Electronic Equipment Installers and Repairers, Motor Vehicles: $48,420 Salary Guide 2025
Electronic equipment installers and repairers for motor vehicles earn a median salary of $48,420 per year, or about $23 an hour. The typical range runs from $35,590 at the 10th percentile to $70,170 at the 90th, according to 2024 BLS estimates. With only 8,550 jobs nationwide and a projected decline of 13.6% over the next decade, this is a small, shrinking occupation—but one that still sees about 600 openings each year due to replacement needs.
How much Electronic Equipment Installers and Repairers, Motor Vehicles earn
The national median wage is $48,420, with the average earner taking home $51,560. That translates to roughly $23 per hour. The bottom 10% make $35,590 or less, while the top 10% earn $70,170 or more.
Pay varies significantly by employer type and experience. Those in automotive repair and maintenance tend to earn around the median, while specialized electronics shops or manufacturers may push closer to the top of the range.
Pay by state
Location matters a lot. The highest-paying state is Kentucky, with an average of $64,570. New York ($60,220), Colorado ($60,070), Georgia ($59,550), and Washington ($59,010) also offer well above the national median.
On the lower end, Pennsylvania averages just $26,640—barely half the national median. Kansas ($33,380) and Wisconsin ($38,070) also fall well below average. If you're considering this career, moving to a high-paying state can boost your earnings by tens of thousands.
How to become Electronic Equipment Installers and Repairers, Motor Vehicle
Most employers require a high school diploma or equivalent, plus on-the-job training. Some positions prefer an associate degree in electronics or automotive technology. Vocational programs at community colleges typically last one to two years and cover electrical systems, diagnostics, and installation techniques.
Certification is not mandatory but can improve job prospects. The Mobile Electronics Certified Professional (MECP) credential is widely recognized. Entry-level workers often start as assistants, learning to install and repair audio, navigation, security, and other electronic systems in vehicles.
- High school diploma or GED required.
- On-the-job training or 1-2 year vocational program common.
- Optional MECP certification boosts hiring chances.
- Typical entry: installer's assistant or apprentice.
Job outlook
The BLS projects a 13.6% employment decline from 2024 to 2034, a much steeper drop than the average for all occupations. That's a loss of about 1,160 jobs over the decade. Still, roughly 600 openings per year are expected as workers retire or leave the field.
The decline is linked to increasingly integrated vehicle electronics—more systems are built in at the factory, reducing aftermarket installation demand. Technology changes, such as wireless updates and simpler interfaces, also reduce repair needs. Those who specialize in advanced systems like driver-assistance tech may fare better.
Frequently asked questions
What is the salary for Electronic Equipment Installers and Repairers, Motor Vehicles?
Median annual salary is $48,420, with a typical range of $35,590 to $70,170. Mean wage is $51,560, about $23 per hour.
How do I become an Electronic Equipment Installer and Repairer for Motor Vehicles?
You need a high school diploma and on-the-job training. An associate degree or vocational certificate in electronics or automotive technology helps. Optional MECP certification can make you more competitive.
Is the job outlook good for this career?
No, the BLS projects a 13.6% decline in employment from 2024 to 2034, though about 600 openings per year will arise from turnover.
Which state pays the most for this job?
Kentucky, with an average wage of $64,570. Other top states are New York ($60,220), Colorado ($60,070), Georgia ($59,550), and Washington ($59,010).
What do Electronic Equipment Installers and Repairers, Motor Vehicles do?
They install, maintain, and repair electronic systems in vehicles, such as audio, navigation, security, and telematics equipment.
Salary figures are U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates (OEWS / Employment Projections). For informational purposes only; not career or financial advice. See the full Electronic Equipment Installers and Repairers, Motor Vehicles data.