You may have wondered how to start an auto repair company. There are many factors that must be considered when opening a shop as a mechanic. Here are some steps to help you succeed. These are just a few of the important points to remember. You'll also find tips on how to get started and promote your new business.
Planning a business
The details of the shop's structure, employees and market research are all important parts of a successful business plan. The plan should focus on a market niche or opportunity within the auto repair industry. For example, your business could specialize in engine repair and transmission repair as well as oil changes. Your plan should include the specific products and prices your business will be offering, and their expected range.
The creation of an auto repair shop
Auto repair shops can vary in their type depending on the business they're looking to open. A niche market in auto repair is advantageous as it can be very competitive. But, franchises can limit your operation to the franchise's operating procedures and suppliers. The auto repair industry is constantly changing and many garage owners are retiring. Understanding your competition is an essential step in opening a successful auto repair shop.
The process of obtaining a mechanic’s license
If you're going to start a mechanic business, you'll need a mechanic's license. The authorities will appreciate your seriousness about your work by granting you a license. This can result in more business opportunities for you and less stress. You might need additional permits depending upon your state. Before you begin working on cars, be sure to check the local laws.
Promoting your business
Promoting your business is key to a successful mechanic shop. Promoting your business is not enough in today's market. Use digital advertising to increase brand awareness and reach your target audience. Other ways to boost your business' visibility include digital advertising. AutoLeap's auto repair shop software is one example. It helps you manage your technicians, appointments, and generate invoices.
Finding employees
Although interviewing potential employees will help you assess their skills, it is not the only screening process. Most jobs are not publicly posted, and 70% are filled by personal connections. Also, it's a good idea when you are looking to hire a mechanic. This is because they will have more credibility. Background checks are able to cross-reference information about candidate history. When interviewing candidates, create objective screening criteria, document them, and review them frequently.
FAQ
What is the length of an automotive training course?
An automotive course is three years long.
The first year focuses on theory and learning about cars. Practical training is the second year. You will learn to drive, fix engines and perform other tasks around the car. The final year is spent doing a placement at a local garage, which gives you experience in fixing real-world problems.
What does it matter which college I attend?
Not really. There is no difference between colleges in terms of how to get into the automobile industry. There are some schools that offer more specific programs than others.
What is the difference in a mechanic and an auto technician?
Both are related, but they are not the same. Both a mechanic and an automotive technician can repair cars.
A mechanic must possess good manual dexterity, and be able perform simple tasks efficiently. A mechanic must be able diagnose and fix problems quickly and accurately.
An automotive technician must be more technically proficient than a mechanic. They need to be able use tools such drills and wrenches, and read blueprints.
They must also be able perform complex procedures safely. They must also be familiarized in different types and electrical systems.
They must also be able comprehend how the various parts interrelate with one another.
As a result, mechanics typically make less than technicians. However, both careers offer great opportunities.
What is the length of an apprenticeship as an automotive mechanic?
A three-year apprenticeship in automotive mechanics takes. It includes two years of school and two years as an apprentice. The first year of training is spent in the trade. This includes theory and practical skills as well as safety procedures. You'll also learn the safe and efficient use of tools during this first year. After the first year, a second year will be spent on-thejob training. This year you'll get experience in different trades. These periods will also give you the chance to take formal courses.
The final year of this program is spent in obtaining qualifications and becoming certified in your field. These include NVQs (National Vocational Qualifications), which are awarded after passing exams covering specific topics within the industry. In addition, there are HNCs (Higher National Certificates) that cover general subjects such as management, business administration, and customer service. City & Guilds certificates may be available for those who are interested in becoming qualified in specific trades.
What qualifications do you need to be a truck-mechanic?
Although you don’t have formal qualifications, you have extensive experience with engines and trucks. Your knowledge is valuable as you are able to quickly diagnose problems and work efficiently.
Also, your knowledge of diesel technology will be a benefit as you can help us understand which parts are needed for our vehicles.
What are the requirements for an automobile technician?
High school graduation or GED is required with excellent grades in English and math. Additionally, you will need to be proficient in reading and writing. Before you can start working, you will have to pass a written exam and take a series practical tests.
What kind of car mechanic jobs exists?
There are three major areas of employment that car mechanics work in:
-
Automotive repair shops
-
Dealerships
-
Independent garages
Automotive repair shops
It's where most people start to think about becoming a mechanic. It's also the easiest way you can get started. You can either work in a shop run by someone else, or start your business.
You will need to join a union if you want to work in a shop. Once accepted into the union you will be trained by the union.
