Although ASE certified mechanics will have the best reputations and be honest, some mechanics can be dishonest. It is a good idea to look for a mechanic's license or certificate of training before handing over your car. Here are some tips to help you find a reliable mechanic. Both experience and specialization are important. The best mechanic for your vehicle repair needs is one who has all of the above qualities.
ASE-certified mechanics
The education of an ASE-certified mechanic goes far beyond the basics. Along with the professional benefits that a mechanic may receive, certification also protects consumers because it ensures that the mechanic is knowledgeable and well-trained. A mechanic's earning potential is increased by being certified. Customers are more likely to value it. Many ASE certified mechanics have applied their education credits toward degree programs, which can lead to higher salaries. These tests are so hard that only around two-thirds of mechanics will pass them on their first attempts.
Certificates of training and licenses
Auto mechanics who have ASE certification are well-versed in all types of vehicles. 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. Their credibility is also enhanced by the fact that they have access to many innovations from automobile manufacturers. However, not every state requires auto mechanics to hold any certification.
Experience
Asking your family and friends for their recommendations is a good idea if you don't know anyone who has a car. Ask your neighbors or friends who are familiar with fixing cars. A recommendation from friends and family is more trustworthy than an online review. If you don't know anyone who is a mechanic, it's possible to look up their reputations on Angie's List.
Specialization
A few things you should look for when choosing 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 offers many options for finding a mechanic. You can refine your search by zip code, distance or the number of ratings and reviews. You should aim for a balance between high ratings and substantial reviews. While some reviews can be exaggerated, they may not reflect the actual experience of customers. It is important to be skeptical about reviews left by employees. Instead, search for reviews that balance quality and value.
Dealerships
It can be difficult finding a mechanic who is qualified to work on your car, whether it needs maintenance or repairs. This article shares some useful tips to find a good mechanic. You should start by asking around your immediate community, whether it be your Facebook friends, neighbors, or even your mailman. Trustworthy sources will give you more reliable recommendations than anonymous online critics. Once you have narrowed down the list of mechanics you want, look at the recommendations.
CarTalk
Online resources are a great way to locate a mechanic if you don't have a lot of knowledge about cars. Websites like Yelp or Angie's List are two examples. Online forums such as CarTalk's Mechanicfiles can be accessed. You can use these forums to find mechanics that are highly recommended by car owners. Ask your family, friends, and neighbors to recommend a mechanic.
AAA Auto Repair Network
Finding a reliable mechanic is essential if you own a vehicle. It can be difficult to find a qualified mechanic in today's world full of scammers and imposters. AAA Auto Repair Network allows you to locate a qualified mechanic. 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
How long is an automotive course?
A course in automotive lasts three years.
The first year is spent learning about cars and theory. The second year is dedicated towards practical training. This includes learning how to drive, fix engine problems, and doing other maintenance jobs around your car. You will spend the final year working in a local garage to gain real-world experience.
What are the requirements of an automotive technician?
High school graduation or GED is required with excellent grades in English and math. Additionally, you will need to be proficient in reading and writing. Before you can start working, you will have to pass a written exam and take a series practical tests.
How can I fix my car as a hobby?
Take up a hobby in car repair if you have an interest. It is possible to learn about cars, repair them, purchase parts, or simply enjoy them. It's a fun hobby that you can do if it interests you.
But it is not easy to turn this into your full-time occupation. It requires a lot of hard work and dedication. Also, you will need to put a lot of money into it.
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, the median annual salary for automotive service technicians and mechanics in the United States was $44,050 in May 2020. (uti.edu)
- 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)
- 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
Automotive technicians provide repair and maintenance services to vehicles. He/she works at car dealerships, auto shops, garages, service centers, etc. 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.
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 pass ASE certification. ASE stands for American Society of Mechanical Engineers. The ASE certification test consists of 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 are available online or through your local automotive dealer.
A candidate must pass the state exam after passing the test to become an automotive technician. This process varies depending on where the applicant lives. Some states require applicants to take a training course while others allow them the freedom to 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 become an automotive technician, one must apply at a local dealership. Most employees who are hired start as apprentices. 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 will learn advanced repair techniques, such as changing shocks, installing air filters, and replacing engines. Many schools offer classes during normal 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 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. Employers prefer to hire journeymen as they are familiar with the job and can anticipate customer needs.
Once a candidate passes the required exams and is granted a license, they might consider opening their own shop. The Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that there were nearly 1.7 million jobs available for automotive mechanics in 2010. This number was expected increase 18% between 2009 - 2020. If a candidate decides to open his/her own shop, he/she should prepare to invest many thousands of dollars in 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. 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. 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.