Automotive

Automotive Service Technicians and mechanics, also known as service technicians or service techs, inspect, maintain, and repair cars and light trucks. Automotive Technicians are responsible for:

• Testing systems and components using equipment such as infrared engine analyzers, compression gauges, and computerized diagnostic devices
• Repair, replace, realign and adjust breaking systems
• Provide estimates of vehicle repairs
• Review work orders
• Using electronic testing equipment to troubleshoot fuel, ignition, and emissions control systems
• Speak with customers to understand the vehicle’s problems and discuss work to be performed

How to Become an Automotive Service Technician or Mechanic

• Automotive Services Techs are required to complete a diploma, certificate or associate degree program at a vocational or trade school. If you are still in high school, courses in automotive repair, electronics, computers, and mathematics provide a good background, however, high school grads need further training to become fully qualified.

How Long is a Mechanic Program?

• Programs are usually between 6 months to a year and include classroom instruction combined with hands-on practice. Short certificate programs which are designed for a specific subject such as brake maintenance of engine performance are available to those who’ve already completed their training.

Licensing, Registrations and Certifications

• All technicians who purchase or work with refrigerants need to be certified as per the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
• The standard credential for service technicians is awarded by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE), which is available for nine different automobile specialty areas: automatic transmission/transaxle, brakes, light vehicle diesel engines, electrical/electronic systems, engine performance, engine repair, heating and air-conditioning, manual drive train and axles, and suspension and steering.
• To become certified, technicians must have at least 2 years of experience (or relevant schooling and 1 year of experience) and pass an exam.

Important Qualities for an Automotive Technician

• Be detail oriented
• Have troubleshooting skills
• Have good customer-service skills
• Have good dexterity
• Have good mechanical skills
• Have good organizational skills
• Have physical strength