If you have ever wondered how long it takes to become a car mechanic, there are several reasons for that. Top reasons for this career choice are the pay, job outlook, ASE certification, and salary. Learn more about this career path. The most important credential for mechanics, ASE certification. This career is not only for mechanics. There are many reasons to consider this option. Continue reading to learn about the job outlook, training options, and salaries.
ASE certification
Getting ASE certification as a car mechanic can boost your standing in the job market. Employers will be impressed that you are a hard worker and have earned this certification. Aside from being a mark of quality, this credential increases your employment opportunities. This is equivalent of competency. Higher competency rates lead to better job opportunities. If you don't have any experience, there are many methods to get started, and to learn the skills necessary to become a master auto mechanic.
The ASE certificate for car mechanics, which is nationally recognized, proves that you are an expert in automotive repairs. The certification is only given to mechanics who have passed rigorous testing. Employers and customers also recognize it as a sign of a mechanic’s expertise. With the right certification and experience you can stand out in the crowd. If you have the certification and the experience, you can become an ASE mechanic to get a better job within the automotive industry.
Training
There are many routes to becoming a mechanic. A majority of students take a post-secondary or secondary education program. Then, they are trained on the job. Other mechanics did not attend school and instead learn everything by working as an apprentice or trainee. The non-school route requires finding a master mechanic who is willing to train prospective auto mechanics. There are many courses available and certifications to be earned.
To become a car mechanic, you must possess a strong work ethic. Both a strong work ethic, and technical proficiency are crucial. You must be able to manage stressful situations. It is also necessary to be able to lift heavy items. Physical fitness is required to successfully complete the coursework. Some certifications are required to earn a high-paying job. You may need to pass a test in order to become a master mechanic.
Salary
Car mechanics are a great career choice if you have a passion for cars and love working with your hands. Many mechanics work alone and make higher-than-average salaries. As the number of vehicles on the road grows, so do their salaries, which typically range from mid-to-high-six figures. As they climb the ranks, mechanics can see their salaries rise. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the salary for mechanics is expected to increase as time goes by.
Auto mechanics are well-paid, with the top 10 percent earning more than $71,940 each year. Many mechanics work at a repair shop. Their salaries range between $36,600 and $79,500. The District of Columbia pays the median salary of $24,400 to mechanics while the highest earners earn $53,110. Mississippi and Arkansas pay an average salary of $38,600 and $38,970 a year.
Perspectives on the job
According to U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics the job outlook for mechanics in automobile repair is good through 2030. There will be moderate job growth, with a few openings expected due to retirements and a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience. Car mechanics are expected to be in high demand due to the increasing number of American motor vehicles. In addition, aftermarket parts for automobiles will increase. There might be opportunities at certain automotive dealerships to hire car mechanics if customers require them to service their vehicles.
Over the next eight years, the number of vehicles on the roads is expected to rise by 6 percent. This will require more skilled technicians. Entry-level service technicians will become more in demand as newer vehicles are introduced. These technicians will be responsible for performing basic maintenance and repairs. The only downfall to this job growth is the expected rise in digital technology. Your job prospects are good if you're a skilled and motivated auto mechanic.
FAQ
How can I prepare for a apprenticeship as a mechanic?
It is important to have an understanding of what you are going into. You need to understand 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.
Also, you need to know how fix simple problems, such as tires and lights that aren't working.
This should help you learn how to diagnose issues and repair them yourself.
You'll also need to know how different parts fit together to put them back together again.
Finally, it is important to know how tools can be used safely and efficiently.
All these things will help you to become a competent mechanic.
Does it really matter what college I choose?
You're wrong. There are no differences between colleges when it comes to getting into the automotive industry. However, some schools offer better programs than others so if you're looking for something more specialized, look elsewhere.
What type of job is there for a car mechanic?
There are three main areas of employment for car mechanics:
-
Automotive repair shops
-
Dealerships
-
Independent garages
Automotive repair shops
It's where most people start to think about becoming a mechanic. 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 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.
After completing the training, you'll be ready to start work.
You will need to register if your garage is going to be open. 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 will permit you to sell spares parts and perform minor repairs. 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 that specialize in one aspect of the vehicle. They may be trained to replace or repair tires, or they may specialize in brakes.
Some dealerships have the option to hire general mechanics who can take care of all aspects.
These positions may require applicants to complete specific training before being allowed on the job. This allows employers to pick the right candidates for their jobs.
