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In Tennessee, there is a growing demand for auto mechanics, unlike in many other states.
If you like cars but you didn’t choose a career path yet, an auto mechanic occupation could be for you!
Read on to find out what you need to do to become one in Tennessee!
Article Table of Contents
Auto Mechanic Training in Tennessee
It’s expected of all auto mechanics to complete a training program.
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Such programs are offered through a variety of institutions, from high schools to community colleges.
The requirements for admission differ between the schools.
They commonly ask for a high school diploma or GED and proven computer proficiency.
Individuals who choose to enroll in a community college have the option to earn an associate’s degree in automotive technology.
These courses have a duration of about 2 years with theory and practice classes.
These are some of Tennessee’ colleges offering this type of training:
- Chattanooga State Community College
- Southwest Tennessee Community College
- Nashville State Community College
- Lincoln Technical Institute
When you graduate, you’ll have all the skills needed to get hired on positions at an entry-level.
These are some of the abilities you’ll develop during training:
Earning an ASE Certification in Tennessee
The auto mechanics who get a certification through ASE stand out from the rest through the quality of their services.
Below you can see a small selection of certification out of the at least 40 available:
- Repair technician
- Service consultant
- Collision damage estimator
- Parts specialist
Like with any other credentials, there are some requirements to meet 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
The minimum amount of experience required for some of the certifications is 1 year while for others you need to accumulate at least 3 years.
Auto mechanics can attempt to earn as many ASE diplomas as they want.
Regardless of how many certifications you want, you should ensure you track your experience accurately.
You should know that ASE doesn’t allow the exams to be taken online.
Just like with most other occupations, auto mechanics can reach the master as well.
Those interested in the master auto mechanic status have to pass a series of 8 tests.
ASE created these series of exams:
Earning the EPA 609-Refrigerant Certification
The job of an auto mechanic usually involves performing repair works on the vehicle’s MVAC system.
Doing this is not possible without the EPA 609-refrigerant certification.
This is due to the hazardous nature of the refrigerant the professional will have to handle.
If you want to obtain this certification, you’ll have to score at least 84% on the exam.
To increase your chances of passing, make sure you take the course found online.
Auto Mechanic Schools in Tennessee
| School Name | Address |
|---|---|
| Lincoln College of Technology | 1524 Gallatin Ave, Nashville, TN 37206 |
| Automotive Technology Building - Tennessee College of Applied Technology | 901 Liberty St, Knoxville, TN 37919 |
| Moore Tech Automotive | 2785 S Mendenhall Rd, Memphis, TN 38115 |
| Northeast State Community Colleg - Pal Barger Regional Center for Automotive Programs | 337 W Center St, Kingsport, TN 37660 |
| Chattanooga State TCAT | 4801 Amnicola Hwy, Chattanooga, TN 37406 |
| Lincoln Park Technology Trade Center | 535 Chickamauga Ave, Knoxville, TN 37917 |
| Southwest Tennessee Community College - Union Avenue Campus | 737 Union Ave, Memphis, TN 38103 |
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Employment and Salary Information for Auto Mechanics in Tennessee
Tennessee has many businesses hiring auto mechanics, including:
- Dealerships
- Tire and parts shops
- Repair shops
- Gas stations
- Local governments
Auto mechanics will work in a variety of areas:
- Diesel specialist
- Bus and truck mechanic
- Automotive body repair worker
- Auto glass installer/repairer
If you want a higher salary you either have to accumulate more experience in your position or earn more certifications.
In Tennessee, the median salary of an auto mechanic is around $36,446 per year.
Annual Salary Range:| Location | Avg. Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| Nashville | $37,282 |
| Memphis | $37,176 |
| Knoxville | $36,807 |
| Chattanooga | $36,169 |
| Clarksville | $36,438 |
| Murfreesboro | $37,001 |
| Franklin | $37,151 |
| Jackson | $36,896 |
| Johnson City | $34,915 |
| Hendersonville | $37,226 |
Regional Salary in Tennessee
| Region | Employed | Avg. Annual Salary | Avg. Hourly Pay | Top 10% Annual Salary | Bottom 10% Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chattanooga, TN-GA | 1,380 | $47,920 | $23.04 | $75,420 | $28,920 |
| Clarksville, TN-KY | 660 | $46,550 | $22.38 | $65,560 | $29,300 |
| Cleveland, TN | 290 | $47,380 | $22.78 | $67,200 | $32,390 |
| Jackson, TN | 400 | $48,870 | $23.5 | $76,490 | $31,200 |
| Johnson City, TN | 440 | $47,580 | $22.87 | $73,310 | $29,350 |
| Kingsport-Bristol-Bristol, TN-VA | 670 | $46,770 | $22.49 | $72,800 | $29,120 |
| Knoxville, TN | 2,320 | $49,170 | $23.64 | $75,690 | $30,400 |
| Memphis, TN-MS-AR | 2,990 | $49,680 | $23.88 | $74,930 | $29,580 |
| Morristown, TN | 240 | $42,990 | $20.67 | $67,680 | $28,020 |
| Nashville-Davidson--Murfreesboro--Franklin, TN | 5,220 | $52,880 | $25.42 | $78,550 | $32,880 |
* Employment conditions in your area may vary.
Additional Information about Auto Mechanics in Tennessee
Certain certifications help auto mechanics to get hired in dealerships much faster.
One of these certifications is the manufacturer’s certificate.
Through this credential, your knowledge will focus on a specific car brand.
Read the full guide: How to Become an Auto Mechanic
Mechanic Schools by City
Mechanic Schools by State