Although ASE certified mechanics will have the best reputations and be honest, some mechanics can be dishonest. Before you hand over your car, it is a good idea that you check for a certificate of training or a mechanic's license. These tips can help you pick a great mechanic. Expertise and experience are also important. These qualities are important in choosing a mechanic to repair your vehicle.
ASE certified mechanics
An ASE certified mechanic has more to his education than the basics. In addition to the professional benefits that a mechanic can receive, the certification protects consumers by ensuring that the mechanic is well-trained and knowledgeable. The mechanic's earning potential increases because certification is more valuable to customers. Many ASE certified mechanics have used their education credits towards pursuing higher salaries. And because these tests are so demanding, only about two-thirds of mechanics pass them on the first try.
Certificates of training or licensure
Auto mechanics with ASE certification have extensive knowledge of different vehicle types. Moreover, they also know the specific details of each manufacturer. Skilled mechanics are preferred by dealership owners because they charge higher wages, and can charge higher fees for their services. Additionally, they can benefit from a wide range of innovations from automobile manufacturers, which boosts their credibility. However, not every state requires auto mechanics to hold any certification.
Experience
If you don’t have family or friends who own cars, it might be worth asking them for suggestions. Ask your neighbors or friends who are familiar with fixing cars. Referring people to fix their cars is a better recommendation than reading reviews from strangers online. If your friends and family don't know a mechanic, you can look up their reputation on sites like Yelp or Angie's List to get a list of highly recommended mechanics.
Specialization
There are some things to consider when looking for a mechanic. It's important to first determine your interests, then find the right specialization. There are three main specializations: diagnosticians, transmission professionals, and electric and emissions specialists. These are all good specialties to consider if you're interested in a career in this field.
Yelp
Yelp allows you to search for mechanics from many locations. You can refine your search by zip code, distance or the number of ratings and reviews. It is important to find a balance between a high review and a lot of reviews. Although some reviews are glowing, they may not be accurate representations of the customer experience. Be skeptical about employee reviews. Instead, look for a mix of reviews that reflect both quality and value.
Dealerships
It can be difficult to find a qualified mechanic for your vehicle, no matter if it needs repairs or a tune-up. This article offers some helpful tips for finding a trusted mechanic. Start by reaching out to your immediate circle, your neighbors, your mailman, and your Facebook friends. It is much more reliable to ask trusted people for recommendations than to rely on anonymous critics online. Now, you can review the recommendations you receive once you have narrowed your list.
CarTalk
You can find an expert mechanic online if you don’t know much about cars. These include websites such as Yelp and Angie's List. You can also check out online car-related forums like CarTalk's Mechanic Files. These forums can help you find highly-recommended mechanics. You can also ask friends, family members, or neighbors who have used a particular mechanic to recommend their service.
AAA Auto Repair Network
It is crucial to find a qualified mechanic if your car is owned. It can be hard to find a good mechanic in today's world of cheaters and imposters. AAA Auto Repair Network is a great resource to help you find a qualified technician. This network of accredited auto repair facilities is available to members and non-members alike. Participating auto repair shops provide 12-month/12,000-mile warranties, employ ASE-certified mechanics and pass an annual inspection by AAA.
FAQ
Is it really worth becoming a mechanic.
The answer depends on what you are looking for in life. If money is your goal, then you can answer "yes". But if you are searching for meaning and purpose, then you should not answer this question.
If you don’t possess any mechanics skills, you won’t be able to do it. It's not going make you millionaire. It's unlikely that you will be famous. It's unlikely that it will change your life.
It would take you years to learn how to do everything correctly. Then you'd still have to pay someone else to fix your car when it breaks down. It's the reason most people don't bother. They find something they enjoy instead.
Summarising, if your goal is to make lots of money, go for it. However, if you want to have a meaningful and fulfilling life, avoid the mechanic's trade.
Is it hard to get work as an auto mechanic?
Yes, it is possible. Many garages have vacancies that are advertised online. Many people apply because they think it will be fun. Applying for several positions and seeing if they accept student applications is a good way to get your foot into the door. Another option is to ask family members and friends if anyone works in this industry. They might be willing to recommend someone.
