How to Become an Auto Mechanic in New Jersey

Auto mechanics in New Jersey have a lucrative occupation that allows them to work both as part of a team or independently.

If this sounds like something you would like to do, read ob about what you have to do to become an auto mechanic in New Jersey!

Auto Mechanic Training in New Jersey

The main requirements to become an auto mechanic are to graduate from high school or have a general education diploma and to undergo some training.

While most auto mechanics only finished high school, there are more and more of them who seek higher education.

They enroll in colleges offering diplomas in automotive technology through programs that last for up to 2 years.

These programs are offered at the following institutions:

• Brookdale Community College
• Pennco Tech
• Camden County College
• Union County Community College
• Mercer County Community College

If you find such programs elsewhere, make sure they’re approved by the  National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation.

NATEF decided on the standards for this occupation.

Upon completing your education through theory and practice classes, you can obtain a certificate or diploma of completion or even an associate’s degree.

With the knowledge and skills you learn, you’ll be fully prepared for any entry-level position.

These are some of the skills:

• 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

Earning an ASE Certification in New Jersey

There are more than 40 certifications you can earn from ASE.

These certificates show that the service you offer in that specialty is really the best and up to standards.

You can earn as many of these certificates as you want after you meet the requirements.

The requirements are:

• At least 2 years of experience
• Signing up and paying for the exam
• Passing the exam

Make sure you keep accurate track of the years you spent working.

For some of these diplomas, you only need to accumulate 1 year.

Other specialties require even 3 years of experience.

Here are some of the certifications you can get:

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

After every 5 years, you need to take and pass the exam again, to renew your certification.

You can also become a master auto mechanic through ASE.

For this, you’ll have to pass a series of 8 exams.

These are some of the diplomas and exams:

• 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

In New Jersey, like in all other states, auto mechanics are expected to know how to handle the vehicle’s MVAC system.

This is easy to learn, however, you’ll need the certification allowing you to work with the restricted refrigerants.

ASE offers the 609-refrigerant certification that you need for this.

Both the coursework and the exam can be found online.

Unlike most other certificates, you won’t need to renew this one.

Auto Mechanic Schools in New Jersey

Employment and Salary Information for Auto Mechanics in New Jersey

There are many places across New Jersey hiring freshly graduated auto mechanics:

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

Auto mechanics can find themselves working under a variety of titles:

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

Experience and certifications will influence the most how much you’ll earn as an auto mechanic in this state.

Regional Salary in New Jersey

Additional Information about Auto Mechanics in New Jersey

You should know that it’s best to get certified by a manufacturer if you want to work in a dealership.

The certification from a manufacturer will improve your knowledge of the vehicles produced under that company’s logo.

This diploma is best obtained after you get used to working on a variety of cars.

Mechanic Schools by City

Mechanic Schools by State