
A new survey by Autotech Recruit has revealed that seven in 10 UK vehicle techs are considering leaving their jobs.
The survey polled technicians across the UK aged 18 to 54, with 32% working at dealerships and 26% at independent repairers. It was carried out to better understand what matters to technicians in order to help businesses improve retention rates and tackle the skills crisis.
It found that 70% of respondents admitted they are considering leaving their current employment. Reasons ranged from seeking external opportunities to starting their own independent businesses or leaving the industry altogether.
Meanwhile, nearly 79% of respondents rated working hours as “very Important”, surpassing even salary, highlighting the growing emphasis on work-life balance within the automotive workforce. Flexibility, no weekend work, and holiday allowances also ranked in the top five of important factors.
James Mackay, sales director for Autotech Recruit and Autotech Academy, said:
“The survey findings emphasise a critical challenge for the automotive industry. With 70% of vehicle technicians considering leaving their current roles, it’s clear that the sector needs to adapt to the evolving priorities of its workforce. Work-life balance, flexibility, and career progression are no longer optional—they are essential.”
New skills key for UK vehicle techs
The survey also found that 75% of employees under 25 focus on new skills and career progression while financial rewards matter more to those over 25.
Among employees aged 18-24, the emphasis is primarily on stability, with half of the respondents expressing a desire to stay in their current roles. However, a notable 25% are already eyeing external promotions, highlighting early ambitions to progress their careers.
Mackay said: “Younger technicians are a driving force for industry innovation. However, their frustration with the lack of opportunities is a wake-up call for employers. Without clear paths for growth, we risk losing their potential to other sectors.”
He concluded: “We are hopeful that these insights will help automotive employers create targeted people management strategies to meet the evolving needs of their workforce and retain talent.
“The generational divide is clear, and a one-size-fits-all approach to workforce management isn’t sustainable. Employers are under increasing pressure, but it is vital that they listen to their technicians and offer tailored solutions, from better career progression opportunities for younger workers to fairer incentive schemes for mid-career professionals.”