If you are interested in learning how to become an auto mechanic, this article will guide you through the qualifications and training needed for this career. Also, you will learn about various schooling options and the expected outlook for your job. If you follow the information contained in this article, your journey to becoming an auto mechanic will be smooth. We hope that you enjoyed the reading. We are happy to answer any questions. You're at the right place, after all!
Qualifications
For you to be a professional auto mechanic, it will take two to five decades of hands-on experience and extensive training. Many mechanics start as trainee technicians, lubrication workers or technician's assistants. You'll learn more about how to repair, replace parts, and provide services for your vehicle as you get experience. It is also important to have excellent customer service skills. Auto mechanics will work with people of all ages, including parents, elderly, and disabled.
Some states require that auto mechanics hold ASE certifications before they can work on cars. These certifications can significantly increase your chances of getting a job in the automotive industry. South Dakota may have a higher demand for technicians who hold ASE certification. Some states require less stringent requirements in order to work as an automotive mechanic. Many employers prefer to see ASE certification, rather than a technical degree. Although this credential is essential for your job prospects, it is not mandatory.
Qualifications for certification and training
Becoming an auto mechanic requires both technical and mechanical knowledge. This career path focuses primarily on engine diagnostics and repairs, electric fundamentals, steering, alignment, and brakes. Employers may also require additional certifications to advance. An auto mechanic's hourly salary can be as high as $30. The state of New York supports a diverse array of auto repair shops. Certifications vary according to the type of auto mechanic you plan to become.
The National Institute for Automotive Excellence is a training and certification center for automotive technicians. Candidates who pass all eight A-series exams are eligible for certification by ASE. Master Technician status is only possible if you pass all eight series exams. ASE certification is an additional bonus for auto mechanics, as it boosts their credibility and shows notable accomplishments. You must complete a vocational or college training program to become an ASE-certified auto mechanic.
There are many options for schooling
There are many schools that can train you to be an automotive mechanic. A diploma from a vocational school is a good way to show potential employers that your knowledge of modern automotive technology is solid. Employers might also look for mechanics with specific skills such as diesel technology who can fill in the technology gaps. If you love cars and are good at fixing them, a degree in automotive tech may be right for your career.
It all depends on which school you attend. The length of an automotive technology degree program will vary. A typical associate degree program lasts two years. Bachelor's programs usually take four years. On the other side, a certificate program can usually be completed within one year. Remember to consider the deadlines when applying for school and whether financial aid is available. A associate degree program is a good option if you don't have the funds to pay all costs upfront.
Outlook for the Job
Auto mechanics have a generally good job outlook, although it depends on education and experience. People with a recent college education are more likely find work. Those with certification from National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence are likely to have the most up-to-date training and will be well-versed on new technologies, such as internal GPS or steering systems. Those who have knowledge of computer transmissions will be especially in demand as cars become increasingly computerized. In addition, if you've studied a trade school, you'll be better positioned to get hired for specialized positions, since the industry is continually changing.
The Occupational Outlook Handbook by the United States government lists over 250 types of jobs. It details their duties as well working conditions and salary. The accompanying job outlook for each job indicates the expected number of job openings in that field over the next few years. According to BLS the job outlook for auto mechanics is very good. As cars become more expensive, people tend to keep them for longer periods of time. Therefore, they require more maintenance and repairs.
FAQ
What are the qualifications for an automotive technician
You must have graduated high school or GED, with excellent English and math grades. Additionally, you will need to be proficient in reading and writing. You will need to pass a written test and then go through a series of practical exams before being allowed to start work.
How do I fix my vehicle as a hobby?
Why not make it a hobby if you're interested in cars? You can learn to fix them, buy them parts, and even sell 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. This requires dedication and hard work. You'll also need to invest a lot.
You may not be able to have an emotional connection with cars unless there is a valid reason.
Is it worth becoming a mechanic?
The answer to this question depends on what you want from life if you are looking for money, then yes, but if you're looking for meaning and purpose, then no.
If you don't have any mechanics skills, then there's no point getting into it because you'll just end up wasting time. It's not going to make you rich. It won't make you famous. You won't be famous.
It would take you years to learn how to do everything correctly. Also, you would need to hire someone else to fix it if it broke down. Most people won't bother to do it. They find something better.
In conclusion, if money is your main goal, you should go ahead. However, if you want to have a meaningful and fulfilling life, avoid the mechanic's trade.
What are the different types of jobs available in car mechanic?
