Figure out what does make you happy, do it. You only get one life, so enjoy it while you have it. If you hate your job, find a new one. And it's never too late to go back to school, although it may get harder.

Weird though what you're hearing about the auto industry. Everything I've heard is that mechanics and technicians are becoming even more vital now that more and more people can't afford to buy new cars nearly as often.