On why people mistrust mechanics:
"A car is an extension of a person, and people are very particular about trusting others with such an important thing. In any trade you have individuals who will try to take advantage of people. Because mechanics are generally uneducated and unprepared they are easy prey. A lawyer has the tools to talk himself out of the deepest grave, but most mechanics lack this ability. Some mechanics are in it only for the money, and others do it just because they love cars."

Why he chose to become a mechanic: Because he loves cars.

On why there are so many inept mechanics doing business:
"The industry wants to keep wages down and the end result is you tend to wind up with a lot of crooks who don't know anything about fixing cars. It takes about 10 years to become a good mechanic."

Best part of the job: When a client acknowledges his good work.
Worst: Always having dirty hands. Zaven washes his hands throughout the day but still must scrub for at least half an hour every night after work before they are even remotely clean.

                                                          by CHRIS BARRY