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
This is the place most people begin to consider becoming mechanics. This is the best way to get started. You can either work in a shop run by someone else, or start your business.
If you choose to work at a store, you need to join a union. Once you're accepted into the union, you'll receive training from the union.
You'll be ready for work once you have completed the training.
Registering with the government is required if you intend to open a garage. After you register, you will be required to meet specific standards.
You will receive a license to run your garage once you have registered.
Your license allows you to sell spare parts and make minor repairs. It won't permit you to fix serious engine problems.
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. They may be trained to replace or repair tires, or they may specialize in brakes.
However, some dealerships also hire general mechanics who can handle all aspects of car repairs.
Many of these positions require that applicants undergo training before they are allowed to work. Employers can then choose the best candidates for their job.
Some dealerships even recruit graduates straight from university. These graduates already know the basics of mechanical engineering and therefore have no problem learning about cars.
Independent garages
Independent garages don’t have to be associated with any particular dealer. They tend to be focused on high-quality service.
Because independent garages aren't affiliated with any company, they can afford to pay higher wages. This makes them generally more well-paid than jobs at dealerships.
However, independent garages do not necessarily offer better workplaces. Many business owners prefer to be in control of their businesses than to delegate it to employees.
So you may find yourself working long hours without having any say over what happens during the day.
You should also expect to earn lower wages than if you were employed at a dealership.
You can switch jobs easily. If you want to work at a dealership, then you simply need to ask your current employer if he would consider hiring you as a mechanic instead.
Or, if your dream is to work for an independent garage you can contact the owner directly.
It's not always easy to find a job. Many other factors can also influence the amount you earn.
It could be the type and cost of labor you use to repair your vehicle.
What qualifications do you need to be a mechanic?
A series of exams is necessary to become a mechanic. These exams include:
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A general knowledge assessment
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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.
These tests will allow you to be a mechanic once you have passed them. However, you'll still need to complete an apprenticeship. This will require you to learn the trade.
To learn all you can about vehicle repair, you will need to take classes and workshops. 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. It is essential to pay attention to all aspects of vehicle repairs.
To become a successful mechanic you'll need patience. If you don't like to follow instructions, then this may not be the right career path for you.
But if you love cars and enjoy fixing them, you could be very happy in this line of work.
What is the average time it takes to become a mechanic?
Expert mechanics take years of practice and extensive experience. You can learn the most effective way to fix cars by learning from a professional mechanic.
You will need to spend some time in a garage to learn as much about cars and mechanics as possible. It is important to get familiar with the mechanics of cars and engineering.
Additionally, you will need to attend an auto school.
The most important thing to do is start early. It doesn't matter if you're old or not to study automotive technology. Do you want to be a mechanic? Get started today!
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)
- According to the BLS, total auto technician employment is expected to exceed 705,000 by 2030. (uti.edu)
External Links
How To
How to be an Automotive Technician
An automotive technician performs repairs and maintains vehicles. 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 have the ability to quickly diagnose and fix problems.
To become an automotive technician, a person must first earn an associate's degree from a vocational college. After completing the program, he/she must pass ASE certification. ASE stands for American Society of Mechanical Engineers. Two sections make up the ASE certification examination. One section tests knowledge of mechanical components, while the other section tests skills in practical areas. To pass the test, you will need to visit an authorized testing location. These locations can be found online, or by contacting your local car dealer.
After passing the test, a candidate must pass an examination in order to be licensed as an automotive technician. This process is different depending on where you live. Some states require candidates to complete a training program, while others let them study on their own. 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.
An applicant should apply to a local auto shop in order to start their career as an automotive technician. New employees are usually apprentices when they first get hired. Apprenticeship programs typically last three to four years. Students learn basic repair skills such as changing oil and adjusting brakes, changing tires, cleaning spark plugs and inspecting engine compartments. Some students learn how to do advanced repairs, such as installing air filters, replacing shocks, repairing engines, and replacing transmission fluids. Schools offer classes during business hours. Some schools also offer evening classes, if necessary.
Once a student is done with his/her apprenticeship he/she can become a master 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 the experience and knowledge to do the job right, employers love hiring 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 figure is expected to rise 18 percent between 2009-2020. A candidate who plans to open a shop should expect to spend many thousands of dollars on equipment and supplies.
Many factors affect the automotive technician's salary, including location, education, experience, and employer type. On average, a jobless person could expect to earn $20,000 annually. 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. A technician with a bachelor's degree earned approximately $27,000 annually. Master's degree holders make around $32,000 annually. 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.