The only problem with center locks is you’re pretty much limited to the dealer if you get a flat or need tires unless the tire shop actually knows what they are doing. I’ve had to replace several wheels, brake rotors and hubs when they were left loose by a shop they didn’t follow the proper tightening procedure. I’ve also had to use a 4 foot cheater bar on a 3/4 inch breaker when they went crazy tightening them. Usually you can get away with just a new wheel nut but it can damage the mating surface of the wheel. PCCBs are amazing brakes and I’m all for them. Incredible stopping power and way less unsprung weight.

They aren’t bad. Makes the car feel less sporty and more like a cruiser. I haven’t seen many issues with them as far as reliability goes so no worries there.

This right here. I’ve driven a few beat up panameras where the owners were clearly not spending money on them. They spark knock like crazy on a hot day when running 87. I’m sure the computer had the timing backed as far off as it could but there’s only so much range when it’s made for higher octane.

High line would be Ferrari, Porsche, stuff like that.

I like the work. I make good money and the biggest reason I stayed in the job is I can usually take however much time off I want and they don’t care because I’m basically just losing my flat rate. This is basically the only job where I make 6 figures and be as lazy as I like. I’m 46 and have been doing the job since I was 17. I am not really sore, don’t have a bad back and am actually in pretty good shape because I made sure not to hurt myself. I always wore ear protection, safety glasses, never picked anything up that was too heavy, watched where my hand would go if they wrench were to slip, etc.

The only advice I have is to get into high line. It pays so much better than low line. High line techs in the LA area won’t get out of bed for less than 150k/yr and that’s only just going to get them interested.

I’ve been working on cars for over 20 years. I’ve seen probably three stuck thermostats so it isn’t common but it does happen.