Jobs in Automotive Aftermarket
- General Manager: A general manager in the automotive aftermarket industry may earn a salary of around $150,000 or more per year.
- Operations Manager: An operations manager may earn a salary of around $120,000 to $140,000 per year.
- Sales Manager: A sales manager in the automotive aftermarket industry may earn a salary of around $100,000 to $120,000 per year.
- Service Manager: A service manager may earn a salary of around $90,000 to $110,000 per year.
- Automotive Engineer: An automotive engineer may earn a salary of around $80,000 to $100,000 per year.
- Product Manager: A product manager may earn a salary of around $80,000 to $90,000 per year.
- Quality Control Manager: A quality control manager may earn a salary of around $75,000 to $90,000 per year.
- Supply Chain Manager: A supply chain manager may earn a salary of around $75,000 to $85,000 per year.
- Marketing Manager: A marketing manager may earn a salary of around $70,000 to $85,000 per year.
- Technical Support Engineer: A technical support engineer may earn a salary of around $65,000 to $80,000 per year.
- Project Manager: A project manager may earn a salary of around $65,000 to $75,000 per year.
- Manufacturing Engineer: A manufacturing engineer may earn a salary of around $60,000 to $75,000 per year.
- Accounting Manager: An accounting manager may earn a salary of around $60,000 to $70,000 per year.
- IT Manager: An IT manager may earn a salary of around $60,000 to $70,000 per year.
- Purchasing Agent: A purchasing agent may earn a salary of around $45,000 to $60,000 per year.
Conclusion
The automotive aftermarket is a promising and dynamic industry that offers a wide range of opportunities for career growth and development. With a projected growth rate of over 4% annually, the industry is expected to continue expanding in the coming years, creating new jobs and opportunities for professionals in the field. If you’re interested in cars, have a knack for mechanics, and want a career with potential for stability, growth, and advancement, the automotive aftermarket may be a great career path for you.