Safety is an important consideration when choosing a family car. Consumer Reports monitors the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration data to ensure that all vehicles on their list have the highest Overall Safety Rating. No matter if you are looking to buy a small car or an SUV, safety-conscious buyers will find the best choices on our list.
Skoda
Skoda could be the right choice for you if your family is looking for a car. Skoda's cars are both safe and luxurious. Safety features include ABS with EBD, hill climb and descent control, air conditioning and cruise control.
Skoda Octavia
Skoda Octavia has been voted one of the most loved family cars. Its MQB platform ensures it is practical without compromising. The boot is big, with 590 litres of trunk space in the hatchback and 609 litres inside the estate. And the rear seats offer excellent head- and legroom. It lives up to Skoda's reputation for excellent handling and value for the money.
Skoda Tiguan
Skoda Tiguan features many of the essential features a family vehicle should have. The 1.5-litre petrol engine produces 150 horsepower. The diesel engine produces 150PS and is a bigger 2.0-litre unit. The Tiguan is also available with all-wheel drive.
Volkswagen Touran
The Volkswagen Touran, a spacious, comfortable car suitable for seven families, is an excellent choice. Its wide seats have plenty of headroom and legroom, and the second row can be folded individually. The second row can be folded individually and has ISOFIX points for child car seats.
Kia Soul
The Kia Soul has had a series of facelifts in 2011 to bring a more conventional look to its family sedan. The headlights are larger, and the front is less boxy than it was before. For those who like a sportier appearance, the Soul GT-Line has body-color trim and unique wheels. The Soul GT-Line also features a range of driver assistance such as automated emergency braking, front cross-traffic alert, and lanes-keeping assist.
SEAT Leon
The SEAT Leon Family Car is one the most desirable family cars on sale. The Type 5F-series introduced the Leon in 2012. It received a facelifted in 2017. It's an attractive and sporty car to ride. It can be purchased with additional media tech and a 3-cylinder petrol engine. Or, you can opt for the Cupra 300 model.
FAQ
Is it hard to be a mechanic apprentice?
Although it's not an easy task, you will learn quickly and have many opportunities to advance.
You will need patience and perseverance. You must also know how to fix cars, trucks, and motorcycles.
There is a lot of pressure from customers and family members who want you to succeed. However, you shouldn't be forced to make difficult decisions.
It could be a great job choice if you love fixing cars. This job allows you to make a decent wage and build up your company.
But you may prefer another path. You might consider becoming a technician in this instance.
This means that you can use your technical knowledge to help other workers. You might be able to assist technicians in troubleshooting problems or teach them new techniques.
Another option is to become an advisor in service. Here, you'll provide advice and assistance to customers when they bring their cars 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.
How can I fix my automobile as a hobby.
You might be interested in cars as a hobby. You could repair them yourself, buy parts for them and sell them. Or just have fun with them. It would make a great pastime if you're looking for something different to do.
It isn't easy to turn it into a full time job. This requires dedication and hard work. It will also require a large amount of investment.
It is best to avoid getting involved in car accidents unless you have good reasons.
What should I know about car mechanics
To be an auto mechanic, you don't have to know much about cars. All you need to know is how to fix things. That's why most people start doing jobs like fitting brake pads or changing tires before progressing to more complex repairs.
You'll need to know how to read diagrams, understand written instructions and follow basic rules of good practice. You will also need to understand how parts should be replaced or repaired.
It is important to remember that proper training and guidance are essential for anyone who attempts to repair vehicles. This is especially true for expensive components, such as transmissions and engines.
Even though you won’t need to know much more about cars, you will still need to have an in-depth understanding of mechanics and physics. This is how you understand the mechanisms behind engines and brakes.
You should also be ready to handle all kinds of situations. For example, you may find yourself working on a vehicle that has been involved in a serious accident. Also, you'll need to be familiar with dealing with accidents or breakdowns.
You must also be willing to learn quickly. As well as being able to diagnose problems, you'll need to be able to perform simple maintenance tasks such as tightening nuts and bolts.
What jobs are available for car mechanics?
There are three major areas of employment that car mechanics work in:
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Automotive repair shops
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Dealerships
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Independent garages
Automotive repair shops
Most people think of this as the first step to becoming a mechanic. It's also the easiest way you can get started. You can either work at a shop owned by someone else or set up your own business.
If you plan to work in a shop, you must apply to join the union. Once accepted into the union you will be trained by the union.
You'll be ready for work once you have completed the training.
You will need to register if your garage is going to be open. After registering, you'll be required to meet certain standards.
