Auto mechanics perform maintenance and repairs on various vehicles, specializing in areas such as engine work, body repairs, and electronic systems. Diesel mechanics service diesel engines in passenger cars, commercial trucks, and buses. Certification and training programs are preferred. As automotive technology advances, the demand for specialized mechanics increases.
Auto mechanics perform maintenance and repairs on all different types of vehicles, from small passenger cars to diesel motorcycles, trucks and buses. Many mechanics specialize in certain types of repair work, such as engine work, car body repairs, and electronic systems. Since there is a lot of room for specialty, there are several auto mechanic jobs available.
Many auto mechanics work in independent shops with other service technicians. Mechanics often perform preventative maintenance, such as replenishing various fluids, changing filters, rotating tires, and diagnosing engines. When an automobile is not functioning properly, it can follow troubleshooting guidelines to diagnose problems and repair or replace damaged parts.
Auto mechanic jobs usually require a person to have extensive knowledge about a certain aspect of vehicles. Transmission mechanics, for example, focuses on the various parts of automatic and manual transmission systems, such as gears, driveshafts, bearings, and housings. Brake specialists diagnose problems with brake systems, replenish brake fluids and change pads. Mechanics can also specialize in maintaining complex electrical systems, which can differ greatly between certain vehicle types. Other specialties may include front end repair, bodywork and ignition system maintenance.
Diesel mechanics service diesel engines in passenger cars, commercial trucks and buses. Diesel-powered automobiles operate differently than gasoline-powered automobiles and often require very different maintenance and repair practices. As with other auto mechanic jobs, diesel mechanics often specialize in transmission work, brake repair, computer systems, or other areas. They may work in independent repair shops or companies with many diesel vehicles available that need regular maintenance checks.
To become an auto mechanic in any specialty, a person must typically have a high school diploma and repair experience. Many employers prefer to hire mechanics who have completed training programs offered by vocational schools and community colleges. While specific certification isn’t always required, many entry-level mechanics take a test offered by a nationally recognized institution to improve their credentials and increase their chances of finding auto mechanic jobs. In the United States, the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence offers certification for many different specialties, including brake repair, air conditioning and heating, and electronic systems.
As automotive technology advances and alternative fuel vehicles become more popular, the number of different auto mechanic jobs continues to increase. Computer and electronics specialists are in great demand to service the complex systems installed in many modern vehicles. Cars running on electricity, hydrogen and biofuels require the skills of highly specialized maintenance and repair mechanics.
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