What are the requirements for an automotive technician?
You must have graduated high school or GED, with excellent English and math grades. Also, you must be able read and write. To be allowed to work, you must pass a written and practical test.
To be a car mechanic, do you need a degree? Can I do part-time studies?
A degree isn't necessary, but it certainly helps. Employers prefer applicants who have completed a full-time degree. It shows you are dedicated and have worked hard to achieve your goals.
However, it doesn't mean you can't still work while studying. Some universities permit students to do coursework during summer holidays and complete their studies later in a year. Other universities permit students to take classes part-time during the school year.
What qualifications do you need to be a mechanic?
A series of tests is required to be a mechanic. These exams include:
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A general knowledge exam
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Practical exam
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An apprenticeship test
These tests are designed for you to understand the basic concepts and principles of mechanics before your start as a technician.
You'll be eligible for work as a mechanic after you have passed the tests. But, you will still need an apprenticeship. This will involve trade training.
You'll need to attend classes and workshops to learn everything you need to know about repairing vehicles. Working alongside skilled mechanics is also a must.
To be a successful mechanic, you will need to have a high degree of concentration and attention. Vehicle repairs require you to be very attentive.
To be a successful mechanic, patience and perseverance are essential. If you don’t like following directions, then this career path may not suit you.
If you enjoy cars and fixing them, this job could be a good fit for you.
How long is an automotive course?
An automotive course is three years long.
The first year is spent learning about cars and theory. The second year will be spent in practical training. Here you will learn how fix engines, drive and other mechanic jobs. You will spend the final year working in a local garage to gain real-world experience.
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, the median annual salary for automotive service technicians and mechanics in the United States was $44,050 in May 2020. (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
How To
How to Become an Automotive Technician
An automotive technician is responsible for vehicle maintenance and repair. He/she works at car dealerships, auto shops, garages, service centers, etc. He/she repairs cars, trucks, motorbikes and snowmobiles for customers. A technician in automotive must be able diagnose and repair problems quickly, safely, accurately, efficiently, and effectively.
An associate degree from a vocational school is required for anyone who wishes to become an automotive technician. After completing the program, he/she must take the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence certification exam. ASE stands for American Society of Mechanical Engineers. The ASE certification test consists two sections. The first section tests the ability to use mechanical knowledge. The second section tests the ability to apply practical skills. To pass the test you must go to one of the authorized testing facilities. These locations can be found online or at your local auto dealer.
Before becoming an automotive technician, a candidate must pass the test. This process can vary depending on where the applicant lives. Some states require candidates to complete a training program, while others let them 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 new employees begin as apprentices once they are hired. Apprenticeship programs usually last three years. This is when a student can learn how to do basic repairs such as changing oil, adjusting brakes and replacing tires. Some students learn how to do advanced repairs, such as installing air filters, replacing shocks, repairing engines, and replacing transmission fluids. Many schools offer classes during normal business hours. Some schools also offer evening classes, if necessary.
Once a student completes his/her apprenticeship, he/she becomes a journeyman. Journeymen can spend up to five years learning how major systems work, including transmissions, differentials. They also learn how to adjust steering gear and suspensions. You will also learn how to repair complicated electrical components, as well as how to remanufacture engines and rebuild transmissions. 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. The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicted that this number would rise by 18% from 2009 to 2020. A candidate who plans to open a shop should expect to spend many thousands of dollars on equipment and supplies.
The salary of an automotive technician will depend on many factors including where you live, your education level, experience and the type of employer. On average, a jobless person could expect to earn $20,000 annually. A high school diploma is all that's required to earn approximately $21,000 annually. A bachelor's degree is equivalent to approximately $24,000 annually. Technicians with bachelor's degrees earn approximately $27,000 per year. A master's degree earns around $32,000 per a year. Salary increases are common, so a professional who earns less than $30,000 now could reasonably expect to earn $40,000 or more in just a few years.