Nick Mullender
Lead RAC Mobile Mechanic
“I’ve been part of the vehicle repair and maintenance trade for more than 36 years, straight out of school. Over the years, I’ve worked in small independent garages and major dealerships, including Ford. And I’ve gained full mechanic qualifications and specialist EV training. Nine years ago, I joined the RAC as a roadside patrol. Since then, I’ve moved into the mobile mechanics team and now serve as Lead Mechanic for the whole western region of the UK.”
Nick's goal
“My goal is to make sure that our mechanics deliver top quality work. I coach and guide my team to work efficiently and confidently. I constantly review customer feedback to keep our standards high. I also work on improving our tools and equipment, so we can handle a wider range of repairs quickly and effectively.”
Nick's experience
Senior Lead Technician and Lead Technician, the RAC
In 2022, Nick joined the RAC’s newly formed SMR division. He was soon promoted to Lead Technician and then Senior Lead Technician.
Patrol, the RAC
In 2016, Nick joined the RAC as a patrol in the West Midlands. This meant helping customers with breakdowns and making repairs to get them back on the road. He obtained an IMI EV Tech qualification during this time.
Mechanic, Ford
Nick gained valuable experience working as a mechanic at a Ford dealership. In this role he gained brand-specific expertise and broadened his technical skills.
Garage Owner
Nick also ran his own garage for seven years. He specialised in mechanical repairs, from clutches and cambelts to full engine work.
Fleet Maintenance Mechanic
At the age of 21, Nick moved from the local garage to a news company with a fleet of more than 700 vehicles. He worked with a team of mechanics to make sure the fleet was roadworthy, safe, and well maintained. Nick held this role for more than 20 years.
Local Garage and Education
Nick began his career working at a local garage during the day while studying at college in the evenings. Here he earned his City & Guilds Level 1 and 2 qualifications in Vehicle Repairs and Servicing.
Nick’s commenting on car servicing, repairs, and battery health…
There are a few types of service available: interim, full, and manufacturer’s. The advantage of a manufacturer service is it will replace things that the others won’t. Some items are time critical and need to be carried out in line with manufacturer’s guidelines.
Having a regular service keeps your engine in top condition. Oil deteriorates over time, making the engine less efficient and potentially causing wear on components. A service will also spot potential safety issues with brakes, suspension, and tyres.
Your brakes are probably the most important part of your car. Worn brakes can cause longer stopping distances, brake judder, and a spongy feeling in the brake pedal.
A healthy battery will help you avoid breakdowns and keep your car in top condition. An old worn battery can cause starting issues and could fail any time – leaving you stranded.
