Training in the motor vehicle repair and sales sector in Germany was examined in a study that included the following approaches: review of the sector's structure/characteristics, institutional and social context, employment practices/trends, changes in the type of work and employment/training requirements, and available initial and continuing vocational education and training; in-depth case studies of five auto repair shops and dealerships; and identification of economic, employment, and training trends. It was discovered that, although the motor industry remains the most important industry in Germany's economy, it will not likely experience any more growth. Vehicle sales are declining; however, the volume of repairs is likely to increase as cars become older. Higher qualifications are being demanded of repair shop employees because of new environmental/safety standards and technological advances. Only about 7% of the sector's employees have no relevant vocational qualification, and one in every five employees is engaged in vocational training. Nearly all employees in aftersales departments and repair shops participate regularly in in-house continuing training and/or courses provided by manufacturers, importers, suppliers, or chambers of trades; however, many people in positions of responsibility within the sector still do not consider the available training activities sufficient. (Contains 63 tables/figures and 33 references.) (MN)