After you register, you will be granted a license for your garage to operate.
Your license allows for minor repairs and spare parts sales. You can't fix major engine problems with your license.
You will be expected to sell spare parts and also offer guidance and advice to customers.
Dealership jobs
Most dealerships employ mechanics who can specialize in a particular area of the car. For example, they might only deal with brakes or only replace tires.
Some dealerships have the option to hire general mechanics who can take care of all aspects.
These positions often require applicants to undergo specific training before being allowed to work. This allows employers to pick the right candidates for their jobs.
Some dealerships recruit students right out of school. These graduates have no difficulty learning about cars because they already know the basics and principles of mechanical engineering.
Independent garages
Independent garages do not belong to any dealership. They are more focused on providing top-quality service.
Because independent garages aren't affiliated with any company, they can afford to pay higher wages. This means that these jobs are usually more lucrative than those at dealerships.
However, independent garages may not be better places to work. Many business owners prefer to manage their own businesses rather than delegating responsibility to others.
So you may find yourself working long hours without having any say over what happens during the day.
It is also possible to expect lower wages than you would if working at a dealer.
You can switch jobs easily. You can switch jobs easily if you are interested in working at a dealership. Simply ask your employer if they would be open to hiring you as a mechanic.
You could also apply directly to an owner of a garage if that's what you want.
It's not always easy to find a job. Many other factors can also influence the amount you earn.
Consider, for example, what type of vehicle you are repairing and whether additional labor charges will apply.
How long is an automotive mechanic apprenticeship
It takes three years to complete an apprenticeship as an automotive mechanic. This includes two years in school and two as an apprentice. The first year is dedicated to learning the theory and practical skills of the trade. This year, you will also learn how to safely and efficiently use tools. After the first year, a second year will be spent on-thejob training. This year you'll get experience in different trades. You will have the opportunity for formal training during these years.
The last year of your program will be spent earning qualifications and becoming certified. These include NVQs (National Vocational Qualifications), which are awarded after passing exams covering specific topics within the industry. Additionally, HNCs are Higher National Certificates that cover general subjects such management, customer service, and business administration. Finally, there are City & Guilds certificates that are offered for those who wish to become qualified in certain trades.
What does it take for a mechanic to be a good one?
To become a skilled mechanic, you need years of experience and practice. It is best to learn how to fix cars under the supervision and guidance of a professional mechanic.
You'll have to spend time at a garage learning all you can about cars and mechanics. Mechanical engineering books will be required to learn about mechanics and design.
Additionally, you will need to attend an auto school.
The most important thing to do is start early. Do not wait to learn automotive technology. Start studying automotive technology now to become a mechanic.
Statistics
- 52% of Mechanics in the United States think their salaries are enough for the cost of living in their area. (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)
- 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)
External Links
How To
How to start a business plan in a car shop
Before you start anything, you should have a good grasp of the basics of starting a business. The first step is to make sure that you understand what type of business to get into. Start your business in a small, isolated town. You won't have too much trouble finding another job if things don’t go your way. It is a good idea to pick a place near a large population if you are going to open an auto repair shop. You'll have customers who can come see you when they need help and will also be able sell them new parts at affordable prices.
When starting out, you might want to think about opening a franchise opportunity. Franchises generally require less capital investments than traditional businesses. However, you still have to pay royalties and fees to the franchisor every month. You should also be careful when selecting a franchise. Some franchises can be scammed. They can promise large returns but not always deliver.
You could start your own auto shop if you have previous retail experience. Many people who started their own business say that it was one they've made the best decision. But, before you start your business, you need to have a plan. Be sure to list everything you want the business to accomplish. Some examples of goals might be increasing sales, customer service and lowering costs. You can then look for ways you can achieve these goals once you have them written down.
The next step in your journey to opening an auto repair shop is financing it. Most people borrow money from banks and credit unions to fund their businesses. Banks usually require collateral. This means you must have something to offer as security. Some people even take out loans against their homes. To be approved for a loan, it is necessary to prove that you have enough cash flow in order to repay the loan.
Once you have financed your business, you'll need to secure a license. You can apply for a variety of licenses depending on which type of business your are interested in operating. For example, auto mechanics are required to have a state license, while body shops are only required to have a federal license.
Marketing strategies are the last thing that you should do. Before you advertise, you need to decide what your company stands for. What makes you business stand out from other businesses? How can you improve upon what others have done? These questions are essential to creating a strong brand personality. With this information, you'll be better prepared to design effective advertisements.