In your day to day work as a mechanic, you'll use a wide variety of tools. These include tools used by other mechanics and diagnostic equipment, such as computers. It is important to have the right tools in order to work quickly and confidently. Learn how to become an automotive mechanic. ASE certification is the industry standard. The following article gives an overview about the job duties, and what is required. This article will help determine if this career path is right.
ASE certification is industry standard
While not all auto repair shops will require their technicians to be certified, many will. Earning your ASE Certification will give credibility and help you to compete in the field. You will be more attractive to employers if you have this certification. This certification will also set you apart among mechanics who don't have the credential.
Job duties
The tasks of an auto mechanic are very similar to those of other types. They use specialized technologies to assess the need for repairs and maintenance on automobiles. Most auto mechanics are responsible for maintaining and repairing many different automotive systems. They are also responsible for diagnosing and determining the best action for the vehicle. A college degree is not required for an auto mechanic, but they should have a good working knowledge of the vehicles.
Salary
Although the average annual salary for certified mechanics is approximately $40,000, it's possible to make a much higher salary. The top 10% of auto mechanics actually earned more than $71,940 annually. Certified mechanics make six-figure salaries, but these are only for large auto dealerships. Auto mechanics are paid according to their education, experience, and location. Fairbanks and Alaska mechanics are the highest paid in the United States, earning $59,000 and $59,000 respectively. California, Arkansas and Mississippi average a salary of around $38,600 per year.
Requirements
There are several routes to becoming an auto mechanic. Many post-secondary institutions offer certificate programs which take less than a year. To become a certified mechanic you have two choices: an apprenticeship or a two year degree program. You can take ASE tests during your apprenticeship if desired to become a licensed auto mechanic. You will need some experience in order to pass the test in either case.
Training programs
There are many training options for auto mechanics. The majority of training programs combine classroom instruction with hands-on repair training. Graduates can apply for certification through Automotive Service Excellence (ASE). ASE certification is an industry-recognized standard of competence. Employers prefer to hire auto mechanics who have ASE certifications. This certifies that their skills are tested and proven.
FAQ
What information do I need about car mechanics
You don't need to know anything about cars to work as an auto mechanic. You only need to know how to fix them. Most people start by fixing things like changing tires or fitting brake pads.
You need to be able read and comprehend diagrams, follow written instructions and adhere to basic principles of good practice. Also, you will need to know how to tell if parts require replacing or repair.
It's important to remember that you shouldn't attempt to repair vehicles without having received proper training and guidance. This is especially true when you are dealing with costly components like engines and transmissions.
Although you won't be required to know much about cars you should have a solid understanding of the fundamentals and principles of mechanical engineering. This is how you understand the mechanisms behind engines and brakes.
It's also worth noting that you'll need to be prepared to deal with all sorts of situations. For instance, you might find yourself in charge of a vehicle that has been in a serious accident. You will also need to be able to deal with accidents and breakdowns.
You should also be open to learning quickly. It is important to be able both to diagnose problems and perform simple maintenance tasks, such as tightening nuts.
Can I work as an auto mechanic without a degree? Can I study part time?
While a degree is not required, it does help. Employers are more likely to hire candidates who have completed a complete degree. It shows you are dedicated and have worked hard to achieve your goals.
It doesn't mean that you can't work while you study. Many universities permit students to take courses during the summer holidays, and then finish their studies in the fall. Other universities permit students to take classes part-time during the school year.
What can I do to fix my car as an hobby?
Take up a hobby in car repair if you have an interest. You could learn how to repair them, buy parts for them, sell them or just enjoy them. This would be a wonderful hobby if you're looking to find something completely different.
It isn't easy to turn it into a full time job. This requires dedication and hard work. You'll also need to invest a lot.
You might not have a compelling reason to get involved in the car industry.
What qualifications are required to become a mechanic
A series of tests is required to be a mechanic. These include:
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A general knowledge test
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A practical examination
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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.
You'll be eligible for work as a mechanic after you have passed the tests. But, you will still need an apprenticeship. This will include training in the trade.
