Are you passionate about cars? Do you get excited with the idea of assembling parts and dealing with cars? Perhaps the career of an auto mechanic can be a good idea!
Read more to find out everything you need to do to become an auto mechanic.
What does an auto mechanic do?
Before discovering what you must do to become an auto mechanic, it is important to understand what would be your main tasks and responsibilities. They generally include:
- Diagnose vehicle problems by combining your knowledge, experience and specific software (the evolution of technology demands it );
- Interpret vehicle diagnostic codes to assess errors and causes of breakdowns, and plan repairs;
- Work with auto tools and specialized equipment to repair or replace specific parts. They can be auto lifts, pneumatic tools or hand tools ;
- Perform the necessary inspections and the preventive maintenance recommended by the manufacturer, such as oil changes or tire replacements;
- Perform these tasks in a specific area.
Auto mechanic: how to invest in your career
Being an auto mechanic means that you’ll be working on a daily basis with light or heavy vehicles.
The passion for cars often makes people decide to pursue this professional career. But how can you invest in this path without any training?
To help you understand what you can do to start your career as an auto mechanic and get a job that fulfills you, consider the following steps:
1. Do specialized training
Although it is not impossible, it can be difficult to enter the car repair business without a minimum level of training or a professional certificate.
Nowadays, having skills is particularly important because many workshops require qualified technicians.
There are schools on the market that offer professional training in this area, and at which you can find a huge variety of courses, such as:
• Light Automobile Mechanic
• Vehicle Painter
• Automobile Body Repairer
• Motorcycle Mechanic
• Body Repair and Painting Technician
• Automotive Mechatronics Technician Do a quick internet search and ask for more information about the courses of your interest.
2. Consider obtaining a higher certification
In addition to professional training, there are courses in mechanics that will give you a diploma on a Technical Degree. This can help you to advance quicker in your career and to rank for a more rewarding position.
To be able to apply for these courses, you must have completed a technical-vocational course – such as, for example, one of those mentioned above -, you must have qualifications equivalent to completing high-school, a diploma of technological expertise, or even a higher education course .
Major car manufacturers, such as Ford, Toyota, Honda, FCA Chrysler or Mercedes-Benz, have specific certification programs that can also be an excellent option for you.
Participating in these programs will allow you to learn, among many other things, the pros and cons of repairing specific systems for each of these brands.
As many car manufacturers now have unique systems in their vehicles that offer a specific set of maintenance, mechanics who wish to progress in their careers should consider obtaining one or more of these certifications from each manufacturer / brand.
3. Look for a place to get some experience
Although it may seem difficult, there are many auto workshops managers or dealers that are ready to offer an opportunity to anyone who wants to learn.
Choose some places where you would like to work and introduce yourself. Humbly, ask for an opportunity to show what you know and do your best.
If you don’t have any experience, you can always ask to observe other mechanics working. Although training is essential, there is nothing better than “getting your hands dirty”.
We hope this helped you out understanding what you can do to become a mechanic and that you end up having a career that is truly enriching.
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