Car Mechanic Simulator 2021

Car Mechanic Simulator 2021 game image

Overwhelmingly Positive

Total: 13 ThousandPositive: 12.5 ThousandNegative: 536
96%
4%
Steam review score: 9

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AI Review

Car Mechanic Simulator 2021 is a highly immersive racing and simulation game where you build a car repair empire from scratch. With over 72 cars and 4000+ unique parts, this game offers a super-realistic garage experience. Players can repair, paint, tune, and rebuild vehicles, explore auctions, and hunt for hidden gems in barns. The game features infinite randomly-generated orders, handcrafted story missions, and a race track for time trials. With an AI Community Rating of 87.83%, players praise its detailed mechanics, satisfying gameplay, and endless replayability. However, some find the early-game grind tedious and wish for more realistic features like electrical systems and advanced transmission repairs. If you enjoy hands-on simulations and love cars, this game is a must-try!

What the community wishes

Add detailed component information
The game lacks detailed information about car components, making it difficult for beginners to learn. Adding an encyclopedia or detailed descriptions of parts and their functions would enhance the educational value.
Include electrical systems and wiring
Key aspects like electrical systems, wiring harnesses, and A/C systems are missing. Adding these would make the game more realistic and comprehensive for advanced players.
Improve DLC content quality
Some DLCs, like Mazda and Lotus, only include 2 cars, which feels underwhelming. Expanding DLC content with more cars and features would improve value.
Reduce early-game grind
The early game is too grindy, with slow progression in money and XP. Adjusting the economy or providing more rewarding early tasks would improve the experience.
Add multiplayer or co-op mode
Introducing online multiplayer or co-op gameplay would enhance replayability and allow players to collaborate on repairs or projects.
Improve procedural realism
Many real-world steps, like removing drain plugs or using specific tools, are skipped. Adding more realistic procedures would appeal to experienced mechanics.
Expand transmission repair options
Players cannot disassemble or repair transmissions. Adding manual, automatic, and trans-axle repair options would increase depth and realism.
Enhance customization options
More paintable objects and customization options, like head gaskets and bearings, would satisfy players with OCD tendencies and improve creativity.
Improve in-game music quality
The in-game music is considered poor and often turned off. Adding better tracks or allowing seamless integration of external music would enhance the experience.
Add more realistic exhaust sounds
Exhaust sounds are not accurate. Improving sound design for engines and exhausts would make the game more immersive for car enthusiasts.
Include more detailed engine bays
Engine bays are simplified. Adding more components, even if it reduces car variety, would make the game more realistic and educational.
Improve garage management mechanics
Garage management is unrealistic, with poorly paid jobs and no customer requests for common tasks like tire changes or welding. Adding realistic jobs would improve immersion.
Add NPCs and story elements
The game lacks NPCs and a story. Adding these elements would create a more immersive world and provide a better sense of progression.
Improve UI and menu navigation
The game relies heavily on menus, which can feel tedious. Making interactions more immersive, like physically grabbing tools, would improve the experience.
Add more realistic torque settings
Torque settings and timing adjustments are missing. Adding these mechanics would appeal to players seeking a more realistic simulation.
Expand car restoration features
While car restoration is satisfying, expanding features like welding or painting for customer cars would add variety and realism.
Improve part identification system
Parts are too easy to identify and replace. Adding complexity, like hidden issues or harder-to-remove parts, would make repairs more challenging and realistic.
Add more detailed tutorials
The game has a steep learning curve. Adding more detailed tutorials or step-by-step guides would help new players get started more easily.
Include more accurate car models
Some car models, like the 96 V8 Camaro, have inaccuracies (e.g., dual overhead cams). Ensuring cars match real-world specifications would improve authenticity.
Add more workshop content
The game needs more content to keep players engaged after unlocking everything. Expanding workshop content and updates would extend replayability.

