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How to Become an Auto Mechanic



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As a mechanic, you will use a range of tools in your daily work. These tools include those used by other mechanics, as well diagnostic equipment, like computers. The right tools are essential to be able to work efficiently and confidently. Read on to learn how to become an auto mechanic. ASE certification has become the industry standard. This article will provide an overview of job requirements and duties. This article will help you determine if this career path suits you.

ASE certification has been recognized as the industry standard

Not all auto repair shops will require certified technicians, but many will. Earning your ASE certification can give you credibility and a competitive edge if it is something you desire to do in this field. This certification will not only give you an edge over other applicants but will also make you more attractive to employers. This certification will make you stand out from mechanics without it.


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Duties of the job

The duties of an automotive mechanic are very similar to that of other types. They repair and maintain automobiles using specialized technology. The repair and maintenance of many automotive systems is typically the responsibility of auto mechanics. This includes brakes, exhaust systems, as well as electrical suspensions. They can also help determine the best way to fix the problem. A college degree is not required for an auto mechanic, but they should have a good working knowledge of the vehicles.


Salary

While the average salary for certified mechanics hovers around $40,000 per annum, there are many other options. In fact, the highest 10% of auto mechanics earn more than $71,940 every year. Although six-figure salaries are not common for certified mechanics, they only apply to large car dealerships. The pay scale of mechanics varies depending on where they are located, how much experience they have, and what education they have. The highest salaries in the U.S. are earned by mechanics from Alaska and Fairbanks, who earn $59,000 annually, respectively. California, Arkansas and Mississippi average a salary of around $38,600 per year.

Requirements

There are many ways to become an automotive mechanic. A number of post-secondary institutions offer certificate courses that can take up to one year. If you are interested in becoming a certified mechanic, there are two options: a two-year degree or apprenticeship. If you wish to become a certified auto mechanic, you can take the ASE test during your apprenticeship. For either case, you will need to have some work experience in order for you to take the test.


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Training programs

There are many courses available to auto mechanics. Most training programs include classroom sessions as well as hands-on repair training. Graduates of these programs can pursue certification through the Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) body of knowledge. ASE certification has been recognized by the industry as a mark of competence. Many employers prefer auto mechanics with ASE certifications, as these ensure that the mechanic's skills have been rigorously tested and proven.




FAQ

What are the qualifications for an automotive technician

You must have graduated high school or GED, with excellent English and math grades. Additionally, you will need to be proficient in reading and writing. Before you can start working, you will have to pass a written exam and take a series practical tests.


What qualifications is required to become an mechanic?

You will need to pass several exams in order to become a mechanic. These exams include:

  • A test of general knowledge
  • A practical exam
  • An apprenticeship test

These tests are designed to ensure that you understand the basic concepts of mechanical engineering and physics before you start working as a mechanic.

Once you've passed these tests, you'll be eligible to work as a mechanic. You'll still need an apprenticeship. This will involve trade training.

To learn all there is to know about fixing vehicles, you will need workshops and classes. Working alongside skilled mechanics is also a must.

For mechanic success, you'll need to be focused and meticulous. You will need to pay careful attention to every aspect when repairing vehicles.

You'll need patience and persistence to become a successful mechanic. If you don’t like following directions, then this career path may not suit you.

You could make a great career out of your love for cars and the work that goes into fixing them.


What does it matter which college I attend?

It's not true. There's no difference between colleges regarding getting into the automotive industry. You will find that some schools offer better programs than others. If you are looking for something more specific, consider going to another school.



Statistics

  • There were 749,900 jobs available for automotive service technicians and mechanics in 2016, which is expected to grow by six percent through 2026. (jobhero.com)
  • According to the BLS, total auto technician employment is expected to exceed 705,000 by 2030. (uti.edu)
  • 52% of Mechanics in the United States think their salaries are enough for the cost of living in their area. (indeed.com)



External Links

lmi.dua.eol.mass.gov


bls.gov


salary.com


ase.com




How To

How to be an Automotive Technician

Automotive technicians provide repair and maintenance services to vehicles. He/she works at automotive shops, garages or service centers. He/she assists customers in fixing their cars, trucks or motorcycles. An automotive technician must know how to diagnose problems and perform repairs efficiently, safely, accurately, quickly, and correctly.

To become an automotive technician, a person must first earn an associate's degree from a vocational college. After completing the program, he/she must take the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence certification exam. ASE stands in for American Society of Mechanical Engineers. There are two sections to the ASE certification test. The first section tests for mechanical knowledge, the second for practical skills. To pass the test, you will need to visit an authorized testing location. These locations can be found online or at your local auto dealer.

A candidate must pass the state exam after passing the test to become an automotive technician. This process varies depending on where the applicant lives. Some states require applicants to take a training course while others allow them the freedom to study on their own. Some states permit technicians to work immediately after they are granted their license. Others require them to wait at least six consecutive months before they can be licensed.

To get started as an automotive technician, a person should apply to a local automotive dealership. Most employees who are hired start as apprentices. Apprenticeships typically last three years. The apprenticeship program teaches students how to change oil, adjust brakes, replace tires, clean spark plugs, inspect engine compartments, and perform routine maintenance. Some students will learn advanced repair techniques, such as changing shocks, installing air filters, and replacing engines. Schools offer classes during business hours. Some schools also offer evening classes, if necessary.

When a student has completed his/her apprenticeship, they become a journeyman. Journeymen usually spend four to five year learning how to install major systems like transmissions, differentials steering gear, suspensions, drive shafts, and steering gear. They also learn to perform complex repairs, such as remanufacturing engines, rebuilding transmissions, and troubleshooting electrical components. Many employers prefer to hire Journeymen because they understand the job well.

Once a candidate passes the required exams and is granted a license, they might consider opening their own shop. The Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that there were nearly 1.7 million jobs available for automotive mechanics in 2010. This figure is expected to rise 18 percent between 2009-2020. The candidate should expect to invest thousands of money in equipment and supplies if he/she decides to start his/her shop.

There are many factors that affect the salary of an automotive technician, such as where they live, their education and experience. A jobless person could make an average of $20,000 annually. A person with only a high-school diploma could make around $21,000 annually. Those with an associate's degree earned approximately $24,000 per year. Technicians with a bachelor’s degree made about $27,000 annually. A master's degree earns around $32,000 per a year. A common trend is for salary increases to occur so a professional making less than $30,000 can reasonably expect to be earning $40,000 or more within a few years.




 


 


How to Become an Auto Mechanic