@You Wish I don't think it was meant as a statement that draws sympathy. I think the statement is only showing love for cars. My dad was absent, but a good guy, and just never showed me anything really car wise, so I got into cars on my own and because of my friends the same as @LegitStreetCars.
My Dad was/is around, was an ASE master tech (and Detroit Diesel master tech, Allison master tech, etc), and never really spent much time bothering to teach me anything.. He just didn't have the patience for it and as I got older it became clear that we don't work well together anyhow. So... Dad around, not around, and his knowledge base can give you a boost, but it's certainly not the end all be all of what you can accomplish. I didn't really start wrenching, and learning, until I just bought a POS car and dragged it home.... he was also super against me doing that. So, he actively tried to keep me from learning (to an extent).
@You Wish Trust me... It's not like that. My Dad is just... frustrating. Anyhow, the point here isn't to rag on my pops, the point is that anyone can do it no matter where they start and what might look like an advantage or disadvantage isn't always the case. Only you live your life.
I am honestly just realizing how lucky I am to have TH-cam I am 17 and have what I would consider a lot of knowledge about cars solely from TH-cam, and it took me a second to realize you never used to be able to do that.
@@Ivonmorr ...for now. Who knows what insane thing will come up to make them change their minds or what new hoops await. They could change the monetization requirements to 1 million subs, minimum, just to rob creators. That's basically what just happened with the 1,000 subs / 4000 watched hours change. It doesn't sound like a lot, but it is... You're putting in work for a long time before you get to that point and you're spending money to do it, not making money.
Don't think he's got too much to worry about since all he's doing is being an honest guy and genuinely helping people. I can't complain. And I usually get some much-needed laughter from every video! The guy's hilarious!!!👍
I didn’t do well in high school either, but excelled in my auto class because I enjoyed it. I never knew what I wanted to do until I got my first car and had to fix it myself and realized this is what I love and what I want to do. I’m now an apprentice mechanic, and I go into work everyday happy and excited to learn new things. You just have to find what you enjoy and do it. Don’t worry about making money, when you love what you do you’ll be great at it and the money will come.
As a husband and a dad, I fully support your decision and I'll keep watching your videos and stories. Keep it this way and keep learning. You're rocking it!
Cars have taught me one thing, well 2.. first is that they are a catalyst for personal growth and a beacon to gravitate towards and build upon. This inherently improves you as a person. The second thing it teaches you, is how to curse like a drunk soldier* *drunk soldier/ lifelong gear head
Also, self-control. Can't tell you how many times I've raised a tool in frustration and had to tell myself "don't do it, you'll just have to fix that too!".
Before I went full time as a financial advisor, I had a regular job because finance is mostly commission. The advice I will give you is always make income, while working towards outcome!
And everyone wonders why Snap-on is on the brink of bankruptcy with all the store tool brands really upping their game. Heck Pittsburgh tools isn't even all bad anymore.. Sad to see how things have changed, but I'm thankful I don't have to sell my soul anymore for a decent socket set.
As someone who lacks direction in life and don't know what i want to do with my life, this video is very inspiring. Thank you. Unsure as to why this video doesn't have more views.
I'm not going to lie bro, everytime I had an opportunity to drive your Trans Am at I absolutely loved it. You're one of the people that inspired me to work hard and fix up my Camaro I had at the time. Great times and great memories bro. Keep up the hard work.
I will be showing my 16 year old son this video which proves that hard work, self belief and a passion for your work can get you what you want in life! Good work mate and well done!
It’s been pouring with rain here all day, and hearing about your journey growing up was a real ray of sunshine - especially the bit about digging through junkyards with your Mum. Thanks for what you do, Alex 👍🏻
Hey Alex! Almost 3 years later you’re finally doing TH-cam full time! I’ve been watching your channel for years and it’s awesome to see a fellow Chicagoan doing great
Hey Alex, I've always wanted to say good job on the videos. I've never owned a Mercedes (or a European car) but your video are super interesting and I learn alot about cars I will probably never own. As a person and family that have had public jobs, don't give up that job. You will thank yourself later on when the benefits of years of work start coming in. Keep up the good work
NFS4LFE I work as an apprentice technician, and never have any real issues when working on customer cars. It’s always when I try to do something quick and easy on my car that It turns into an issue lol. Getting the Factpry service manual and having a decent set of tools will make life so much easier.
Start making videos and your success rate will drop by an additional 50%. I swear that as soon as I hit the record button my IQ drops by half and my bad luck quadruples... and I have a boatload of tools.
I was the same self taught. School of hard knocks. Any body looking to get in field get in a shop learn all ya can. Learn all you can outside of work. Don’t give up. Honestly it’s refreshing to hear positive story of the field.
I went to an automotive school and what I learn from it is unless you go into a high end dealer ship such as Mercedes Benz or Bmw it is not worth it. I end up at Toyota and after a year call it quits. No regrets I still learn a lot and it was a good experience.
