What Does It Mean To Be ASE Certified?

You’ve probably seen it posted at our shop, and mentioned online, that we are ASE certified. It is a huge accomplishment and one that we take seriously at Ryan G. Motorworks. But what exactly does it mean, and is it really something you should look for when having someone work on your vehicle? Is it even that important or something required to have?

ASE Certification LogoASE certification is a nationally recognized credential. It certifies that an automotive technician has had the training necessary to complete the jobs needed in the workplace. ASE stands for the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence. While there are other programs and schooling out there for automotive technicians to obtain a degree or certificate program, ASE-certification is considered the gold standard for testing.

The National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence began in 1972 and is an independent non-profit organization. Their mission has been to improve the quality of workmanship, vehicle repair, and service through the testing and certifying professionals.

What Does One Need To Be A Mechanic?

It might be surprising to learn that the standards for operating or working in an automotive shop aren’t that high. In fact, there is no requirement for certification to work in a shop. Many automotive shops will require their technicians to have completed high school and have their diploma, but other than that, not much else. Being ASE certified is optional. So why go through the program to get certified if you don’t have to?

Why Mechanics Choose To Get ASE Certified?

As mentioned, it is optional for mechanics to get their certification. But there are tons of reasons and benefits as to why they should. For just the mechanic, having ASE certification gives them a leg up on their competition. When you put head to head a mechanic that has been through the testing to determine they are qualified and have the stamp of approval, over a mechanic that doesn’t have the same

To obtain an ASE certification, automotive technicians will have to have had two years of job training or one-year job training with a two-year degree in automotive repair even to qualify. This standard alone is higher than the entry-level of working in a shop that requires a high school diploma and a background working with cars.

For the mechanic, the perks of being certified include easier employment and the ability to gain insurance if applicable. Most employers will look favorably on those that have completed the training because it signifies they know what they are doing. This can eliminate problems of a mechanic not understanding the complexities of newer cars while giving them advancements over other shops.

Not only do mechanics have to pass their certification tests to gain the ASE certified label, but they are also required to retest every five years to keep their certification. As automotive technology advances, the technician must remain up to date. The tests aren’t easy, either. The passing rate for test-takers is two out of three.

Why Should You Care If Your Mechanic is ASE Certified?

As a consumer, you should care if your automotive shop has ASE certified works because of the quality you can expect. What the certification means for you, is that the shop can handle your vehicle and has demonstrated the abilities and know-how to perform the work correctly.

The ASE test is made up of over 40 tests that all challenge a technician’s skills on a variety of vehicles and their systems. Not only is the ASE a test, but it also requires the mechanic to have years of on the job training. This gives the consumer peace of mind that their vehicle is in the best hand for repairs, servicing, and maintenance.

Ryan G. Motorworks is proud to have ASE certified technicians operating our shop. We deliver the highest level of service, and our customers never have to worry, their vehicles are in the best hands.

 

Ryan GMW is ASE certified. Schedule an appointment here or call (530) 305-2499 today!

5 Things To Look For In A Service Center

When looking for a German Auto Repair near me service center, what are some things you should consider before choosing the right one for you? For the best automotive service center for your BMW, Audi, Mini Cooper, or Mercedes, Ryan GMW is the top choice. Here are the top 5 essential features a service center should have or do, to give you the best overall experience and automotive repair:

  1. Highest Quality Work Performance

    Your car deserves the very best when it needs repairs or routine maintenance done. Are repairs made by the book, and no short cuts are taken? Is the work being done up to the standards set by the manufacturer? Typically usual shops aren’t as equipped to handle German auto repair, but at Ryan GMW they specialize in German makes and don’t take any shortcuts, to ensure you receive the highest quality of service each visit.

  2. Comfortable Waiting Room

    Considering waiting for your vehicle when it needs repairs done? Then you’ll want to know if the waiting room will be accommodating and comfortable. One way a waiting room can be accommodating is by providing free WiFi to customers that choose to wait. Another great feature is comfortable chairs. There is nothing worse than having to sit and wait in tiny, uncomfortable chairs. What about refreshments? There should be both water and coffee available at no charge to customers allowing for a more relaxing atmosphere while you wait.

  3. Reasonable Pricing

    Possibly, one of the greatest concerns for customers looking for auto repair is the cost. Having repair work and maintenance done at a price you can afford and that is reasonable is very important. Ryan GMW offers reasonable pricing on all work performed and rivals many in the area.

  4. Knowledgeable and Certified Technicians

    When choosing an automotive shop for your German vehicle, such as a BMW, you’ll want to know if the technicians are certified to handle the complexities that BMW’s are known to have. At Ryan GMW the owner is a Certified BMW Master Technician, as well as ASE certified. It means that you are getting the very best regarding knowledge and service for your vehicle.

  5. A Shop that is Both Large and Cleanly

    An automotive service center should be large to accommodate for many vehicles to be worked on simultaneously. It will allow for your service time and wait time to be significantly cut down. Size isn’t the only things that will create a more productive automotive shop, a clean and well-organized store will be one that will get the work done faster, especially when a technician doesn’t have to search through things to find the right tools for the job.

Conclusion

When looking for the very best for German auto repair, find a service center that has these great qualities, and you won’t be disappointed.