Automobiles have become an essential part of our society.
The changes that the automobile industry has brought with it beyond the creation of cars, such as the development of mass-production techniques, have revolutionized every part of our civilization and how it functions.
Nowadays, cars are a convenient mode of transportation that help us save time in our busy daily schedules.
A profession that is directly connected with this sector, is Auto Mechanics.
In the next few sections, we’ll discuss the most important facts about these workers, how to become one, and the cost of Auto Mechanic training.
Table of Contents
What Is an Auto Mechanic?
Auto Mechanics are in charge of examining, maintaining, and repairing automobiles, whether they are cars or small trucks.
Among the necessary skills that an Auto Mechanic must have are good motor and hand-eye coordination, a passion to find the cause of a problem and solving them, the ability to work with different types of tools and larger equipment, patience, and good communication skills, not only to be able to work with other mechanics as part of a team but also to truly describe and explain to customers what is wrong and how it can be fixed.
What Does an Auto Mechanic Do?
Auto Mechanics have several duties, yet the most common are inspecting vehicles to identify and diagnose problems, performing maintenance such as checking and changing oils, breaks, rotating tires, replacing parts that could be damaged or worn, keeping detailed records of procedures, and talking with customers about their vehicles and what they have done to them.
What Is the Difference Between an Auto Mechanic and an Auto Technician?
There has been great confusion between these two professions, with people claiming they are the same and using the terms interchangeably.
In reality, an Auto Mechanic is more focused on direct mechanical work, or direct work with their hands and tools.
Auto Technicians can also perform some of the tasks auto Mechanics do, but they are more centered on the electrical diagnosis and on identifying drivability problems.
How Do I Become an Auto Mechanic?
If you want to become an Auto Mechanic, there are mainly two ways: gaining on-the-job training or attending a training program.
On-the-job Training
There is the possibility to immediately start working by training on the job.
This means that you will gain the required knowledge about the job while working with a qualified Auto Mechanic.
The idea is to spend as much as one or two years working under the supervision of the trainer before you are able to work by yourself.
This could be a great option for those who prefer a more practical approach, and it can also be a great way to save money along the way.
Auto Mechanic Training
Even though it might not be necessary, certain employers might prefer hiring mechanics that have obtained diplomas o certificates in postsecondary education.
Auto Mechanic training is generally offered by technical schools and community colleges.
Among the subjects you will learn are automotive measurement and mathematics, brake systems, suspension and alignments, tire systems, electrical and systems troubleshooting, fluids, shop safety, and customer service skills.
Training programs can be a mix of online and in-person or just in-person.
Certification
There is a wide variety of specializations to become certified, even though it’s not mandatory, but it’s a great way to demonstrate your knowledge in the area.
These certifications are offered by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE).
There might be specific requirements for each certification, such as having certain years of previous work experience, so it’s important to check first which suits better for you.
How Long Does Auto Mechanic Training Last?
The duration of the training will mostly depend on the type of program you choose.
On average, you could find programs that last from six months to two years.
How Much Does Auto Mechanic Training Cost?
The cost of Auto Mechanic Training programs will be affected by the city where you want to study, the school, and the type of program you choose.
Online programs can cost from $800 to $1,000, whereas in-person certificate programs have an approximate cost of $5,000 to $20,000.
