The work of automotive service technicians and mechanics has evolved from simply mechanical to high technology. Today integrated electronic systems and complex computers run vehicles and measure their performance while on the road. Automotive mechanics have developed into diagnostic, high-tech problem solvers. Technicians must have an increasingly broad base of knowledge about how vehicles' complex components work and interact, as well as the ability to work with electronic diagnostic equipment and computer-based technical reference materials.

Automotive mechanics use these high-tech skills to inspect, maintain, and repair automobiles and light trucks with gasoline engines. The increasing sophistication of automotive technology now relies on workers who can use computerized shop equipment and work with electronic components, while maintaining their skills with traditional handtools. *

Automotive technology is rapidly increasing in sophistication, and most training authorities strongly recommend that persons seeking automotive mechanic jobs complete a formal Automotive Technician Training program in high school or in a postsecondary vocational school.

It usually takes 2 to 5 years of experience to become a journey-level automotive service technician who is expected to quickly perform the more difficult types of routine service and repairs. However, some graduates of postsecondary automotive training programs are often able to earn promotion to the journey level after only a few months on the job. *

Postsecondary automotive technician training programs vary greatly in format, but normally provide intensive career preparation through a combination of classroom instruction and hands-on practice. Some automotive mechanic schools provide concentrated training for 6 months to a year, depending on how many hours the student attends each week

In addition, the various automobile manufacturers and their participating dealers sponsor 2-year associate degree programs at postsecondary schools across the nation. *

Employers increasingly send experienced automotive mechanics to manufacturer training centers to learn to repair new models or to receive special training in the repair of components, such as electronic fuel injection or air-conditioners. Motor vehicle dealers also may send promising beginners to manufacturer-sponsored mechanic training programs. Employers typically furnish this additional training to maintain or upgrade employee skills and increase their value to the dealership. *

Voluntary certification by Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) has become a standard credential for automotive mechanics. Certification is available in 1 or more of 8 different service areas, such as electrical systems, engine repair, brake systems, suspension and steering, and heating and air conditioning. For certification in each area, automotive technicians must have at least 2 years of experience and pass a written examination. Completion of an automotive technician training program in high school, vocational or trade school, or community or junior college may be substituted for 1 year of experience. *