I've recently entered as an apprentice for a fleet company. It's been a learning experience but I'm glad I get to work with a technician. I hope to learn as much as I can all the time
What a great and inspiring story. Thank you for sharing this with us. I'd love to see many more videos on this channel and I understand your need for a balanced life with a "regular job". Maybe one day you'll move to a full-time TH-camr and I am sure many of us will be delighted.
currently a 17 year old hs student i have always loved cars and i plan on going to a tech school after graduation the program is sick i went in for a campus tour and the environment has me very interested i appreciate the gems and you sharing your journey 🙏🏾
I used to love looking out the window at cars on the road as a kid, and when I was really young I’d sometimes look inside neighbors cars through the car’s windows. Of course I don’t do the latter anymore but my auto passion was reignited when I got my permit 3 years ago, after which I read up on all automakers in existence, what kinds of cars they built and what those cars were called. The mother load for me was finding out which cars were hybrids and electric and how much their mileage was boosted. That said, awesome video!
Thanks for all of the informative vids. I wouldn't go to university nowadays either. No point in starting your professional life $350k in debt for a 4 year degree. Btw, did you ever learn how to fill the oil? I kid!
Where are you paying 350k? Average is 30k. Y’all cry about it being expenses but don’t bat an eye about getting a 50k car loan at 12%apr for 10 years.😂
I just retired from a large school district, in the fleet section, it was a great job, loved my co-workers, some very knowledgeable technicians, the variety of vehicals from school buses to bobcats, caterpillars and large lawnmower was fun, I understand where you are coming from.
Just recently stumbled across your channel, and to be 100% honest, you produce some great content. Keep building your community, so when you do decide to make it your career, you have everything set up to keep being successful. Good on ya man.
I went to college, and I still have an almost exact similar story to you. Cars are just cool, and you get paid good for it, if you're smart at it, or if you're just good at it and work hard.
Listening to this while doing a transmission and front brake service on my dd. Perfect timing too, because I couldn't find a single thing on TH-cam I wanted to listen too.
Great hearing your story, Iv'e been in the motor trade in the UK all my life and I know nothiong else but it's been fun(most of the time) but it's changed so much over the years, cars are so much more reliable these days. Love your channel, makes me wish I had your setup with garage and a lift, I would be in there all day every day....keep up the good work.
@@DStabs720 I think cars have got mechanically more reliable but yeah I would have to agree that a lot of electrical parts give a lot of trouble these days, TPMS seems to be one of the items people moan about, lights keep coming on dash even though tyre pressures are ok.Of course I'm a fine one to talk I drive a 2003 Saab :)
Grew up without Dad too Alex learned hard way..around big trucks too still working around them in South Dakota now just moved here…enjoy you a lot you are an awesome man thanks for sharing..Hey Max…
Super inspirational stuff Alex! Bought my E55 nearly 3 years ago because of your videos and it's still my only car. Have used lots of your vids to learn how to service it. Keep up the good work
I'm scared/happy that this is my future because he explained my situation RN. I don't wanna go to collage and i don't have a dad around to help and my school (which i already dropped out) had no automotive classes.
Honestly stick with what you're doing i think the videos and schedule work well plus having a job is enabling you to get projects while not relying on TH-cam Ads to make a living
I saw the name of the video and thought “ I can relate “ because I knew nothing about cars one year ago but I make sure to learn everyday. I still clicked on this video because if I’ve learned anything it’s that even if you think you know everything about a topic there is always more to learn
But any things can happen with TH-cam they can decide to cut the money they are paying creators like Alex . Big companies get pissed when people they are paying start making too much money they will come up with a reason to cut them back . Another thing is when you are young you do not think about pensions that much , but I will guarantee you when you get older you will , and if you are lucky enough to have one you will be very thankful . you
I'm not much of a car guy. For me, your channel attraction is really you: the way you talk and explain things, the patience and heart you put into fixing things. As long as I can feel that care and dedication, I'll keep watching.
Yeah Alex! So stoked for you man. As I did a typically 3hr "brisk return home" in 2hrs tonight in my E320 CDI-all while getting 36.7mpg, I actually thought about the first time I saw your channel on the CDI and started to research and find my car. For that I THANK YOU MY FRIEND!! Solid work.
When I was thinking about being a mechanic I was always told by mechanics "DON'T DO IT". After having avoided their wisdom I became a mechanic and now I share their wisdom when someone says they want to be a mechanic. I really enjoy working on cars but when it is done to earn a living, it is less enjoyable.
@@71sc502 It seems to me it would give you a feeling of satisfaction to fix a car that had a problem or to install new brakes, etc. You actually made a difference! Most jobs don't give you that feeling. You didn't get that?
I went from not knowing how to do an oil change to rebuilding a BMW M62tu in like a month when I first started working on cars... what I did was the equivalent of not knowing how to swim and then diving into the deep end of a pool.
Great Video , I’ve been with Mercedes for 6 years now , they changed how long it takes to become Master Certified . You have to have 5 years with Mercedes and complete 37 days of in class training and over 70 hours of online training . You also have to attend a face to face written knowledge and practical assessment ..
I consider myself a big AMG fan. But, this was my favorite video of yours', Alex. Great stuff. Similar story here. One of the best motivators to learn something is having a broken car and needing to be somewhere while broke.