After completing the training, you'll be ready to start work.
You will need to register if your garage is going to be open. After you have registered, you will need to meet certain standards.
After you have registered, you will be issued a license to operate your garage.
Your license allows you to sell spare parts and make minor repairs. It won't allow you to fix major engine problems.
Customers will expect you to not only sell spare parts but also provide advice and guidance.
Dealership jobs
Many dealerships have mechanics who are experts in one particular area. They might be able to only fix brakes or replace tires.
Some dealers also have general mechanics that can handle all aspects.
Many of these positions require that applicants undergo training before they are allowed to work. This means employers can choose which candidates are best suited for their role.
Some dealerships will even hire graduates right out of university. These graduates are familiar with the fundamentals of mechanical engineering so they can easily learn about cars.
Independent garages
Independent garages are not associated with any one dealership. They tend to be focused on high-quality service.
Independent garages don't have to be associated with any particular company. This allows them to offer higher wages. This makes them generally more well-paid than jobs at dealerships.
But this doesn't mean that independent garages are necessarily better places to work. Many owners prefer to control their businesses themselves, rather than delegating it to employees.
You might find yourself working long hours but having no control over what happens in the day.
Additionally, you should expect to earn lower wages if employed by a dealership.
There are many jobs that can be switched between. It is possible to switch between different types of jobs if your current employer would prefer you to work at a dealer.
Alternativly, you can apply directly to the garage owner if you are interested in working at an independent garage.
Unfortunately, finding a new job can be difficult. You can earn more depending on many other factors.
This could include the type of vehicle that you are working on and whether or not you charge an additional for labor.
Statistics
- Apprentice mechanics earn significantly less hourly than mechanics who have completed training, with a median wage of approximately $14.50 an hour, according to PayScale. (jobhero.com)
- 52% of Mechanics in the United States think their salaries are enough for the cost of living in their area. (indeed.com)
- According to the BLS, the median annual salary for automotive service technicians and mechanics in the United States was $44,050 in May 2020. (uti.edu)
External Links
How To
How to become an automotive technician
An automotive technician provides repair services and maintenance to vehicles. He/she works at car dealerships, auto shops, garages, service centers, etc. He/she works with customers to repair their cars and trucks, ATVs or snowmobiles. An automotive technician must be capable of diagnosing problems and making repairs safely, accurately and efficiently.
An associate degree from a vocational school is required for anyone who wishes to become an automotive technician. After completing the program, he/she must take the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence certification exam. ASE stands to American Society of Mechanical Engineers. The ASE certification test consists of two sections. The first section tests the ability to use mechanical knowledge. The second section tests the ability to apply practical skills. To take the test, you must visit one of the approved testing locations. These testing sites can be found online and through your local dealer.
After passing the exam, a candidate must take a state exam before being licensed as an automobile technician. This process is different depending on where you live. Some states require that applicants attend a training class, while others allow them freedom to study at their own pace. Some states require technicians to be licensed immediately upon receiving their license. Other states wait until they have been employed as automotive technicians for at least six month.
Apply to your local dealership to become an automotive technician. Once hired, most new employees start out working as apprentices. Apprenticeship programs last about three years. A student will learn to repair basic things like changing oil, adjusting brakes or replacing tires. They also learn how spark plugs are cleaned and inspect engine compartments. Some students are able to perform more advanced repairs such as replacing shocks and installing air filters. Schools offer classes during business hours. However, there are some schools that offer evening classes for those who need them.
Once a student finishes his/her apprenticeship, it is possible to become a Journeyman. Journeymen generally spend four- to five decades learning how to fix major systems like transmissions. They also learn to perform complex repairs, such as remanufacturing engines, rebuilding transmissions, and troubleshooting electrical components. Many employers prefer to hire Journeymen because they understand the job well.
A candidate who passes all the necessary exams and gets a license might be interested in opening his/her own business. According to Bureau of Labor Statistics (2010), almost 1.7million automotive mechanic jobs were on the market. The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicted that this number would rise by 18% from 2009 to 2020. Candidates who decide to open their own business should be prepared to invest thousands in equipment and supplies.
There are many factors that affect the salary of an automotive technician, such as where they live, their education and experience. A jobless person can expect to make $20,000 per year. A high school diploma is all that's required to earn approximately $21,000 annually. Those with an associate's degree earned approximately $24,000 per year. A technician with a bachelor's degree earned approximately $27,000 annually. Master's degree holders make around $32,000 annually. A common trend is for salary increases to occur so a professional making less than $30,000 can reasonably expect to be earning $40,000 or more within a few years.