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Automobiles are an integral part of our daily lives. Be it commuting for our jobs, running errands, or piling in for the next family road trip, most of us prefer our own sedans and SUVs to do the job. We love our cars so much it only makes sense we want someone qualified to be in charge of their repair and maintenance. 

Becoming certified can help put your clients at ease. Your skills can attract more customers; you can be more hirable, improve your prospects of a higher salary, and possibly kickstart your own business.

Unfortunately, most automotive service technicians are unclear on the certifications that they should get. Should you go for an ASE certification or a manufacturer’s certification?

What areas can you obtain a certification in? Can certifications really help automobile technicians with their career growth? Keep reading to learn answers to these questions and more. 

What are the Types of Auto Mechanics?

As cars become increasingly complex with a network of intricate electrical and mechanical components, auto mechanics have evolved to specialized roles. Depending upon your chosen work area, you will require a specific set of training and skills to obtain your certification.

You can classify auto mechanics into these major focus areas:

What is an ASE Certification?

The National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) is an independent, non-profit organization that tests and certifies auto mechanics and technicians. An ASE certification is the standard credential that helps identify auto mechanics who have the desired knowledge and skills to efficiently diagnose, repair, and service cars, light trucks, SUVs, and school buses.

You have to be physically present at the testing center for a computer-based test that consists of 40-75 multiple choice questions to assess your knowledge. You can prepare for your test and familiarize yourself with the test environment by taking National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (NIASE)’s sample tests online.

Once you have registered for the test and paid the testing fee, you can give your test on the allotted date. If you clear this test, NIASE will certify you as a skilled repair technician.

How to get an ASE Recertification?

The ASE certification is valid for five years, after which you can apply for recertification tests by paying the prescribed fee. You can also use the to conveniently extend the date of your certification from your phone, tablet, or PC without having to visit the test center.

The app will deliver 1 question per month per certification area and deliver 1 credit for every question you answer correctly. After you earn 8 credits in one certification area, you receive a 1-year extension to your certificate.

The 8 Core Areas of Auto Mechanic Certification

ASE offers different certificates for each vehicle type, such as cars, trucks, buses, and secondary systems. There are eight core certifications for each vehicle type that demonstrate your knowledge of repair and maintenance.

The career path for an auto mechanic generally starts at the Automobile and Light Truck repair shops and service centers. Fresh graduates and entry-level mechanics can start with the A-series exams(A1-A8), also known as core areas,  for a fulfilling career in the automotive industry. 

The A-series certificates consist of  Automobile and Light Truck (up to Class 3) certification exams that identify auto mechanics who can render basic automotive services. ASE also provides an additional A9 certificate for light vehicle diesel engines. These are the nine certificates an auto mechanic can apply for:

How to Become a Master Technician?

ASE recognizes candidates who pass all the eight tests in the A-series as Master Technicians. You can also obtain the status of a Master Technician by clearing all the exams in a particular series such as collision repair (B series), truck equipment(E series), parts specialist(P series), etc.

All your certificates in a series must stay up to date. If the validity of any certificate in the series expires, you lose your master technician status. In this instance, you will have to apply for recertification.

Additional ASE Certifications

The list of certificates provided by ASE are as follows:

We’ve made a table for this data that we can use in place of the content below if you prefer:

Benefits of ASE Certifications for an Auto Repair Technician

An ASE certificate is a good way to demonstrate your ability as a qualified and proficient technician. Your certification shows your customers that you are well-versed with your craft.

It also demonstrates that you have invested your time and effort into becoming an elite auto mechanic. ASE certifications boost your credibility and reflect a noteworthy achievement.

These certifications demonstrate your competency. This is why an ASE-certified auto mechanic has good prospects of career advancement. You can improve your chances of higher pay and better job opportunities.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics shows that the.

To pass the ASE test, you have to remain up to date with the latest trends in your area. Studying for your certification will also boost your confidence in your specialization and strengthen your knowledge in weaker areas.