Don't quite your day job, no need to add videos everyday. Once a week is enough, you let us anticipate what is coming in next video. Wish you all the best from Macedonia
You remind me of my old man now after hearing this. Love the determination no chip on ur shoulder attitude, respect bro. ......ur prolly a pretty awesome dad too. 👊🏼🍻
Very similar story to my own. I was fortunate enough to have my Dad around though. My first car was a '70 Cutlass. My Dad handed me the keys and said, " if you can keep it running, you can keep driving it." This was back in '94. Learned quite a bit keeping that old car going. After toiling in the automotive business (sales side of things) for 8 years I jumped into the service side of the business. Took 6 more years before I took the leap and started wrenching. I did not go to a tech school, but I should have. Delayed my career by about 3 years not having that piece of paper. However, I was fortunate enough to have 2 Ford master gold techs who saw my work ethic and took me under their wing. Currently I am a diagnostic diesel tech for the blue and yellow. I like to watch vids by guys like you because I always like to learn about how different makes and models make the boom to get down the road. Knowledge is power, learn as much as you can from the right people who simply know more than you do. Pay it forward. Thank you for what you do. Your story, minus a couple of parts, really resonated with me. Keep up the good work. Oh, looking forward to seeing your E55 AMG Wagon. 😉
Your story sounds somewhat similar to mine. I always loved cars and my father and grandfather really stoked that fire in me. However, I never really turned a wrench when I inherited my grandfather’s 1967 Mustang. I went full tilt tearing that thing apart just to learn how it worked, breaking or damaging many expensive parts to replace. Caught the bug and turned wrench professionally for the better part of 20 years, proud of who I was and what I could do. However, I took a job with a big packaging company fixing trucks and one month in that job killed any ambition or hope in me and my abilities. I gave it up about 2 years ago now and I have to say, I don’t miss it whatsoever. I still love to do the work, but I will never do it for a living anymore. I am much happier, and cleaner, selling the parts for them at the local Ford garage.
Mamas don’t let your babies grow up to be (auto mechanics) don’t let em play guitar or drive big ol trucks, make sure they’re doctors and lawyers n stuff!
Great story and thanks for sharing! I was an ASE certified technician 15 years ago and left the field to pursue a degree in engineering. Glad I don't wrench for a living anymore but something like fleet Management sounds like a good balance, and I miss working around cars. Definitely a wise move to keep TH-cam as a hobby and great way to fund your projects. Thanks for keeping the videos coming!
Alex, I've been following your channel since you bought the C63. You turned me into a Mercedes guy. When it was time to upgrade my old Acura TL I started looking at the Mercedes lineup. Just bought a 2013 CLS 4-Matic last month. Because of your Renntech admiration I bought a tune. The car now has a 'Legit' 540 HP in sport mode. Love the car and love your channel. Great heart to heart story!!......BTW: Yeah, with kids and wife, best keep the government job with solid insurance or you might wind up single and broke with a 2005 Chevy Cobalt.
Alex i am proud to say you’re the main reason i got into mercedes. I’m 18 and own a w210 e55 and i just bought a w221 s550 to daily drive . Keep the vids coming!
This is exactly what I want to be! I didn't get my license until I was like 26 and then I became a car guy in my 30's and have been doing any work I can do myself. Many first times recently for me
This story that you tells us is similar to mine. My first year of high school I was trying to my best to fit in but I didn’t want to work on an oil rig. It felt like I was losing interest in school I couldn’t do it so I dropped out my first year. Then I got a call from my high school in the summer 2019 that if I wanted I could choose to change school line and go to the mechanic school line. I finally was on the right path to doing what I dream of to work with and it was car’s. I didn’t know anything I didn’t know how break system was working and all of that but when I started in August it all changed I went from knowing nothing to the top 5 student at my school. So this video motivates me to work harder and shows anything’s is possible 😊🏆
How you got started is exactly what I recommend to people, but not with an expensive daily driver... What I tell people is to buy the worst vehicle you can find at the lowest price possible and just start into it. The Blazer on my channel is a good example of that idea. $400 and it's the most dangerous vehicle I've ever known anyone to actually daily drive right up until I bought it. My "learning car" was $140, including the $40 tow bill home, 21 years ago now. Best $140 I ever spent. I didn't become a professional mechanic, but without that car I would have never gone down the career path I'm on now or continue to pursue cars as a hobby (and now TH-cam is part of that hobby too). So... Yeah... I highly second your opinion. Buy a car and take it apart. The more broken, the more better.
Thank you, I needed to hear this. Very motivational story. I work as a technician at Caterpillar and have been discouraged lately. I want to be a better technician and really understand cars and heavy machinery.
Great video. And don't ever sell the Trans Am. I worked thru high school and saved up (with my dads help) for a used 67 GTO. It was a great car but needed work. But then college got too intense and I was also working part time & I had no time to devote to the car and sold it. One of my biggest regrets. I still miss it 30 years later.
I am currently in college i graduate next semester to get my associates degree, after that I do wanna go to tech school and be a car mechanic, that is my dream. I sleep and wake up thinking about cars its my passion in life! AND YOU INSPIRED ME TO TAKE ACTION!!
Love your story man. And how hard and consistent you have worked you can see the fun and love you have for cars in all your vids. Which i am watching all of
Your story is very inspiring. I have a beginner level knowledge of cars and sometimes I feel I'm too late to even start learning, but your story was a ton of fun to listen to and I'm glad you got to where you are, you deserve it!
Thank you for opening up on your journey through your life. May your success continue for you and most importantly your family. I have to add my dream German car has to be a vintage 1980's 300 SD turbodiesel. Back in the day you could hear one before you saw that beautiful German engineered vehicle.
