How to Become an Auto Mechanic in Wisconsin

Wisconsin is a state where the automotive industry is flourishing.

This means that auto mechanics are in high demand and if you want to learn what you have to do to become one, read on!

Auto Mechanic Training in Wisconsin

To become an auto mechanic, you’ll need to complete a training program.

There are many programs organized through high schools so many people who graduate are eligible to start working as auto mechanics.

However, such classes are offered through training centers and community colleges as well.

Regardless of where these courses are available, they all must be approved by the National Automotive Technician Education Foundation (NATEF).

To be accepted, you’ll generally need to be a high school graduate or have a GED.

Some schools might have other requirements for you to meet.

The classes offered through community colleges award associate’s degrees, though certificates and diplomas are also commonly issued.

Generally, the training courses end after approximately 2 years.

They have 2 components:

• Theory
• Practice

If you want to obtain an associate’s degree in automotive technology, you can consider one of these colleges in Wisconsin:

• Western Technical College
• Northcentral Technical College
• Madison Area Technical College
• Gateway Technical College
• Wisconsin Indianhead Technical College

These are some of the abilities you’ll acquire during training and that will be enough for an entry-level position:

• 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 Wisconsin

The ASE certification is not mandatory for an auto mechanic.

The mechanics who have one, earn more, and have more career options.

In fact, a mechanic can obtain more than 1 certification, as long as they meet the requirements.

These are some of the ASE certifications you can obtain as an auto mechanic:

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

These are the main requirements for most of them:

• 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

In some cases, just 1 year of experience is enough, while in other instances, you’ll need to document 3 years of experience.

Auto mechanics who want to obtain an ASE certificate must go to the testing center in person.

These ASE credentials must be renewed every 5 years by re-taking and re-passing the related exam.

To become a master auto mechanic, you’ll have to pass a series of 8 tests.

ASE already decided which tests go in a series.

Below are most of the 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)
• 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 the EPA 609-Refrigerant Certification

Auto mechanics often have to repair or replace the MVAC system of a car.

The MVAC uses a regulated refrigerant for which an EPA certification is needed.

The certification is for the 609-refrigerant and allows its holder to buy small amounts of the substance when needed.

This certificate doesn’t require renewal and the exam can be found online.

You can also use the internet to find the preparatory material for the test.

The passing score is at least 84%.

Employment and Salary Information for Auto Mechanics in Wisconsin

Once you graduate from any of the training programs, you can get hired by:

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

Auto mechanics can further specialize in one of these niches:

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

In Wisconsin, you can earn a higher average salary in larger cities such as Milwaukee or Waukesha.

Regional Salary in Wisconsin

Additional Information about Auto Mechanics in Wisconsin

One important certification is the one issued by car manufacturers.

These are offered through the various training programs available across the state.

Dealerships value greatly these credentials.

Auto Mechanics Schools in Wisconsin

Mechanic Schools by City

Mechanic Schools by State