To fully understand the mechanics of vehicle repairs, you'll need workshops and classes. You'll also have to work alongside experienced mechanics.
For mechanic success, you'll need to be focused and meticulous. Vehicle repairs require you to be very attentive.
To become a successful mechanic you'll need patience. If you don’t love to follow instructions, this may not the right career path.
If you enjoy cars and fixing them, this job could be a good fit for you.
Is being a mechanic apprentice hard?
It's not easy, but you learn fast, and there are many opportunities for advancement.
You will need to be patient and persevering. It is also important to know how you can fix vehicles, trucks, or motorcycles.
There is a lot of pressure from customers and family members who want you to succeed. But, you shouldn’t be pressured to make any decisions you aren’t happy with.
This is a career that you might enjoy if you are passionate about fixing cars. It is a job you can get a decent salary for and help build your business.
But, you might prefer a different path. This is where you might be interested in becoming a technician.
This involves using your technical expertise to support other workers. Technical support could include helping technicians to troubleshoot issues or teaching them new techniques.
Another option is to be a service advisor. This is where you can offer advice and assistance to customers who bring their vehicles to a garage.
The decision you make will depend on what you are looking for. There are many options to choose from, and it is up to you which one suits you the best.
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)
- The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that the job outlook for automotive service technicians and mechanics is expected to decline by 4% from 2019 to 2029. (indeed.com)
- According to the BLS, the median annual salary for automotive service technicians and mechanics in the United States was $44,050 in May 2020. (uti.edu)
External Links
How To
How to become an automotive technician
Automotive technicians provide repair and maintenance services to vehicles. He/she works in car dealerships as well as auto shops, garages, and service centers. He/she works with customers to repair their cars and trucks, ATVs or snowmobiles. An automotive technician must have the ability to quickly diagnose and fix problems.
An associate degree should be obtained from a vocational school if you wish to work as an auto technician. After completing this program, he/she must pass the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) certification exam. ASE stands to American Society of Mechanical Engineers. The ASE certification test consists of two sections. One section tests knowledge of mechanical components, while the other section tests skills in practical areas. You must attend one of the authorized testing sites to take the test. These locations are available online or through your local automotive dealer.
After passing the exam, a candidate must take a state exam before being licensed as an automobile technician. It varies depending on the location of the applicant. 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.
Apply to your local dealership to become an automotive technician. Most new employees begin as apprentices once they are hired. Apprenticeships last for three years. During this time, a student learns how to perform basic repairs, such as changing oil, adjusting brakes, replacing tires, cleaning spark plugs, inspecting engine compartments, and performing routine maintenance. Some students are taught how to repair engines and replace transmission fluids. Most schools offer classes during regular business hours. However, some schools offer evening classes if needed.
Once a student is done with his/her apprenticeship he/she can become a master journeyman. Journeymen typically spend four to five years learning how to install major systems, such as transmissions, differentials, steering gear, suspensions, and drive shafts. They also learn to perform complex repairs, such as remanufacturing engines, rebuilding transmissions, and troubleshooting electrical components. Many employers prefer hiring journeymen because they know the job well and understand what the customer expects.
If a candidate successfully passes the required exams and receives a license, he/she might want to consider starting his/her own shop. According to Bureau of Labor Statistics, there were almost 1.7 million available jobs in the automotive mechanic field in 2010. That number was expected to grow by 18 percent from 2009 to 2020. When a candidate plans to open his/her own shop he/she should be ready to invest thousands of dollars in equipment.
Automotive technicians' salaries depend on many factors such as the employer, whereabouts, education level and experience. A jobless person could make an average of $20,000 annually. Someone who has only a highschool diploma could earn around 21,000 dollars per year. Earnings for those with an associate's diploma are approximately $24,000/year. A technician with a bachelor's degree earned approximately $27,000 annually. The average annual salary for those with master's degrees was $32,000. Salaries are increasing so that a professional earning less than $30,000 could expect to make $40,000 in a few years.