Nice 👍🏼 story man , i began my career at a BMW dealership after about 1.5 year I left and I attended Mercedes Benz DRIVE which is the updated Mercedes ELITE Program of today. When u graduate you hold “systems technician” status I did about 2.5 years but unfortunately had to give it up for a government railroad mechanic job starting basically at Benz tech top rate $30-35hr and at the time at Benz I was at $20/flat rate. Which wasn’t bad at all but being married and kids the government job with overtime,pension retirement ,and very cheap health insurance ($100/month for a family package!) was just impossible to pass up. It’s always nice hearing other Mercedes technicians stories.
PERFECT timing on this video! I had just asked my son, who's a junior, to sit down with me and talk about tech school. And you published this video. Very helpful. Thank you, sir.
Can’t believe I just heard your story. Dots the I’s, crosses the T’s ! Been actively watching you for over a year, since the install of your car lift which is where you first popped up on my youtube search. I’m very picky about what I subscibe to, but always enjoy all your installments. Regular guy stuff ! Living a full existence and having a very active mind reminds me of me, except my focus is elsewhere. That said......keep up the good work !
Good stuff man, I'm about to turn 26 but really considering switching careers to do this, I genuinely enjoy working on cars and would love to just do it rather than wasting time on a job I don't enjoy.
Hey saw your video on oil leaks, I have a C250 Sports and really like it. I saw you talking and was like WOW! this guy really knows his stuff, of course once hearing you're an EX-Mercedes Mechanic I was like this is my go to guy. Glad you're doing these videos to help us save a lot of money. Big thanks!!
Don’t quit your job Alex. You love it, it gives your family the security they need and one video a week keeps me satisfied. One every week or so also gives you the chance to vacation, not get crushed by production pressure, and enjoy life. Be patient, build the channel, and stay smart.
![[TH] 2024 PMGC League | Survival Stage วันที่ 1 | PUBG MOBILE Global Championship](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/FVFT-PFwU80/mqdefault.jpg)
What was your German car? Mine was a 2000 S430 I bought for $1,500 with a misdiagnosed bad engine!
2002 E270, sbc unit fault :) $150
LegitStreetCars 2008 Audi S8. Just sold it last week after 5 years. I don’t want to talk about it....
UrQuattro the original daddy from group B rally
2000 E55 AMG, clogged automatic trans filter, previous owner thought the trans was completely broke so got it for a good price :))
04 745i, leaks oil from everywhere but i love it
“I didn’t have a Dad around me to teach me”.....you are a real deal. Very good for you, Man. Now, have five kids and teach’em all you know.
Amen!
@You Wish I don't think it was meant as a statement that draws sympathy. I think the statement is only showing love for cars. My dad was absent, but a good guy, and just never showed me anything really car wise, so I got into cars on my own and because of my friends the same as @LegitStreetCars.
My Dad was/is around, was an ASE master tech (and Detroit Diesel master tech, Allison master tech, etc), and never really spent much time bothering to teach me anything.. He just didn't have the patience for it and as I got older it became clear that we don't work well together anyhow.
So... Dad around, not around, and his knowledge base can give you a boost, but it's certainly not the end all be all of what you can accomplish. I didn't really start wrenching, and learning, until I just bought a POS car and dragged it home.... he was also super against me doing that. So, he actively tried to keep me from learning (to an extent).
@You Wish Trust me... It's not like that. My Dad is just... frustrating. Anyhow, the point here isn't to rag on my pops, the point is that anyone can do it no matter where they start and what might look like an advantage or disadvantage isn't always the case. Only you live your life.
I had a father around but he wanted me to be a doctor. I ended up having my own business.
I am honestly just realizing how lucky I am to have TH-cam I am 17 and have what I would consider a lot of knowledge about cars solely from TH-cam, and it took me a second to realize you never used to be able to do that.
You're definately doing the right thing. TH-cam as it stands can't be trusted not to arbitrarily change their monetization scheme
Yep they can also cancel your channel at any time with no questions asked and no recourse
Automotive channels are relatively safe from the whole demonetization thing.
@@Ivonmorr ...for now. Who knows what insane thing will come up to make them change their minds or what new hoops await. They could change the monetization requirements to 1 million subs, minimum, just to rob creators. That's basically what just happened with the 1,000 subs / 4000 watched hours change. It doesn't sound like a lot, but it is... You're putting in work for a long time before you get to that point and you're spending money to do it, not making money.
Don't think he's got too much to worry about since all he's doing is being an honest guy and genuinely helping people. I can't complain. And I usually get some much-needed laughter from every video! The guy's hilarious!!!👍
I didn’t do well in high school either, but excelled in my auto class because I enjoyed it. I never knew what I wanted to do until I got my first car and had to fix it myself and realized this is what I love and what I want to do. I’m now an apprentice mechanic, and I go into work everyday happy and excited to learn new things. You just have to find what you enjoy and do it. Don’t worry about making money, when you love what you do you’ll be great at it and the money will come.
Just make sure you don't overwork yourself
Love to hear it 🤙.
Hows it going for u now bro ?
Hope all is well brother. Ur comment really stuck with me. Im doing the same thing.
Hope u can give us a follow-up comment soon !
Hands down the best channel for Mercedes owners right here🙌
.
