A mechanic will use many tools every day. These tools include tools used by other mechanics as well as diagnostic equipment like computers. For working efficiently and confidently, it is crucial to have the correct tools. Continue reading to learn how you can become an auto mechanic. ASE certification is an industry standard. Below is an overview of the requirements and job 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. It will give employers an edge and will help you stand out from other applicants. This certification will help you to stand out among other mechanics who lack it.
Job duties
The duties of an auto mechanic are largely similar to other types of auto technicians. They use specialized technologies to assess the need for repairs and maintenance on automobiles. A wide range of automotive systems are repaired and maintained by auto mechanics. They may also be responsible for diagnosing problems and determining the best course for your vehicle. Although an auto mechanic does not need to have a college degree, they must be familiar with the operation of 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 automotive mechanics made over $71,940 each year. Six-figure salaries for certified mechanics, however, are rare and only available to large dealerships. The pay scale for auto mechanics is dependent on their location, education, and experience. At $59,000 per annum, mechanics in Alaska or Fairbanks make the most, with the highest salaries. 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. A two-year program is available if you're interested in becoming certified as a mechanic. You can take ASE tests during your apprenticeship if desired to become a licensed auto mechanic. Either way, you will need some practical experience to be eligible for the test.
Training programs
There are many programs that can be used to train auto mechanics. Most training programs include classroom sessions as well as hands-on repair training. These programs allow graduates to pursue certification through the Automotive Service Excellence body of knowledge. ASE certification is a industry-recognized mark of competence. Many employers prefer mechanics with ASE certifications because they are a guarantee that the mechanic has been thoroughly tested and proven to be competent.
FAQ
How can I fix my automobile as a hobby.
Why not make it a hobby if you're interested in cars? You could learn how to repair them, buy parts for them, sell them or just enjoy them. It would make a great pastime if you're looking for something different to do.
But it is not easy to turn this into your full-time occupation. It takes a lot of dedication and hard work. It will also require a large amount of investment.
You may not be able to have an emotional connection with cars unless there is a valid reason.
How can I prepare to become a mechanic apprentice?
It is important to have an understanding of what you are going into. You should be familiar with the mechanics of cars, and how they work. This way, you know where to start when you go on your first day at the garage.
It is also important to be able to fix small problems like broken lights or tires.
You will be able to diagnose and repair problems yourself.
For the purpose of putting them back together again, you'll need to be able to identify how each piece fits together.
Finally, it is important to know how tools can be used safely and efficiently.
All these aspects will help you become a competent technician.
Can I work as an auto mechanic without 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 that you've worked hard and are determined to succeed.
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 should I know 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. That's why most people start doing jobs like fitting brake pads or changing tires before progressing to more complex repairs.
You will need to understand written instructions, read diagrams and follow the basic rules of good practices. You'll also need to be able to judge whether parts need replacing or repairing.
You should not attempt to fix vehicles without 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 includes understanding the mechanics of how engines and brakes work.
It is also important to remember that you will need to be able to handle many situations. One example is when you could be working on a vehicle involved in a serious crash. Additionally, you will need to have experience with handling accidents and breakdowns.
It is important to be open to learning new skills quickly. It is important to be able both to diagnose problems and perform simple maintenance tasks, such as tightening nuts.
Statistics
- According to the BLS, total auto technician employment is expected to exceed 705,000 by 2030. (uti.edu)
- 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)
- 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)
External Links
How To
How to Become an Auto Technician
An automotive technician is responsible for vehicle maintenance and repair. He/she can be found at auto shops, garages and service centers. Customers can rely on him/her to fix their cars, trucks and motorcycles. An automotive technician must be able to diagnose problems and make repairs quickly, safely, accurately, and efficiently.
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 as American Society of Mechanical Engineers. The ASE certification test consists 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. You can find these locations online or through your local automobile dealer.
After passing the test, a candidate must pass an examination in order to be licensed as an automotive technician. It varies depending on the location of the applicant. For example, some states require candidates to attend a training course, while others allow them to study independently. Some states require technicians to be licensed immediately upon receiving their license. Other states wait until they have been employed as automotive technicians for at least six month.
A person must apply to an auto dealership in order to get started as an automobile technician. Most new employees work as apprentices after they have been hired. Apprenticeship programs last about three years. Students learn basic repair skills such as changing oil and adjusting brakes, changing tires, cleaning spark plugs and inspecting engine compartments. Some students are able to perform more advanced repairs such as replacing shocks and installing air filters. Schools offer classes during business hours. Some schools offer evening classes, however.
Once a student completes his/her apprenticeship, he/she becomes a journeyman. Journeymen spend typically four to five years learning to install major systems such as transmissions and differentials, steering gear, suspensions and drive shafts. They learn how to do complex repairs such as remanufacturing engines, rebuilding transmissives, and troubleshooting electronic components. Because they have a good understanding of the job and what customers expect, many employers prefer to hire journeymen.
A candidate who passes all the necessary exams and gets a license might be interested in opening his/her own business. According to Bureau of Labor Statistics (2010), almost 1.7million automotive mechanic jobs were on the market. This number was expected increase 18% between 2009 - 2020. A candidate who plans to open a shop should expect to spend many thousands of dollars on equipment and supplies.
There are many factors that affect the salary of an automotive technician, such as where they live, their education and experience. An average salary for a jobless individual is $20,000 per annum. An individual with a high school diploma can earn about $21,000 per annum. A bachelor's degree is equivalent to approximately $24,000 annually. Technicians with a bachelor’s degree made about $27,000 annually. A master's degree earns around $32,000 per a year. Salary increases can be common. A professional who earns less that $30,000 today could reasonably expect a $40,000 increase in the next few decades.