Classic car valuations, damage assessments and MOT tests: Muhammed Aydin studied automotive engineering at the Ostfalia Campus in Wolfsburg and now works as a test engineer and motor vehicle surveyor. In this interview, he explains what his day-to-day work involves, the responsibilities that come with his job and why practical experience is important even whilst you’re still studying.
What do you do as a test engineer and motor vehicle expert?
Muhammed: I cover two areas: the official sector and the non-official sector. In the official sector, we carry out MOT tests and emissions tests – the standard stuff, so to speak. We also carry out assessments when modifications are made, for example, when an aftermarket wheel rim needs to be registered. And we carry out classic car assessments and LPG system inspections on motorhomes and caravans.
And what about the non-official sector?
Muhammed: That’s where we assess damage and value. If there’s damage to the vehicle or an accident has occurred, we draw up an assessment report. We also carry out valuation reports for higher-value vehicles, such as classic cars, where the insurance company wants to know how much the car is worth in the event of a claim.
What exactly does your day-to-day work involve?
Muhammed: I open the shop at 7 am, check my emails and have a coffee. Whilst doing so, I check whether I’m scheduled for the test centre or field work, and what tasks are due. Things really get going at 8 am. For example, I might first inspect three vehicles for a general inspection. After that, I assess a claim, evaluate everything and write a report. At the end of the day, I might carry out a classic car valuation.
What skills do you need for your job, and how did your degree prepare you for it?
Muhammed: For the official sector, you need to have a degree. You need a degree in automotive engineering, mechanical engineering or electrical engineering. The first two are usually particularly well regarded because they mean you’ve got experience with motor vehicles. If you’ve studied engineering, you then have to complete eight months of training. At the end, you sit a written, oral and practical exam, and if you pass, you become a test engineer.
What sort of challenges do you face in your day-to-day work?
Muhammed: For me, the responsibility is the biggest challenge. You have to assess whether the vehicle has significant faults, minor faults or no faults at all. Afterwards, you then have to discuss with the customer what needs to be repaired and by when. Not everyone agrees with this, so you have to explain it clearly.
What do you find most exciting about your job?
Muhammed: The variety. Every day brings something new. I’m always dealing with new vehicles and new customers – sometimes it’s a garage, sometimes a car dealership, and now and then an insurance company. All cars are different – sometimes new, sometimes old, sometimes electric, sometimes running on gas.
How did you first come to the decision to study automotive engineering?
Muhammed: Through my brother. He also studied automotive engineering and did the apprenticeship. I watched him do it and did some work placements, and realised that I wanted to do that too. I started out studying at a university, but I didn’t really like it because there wasn’t as much practical work there as there is at Ostfalia.
Do you have any tips for new students?
Muhammed: Do lots of work placements and part-time student jobs. It’s important to gain practical experience, build up a network early on and make contacts – that only happens in a practical setting.
Would you like to study at Ostfalia too? You’ll find an overview of all degree programmes here! If you have any questions, please feel free to contact the Central Student Advisory Service.