Reviews

Toxicity trend

N-Grams

polished and welltaught me withinabsolutely hate howextremely confusing becauseenjoying the experience tremendouslycool game iflong way fromwould nearly golack of infoperfect game forvery similar tostarted a rabbitmentally straining forwonderful and goingdefinitely a funteach you allvery highly recommendedhighly recommend thisquite a bit

Keywords

What the community loves
fun
18
recommend
6
great
5
immersive
5
enjoy
5
detailed
4
good
4
cool
3
entertaining
3
satisfying
3
educational
3
nice
2
exciting
2
easy
2
better
2
Where the community is undecided
cars
17
mechanics
8
car
7
simulator
7
mechanic
7
repair
5
fix
5
jobs
5
game
5
mission
4
time
4
engine
4
garage
4
workshop
4
realistic
4
What the community dislikes
disappointing
6
repetitive
5
frustrating
5
annoying
3
missing
3
unrealistic
3
tedious
3
confusing
2
easy
2
money
2
simple
2
unnecessary
2
unplayable
2
infuriating
2
error
2

In-depth analysis of most impactful community reviews

Positive

I don't know that much about cars. Or at least I did not know almost anything about cars. This game literally taught me within a few weeks enough that I no longer look at cars as spaceships, but actually at least understand something.

  • Sentiments

    • I feel that the game has significantly improved my understanding of cars, transforming my perspective from seeing them as complex and unfamiliar to something I can now comprehend.
    • I appreciate how the game taught me about cars in a way that was both engaging and educational, making the learning process enjoyable.
    • I initially knew almost nothing about cars, but the game helped me gain a foundational understanding within a short period of time.
    • I no longer view cars as mysterious or alien-like, which is a direct result of the knowledge I gained from playing this game.
    • I feel a sense of accomplishment from learning something new and practical through the medium of a video game.
    • The game made a complex subject like cars accessible and understandable, which I find very impressive.
    • I am grateful for the game's ability to teach me about cars in a way that felt natural and not overwhelming.
    • I feel more confident in my understanding of cars now, thanks to the knowledge I gained from this game.
    • The game has made me realize that learning about cars can be both fun and rewarding.
    • I feel that the game has bridged a gap in my knowledge, making me more informed and less intimidated by cars.

Positive

I went into Car Mechanic Simulator 2021 knowing next to nothing about what's under the hood of a typical car; 60+ hours later (and counting), I've learned a lot and I'm enjoying the experience tremendously. This is a polished and well constructed game, and after an initial learning curve, it becomes intuitive and highly addictive. It is very satisfying to troubleshoot and complete a complicated repair job; and enormously satisfying to buy an abandoned husk of a car from the junkyard and repair it into a gleaming beauty (and make a lot of money doing so). My only quibble is that the in-game music is really bad and best turned off. Very highly recommended.

  • Sentiments

    • I went into Car Mechanic Simulator 2021 knowing next to nothing about cars, but after 60+ hours, I've learned a lot and am enjoying the experience tremendously.
    • The game is polished and well-constructed, making it a high-quality experience.
    • After an initial learning curve, the game becomes intuitive and highly addictive.
    • It is very satisfying to troubleshoot and complete a complicated repair job.
    • It is enormously satisfying to buy an abandoned car from the junkyard and repair it into a gleaming beauty while making a lot of money.
    • The in-game music is really bad and is best turned off.
    • I highly recommend this game despite the poor in-game music.

Positive

- Spent 30 mins. dismantling the entirety of a V8 engine to replace 3 pistons. - Put it back together in another 30 mins. - Turns out a 4th piston was 1% short of being able to work with the others. - Dismantling began anew, replaced the piston, reassembly complete. - Mistook an older piston for one the first 3. - ...Dismantling began anew... 10/10, would nearly go bald again due to stress.

  • Sentiments

    • I felt a sense of accomplishment after successfully dismantling and reassembling the V8 engine, despite the challenges.
    • I experienced frustration when I realized a 4th piston was 1% short of working, requiring me to start over.
    • I felt determined to complete the task, even after multiple setbacks and having to dismantle the engine repeatedly.
    • I was stressed and nearly overwhelmed by the repetitive nature of the task, which made me feel like I was going bald from stress.
    • I made a mistake by mistaking an older piston for one of the first 3, which added to my frustration and workload.
    • Despite the challenges, I found the experience rewarding and would do it again, as indicated by the 10/10 rating.
    • I felt a mix of satisfaction and exhaustion after finally completing the task, knowing I overcame significant obstacles.

