How to Become an Auto Mechanic in Kansas

Becoming an auto mechanic doesn’t require a license or certification, but good training.

This is an occupation perfect for those who like cars and working on them.

This article is for you if you want to know more about how to become an auto mechanic in Kansas.

Auto Mechanic Training in Kansas

Most auto mechanics these days choose to enroll in a formal education program that received approval from the National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation (NATEF).

The graduates from these programs usually obtain:

• An Associate’s Degree in Automotive Technology
• A related technical certificate
• A related diploma

Regardless of the chosen credential, these training courses last for up to 2 years.

Those who graduate also accumulate all the knowledge they need for a novice position in this field.

In Kansas, these are the schools offering training programs for future auto mechanics:

• Pittsburg State University
• Coffeyville Community College
• Salina Area Technical College

Earning an ASE Certification

There’s no pressing need to earn a certificate from ASE.

These certifications are issued after a minimum of 2 years accumulated in the field.

There are more than 40 diplomas you can earn as an auto mechanic.

Here are a few of them:

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

You’ll see that for some of these specializations you only need 1 year of experience while for others you could need up to 3 years of experience.

If you want to obtain any of these, you’ll have to:

• Register
• Show proof of accumulated experience
• Pay a fee
• Schedule the exam
• Be present at the testing center at the scheduled time
• Pass the exam

Once you obtain your certification you have to renew it every 5 years.

The renewal process involves you passing the exam again.

Through ASE you also have the possibility of becoming a master auto mechanic.

You can do this by passing a series of 8 exams.

ASE already decided which series and exam you must pass for this distinction.

Below are some of the available series:

• 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)
• Auto Maintenance and Light Repair Certification Test (G1)
• Transit Bus Certification Tests (H Series)

Earning a 609-Refrigerant Certification

The certification for the 609 refrigerant allows the holder to:

• Work with regulated and hazardous refrigerants
• Purchase such substance

Most auto mechanics are expected to have this credential as they often have to install or repair MVAC systems.

The coursework for this certificate is available online and so is the test.

Those interested in the 609-refrigerant diploma can obtain it through ASE.

This credential has no expiry date, so there’s no need for renewal.

Auto Mechanic Schools in Kansas

Employment and Salary Information for Auto Mechanics in Kansas

There are many places where you can find a job as an auto mechanic:

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

For most cars, you’ll be assigned a task or a series of tasks.

However, from time to time, customers will have specific requests when it comes to their cars.

The tasks and requests can include any of the following, or a combination:

• 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
• Identify error codes
• Provide repair estimates

Auto mechanics with more experience and more certificates will earn more than those who just start their careers.

However, if you want a higher average salary, you can consider finding a job in cities like Overland Park, Kansas City, Olathe, or Lenexa.

Regional Salary in Kansas

Additional Information about Auto Mechanics in Kansas

It is unusual to train as an apprentice for this position, and most mechanics will deny apprenticeship requests.

If you hope to work in a dealership it’s best to obtain a manufacturer’s certificate.

This credential is best obtained after gaining some experience working on most car models.

The manufacturer’s certificate means you specialized in working on specific vehicle brands or models.

Both ASE and NATEF set up the standards when it comes to knowledge and service quality that auto mechanics need to possess or offer.

Mechanic Schools by City

Mechanic Schools by State