A nonexperimental ex post facto comparative study in the Jackson Area Career Center (Michigan) determined the correlation between basic skills grade levels indicated by standardized tests and success or failure in auto mechanics classes. In addition, the study determined whether the grade level of achievement in basic skills is correlated with employee/employer job satisfaction in related occupations. The literature review showed a correlation among basic skills, automotive classroom performance, and success on the job as an automotive technician and related areas. An examination of the reading and mathematics grade levels of 150 students was done over a 5-year period. The scattergram and the Pearson r correlation coefficient determined the relationships between the independent and dependent variables. Those students who entered auto mechanics or related occupations had the highest levels in basic skills and were satisfied with their jobs. There was a link between grade levels in basic skills and auto mechanics grades and job satisfaction. Math levels were less positively related to auto mechanics grade and job satisfaction; reading was more positively significant. In auto class, there was more emphasis on reading skills than math skills. (Four appendices--the questionnaire, textbook examples, data tables, and lesson ideas--and 16 references are included.) (NLA)