Positive

It's definitely a fun game for people who want to do things that require metaphorically "using your hands" and piecing things together. It taught me a lot over the last year or so about car parts and mechanics, but also made me want to learn more, and started a rabbit hole I wasn't expecting to be on. Now I'm looking to make a career change into automotive/mechanics and it's all thanks to these folks. I only wish it was more detailed in the aspect that it also included the electrical systems, hoses, and more that make up what a car fully is.

  • Sentiments

    • I find the game to be a lot of fun, especially for those who enjoy hands-on activities and problem-solving.
    • The game has taught me a lot about car parts and mechanics over the past year, which I find very valuable.
    • Playing the game has sparked a deep interest in me to learn more about automotive mechanics, which I didn’t expect.
    • The game has inspired me to consider a career change into the automotive/mechanics field, which I am grateful for.
    • I appreciate the game for introducing me to a new passion and career path, which I attribute to the developers.
    • I wish the game included more detailed aspects, such as electrical systems and hoses, to provide a more comprehensive understanding of cars.
    • The game has been a gateway for me into a rabbit hole of learning about automotive mechanics, which I find exciting.
    • I feel the game could be improved by adding more detailed content about the full composition of a car.
    • The game has been a significant influence on my personal and professional growth, which I highly value.
    • I am thankful to the developers for creating a game that has had such a profound impact on my life.

Positive

It's weird to recommend this game because it's much more useful for someone who knows absolutely nothing about cars than for someone who has experience and is a fan of car repair. If you don't even know how to change the coolant, or what an alternator is then I recommend getting this game ASAP. It will teach you all the BASICS about car maintenance and repair. It shows you where all the MAJOR components are for the Engine, Suspension, Drive train etc. but it won't include anything detailed such as wiring, electrical system or hoses. It's the perfect game for a hobbyist who wants to learn more about cars and has plenty of stuff to do to keep you entertained for a long time. The Bad: The game doesn't offer enough information about the components or what they do, for a truly learning experience it should have plenty of information of what each component is and how it works. Right now the game is on a limbo where it is too basic in most areas but at the same time the lack of info can make it complicated for a beginner. The DLC is bad, some of it like the Mazda and Lotus DLC only include 2 cars and that's it. I think the Nissan one is better though. Quite a bit of a grind when getting started, making money and XP is really hard at the beginning and it will take some time before you can do cool stuff like car restoration from the Junk yards and barns. Overall, I recommend this game. It has a lot of stuff to do and it can teach you the basics, but it's still a long way from a proper mechanics game. I wish in the future there is a much complex (Closer to real life) engine bay with all the components even if there are less variety in cars. It also needs an encyclopedia with a parts list, and information on each component for people learning for the first time.

  • Sentiments

    • I recommend this game for beginners who know nothing about cars, as it teaches the basics of car maintenance and repair effectively.
    • I find the game useful for hobbyists who want to learn more about cars and stay entertained for a long time.
    • I feel the game lacks detailed information about components, which limits its potential as a truly educational experience.
    • I think the game is in a limbo, being too basic in some areas while still being complicated for beginners due to insufficient information.
    • I dislike the DLC, as some packs like the Mazda and Lotus DLC only include 2 cars, which feels underwhelming.
    • I appreciate the Nissan DLC, as it seems better compared to the others.
    • I find the early game grind frustrating, as earning money and XP is difficult, delaying access to fun activities like car restoration.
    • I recommend the game overall, as it has a lot of content and teaches the basics effectively, despite its shortcomings.
    • I wish the game had a more complex engine bay closer to real life, even if it meant fewer car varieties.
    • I believe the game needs an encyclopedia with a parts list and detailed information on each component to better support beginners.

