Auto Repair: What Training Does Your Mechanic Have

What kind of training should your auto repair mechanic have? An advanced mechanic should have training in repairing and maintaining computerized engines, fuel systems, transmissions, and in vehicle alignments. Mechanics should also be skilled in both disassembly and in rebuilding engines. These skills are usually taught in high schools with additional training available in technical schools in both brick and mortar settings and online. Of course, online classes may require students to attend workshop classes for hands-on in-person instruction or testing.

Your mechanic may have had a lower position in the car shop, working as an apprentice with an experienced worker as a mentor on the job. Trainees who have not completed coursework can use book knowledge paired with the on-the-job experience at the shop. Learning the skills needed to become an advanced auto repair technician can take several years. Although many people feel that they are knowledgeable about vehicles, unless they have formal training and have worked in a mechanic's shop for a couple of years, the person may not have the expertise that you seek in a mechanic. Friends and family members may be able to complete basic tasks to correct common errors, but only a trained mechanic can provide the most thorough diagnosis and auto repair solutions.

If you have been in accident, or if your vehicle has been damaged by some other means, a mechanic can provide a good estimate for insurance providers. The mechanic must have the expertise to provide a reputable list of parts needed and services that will be provided and costs for those services. Sometimes, it is possible to identify properly trained, fair mechanics based on approved mechanic lists provided by insurance companies. Mechanics on this list are typically mechanics who the insurance companies trust to provide the fairest estimates and quality service. The mechanics who work in the shops are also likely to be highly skilled at completing a variety of repairs and services from engine problems to body work.

Of course, some mechanics have received additional training in specialty areas. These specialty areas include air conditioning, foreign cars, light duty, diesel, motor-sports, and high performance vehicles. Some of the specialties prepare mechanics to work on race cars instead of consumer vehicles. Schools may also have a system of courses that can be taken so that students can earn ASE Certification. When a mechanic is ASE certified, he or she has passed an examination to prove competency in one of several different specialties, including school buses, automobile, trucks, collisions, brakes, engines, and parts. The mechanics must also have at least two years of experience to be certified.

Some mechanics are listed as ASE Master Technicians, which mean that the mechanic has successfully been able to achieve passing scores on specific tests as determined by ASE. These mechanics also have at least two years of experience. You can tell that a mechanic has achieved ASE certification because he or she usually has a sign with this information in the shop where they work. You can also ask about these credentials.