Why are all the people answering auto questions posting "certified" this and "certified" that?

Question

I have been a mechanic professionally for over 35 years but always worked with my father since I was old enough to pronounce the word! I am a "mechanic" not a "parts replacer" like so many of these guys I see! Does "certified" change that somehow? I've seen "certified" mechanics that don't know if they're on foot or horseback! Must just be an "EGO" thing I would assume! A "mechanic" can diagnose the problem and install the correct part making the repair. A "parts replacer" just keeps putting parts in until he/she accidently corrects the problem but bankrupts the customers bank account! That's the difference and "mechanics in my opinion are a rare find these days!

Answer 1

They have taken training courses run by the auto makers. They have passed the exams for those courses. They have a right to be proud of their knowledge and their achievements. That also makes them less likely to be "parts replacers" since they are starting from knowledge of what is correct.

Not everyone can have a lot of years of experience but the training is a good way for newcomers to get a start on their experience.

Answer 2

i own and operate a repair and restoration shop,in Tennessee,and the reason we post what we do ,is so that the person who asked the question at least knows we have some professional knowledge on automobiles,were not just some person with a tool box who claims to be a mechanic,i have a full masters degree in automotive repair and diagnostic information,and also hold a ASE complete master mechanics license,so this help,s the customer know that the answer there being given is coming from someone who has probably done the job there needing to now how to do before,and this is why we post it,,we earned the right to post it,and were proud of the fact also,as always i wish everyone good luck.

Answer 3

I've owned a mechanic shop for 30+ years, and am also ASE certified. I have hired guys with ASE certification who didn't know a thing about fixing a car, but I believe the tests are so easy that anyone who knows what they are doing should be able to pass them with no problem.

You are right: diagnostics is what is hard to do: the replacing is usually easy. (exceptions are cars with no room to work: I call them "catfight cars" because I look like I've been playing rough with cats when I'm done)

In general the better mechanics have gone ahead and gotten certified, and they tout their credentials just like a doctor displays his medical degree on the wall.

By trhe way, I have a 2 question test for hiring a mechanic:

1) What is a harmonic balancer?
2) What is an Ohm?

Thaty separates the men from the boys real quick!

Answer 4

Here in Ontario Canada, you must be a registered apprentice or a certified service technician to work in a repair shop. This keeps backyard "mechanics" in the backyard. Not all certified technicians are experts at diagnostics, but the ones that are are in high demand. They can quickly and accurately keep the shop working at a profit. The other bonus is for the costumer. If a repair was done incorrectly, the shop is responsible (within a certain amount of time) for any thing that happens. This keeps the work preformed up to standards. If not, you loose your license and no longer can work at a shop.

Answer 5

Well,here you go.I to have been working on cars since I was 15 when i bought my first car.A "65 Chevelle.Then basic knowlege of the internal combustion motor was all you needed.That and a good manual.When the electronic age advanced,I found myself back in college taking computer courses.I have also attended G.M.,Ford,and Chrysler training facilitys.This learning process continues with each new system introduced.My A.S.E. certifications include hvac,engine diagnosis and rebuilding,brakes,chasis,and electronics.I worked hard and continue to to attain and retain exellence in my chosen fields.There in lies my pride in using the term,certified technician.Understand this is not a "put down" btu the word mechanic is defined as a professional who diagnoses and repairs the mechanical workings of an auto.A technician does not only that but. has the ability to diagnose and repair the computer related parts as well.A Mastet tech.has completed courses in all aspects of repair,including body work,etc. Check into the A.S.E. A.S.A organizations.