As a husband and a dad, I fully support your decision and I'll keep watching your videos and stories. Keep it this way and keep learning. You're rocking it!
Cars have taught me one thing, well 2.. first is that they are a catalyst for personal growth and a beacon to gravitate towards and build upon. This inherently improves you as a person. The second thing it teaches you, is how to curse like a drunk soldier*
*drunk soldier/ lifelong gear head
Haha
Heck I enjoy making up new Cuss words while working on my cars.
LOL
Also, self-control. Can't tell you how many times I've raised a tool in frustration and had to tell myself "don't do it, you'll just have to fix that too!".
Alex, if you were a BMW tech you would know the oil goes on the garage floor. It's gonna end up there anyway. 😁
Woody Balto LOL
Broke
My
Wallet
*NATO knows your location*
*NATO knows your location*
😂😂😂😂
Before I went full time as a financial advisor, I had a regular job because finance is mostly commission. The advice I will give you is always make income, while working towards outcome!
I smell a G wagon coming.....
@Reality Lives A RL would be awesome to see. I've always loved them
r63 amg
@@toddtempleton9321 g63 is better
A G63 does the quarter mile in 12.5 and the R63 does it in slightly over 13 seconds. So it’s definitely a AMG G Wagon.
It’s not an r since the r63 has infotainment
$12,000 worth of Snap On tools, so a set of socket and a screwdriver?
LOL!! c'mon, you can get two screwdrivers for that money!
Mr. Blue fr😂
and "free" hat.....and don't turn in a broken screwdriver you used as a pry bar or you'll lose your Snap On benefits
And everyone wonders why Snap-on is on the brink of bankruptcy with all the store tool brands really upping their game. Heck Pittsburgh tools isn't even all bad anymore.. Sad to see how things have changed, but I'm thankful I don't have to sell my soul anymore for a decent socket set.
you'll probably get some sort of plastic case as well but i think you covered it
I went to Laramie Wyotech just after I turned 18 2016 and now I’m 22, managing and a fleet of about 60 tow trucks
As someone who lacks direction in life and don't know what i want to do with my life, this video is very inspiring. Thank you. Unsure as to why this video doesn't have more views.
I'm not going to lie bro, everytime I had an opportunity to drive your Trans Am at I absolutely loved it. You're one of the people that inspired me to work hard and fix up my Camaro I had at the time. Great times and great memories bro. Keep up the hard work.
Alex, I look back to my senior year in High School, and can only wish I had the determination and drive you did. 1968 was a LONG time ago!
Don't give up that security! TH-cam can't last forever 😖
Dude if you love you're job don't do full-time TH-cam, it's to unconsistent
PD fleet career vs. part time TH-camr...
I will be showing my 16 year old son this video which proves that hard work, self belief and a passion for your work can get you what you want in life! Good work mate and well done!
It’s been pouring with rain here all day, and hearing about your journey growing up was a real ray of sunshine - especially the bit about digging through junkyards with your Mum. Thanks for what you do, Alex 👍🏻
What a great story! Cars are my life and I love watching others who are successful with them!
Hey Alex! Almost 3 years later you’re finally doing TH-cam full time! I’ve been watching your channel for years and it’s awesome to see a fellow Chicagoan doing great
Just found a love for cars my senior year, I am going into automotive with almost no experience. Thank you for this video it's so encouraging!
Great story of your history as an automotive technician. Enjoyed it tremendously.
Hey Alex, I've always wanted to say good job on the videos. I've never owned a Mercedes (or a European car) but your video are super interesting and I learn alot about cars I will probably never own. As a person and family that have had public jobs, don't give up that job. You will thank yourself later on when the benefits of years of work start coming in. Keep up the good work
The easy answer is "my family and future come first so never" Keep up the great work. Love your videos
Mom’s who support there sons love of cars are the best. My mom took me to my first swap meet, took me to many car shows... I owe her so much.
I’m still bumbling when servicing my car. Seems like I have a 50% success rate when I do something. I blame my lack of tools lol
NFS4LFE I work as an apprentice technician, and never have any real issues when working on customer cars. It’s always when I try to do something quick and easy on my car that It turns into an issue lol. Getting the Factpry service manual and having a decent set of tools will make life so much easier.
Yep. Every single issue I ever had working on my car was simply because I didn't have the right tools. Makes all the difference.
Start making videos and your success rate will drop by an additional 50%. I swear that as soon as I hit the record button my IQ drops by half and my bad luck quadruples... and I have a boatload of tools.
Pretty fly for a WiFi LMAOOOOO
@@TheBrokenLife Now that's must see TV!!
I was the same self taught. School of hard knocks. Any body looking to get in field get in a shop learn all ya can. Learn all you can outside of work. Don’t give up. Honestly it’s refreshing to hear positive story of the field.
I went to an automotive school and what I learn from it is unless you go into a high end dealer ship such as Mercedes Benz or Bmw it is not worth it. I end up at Toyota and after a year call it quits. No regrets I still learn a lot and it was a good experience.
Why did you quit Toyota?
blapblapism it was not what I expected but could of been just that one Toyota dealership.
I've recently entered as an apprentice for a fleet company. It's been a learning experience but I'm glad I get to work with a technician. I hope to learn as much as I can all the time
Very inspirational Alex I’m sure of you you have inspired at least one person in these comments to become a mechanic 👍
The 1988 Trans-am looks awesome
What a great and inspiring story. Thank you for sharing this with us.
