Automotive technicians make an excellent salary. This article provides information about the job, education and salary range. It also lists how many years of experience you will need. This is a great job opportunity for those looking to change careers. It's a good choice for those who love working with cars, want a great lifestyle, and have a strong desire to learn.
Job description
The average salary for an auto technician varies depending upon where you live and the company. California, Washington D.C. (the District of Columbia), Illinois, Louisiana, Nevada and Texas are the highest paid states. However, the majority of states require high school diplomas or GEDs. Because the South has a lower cost of living, this is why. If you're thinking of becoming an auto technician, here are some cities where you could make a decent amount.
The average wage for an automotive technician varies based on a number of factors, including experience, education, and employer. As with any skilled trade, experience is crucial, but you can also earn high wages if you have the drive to succeed. The salary of a technician is very lucrative if you are able to combine high wages with a happy life. You should remember, however, that there is no minimum salary for this occupation. This means that the amount will vary from region to region.
Education required
If you have ever dreamed of joining the world of cars, an education in automotive technology is a great option. This degree will give you the skills and knowledge you need in order to fix car problems. While the traditional role of automotive technicians was limited to mechanical repair, these days they must also work with electrical systems. To earn a higher salary, you should consider pursuing an education that will help you develop your professional skills.
Texas has a median salary for an automotive technician at $46,680. The average salary for master mechanics certified by ASE is $25,480 to $76,660. Earning ASE master mechanic certification can increase your income by up to $11,000. If you're considering a career in automotive repair, you'll be pleased to learn that it's possible to earn well over the average.
Salary range
ZipRecruiter estimates that the average annual salary of an Automotive Technician is $51,820. The least well-paid are those who have not completed college. An associate's degree in automotive technician earns them $43,110 per annum. However, those without college experience earn a median salary of $38,050 annually. The South has lower wages than the national average but higher living costs. There are plenty of opportunities for salary growth in your locality, no matter if you're looking to purchase a new car or join an established repair shop.
Automotive Technicians are paid an average salary of $48,087 each year from 2004 to $66,312 in 2020. Pay for this profession is based on a variety of factors, including the level of education, location, and experience. You are more likely to make more an hour if you have a Master's Degree than a noncertified mechanic. You can earn more depending on your experience, whether you are working as an independent contractor or for a large auto shop.
Experience required
An automotive technician job requires a solid knowledge of mechanics, repairs, and engine systems. It is also advantageous to have strong interpersonal and communication skills. Safety is a top priority for many employers. Master Certified certification may be an option if you are considering this career path. This certification can take approximately two years. Practical classes and theory are part of the training. While the salary for this job is decent, it may not be sufficient to attract top-ranking employers.
ASE certification is a national standard that technicians must attain. This certification allows you to stand out from the rest and earn higher wages. ASE certification is available for eight different areas. You must have at least two years' experience in the same field. To maintain your ASE certification, you must pass an exam every five years. Eight tests must be passed to become a master auto technician. UTI's Automotive Technology Program provides more information about this certification. It is also a great way to obtain ASE certification. This can be substituted for two years work experience.
FAQ
What qualifications are necessary to become a mechanic
A series of exams is necessary to become a mechanic. These exams include:
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A general knowledge test
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A practical exam
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An apprenticeship test
These tests will ensure you are familiar with the fundamental concepts of mechanics and physics before starting to work as a mechanic.
After passing these tests, you will be eligible to become a mechanic. However, you'll still need to complete an apprenticeship. This will involve trade training.
To fully understand the mechanics of vehicle repairs, you'll need workshops and classes. You'll also have to work alongside experienced mechanics.
You'll need a high level of concentration and attention to detail if you want to succeed as a mechanic. Vehicle repairs require you to be very attentive.
To be a successful mechanic, patience and perseverance are essential. If you don't like to follow instructions, then this may not be the right career path for you.
However, if you love cars or enjoy working on them, you might be happy in this field.
What is the difference?
Both are related, but they are not the same. A mechanic repairs cars and an automotive technician performs maintenance.
A mechanic needs to be able and quick to use their manual dexterity. A mechanic must be able diagnose and fix problems quickly and accurately.
An automotive technician needs to be more technically skilled than a mechanic. They must be able to read blueprints and use tools such as drills and wrenches.
They should be able safely to perform complex procedures. They must be familiar with all types of electrical and engine systems.
They must also understand the interplay of different parts.
The result is that a mechanic often earns less than an auto technician. Both jobs offer many possibilities.
How long is an apprenticeship for an automotive mechanic?
The apprenticeship to become an automotive mechanic takes about three years. This includes two year at school as well as two years as an apprenticeship. The first year is used to learn all aspects of the trade including safety procedures and theory. This year, you will also learn how to safely and efficiently use tools. After you have completed the first year of training, you will be able to spend an additional year on-the job learning different trades. These periods will also give you the chance to take formal courses.
The last year of your program will be spent earning qualifications and becoming certified. These include NVQs. They are awarded after passing exams on specific topics within the industry. The HNCs (Higher National Certificates), on the other hand, cover general subjects like customer service and management. For those interested in pursuing certain trades, City & Guilds certificates are available.
How can I prepare myself for a mechanic apprenticeship
Understanding what you're getting into is crucial. Understanding the mechanics and working of cars is essential. This will make it easy to find the right place to start your first day in the garage.
You also need to know how to fix simple problems such as broken lights, tires, etc.
This should help you learn how to diagnose issues and repair them yourself.
Also, it is important to know how parts fit together so that you can put them back together.
Finally, you need to be able to safely and efficiently use tools.
All these things will help you to become a competent mechanic.