Some dealerships will hire graduates straight from college. These graduates already know the basics of mechanical engineering and therefore have no problem learning about cars.
Independent garages
Independent garages are not associated with any one dealership. Instead, they focus on high-quality customer service.
Independent garages have the ability to afford higher wages, as they aren’t associated with any one company. These jobs generally pay better than those 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.
You might find yourself working long hours but having no control over what happens in the day.
Additionally, you should expect to earn lower wages if employed by a dealership.
The good news is that you can easily switch between different kinds of jobs. 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.
The bad news? Finding a new position isn't always easy. There are many other factors that can influence your earnings.
You might also consider the vehicle type you repair, and whether extra labor is charged.
How long does a good mechanic take?
A mechanic is only an expert if they have years of experience. The best way to learn how to repair cars is by working under the supervision of a professional mechanic.
You will spend time in a workshop learning everything you can about cars. It is important to get familiar with the mechanics of cars and engineering.
Furthermore, you'll need to enroll in auto school.
The most important thing is to start early. You don't have to wait until you are older to start studying automotive technology. Start studying automotive technology now to become a mechanic.
What is the length of an apprenticeship as an automotive mechanic?
It takes approximately three years to complete an automotive mechanic apprenticeship. The apprenticeship includes two years studying at school and two more as an apprentice. The first year teaches you all aspects, from theory to practical skills and safety procedures. You'll also learn the safe and efficient use of tools during this first year. After the completion of the first year, you will spend another year on the job training. Here you'll gain valuable experience in different trades. These are also the times you can attend formal courses.
The last year of the program is dedicated to gaining certification and qualifications in the field. These include NVQs or National Vocational Qualifications. These are earned after passing exams that cover specific topics in the industry. In addition, there are HNCs (Higher National Certificates) that cover general subjects such as management, business administration, and customer service. City & Guilds certificates can be obtained for individuals who want to learn certain trades.
What qualifications are necessary to become a truck driver mechanic?
This job requires you to be a skilled mechanic, although you do not need any formal training. Your expertise is invaluable because you know how quickly and efficiently to diagnose problems.
You also have an excellent knowledge of diesel technology which will help you to understand what parts are needed to repair our vehicles.
How can I fix my automobile as a hobby.
If you are interested in cars, why not take it on as a hobby? You can learn to fix them, buy them parts, and even sell them. It's a fun hobby that you can do if it interests you.
It's not an easy task to make this a full-time job. It takes a lot of dedication and hard work. And you'll need to invest a lot of money too.
So unless you have a good reason for wanting to get involved with cars, then it might be best to leave it alone.
Statistics
- According to the BLS, total auto technician employment is expected to exceed 705,000 by 2030. (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)
- 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 provides repair services and maintenance to vehicles. He/she works in car dealerships as well as auto shops, garages, and service centers. He/she helps customers fix their cars, trucks, motorcycles, ATVs, boats, lawn mowers, snowmobiles, tractors, trailers, farm equipment, planes, helicopters, jet skis, watercraft, bicycles, motorcycles, scooters, golf carts, etc. An automotive technician must know how to diagnose problems and perform repairs efficiently, safely, accurately, quickly, and correctly.
A person who wants to work as an automotive technician should first obtain an associate degree from a vocational school. After completing the program, he/she must pass ASE certification. ASE stands as American Society of Mechanical Engineers. There are two sections to the ASE certification test. The first section tests your mechanical skills, while the second tests your practical knowledge. 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.
After passing the test, a candidate must pass a state examination before becoming licensed as an automotive technician. This process varies 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 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.
To get started as an automotive technician, a person should apply to a local automotive dealership. Most new employees work as apprentices after they have been 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 are taught how to repair engines and replace transmission fluids. Many schools offer classes during normal business hours. Some schools offer evening classes, however.
Once a student is done with his/her apprenticeship he/she can become a master 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. They are also taught how to troubleshoot electrical components and remanufacture engines. Employers prefer to hire journeymen as they are familiar with the job and can anticipate customer needs.
After passing the exams, candidates may be eligible to open their own shop if they pass all requirements. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, nearly 1.7 million automotive mechanic jobs were available in 2010. 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. On average, an unemployed person could earn $20,000 annually. A person with only a high-school diploma could make around $21,000 annually. Those with an associate's degree earned approximately $24,000 per year. A technician with a bachelor's degree earned approximately $27,000 annually. The average annual salary for those with master's degrees was $32,000. 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.