I'd love to see many more videos on this channel and I understand your need for a balanced life with a "regular job".
Maybe one day you'll move to a full-time TH-camr and I am sure many of us will be delighted.
currently a 17 year old hs student i have always loved cars and i plan on going to a tech school after graduation the program is sick i went in for a campus tour and the environment has me very interested i appreciate the gems and you sharing your journey 🙏🏾
I used to love looking out the window at cars on the road as a kid, and when I was really young I’d sometimes look inside neighbors cars through the car’s windows. Of course I don’t do the latter anymore but my auto passion was reignited when I got my permit 3 years ago, after which I read up on all automakers in existence, what kinds of cars they built and what those cars were called.
The mother load for me was finding out which cars were hybrids and electric and how much their mileage was boosted.
That said, awesome video!
Thanks for all of the informative vids.
I wouldn't go to university nowadays either. No point in starting your professional life $350k in debt for a 4 year degree. Btw, did you ever learn how to fill the oil? I kid!
Where are you paying 350k? Average is 30k. Y’all cry about it being expenses but don’t bat an eye about getting a 50k car loan at 12%apr for 10 years.😂
I just retired from a large school district, in the fleet section, it was a great job, loved my co-workers, some very knowledgeable technicians, the variety of vehicals from school buses to bobcats, caterpillars and large lawnmower was fun, I understand where you are coming from.
Just recently stumbled across your channel, and to be 100% honest, you produce some great content. Keep building your community, so when you do decide to make it your career, you have everything set up to keep being successful. Good on ya man.
I went to college, and I still have an almost exact similar story to you. Cars are just cool, and you get paid good for it, if you're smart at it, or if you're just good at it and work hard.
Your mom's awesome 😂
Listening to this while doing a transmission and front brake service on my dd. Perfect timing too, because I couldn't find a single thing on TH-cam I wanted to listen too.
Great hearing your story, Iv'e been in the motor trade in the UK all my life and I know nothiong else but it's been fun(most of the time) but it's changed so much over the years, cars are so much more reliable these days. Love your channel, makes me wish I had your setup with garage and a lift, I would be in there all day every day....keep up the good work.
Paul Broadway more reliable these days? Maybe in the UK but the 90s had the most reliable cars by far for the US
@@DStabs720 My fleet of '90s cars agrees with you... Newest vehicle I own is an '01.
@@DStabs720 I think cars have got mechanically more reliable but yeah I would have to agree that a lot of electrical parts give a lot of trouble these days, TPMS seems to be one of the items people moan about, lights keep coming on dash even though tyre pressures are ok.Of course I'm a fine one to talk I drive a 2003 Saab :)
Grew up without Dad too Alex learned hard way..around big trucks too still working around them in South Dakota now just moved here…enjoy you a lot you are an awesome man thanks for sharing..Hey Max…
Super inspirational stuff Alex! Bought my E55 nearly 3 years ago because of your videos and it's still my only car. Have used lots of your vids to learn how to service it. Keep up the good work
I'm scared/happy that this is my future because he explained my situation RN. I don't wanna go to collage and i don't have a dad around to help and my school (which i already dropped out) had no automotive classes.
Honestly stick with what you're doing i think the videos and schedule work well plus having a job is enabling you to get projects while not relying on TH-cam Ads to make a living
I saw the name of the video and thought “ I can relate “ because I knew nothing about cars one year ago but I make sure to learn everyday. I still clicked on this video because if I’ve learned anything it’s that even if you think you know everything about a topic there is always more to learn
Don't go TH-cam full time. Don't put all your eggs in one basket.
But any things can happen with TH-cam they can decide to cut the money they are paying creators like Alex . Big companies get pissed when people they are paying start making too much money they will come up with a reason to cut them back . Another thing is when you are young you do not think about pensions that much , but I will guarantee you when you get older you will , and if you are lucky enough to have one you will be very thankful .
you
@@12wingwfetech True words, never put all the eggs in one basket. TH-cam has cut pay in the past
not to mention who knows how long youtube will even be around. it’s hard to imagine the same popular youtubers still making videos 25 years from now
This is funny in retrospect
I'm not much of a car guy. For me, your channel attraction is really you: the way you talk and explain things, the patience and heart you put into fixing things. As long as I can feel that care and dedication, I'll keep watching.
AMG wagon. Alex keep the evening job with all of the benefits. It is financially prudent. Allan
Yeah Alex! So stoked for you man. As I did a typically 3hr "brisk return home" in 2hrs tonight in my E320 CDI-all while getting 36.7mpg, I actually thought about the first time I saw your channel on the CDI and started to research and find my car. For that I THANK YOU MY FRIEND!! Solid work.
When I was thinking about being a mechanic I was always told by mechanics "DON'T DO IT". After having avoided their wisdom I became a mechanic and now I share their wisdom when someone says they want to be a mechanic. I really enjoy working on cars but when it is done to earn a living, it is less enjoyable.
My brother taught me that.
Why?
@@robertbrandywine I love cars. I love vettes camaros lambos ect. You'll end up working on shitboxes. You dont want to end up hating your passion.
@@71sc502 It seems to me it would give you a feeling of satisfaction to fix a car that had a problem or to install new brakes, etc. You actually made a difference! Most jobs don't give you that feeling. You didn't get that?
