What to Expect From Auto Mechanic School

Are you ready to start training to become an auto mechanic? Learn more about the auto mechanic school at Universal Technical Institute (UTI).¹

From course material to learning structure and financial aid, our comprehensive guide covers everything there is to know about attending our vocational program so that you can prepare with confidence and ease the pre-enrollment jitters. Learn more below! 

Training Options 

Before enrolling in an automotive program, inquire about the curriculum to ensure classes are industry-aligned and teach students the foundational knowledge employers typically look for in entry-level candidates. 

UTI offers core automotive training as well as specialized training with leading brands. Keep reading to learn more about our training options and what you can expect from each. 

Core Automotive Training 

The core auto mechanic program at UTI helps build students’ knowledge from the ground up, teaching them industry-relevant skill sets in just 51 weeks.⁷ 

Industry professionals teach each course and bring real-world experience to the classroom so graduates have the skills that technicians need to succeed. 

Our blended learning structure also mirrors the training used in the field. Students follow instructor-led online training and practice in hands-on labs.¹⁸ Our auto mechanic classes cover a wide range of topics, including:  

• Automotive Engines Service & Repair
• Professional Automotive Service Writing
• Automotive Powertrains & Transmissions
• Vehicle Steering & Suspension Service & Repair
• Vehicle Brake Systems
• Vehicle Electronic Systems & Technology
• Automotive Climate Control Systems & Repair
• Automotive Power/Performance Tuning & Emissions Repair
• Hybrid Vehicle System Maintenance

Once students complete core automotive training, they can pursue Manufacturer-Specific Advanced Training (MSAT). 

Specialized Training Opportunities 

UTI offers nine specialized training programs for graduates of the auto program. Industry-leading brands helped us develop each one. Throughout the MSAT programs, students practice with the tools, technologies and vehicles found in dealerships across the country, further preparing them to pursue entry-level roles with confidence after graduation. 

Some MSAT programs are manufacturer-paid,¹⁵ and most of them provide students with opportunities to earn brand-specific credentials or credit toward them. Specialized training opportunities include: 

• BMW FastTrack Program – Graduates earn seven factory credentials.  
• Ford Accelerated Credential Training (FACT) Program – Graduates earn over 80 web-based factory credentials.  
• GM Technician Career Training Program – Graduates can earn course credits toward GM Bronze, Silver and Gold certification levels. 
• MB Drive Program – Graduates can achieve Mercedes-Benz Systems Technician status after just six months of employment at an authorized dealership.¹⁵ 
• Mopar Technical Education Curriculum Program – Graduates receive the training necessary for Level 1 Stellantis Technician status and a large portion of Level 2 training. 
• NASCAR Mechanic Technician Training Program – Instructors have included former NASCAR engine and car builders, crew chiefs and other experts. 
• Porsche Technology Apprenticeship Program (PTAP) – Graduates can achieve Bronze certification within their first year at a dealership.¹⁵
• Toyota Professional Automotive Technician (TPAT) Program – Students take 20 e-courses that lead to Certified Technician status. 
• Volvo Tekniker Apprentice Program – Graduates can earn four certifications that lead to G1A certification.¹⁵

Hands-On Learning 

When it comes to auto mechanic training, having access to industry-standard tools, technologies and equipment is a game-changer. That's why seeking out reputable auto mechanic programs with various industry relationships can be beneficial. 

UTI's state-of-the-industry labs were constructed and furnished with help from industry leaders to reflect present-day repair shops and dealerships. Because of this, students have the opportunity to train with computerized diagnostic equipment and tools from leading brands like Snap-on®. They also practice assessing advanced electrical systems found in modern vehicles. 

Many students are also excited to learn dyno tuning during their Power and Performance courses, as this can be a helpful skill to have when pursuing entry-level auto tech positions.³⁷ A dynamometer, or dyno machine, measures a vehicle’s torque before tuning or upgrading equipment to maximize efficiency.

Our hands-on labs help prepare aspiring mechanics for the field. 

Campus Support 

Attending a trade school can be a life-altering move, so examining the type of support a school offers throughout the journey is important. UTI makes every effort to ease the transition in and out of auto mechanic school. Learn how below. 

Mentorship  

As previously mentioned, industry professionals teach the programs at UTI. In addition to industry-relevant instruction, they provide mentorship that encourages students to stay the course, helps them hone traits important to an automotive career, and teaches them the importance of setting and achieving goals.  

Not only do students graduate with the knowledge they need to pursue entry-level careers, but they also get to practice being a team player, thinking outside the box, and maintaining a growth mindset, under the guidance of expert instructors. 

UTI graduate EJ Maltezo shared, “The instructors [at UTI] are who made me strive to be the person I am today.”

Many employers emphasize the effectiveness of our mentorship as well. 

Adam Silva, service director at BMW of Peabody, spoke of our graduates, saying, “They just have the right attitude. They take whatever job it is, and they look at that job as a challenge to fix that car. That’s really what it’s all about.” 

Career Assistance

In addition to mentorship, students can rely on our Career Services Department for support throughout their auto mechanic school experience! 

Our Career Services specialists can help students look for flexible, part-time employment that doesn’t interfere with their class schedule but helps them cover their living expenses. 

To help build students' confidence before they begin pursuing entry-level jobs within their field of study, UTI offers: 

• Professional résumé development
• Interview training techniques
• Career development classes
• Career coaching

UTI also hosts various job fairs where students can network with potential employers and even participate in on-campus interviews. 

John Perez of Sonic Automotive said, “We started showing up at UTI job fairs, but I knew that we needed to be more than just a booth at a career fair. I wanted to interact with students, so we started doing open houses. We did mock interviews with students to give them the experience, and we went to as many campuses as we could.” 

In addition to job fairs and on-campus interviews, UTI’s Career Services specialists maintain relationships with employers nationwide and can help graduates look for opportunities even years after leaving UTI. 

Financial Aid 

Trade school is an investment. Find one that recognizes this and is dedicated to helping students find ways to cover auto mechanic school costs.

UTI is making more than $15 million in scholarships and grants available this year to those who qualify.¹⁰ Our Financial Aid team can assist students in completing their FAFSA forms to help determine eligibility for financial aid. 

Credentials 

UTI promotes career readiness by helping students prepare for industry-standard credentials. As mentioned above, MSAT students can earn brand-specific certifications. 

Core Automotive and Diesel program graduates also can substitute their education at UTI for one of the two years of experience required to test for ASE certification. Our courses cover topics related to becoming certified, and all of our instructors are ASE certified, which can help prepare for testing.

Auto Mechanic School FAQ 

Is It Hard To Become an Auto Mechanic? 

Becoming an auto mechanic requires dedication, hard work and technical expertise, but with the right training and experience, it is achievable. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), postsecondary training programs are the best way to prepare for entry-level automotive jobs. 

What Skills Should an Automotive Technician Have?

In addition to technical aptitude, many successful automotive technicians display traits like passion, persistence, adaptability, professionalism and personability.  

Does Becoming a Mechanic Require a Lot of Math? 

Yes, auto mechanics use basic math, such as fractions, to determine the appropriate-sized tool for the job. They frequently calculate conversions as well. Attending an auto mechanic school before pursuing a career can help you sharpen these skills. 

Apply To Auto Mechanic School Today!

We hope our guide on what to expect from auto mechanic school has helped you channel your nerves into excitement. From hands-on training to mentorship and career services, UTI is prepared to help students in their quest to reach their goals! 

Have more questions? Tour a campus near you or request more info, and we’ll connect you with an Admissions Representative!