How to Become an Auto Mechanic in South Carolina

In South Carolina, the demand for auto mechanics is increasing every year.

Read on if you want to discover more about this occupation, especially about how you can become an auto mechanic in South Carolina!

Auto Mechanic Training in South Carolina

Everyone knows that most people complete a training program if they want to become auto mechanics.

It’s usually easy to get into a training program as they’re often offered in high school.

These programs can also be found through training centers and community colleges.

No matter where the program is available, it needs the approval of the National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation.

If you choose a program after high school, you might need to present a high school diploma or GED when enrolling.

Some institutions might even as for computer proficiency and passing grades in certain subjects like math or physics.

When enrolling in a program offered through a community college, you can graduate with an associate’s degree.

This will greatly improve your career prospects and salary.

These are some of South Carolina’s colleges with programs in automotive technology:

• Central Carolina Technical College
• Orangeburg-Calhoun Technical College
• Florence-Darlington Technical College
• Midlands Technical College
• York Technical College

Most programs are expected to last for up to 2 years.

Thanks to the theory and practice hours offered through these programs, you’ll learn how to perform tasks such as these:

• 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 South Carolina

ASE offers more than 40 certifications to experienced auto mechanics in South Carolina if they want to stand out.

The credentials include the following:

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

Candidates need to meet some minimum requirements first:

• A minimum of 2 years of work experience as an auto mechanic
• Registering and paying the fee for the chosen diploma
• Passing the related test

Depending on the certification, ASE will ask for at least 1 year of experience end up to 3 years.

Keeping accurate track of the worked hours is therefore very important if you want any ASE certification.

You can even earn more certifications.

Besides meeting the requirements for each diploma, you also have to be present at the testing site as you can’t take this test online.

Furthermore, becoming a master auto mechanic is also possible.

The challenge here is that you have to pass a series of 8 tests.

The series can be seen below:

• 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)
• Advanced Engine Performance Specialist Certification Test (L1)
• Electronic Diesel Engine Diagnosis Specialist Certification Test (L2)
• Light Duty Hybrid/Electric Vehicle Specialist Test (L3)
• Engine Machinist Certification Tests (M Series)
• Parts Specialist Certification Tests (P Series)
• School Bus Certification Tests (S Series)
• Medium-Heavy Truck Certification Tests (T Series)
• Undercar Specialist Exhaust Systems Test (X1)

Earning a 609-Refrigerant Certification

EPA issues certifications to auto mechanics who have to work with the MVAC system.

In fact, most auto mechanics are expected to perform such work.

This diploma is issued to those who score over 84% on the test.

The test can be found online, the same as the study material for it.

Auto Mechanic Schools in South Carolina

Employment and Salary Information for Auto Mechanics in South Carolina

South Carolina has many businesses hiring auto mechanics.

Here are some of these businesses:

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

Auto mechanics may work under a variety f job titles, like:

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

The more experience you accumulate as an auto mechanic, the more your salary will increase.

All the extra certifications obtained will also help you earn more.

The median salary of an auto mechanic in South Carolina is around $ per year.

Regional Salary in South Carolina

Additional Information about Auto Mechanics in South Carolina

Auto mechanics have several niches in which they can use their skills and they need to be both team players and able to work on their own.

Depending on your diplomas, your career options will differ.

The manufacturer’s certification is helpful when seeking a position in a dealership, for instance.

Mechanic Schools by City

Mechanic Schools by State