Negative

I played Car Mechanic Simulator 2018 and gave on up on it for the same issues that I've given up on 2021 for. I was hoping the gameplay would be changed for 2021, but unfortunately its not. I've been an ASE certified Master Mechanic for 3 years and have been a professional mechanic for 8 years now. This game is EXTREMELY confusing because of my background, which is weird because you would think the opposite... The difficulty and confusion comes from this game not actually being a real simulator. They take a procedure and cut a % of the steps out of the real world procedure. For example, you don't even pull the drain plug out of the oil pan to change the oil. It took me forever to figure out why I couldn't drain the oil, because I could clearly see the drain plug, but couldn't figure out how to remove it. Turns out, you just stick your catch can under it and select "drain". Even how the parts are mounted to the vehicle, it completely misses nuts/bolts. An example of this was there wasn't 2 or 3 nuts holding the top of the strut to the body of the vehicle, just the 2 bolts connection the strut to the knuckle. Basically every single procedure that i did was missing steps and it make it really difficult for me to follow what the next step was, since all of these things are like second nature to me at this point. I wouldn't recommend for somebody who actually works on cars because of this. I LOVE the idea of this game and have given it 2 separate chances, years apart from each other, and had the same issues both times. I would however recommend for somebody who doesn't know about cars, because you can see how operations are done on a VERY BASIC level. Some skills learned from this game can definitely be applied to real life.

  • Sentiments

    • I was disappointed that the gameplay in Car Mechanic Simulator 2021 did not change from the 2018 version, which led me to give up on both games.
    • As an ASE certified Master Mechanic with 8 years of professional experience, I found the game extremely confusing because it does not simulate real-world procedures accurately.
    • The game cuts out a significant percentage of steps from real-world procedures, making it difficult for me to follow and understand the next steps.
    • I struggled to figure out how to drain the oil because the game skips steps like removing the drain plug, which is counterintuitive to my real-world experience.
    • The way parts are mounted in the game is unrealistic, as it omits nuts and bolts, which further added to my confusion and frustration.
    • I love the idea of the game and gave it two separate chances, years apart, but encountered the same issues both times.
    • I would not recommend this game to someone who actually works on cars due to its lack of realism and missing steps in procedures.
    • I would recommend this game to someone who doesn’t know about cars, as it provides a very basic understanding of how operations are done.
    • Some skills learned from this game can be applied to real life, which is a positive aspect for beginners or those unfamiliar with car mechanics.

Negative

I think for many people this is a great game. If you're looking for a true sim, an immersive experience. It won't be great. In that way it was not what I expected. I don't know if its the fact I chose easy mode or if that's just the way it's designed but this game is basically "Menu's the game" which is not what I expected. I thought this would be very immersive. Like, go grab the Socket wrench from the toolbox and put on the 18mm socket, undo the wheel lugs, put back the wrench or drop it on the floor. Get the right fluid off the shelf and pour it into the engine, miss and make a mess. Choose the wrong fluid? Congrats, you blew up the engine. But no, its just menus and menus and menus. Change the coolant fluid? Go to car in the lot, open menu on the car, select to put on the lift (you don't drive it in?) Now click the hood to open it, what do you mean there's supposed to be a hood release lever inside the car? Anyways, click on the coolant reservoir, open menu, select the fluid removal tool, remove the fluid... Don't I have to open the cap to remove the fluid? No? Well, OK, I guess. Now open the menu to exit the fill mode and change to "part removal mode" and NOW you remove the cap. Then, automatically fill with the correct fluid from the infinite jug of fluids. Keep going. Keep going. Keep going. Are you done yet? Oh wait that's right it's an infinite jug. Does it make a mess if you over fill? No. That's nice I guess. Now, open the menu or press escape to exit filling mode and automatically put the cap back on. Need to order parts? Menus (which TBF is expected). Need to change a tire? Menus. Need to change the brakes? Menus. It just was not what I was expecting...

  • Sentiments

    • I think for many people this is a great game, but it was not what I expected in terms of being a true sim or immersive experience.
    • The game feels like 'Menu's the game' due to the heavy reliance on menus for every action, which was disappointing and not immersive.
    • I expected a more hands-on experience, like physically grabbing tools and making mistakes, but the game lacks that level of detail.
    • Changing coolant fluid involves a tedious and unrealistic process of navigating multiple menus, which feels overly simplified.
    • The infinite jug of fluids and automatic actions, like putting the cap back on, remove any sense of realism or challenge.
    • Ordering parts and performing tasks like changing tires or brakes are all menu-driven, which feels repetitive and uninspired.
    • The game's design, especially on easy mode, feels overly simplified and lacks the depth I was hoping for.
    • The lack of physical interaction, such as driving the car onto the lift or manually opening the hood, breaks immersion.
    • The game's mechanics, like automatically filling fluids without consequences for overfilling, feel too forgiving and unrealistic.
    • While the game might appeal to others, it did not meet my expectations for a realistic and immersive simulation experience.