The automotive service industry prefers mechanics who have undertaken a certification program along with the desired work experience. An automotive repair facility might prefer vehicle repair mechanics with a certification as it shows their pursuit for learning their craft and gaining excellence.

Student Certifications

You will need a minimum of two years of work experience to apply for an ASE certification. Entry-level mechanics who intend to work in auto repair shops can apply for the ASE student certification program. There is no requirement of having work experience for the student certification. 

This is an excellent way for students just about to complete their educational training after high school to obtain work and eventually apply for ASE certification tests.

Manufacturer Certifications

Manufacturers and auto repair shop owners also offer training and certification to technicians for better career opportunities. The requirements for such certificates generally include brief coursework and an experience of exclusively working on the manufacturer’s brand of vehicles.

If you want to apply for a manufacturer’s certification, you must fulfill the manufacturer’s prerequisite education criteria. A professional qualification demonstrates your background knowledge in the field and helps manufacturers expedite your training.

Some employers may also insist that you have a formal GED equivalency and work experience to apply.

What Constitutes Manufacturer-Specific Certification Training?

Auto mechanics can obtain a factory certification that demonstrates an in-depth knowledge of the diagnosis and repair of the manufacturer’s vehicles.

Generally, companies enroll promising mechanics in a company training institute for a specific period. After you complete your training, your company will then provide a certification.

Certain dealerships look for mechanics to work only on a particular brand of vehicles.  Automotive training institutes have a detailed curriculum that can equip technicians to work on all the vehicles a certain manufacturer produces. The training is a mix of the following:

You must fulfill the training protocols laid out by the manufacturer to obtain a certification.  Entry-level training programs can last for two years, during which your instructors will put special emphasis on the automobiles produced by the manufacturer.

Such training programs are also more focused on hands-on training to equip students with the vehicles’ latest features.

You may also learn different testing procedures, diagnostic methods, electrical/electronic systems, engine diagnosis in light automobiles, medium/heavy truck engines, or school buses depending upon the manufacturer you choose.

What is the Difference Between ASE and Manufacturer-Specific Certification?

ASE certifications are different from manufacturer-specific certifications. An ASE-certified mechanic learns more about general automotive repair principles, while a manufacturer-specific certification focuses on the individual automobiles that a manufacturer produces.

Both these certifications demonstrate varied abilities. An ASE-certified automobile technician might have high levels of knowledge and skills. However, a manufacturer-certified automotive mechanic might still have a deeper understanding of the functioning of a specific brand’s automobiles.

Benefits of Manufacturer Certifications

Holding a manufacturer certification can open up several career possibilities. Since manufacturer-certified technicians are fewer than ASE-certified mechanics, they often have a high demand that can translate into better pay rates.

A car dealership owner wants to ensure that they have a team of the most skilled automotive technicians. This allows service centers to charge more than local technicians. This also means that they can pay a higher salary to their mechanics.

You also learn the latest innovations and state-of-the-art technology as soon as your manufacturer launches it. Skilled mechanics also allows manufacturers to boost their credibility in the automotive market and elevate their brand.

Conclusion

If you wish to have a fruitful career as an automotive technician, getting an ASE or manufacturer’s certification can help you advance to higher professional development. You also stay in touch with the latest knowledge and skills to be the best in your field.

FAQ

How long does it take to get ASE certified?

You can get ASE certified as soon as you pass the certification tests. However, applying for an ASE certification requires knowledge, skills, and work experience in automotive repair.

Can you become a mechanic without a degree?

You can get jobs as a mechanic without a degree. But most employers prefer qualified, trained, and certified professionals for high-paying, permanent roles in their organization.

How much do certified mechanics make?

The of automotive technicians had a median salary of $68,800. Higher experience and proficiency can help you achieve a higher salary. Most mechanics also earn extra for working overtime.

Can I get ASE certified online?

You can apply for an ASE certification online, but you have to be physically present at the test center to take up the exam. Once your certificate expires, you can apply for recertification online through the myASE app.