Curious about what it takes to become an auto mechanic?
If you’re always tinkering with engines, watching car builds online and love fiddling under the hood, consider a career as an automotive pro — someone qualified to diagnose, maintain and repair vehicles at dealerships, shops or even the racetrack.
To get there, you need the right skills. To learn the right skills, you need hands-on training.
Universal Technical Institute’s Automotive Technology program lasts 51 weeks and trains students from the ground up, preparing them to pursue entry-level roles after graduation.1,7 While enrolled, students practice and hone their skills using industry-aligned tools in hands-on labs that mimic actual auto shops.18
Let’s break down why hands-on auto mechanic classes matter if you want to become an auto mechanic.
Why Is Hands-On Auto Mechanic Training Important?
Books can’t teach you everything
Textbooks can explain theory, but they can’t teach you how a wrench feels in your hand when a bolt is stuck. Training in a lab gives students the chance to build real muscle memory and technical know-how, which is something no screen or diagram can replace.
Employers want real skills
Many shops and dealerships want techs who already know how to handle tools, diagnose problems and move through a repair without needing to be micromanaged. That starts with practice, and the more, the better.
Read: What to Expect From Auto Mechanic School
Practice builds confidence
When you’ve taken an engine apart and put it back together more than once, you stop second-guessing yourself. That kind of confidence is what helps you handle pressure and work efficiently in the field.
Auto technology is constantly evolving
Out in the field, problems don’t come with answer keys. They’re also becoming more complex as technologies in the industry evolve. Hands-on training gives students a chance to troubleshoot in real time — learning how to think and learn industry-relevant skills, not just follow steps. That’s what turns you into a true technician.
4 Common Hands-On Training Areas for Auto Mechanics
1. Engines
Students learn to assemble and disassemble entire engines. They get to work with valve trains, gaskets, oil systems and more. There are also opportunities to explore how compression ratios affect things like horsepower and torque.
2. Powertrains
From automatic to manual systems, powertrain training includes diagnosing and repairing transmissions, driveshafts, U-joints, axle assemblies and differentials — all using tools found in actual repair shops.
Read: Automotive Technician Salary in the U.S.
3. Steering and suspension systems
Expect to run wheel alignments, learn how suspension parts interact and get a feel for how even the smallest issue can throw off tire wear and vehicle handling.
4. Braking systems
In hands-on labs, students practice taking apart and rebuilding brake systems — including the master cylinder, calipers and drum assemblies. They can also learn the correct way to bleed brakes.
Get Hands-On Auto Mechanic Training To Learn In-Demand Skills!
The auto mechanic school experience at UTI is built around a blended-learning model — meaning you can learn theory online and then apply it in person in the lab while being mentored by experienced instructors. This mirrors what happens in the field today, where many manufacturers now use digital platforms for continued skills training.
Through hands-on auto mechanic training, the 51-week Automotive Technology program helps students build core repair skills, and our manufacturer-specific programs allow them to go on to more specialized learning.11 You’ll also have support from our Career Services team to help you identify and pursue job opportunities once you graduate.
Read: Diesel Mechanic vs. Auto Mechanic Training: How to Choose
Need Auto Mechanic Training?
If you’re serious about becoming an auto mechanic, consider UTI’s hands-on training. The Automotive Technology program was designed to help students build real skills so they can pursue a career working on cars as a qualified pro after graduating.
To speak with an Admissions Representative and learn more, call 1-800-834-7308 or click the button below to get started.
Ready to jump in? Enroll now.
Universal Technical Institute of Illinois, Inc. is approved by the Division of Private Business and Vocational Schools of the Illinois Board of Higher Education.