What is the job description for a mechanic in a car?
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. In fact, it's probably the easiest way to get started. You can either work in a shop run by someone else, or start your business.
If you decide to work at a shop, you'll need to apply to join a union. Once accepted into the union you will be trained by the union.
Once you complete the training, it's time to get started.
You will need to register if your garage is going to be open. After you register, you will be required to meet specific standards.
After you have registered, you will be issued a license to operate your garage.
Your license will permit you to sell spares parts and perform minor repairs. It will not permit you to fix major engine issues.
You will be expected to sell spare parts and also offer guidance and advice to customers.
Dealership jobs
Most dealerships employ mechanics who specialize in one area of the car. They may be trained to replace or repair tires, or they may specialize in brakes.
However, dealerships may also employ general mechanics who are able to handle all aspects related to car repairs.
Some positions require that applicants complete training before they can be allowed to work. This allows employers to pick the right candidates for their jobs.
Some dealerships will even hire graduates right out of university. These graduates have no difficulty learning about cars because they already know the basics and principles of mechanical engineering.
Independent garages
Independent garages don't belong to any particular dealership. Instead, they focus on high-quality customer service.
Because independent garages aren't affiliated with any company, they can afford to pay higher wages. These jobs generally pay better than those at dealerships.
However, independent garages may not be better places to work. Many owners prefer to run their businesses themselves rather than delegate responsibility to employees.
You may find yourself working for long hours and not having control over the day.
You should also expect to earn lower wages than if you were employed at a dealership.
It's possible to switch between jobs. To work at a dealership you will need to contact your employer to see if he is open to the idea of hiring you.
Alternativly, you can apply directly to the garage owner if you are interested in working at an independent garage.
It's not always easy to find a job. You can earn more depending on many other factors.
For example, the type of vehicle you repair and whether you charge extra for labor.
What are the requirements for an automobile technician?
You must have graduated high school or GED, with excellent English and math grades. Also, you must be able read and write. The written test will be passed and you will then have to take several practical exams before you can begin work.
Does it really matter what college I choose?
Not really. There's no difference between colleges regarding getting into the automotive industry. Some schools have better programs than others, so you might want to look elsewhere if your goal is something more specialized.
Statistics
- 52% of Mechanics in the United States think their salaries are enough for the cost of living in their area. (indeed.com)
- 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)
- Apprentice mechanics earn significantly less hourly than mechanics who have completed training, with a median wage of approximately $14.50 an hour, according to PayScale. (jobhero.com)
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How To
How to properly diagnose and repair your vehicle
You should first examine the symptoms your car is showing to determine if it requires repairs. Follow these steps to properly diagnose your vehicle.
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Check engine lights. Check the dashboard light indicators such as the engine light indicator, the oil pressure gauge, the battery light indicator, the coolant temperature gauge, and the RPM gauge. It could indicate that your vehicle is having problems.
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Examine the treads of the tires. Tires that are worn can cause issues with handling and braking. You should inspect the treads on your wheel. They should look clean and be smooth. It is best to take off the wheels and remove them. A flashlight can be used to check how worn the treads are.
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Pay attention to the level of your brake fluid. You must keep track on the level of brake fluid in your vehicle. You can ensure that your brakes are working properly by monitoring the level of brake fluid in your vehicle. Your brakes may fail if the brake fluid level drops.
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Check the suspension system. A suspension system is designed to absorb vibrations and shocks. It provides better control and allows smoother acceleration and deceleration. Your vehicle might feel wobbly, or shake uncontrollably if it has a bad suspension. To determine whether your vehicle may have a suspension issue, you can try to put weight on the rear or front axle and watch the movement.
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Examine the steering column. The steering column connects the steering wheel to all other components of the vehicle. Accidents often damage steering columns. If yours feels loose or shaky, you should replace it.
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Observe the exhaust pipe. Exhaust pipes move gases from combustion chamber to atmosphere. You can let harmful fumes into your home if your exhaust pipes crack or leak. You should also fix any bent tailpipes immediately.
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Check under the hood. Take a look underneath the hood to find any strange or unusual items. Fluids could be leaking from your engine. If you smell something strange coming from your engine compartment you should call a professional technician.
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Make sure to check the air filter. Your vehicle's air filter collects dust and debris from the outside environment. Dirty air filters can cause your vehicle to run poorly. Replace your air filter regularly.
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Verify the fan belt. The fan belt is the link between the engine and the transmission. If the fanbel breaks, your engine won't turn. Replacing the belt is simple. All you need to replace the belt is a screwdriver with pliers.
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The radiator hose and hoses should be checked. The radiator hose is used to carry water from the radiator to your engine. It can crack or become damaged and leak hot liquid onto an engine. The hose can be repaired with a pair or needle-nosepliers, and a wire brush.
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You should inspect the windshield wipers. Windshield wipers use electricity to wipe away rain and snow. If they stop working, streaks could be left on your glass. Change the washer fluid to fix the problem.
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The battery cables should be checked. Your car's electrical system is powered by batteries. Always disconnect the negative wire before you replace batteries. Failure to do so can damage your alternator.
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Be sure to check your headlights. Headlights illuminate the road ahead of you. They can make it difficult to see if they stop working. To determine if your bulbs are out of date, check them.
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Pay attention to the lights. If you approach other drivers at night, lights will warn them. You could be distracted and cause an accident if one does not work.
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Check the brakes. Brakes will reduce the speed of your car in case of an accident. If they aren't working correctly, you could lose control of your car and crash.
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Change the oil. Your engine will stay lubricated by the oil. It helps prevent metal parts from wearing out too quickly. It is recommended to change the oil each month.