In terms of automotive engineers and mechanics, engineers work on vehicles in a broader sense and are involved in everything from designing and developing new vehicles to improving performance. On the other hand, mechanics diagnose and repair vehicles, typically in a garage or workshop.

How Much Does a Mechanical Engineer Make? Mechanical Engineers made a median salary of $96,310 in 2022. The best-paid 25% made $122,680 that year, while the lowest-paid 25% made $76,980.

Engineers do not create easy-to-work designs all the time. Sometimes they create ridiculous plans that make the mechanic's job tough. Moreover, mechanics have more practical experience; they end up hating an engineer for their ridiculous designs.