@@robertbrandywine for the effort required, physical damage to yourself over time and the idiocy you have to deal with it isn't worth it
I've just found you from the title I searched up being, "best car mechanic teacher that's truthful and knows what they say that speaks English".
E55 AMG wagon is what I think he bought.
Oh yea that’s a decent guess
Or a 63. Same thought here.
@@scottlauren3145 He said no infotainment system which is why I didn't put down the e63 or a G55
HannibalACP82 has anyone ever manual swapped a 6.3 car?
2003 E55, very tuneable apparently.
I went from not knowing how to do an oil change to rebuilding a BMW M62tu in like a month when I first started working on cars... what I did was the equivalent of not knowing how to swim and then diving into the deep end of a pool.
Good vid....you seem like a good guy....I like that....not enough good guys about 👍🏼
jarrad Moore #truth
Great Video , I’ve been with Mercedes for 6 years now , they changed how long it takes to become Master Certified . You have to have 5 years with Mercedes and complete 37 days of in class training and over 70 hours of online training . You also have to attend a face to face written knowledge and practical assessment ..
Alex, another great video. Great story. Your Mom must be proud, she did a great job. Keep the videos coming.
I consider myself a big AMG fan. But, this was my favorite video of yours', Alex. Great stuff. Similar story here. One of the best motivators to learn something is having a broken car and needing to be somewhere while broke.
Your a good honest person man,well done with your learning journey, you should be proud.
Don't worry about TH-cam, keep your job and take care of your family. We love your videos as they are!
Don’t do youtube full time.
Welp
This didn’t age well at all.
Example of why we don’t listen to random people on the internet
Dayummm you got proved wrong 💀
Don't quite your day job, no need to add videos everyday. Once a week is enough, you let us anticipate what is coming in next video. Wish you all the best from Macedonia
$12k worth of Snap-on tools. Soooo 6 screw drivers and 3 socket wrenches?
BrandonB311 and a key ring
You remind me of my old man now after hearing this. Love the determination no chip on ur shoulder attitude, respect bro. ......ur prolly a pretty awesome dad too. 👊🏼🍻
Where did you get your headlight from that's on the 2003 E55AMG want a pair for my 2005 E55AMG ???
I believe he only replaced the lenses and I think he made a video about it a while back
Very similar story to my own. I was fortunate enough to have my Dad around though. My first car was a '70 Cutlass. My Dad handed me the keys and said, " if you can keep it running, you can keep driving it." This was back in '94. Learned quite a bit keeping that old car going. After toiling in the automotive business (sales side of things) for 8 years I jumped into the service side of the business. Took 6 more years before I took the leap and started wrenching. I did not go to a tech school, but I should have. Delayed my career by about 3 years not having that piece of paper. However, I was fortunate enough to have 2 Ford master gold techs who saw my work ethic and took me under their wing. Currently I am a diagnostic diesel tech for the blue and yellow.
I like to watch vids by guys like you because I always like to learn about how different makes and models make the boom to get down the road. Knowledge is power, learn as much as you can from the right people who simply know more than you do. Pay it forward.
Thank you for what you do. Your story, minus a couple of parts, really resonated with me. Keep up the good work.
Oh, looking forward to seeing your E55 AMG Wagon. 😉
Six munce ago I couldn't even spell injuneer and now I are one.
Your story sounds somewhat similar to mine. I always loved cars and my father and grandfather really stoked that fire in me. However, I never really turned a wrench when I inherited my grandfather’s 1967 Mustang. I went full tilt tearing that thing apart just to learn how it worked, breaking or damaging many expensive parts to replace. Caught the bug and turned wrench professionally for the better part of 20 years, proud of who I was and what I could do. However, I took a job with a big packaging company fixing trucks and one month in that job killed any ambition or hope in me and my abilities. I gave it up about 2 years ago now and I have to say, I don’t miss it whatsoever. I still love to do the work, but I will never do it for a living anymore. I am much happier, and cleaner, selling the parts for them at the local Ford garage.
Buy a cheap C6 Z06, prices are low and there is barely any good C6 Z06 vids on TH-cam
This is first time watching legit street cars 10/11/24
Mamas don’t let your babies grow up to be (auto mechanics) don’t let em play guitar or drive big ol trucks, make sure they’re doctors and lawyers n stuff!
Hardest working dude on TH-cam by far. Great guy and it shows in every video. Just a real guy doing real things well. Love the channel, bro. Solid.
Actually just started working at Mercedes as a tech, and this is inspiring man
your story speaks a lot for the person you are and for the way you parents brought you up. All the best.
Great story and thanks for sharing! I was an ASE certified technician 15 years ago and left the field to pursue a degree in engineering.
Glad I don't wrench for a living anymore but something like fleet Management sounds like a good balance, and I miss working around cars.
Definitely a wise move to keep TH-cam as a hobby and great way to fund your projects. Thanks for keeping the videos coming!
Alex, I've been following your channel since you bought the C63. You turned me into a Mercedes guy. When it was time to upgrade my old Acura TL I started looking at the Mercedes lineup. Just bought a 2013 CLS 4-Matic last month. Because of your Renntech admiration I bought a tune. The car now has a 'Legit' 540 HP in sport mode. Love the car and love your channel. Great heart to heart story!!......BTW: Yeah, with kids and wife, best keep the government job with solid insurance or you might wind up single and broke with a 2005 Chevy Cobalt.
