In Pixar’s Cars, what job does Mater perform in Radiator Springs?

In Pixar’s Cars, Mater works as a tow truck in Radiator Springs.

Mater is an old, rusty tow truck who introduces himself as Lightning McQueen’s best friend. His job explains his ability to pull stranded vehicles and his enthusiasm for towing contests, even though his improvised stunts often create trouble. He is one of the first residents to treat Lightning as a friend rather than a famous racer.

The character’s design is based on a 1951–1952 International Harvester boom truck and a 1957 Chevrolet Task-Force tow truck. Pixar combined features from working vehicles to create Mater’s distinctive appearance, including his exposed engine, missing hood, and mismatched body panels.

Larry the Cable Guy voices Mater in the English-language films. Mater becomes especially important in Cars 2, where his innocent behavior is mistaken for espionage expertise during the World Grand Prix. He is not a mechanic or taxi; his defining occupation in Radiator Springs is towing.