Everything mechanic starts somewhere, and it’s never too late to start. However, if you have no experience, you may be wondering how to become a mechanic. Our article on how to become an auto mechanic can help you jumpstart your pursuit. Keep reading to learn what an auto mechanic does, what skills are required, and how to become one!
What does an auto mechanic do?
Auto mechanics are responsible for maintaining, diagnosing, and repairing all types of vehicles and can work in different environments such as repair shops, dealerships, tire shops, or parts stores.
While their duties may vary, most auto mechanic job descriptions include the following:
▸ Perform routine maintenance, including oil changes, tire rotations, and fluid checks.
▸ Follow industry-standard safety procedures.
▸ Use diagnostic tools to identify problems and determine a plan for repair.
▸ Communicate with customers to explain and provide repair estimates.
▸ Test vehicles for compliance with national emissions and safety standards.
▸ Keep detailed records of maintenance and repairs performed.
How to Become a Mechanic
① Have a High School Diploma or High School Equivalency (GED)
So, can you become an auto mechanic without going to school? The fact is, employers often refuse to hire candidates if they haven't graduated from high school.
Even if you already have practical mechanical skills, your auto mechanic resume may be overlooked if you don't have this certificate, especially at top companies and dealerships. Most vocational schools also require a high school diploma or GED for admission.
These documents demonstrate a certain level of discipline and reasoning ability. Even if you are a very hard worker, it can be difficult to prove to employers or institutions of higher learning that you are capable of completing a structured course without official documents.
It takes time to get a diploma or GED. However, if you don't have either, it may take you longer to gain a foothold in the automotive technology industry. To broaden your career options, get a diploma or GED first!
②Join a trade program
It is possible for a mechanic with zero experience to become a mechanic without technical training. However, this can be difficult because many of these positions (even entry-level positions) still require previous practical experience.
A skilled trade program can provide this experience. These programs teach students the skills and knowledge needed for entry-level positions in automotive technology through hands-on instruction. 18 They may also offer a degree, diploma, or certificate to demonstrate that graduates have built a technical foundation.
Most automotive technology programs at Universal Technical Institute offer degrees. Depending on the program taken, graduates can earn:
▸Associate of Occupational Studies (AOS)
▸Associate of Professional Technology (AST)
▸Occupational Associate Degree (OAD)
③ Continue Professional Training
Specialized training courses are tailored to specific manufacturers and can help graduates further develop their skills. Most of UTI's professional automotive training programs last 12 to 15 weeks. 8Some programs, such as Mercedes-Benz Drive (MB Drive) and Porsche Technical Apprenticeship Program (PTAP), may last longer. 15
These programs teach students how to service vehicles from specific brands and manufacturers. Some programs focus on just one automotive brand, while others cover multiple brands. Upon completion of the program, graduates will have the credibility and training they can use to apply for jobs in the automotive industry.
How much can an auto mechanic make?
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, as of May 2023, the average annual salary for automotive service technicians and mechanics in the United States is $47,770. (https://tinyurl.com/5xzy3je5) In addition, many employers also provide additional benefits such as health insurance, pension plans, paid vacations, and training opportunities. These benefits not only improve the quality of life of auto mechanics, but also provide support for their career development.
Summary
Auto mechanics are a career choice full of opportunities. In the United States, this industry not only has stable demand, but also competitive salaries and benefits. The work of auto mechanics is diverse, from daily maintenance to complex troubleshooting, all of which require their professional knowledge and skills. With the continuous development of automotive technology, especially the popularity of electric vehicles and smart cars, the career development opportunities for auto mechanics are also increasing. Through learning and accumulating experience, auto mechanics can gradually advance from junior technicians to senior technicians, and even move towards management positions or entrepreneurship. It is not difficult to become an auto mechanic. Through vocational school training, apprenticeship programs and continuous learning, anyone can find their place in this industry. In short, auto mechanic is not only a stable career choice, but also a career full of challenges and growth opportunities. If you are interested in cars, like to solve problems by hand, and are willing to keep learning new knowledge, then auto mechanic may be your ideal career.