Five foot tall Italian mom who went to the junk yard with you. Awesome! I hope you hug her often.
Alex i am proud to say you’re the main reason i got into mercedes. I’m 18 and own a w210 e55 and i just bought a w221 s550 to daily drive . Keep the vids coming!
I miss my 210 E55 so much!
I envy people who know what they want (for a career) during their high school years. Well done sir, you are an embodiment of the American dream!
This is exactly what I want to be! I didn't get my license until I was like 26 and then I became a car guy in my 30's and have been doing any work I can do myself. Many first times recently for me
Great story Alex! You should be really proud of your achievements and thank you for sharing your story!
This story that you tells us is similar to mine. My first year of high school I was trying to my best to fit in but I didn’t want to work on an oil rig. It felt like I was losing interest in school I couldn’t do it so I dropped out my first year. Then I got a call from my high school in the summer 2019 that if I wanted I could choose to change school line and go to the mechanic school line. I finally was on the right path to doing what I dream of to work with and it was car’s. I didn’t know anything I didn’t know how break system was working and all of that but when I started in August it all changed I went from knowing nothing to the top 5 student at my school. So this video motivates me to work harder and shows anything’s is possible 😊🏆
How you got started is exactly what I recommend to people, but not with an expensive daily driver... What I tell people is to buy the worst vehicle you can find at the lowest price possible and just start into it. The Blazer on my channel is a good example of that idea. $400 and it's the most dangerous vehicle I've ever known anyone to actually daily drive right up until I bought it. My "learning car" was $140, including the $40 tow bill home, 21 years ago now. Best $140 I ever spent. I didn't become a professional mechanic, but without that car I would have never gone down the career path I'm on now or continue to pursue cars as a hobby (and now TH-cam is part of that hobby too).
So... Yeah... I highly second your opinion. Buy a car and take it apart. The more broken, the more better.
Thank you, I needed to hear this. Very motivational story. I work as a technician at Caterpillar and have been discouraged lately. I want to be a better technician and really understand cars and heavy machinery.
Great story. My first German car was a 1988 cranberry red VW Jetta that cost $4,500 back in 1994.
Alex, great to hear your personal story! I'm so happy for your success, and I hope this video encourages other young viewers of your videos.
Great video. And don't ever sell the Trans Am. I worked thru high school and saved up (with my dads help) for a used 67 GTO. It was a great car but needed work. But then college got too intense and I was also working part time & I had no time to devote to the car and sold it. One of my biggest regrets. I still miss it 30 years later.
I am currently in college i graduate next semester to get my associates degree, after that I do wanna go to tech school and be a car mechanic, that is my dream. I sleep and wake up thinking about cars its my passion in life! AND YOU INSPIRED ME TO TAKE ACTION!!
Your story mirrors my journey. All it takes a life long dedication to curiosity.
Love your story man. And how hard and consistent you have worked you can see the fun and love you have for cars in all your vids. Which i am watching all of
Your story is very inspiring. I have a beginner level knowledge of cars and sometimes I feel I'm too late to even start learning, but your story was a ton of fun to listen to and I'm glad you got to where you are, you deserve it!
Thank you for opening up on your journey through your life. May your success continue for you and most importantly your family.
I have to add my dream German car has to be a vintage 1980's 300 SD turbodiesel. Back in the day you could hear one before you saw that beautiful German engineered vehicle.
Nice 👍🏼 story man , i began my career at a BMW dealership after about 1.5 year I left and I attended Mercedes Benz DRIVE which is the updated Mercedes ELITE Program of today. When u graduate you hold “systems technician” status I did about 2.5 years but unfortunately had to give it up for a government railroad mechanic job starting basically at Benz tech top rate $30-35hr and at the time at Benz I was at $20/flat rate. Which wasn’t bad at all but being married and kids the government job with overtime,pension retirement ,and very cheap health insurance ($100/month for a family package!) was just impossible to pass up. It’s always nice hearing other Mercedes technicians stories.
PERFECT timing on this video! I had just asked my son, who's a junior, to sit down with me and talk about tech school. And you published this video. Very helpful. Thank you, sir.
Can’t believe I just heard your story. Dots the I’s, crosses the T’s !
Been actively watching you for over a year, since the install of your car lift which is where you first popped up on my youtube search. I’m very picky about what I subscibe to, but always enjoy all your installments. Regular guy stuff !
Living a full existence and having a very active mind reminds me of me, except my focus is elsewhere.
That said......keep up the good work !
Good stuff man, I'm about to turn 26 but really considering switching careers to do this, I genuinely enjoy working on cars and would love to just do it rather than wasting time on a job I don't enjoy.
Hey saw your video on oil leaks, I have a C250 Sports and really like it. I saw you talking and was like WOW! this guy really knows his stuff, of course once hearing you're an EX-Mercedes Mechanic I was like this is my go to guy. Glad you're doing these videos to help us save a lot of money. Big thanks!!
Don’t quit your job Alex. You love it, it gives your family the security they need and one video a week keeps me satisfied. One every week or so also gives you the chance to vacation, not get crushed by production pressure, and enjoy life. Be patient, build the channel, and stay smart.