Car Repair Certificate and Certification Programs with Course Info
Car repair technicians work in a variety of settings to perform installation, maintenance and diagnostics on automobiles. Certificate programs in car repair can often be completed in one year of intensive study. More information on car repair certificate programs follows.
Certificate of Completion - Car Repair
Car repair certificate programs require a combination of classroom and hands-on learning. Students spend extensive time studying car engines and various systems. They are expected to gain expertise with the latest technology used to install and troubleshoot hi-tech devices, such as audiovisual accessories and GPS. A major emphasis of car repair certificate programs involves directly working on cars, gaining practice with universal car repair practices and variations based on make and model. Many car repair certificate programs require students to own their own basic sets of tools.
Education Prerequisites
Applicants must possess a high school diploma or its equivalent to enter a car repair certificate program. Many programs require candidates to demonstrate a propensity for mechanical reasoning. A science and math background is useful, but not always required.
Program Coursework
Coursework in car repair certificate programs is divided between classroom study and hands-on experiences. Students learn how the individual elements of cars function and apply those theories to practical car repair. Classes may address:
- Fundamentals of automotive technology
- Basic automotive electrical systems
- Brake and hydraulic systems
- Car engine repair
- Car repair shop business practices
- Car engine performance analysis
- Suspension, alignment and steering
- Automotive heating and air conditioning
Salary Info and Employment Outlook
Car repair technicians may find work in car dealership service centers, local repair shops and maintenance centers. Others work in stores selling car parts, tires and other accessories. Employment for car repair technicians is expected to grow 14% from 2006 through 2016, a faster rate than is the average for all occupations, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. This growth result from many factors, including a greater number of cars in operation and the retirement of many current technicians. As reported by the BLS, car repair technicians in 2006 had median hourly wage-and-salary earnings of $16.24.
Professional Certification Information and Continuing Education
The most common professional certification for car repair technicians is conferred by the Automotive Service Excellence (ASE). This certification, though widely seen as standard, is not mandatory for work in car repair. ASE certification is available in up to eight specializations within automotive service; these include brake systems, car engine repair and suspension systems. Applicants must pass certification exams. Though two years of hands-on, full-time experience in the car service industry is required to become ASE certified, it's possible to register for and take the exams before completing the work experience. One of the required two years of experience may be substituted for by coursework completed in high school or college.
Auto Repair Training Programs
Auto repair technicians train for one to two years at community colleges or vocational schools, or they learn their skills on the job. The National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) offers well-recognized certification programs for auto repair technicians and mechanics.
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