How to Become an Auto Mechanic

Do You Have What it Takes to be an Auto Mechanic?

The first step in deciding to become an auto mechanic is to perform what is known as a “personal inventory” of yourself. This requires you to determine whether or not you possess the specific aptitudes and traits that are usually considered prerequisites for working as an auto mechanic.

These traits and aptitudes include:

• Strong people skills (i.e. customer service skills)
• Being detail-oriented
• Good manual dexterity and coordination
• A good understanding of how mechanical systems work
• Good physical strength and flexibility
• Strong troubleshooting skills

Each of the aforementioned prerequisites are important to becoming successful as an automotive technician. If you feel that you have each of these qualities, then you probably have the right make-up for the daily tasks that will be required of you during your career.

Formal Auto Technician Training

In order to begin your career as quickly as possible, and to become eligible to test for ASE certification, you will be required to complete some type of formal auto technician training program. There are a number of different ways to approach this requirement, including those shown below.

• Vocational training programs at community colleges
• Trade schools certification programs
• Associate degree programs at trade schools or community colleges

Each of these approaches has its own advantages and drawbacks, but these are usually determined by the individual. It’s best to consider the type of automotive technician job you desire, find out about its specific requirements, and then pursue the type of training that best allows you to reach your goals.

The Importance of ASE Technician Certification

It is a requirement of the Environmental Protection Agency that any technician who handles certain types of materials (including those found in most automobiles) be certified in its proper handling. For this reason, it is highly recommended that all automotive technicians become certified through the ASE (National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence) in order to ensure that they have completed training that meets all federal guidelines.

Furthermore, it is generally accepted that ASE-certified mechanics earn higher pay and enjoy greater job opportunities than do those who have not completed a course recognized by the organization.

The nine different areas of certification offered by the ASE are:

• Automatic transmission
• Brakes
• Light vehicle diesel engines
• Electrical systems
• Engine performance
• Engine repair
• Heating and air conditioning
• Manual transmission
• Suspension and steering