Negative

i thought this game was actually a realistic game. being that it had simulator in the name but its not don't get me wrong its close but very far at the same time there's a lot that goes into fixing a car and this is not it. in the game there was a certain job that i did and it involve removing a timing belt it didn't even require timing the engine too make the car run properly we basically just slapped the parts in and called it a day. what if a person decided to use this game as a reference to take apart their irl car they would 100% blow up the car. this is coming from a car mechanic of 15 years

  • Sentiments

    • I thought the game was realistic at first because it had 'simulator' in the name, but it fell short of my expectations.
    • The game is close to being realistic but still very far from accurately representing car repair processes.
    • There's a lot that goes into fixing a car, and this game doesn't capture that complexity.
    • I did a job in the game that involved removing a timing belt, but it didn't require timing the engine, which is unrealistic.
    • The game simplifies car repair to the point where you just slap parts in and call it a day, which is not how it works in real life.
    • If someone used this game as a reference to fix their real car, they would likely blow it up due to the inaccuracies.
    • As a car mechanic with 15 years of experience, I find the game's portrayal of car repair to be misleading and incorrect.

Negative

Really wish there was a "mixed" option There's almost no difference between 2021 and 2018. Graphics, physics, the way parts interact with each other, etc These games are terrible simulators. So many parts are shared between all vehicles, most cars have no wiring, no fuel lines, no brake lines, everything is SUPER simple. It's not a mechanic simulator, it's baby's jigsaw puzzle but with cars. You can instantly tell what parts you need to replace by how rusty/corroded it looks, and they're always super easy to remove. I wish it was this easy in real life! No worrying about timing or wiring, no worrying about brake lines or fuel lines, just remove a bolt and pop the new part in.

  • Sentiments

    • I feel disappointed that there is almost no difference between the 2021 and 2018 versions of the game, especially in terms of graphics, physics, and part interactions.
    • I find the game to be a terrible simulator because many parts are shared between all vehicles, and most cars lack detailed systems like wiring, fuel lines, and brake lines.
    • I think the game is overly simplistic, comparing it to a baby's jigsaw puzzle rather than a realistic mechanic simulator.
    • I appreciate how easy it is to identify and replace parts based on their rusty or corroded appearance, which makes the game less frustrating.
    • I wish real-life car repairs were as simple as in the game, where you don’t have to worry about timing, wiring, brake lines, or fuel lines.
    • I find it unrealistic that parts are always super easy to remove, which takes away from the challenge and realism of the game.
    • I feel the game lacks depth and complexity, which makes it less engaging for someone looking for a realistic mechanic simulation.
    • I think the game could benefit from more detailed and realistic mechanics, such as including wiring and fuel lines, to make it more immersive.

Negative

I can't recommend this due to false advertisement. This is not a car mechanic simulator. It's a brain dead simulator. Started off ok, but after a while got repetitive and boring. All these simulation games are missing the same thing. Engagement. If this was supposed to teach me something embrace that and teach me don't just give me a list of things to do and leave it at that. I've disassemble so many engines and I still don't even know what a spark plug even does.

  • Sentiments

    • I feel misled by the game's false advertisement, as it does not deliver on the promise of being a car mechanic simulator.
    • I find the game to be overly simplistic and lacking depth, describing it as a 'brain dead simulator'.
    • I initially thought the game was okay, but over time it became repetitive and boring.
    • I feel that the game lacks engagement, which is a common issue I find in many simulation games.
    • I expected the game to teach me about car mechanics, but it failed to provide meaningful educational content.
    • I am frustrated that despite disassembling many engines, I still don't understand basic components like a spark plug.

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