How to Become an Auto Mechanic in Nevada

If you’re one of the many people in Nevada who want to become an auto mechanic, read on!

This is where you’ll find out the type of training you must attend and even the salary you can expect once you become more experienced.

Auto Mechanic Training in Nevada

Auto mechanics are not expected to be highly educated.

Most of them obtained a high school diploma or the GED equivalent.

They are expected to enroll in a training program for auto technology and obtain a certificate or diploma of completion.

Those who want to get paid more and have more options when it comes to their future career, choose to obtain an associate’s degree in the field.

Regardless of the program you choose, make sure it is approved by NATEF.

This is the National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation who decided the standards for this occupation.

If you want to obtain an associate’s degree for this occupation, these are the colleges you can check out:

• College of Southern Nevada
• Truckee Meadows Community College
• Western Nevada College
• ATI Training
• Great Basin College

The programs have two parts:

• Theory classes
• Practice classes

You’ll learn skills such as:

• Oil changes and tire rotation
• Brake repair and fluid level checks
• Ignition system checks
• Exhaust and muffler repair
• Catalytic converter replacement
• Replace spark plugs, fuel sensors
• Alternator and battery replacement
• Conduct system tests
• Transmission replacements
• Air conditioner repair
• Engine rebuilds

All graduates are fully prepared for the position of a beginner auto mechanic.

Earning an ASE Certification in Nevada

The ASE certificate is for when you have some experience in the field.

However, this is credential is not mandatory for this occupation.

Those who get such a certificate are sure to offer high-quality services.

ASE offers over 40 certifications.

These are some of them:

• Repair technician
• Service consultant
• Collision damage estimator
• Parts specialist

It’s best to keep track of the accumulated experience, as for most diplomas you need at least two years under your belt.

Some specializations require 1 year while others up to three.

To get the certification, you’ll have to go to the testing center in person, after you signed up for the exam.

There’s a fee associated with the test too.

You may sign up for and pass as many tests as you want, as long as you meet the requirements.

All the ASE certifications need to be renewed periodically through another exam.

The renewal period is 5 years.

ASE also certifies master auto mechanics.

Those interested must pass a series of 8 exams.

ASE set up these series of tests:

• Automobile & Light Truck Certification Tests (A Series)
• Collision Repair & Refinish Certification Tests (B Series)
• Damage Analysis & Estimating Certification Test (B6)
• Automobile Service Consultant Certification Test (C1)
• Truck Equipment Certification Tests (E Series)
• Alternate Fuels Certification Test (F1)
• Transit Bus Certification Tests (H Series)
• Auto Maintenance and Light Repair Certification Test (G1)

Earning a 609-Refrigerant Certification

If you’re one of the many auto mechanics in Nevada to need to work on the MVAC system, you need a certification.

The certificate you need is the one for the 609-refrigerant.

You’ll first have to enroll in a course and then pass an exam.

Both of them can be found online.

This credential ensures you know how to safely handle refrigerants that can be dangerous when manipulated improperly.

The 609-certification doesn’t need to be renewed.

Auto Mechanic Schools in Nevada

Employment and Salary Information for Auto Mechanics in Nevada

Once you graduate, you can find a job at many establishments, such as:

• Dealerships
• Tire and parts shops
• Repair shops
• Gas stations
• Local governments

Auto mechanics can work under a variety of titles:

• Diesel specialist
• Bus and truck mechanic
• Automotive body repair worker
• Auto glass installer/repairer

In this field, employers prefer individuals who can work either on their own or as part of a team.

As far as the salary goes, larger cities and more experience usually mean higher paychecks.

Regional Salary in Nevada

Additional Information about Auto Mechanics in Nevada

Not many people know that a manufacturer’s certification is the easiest way of getting hired in a dealership.

Many auto mechanics usually get this diploma after they gain more experience performing work on many car brands.

The certificate from a manufacturer will narrow and improve your skills and knowledge only to the car models that carmaker produces.

Mechanic Schools by City

Mechanic Schools by State