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When people think of diesel mechanics, they probably imagine the trucking industry. But diesel mechanics are needed all over: in dealerships, auto repair shops, transportation, agriculture, construction, and commercial generator services.
It’s not just trucks that run on diesel; so do cranes, heavy equipment, tractors, commercial cargo boats, trains and school buses.
You may be thinking about a career as a diesel mechanic yourself. If you’re interested, ProSource can cover all your frequently asked questions about the profession.
What Is A Diesel Mechanic?
A diesel mechanic diagnoses, inspects, repairs, and maintains diesel engines. Because diesel engines are distinct from gas engines, these mechanics must have specialized knowledge.
The duties of a diesel mechanic range from performing routine oil changes to major diesel engine rebuilds, depending on their experience and ability. They may also use performance parts to upgrade the performance of passenger and work trucks.
Whatever the task at hand, diesel mechanics need to rely on mechanical and technical knowledge to complete them. This includes understanding diagnostic software.
What Does A Diesel Mechanic Do?
The typical workday of a diesel mechanic might include diagnostics, inspections, repairs, and general maintenance. Diesel mechanics identify issues using diagnostic tools and software to locate a problem.
Their work may require them to inspect other areas of the vehicle, including the engine, steering, exhaust, suspension, and emissions systems. Like gas engines, diesel engines require routine maintenance, including oil changes and fluid flushes, among other duties.
They may also perform major and minor repairs –from fixing simple diesel truck parts to more complicated ones, like head gasket repair.
How Do You Become A Diesel Mechanic?
In the past, it was common for diesel mechanics to start as assistants and learn as they go. Today’s engines are more complex and subjected to rigorous industry standards, so employers now expect formal schooling from their mechanics.
You can start by taking courses at a trade school, vocational school, or community college. After that, you can get an entry-level position, and then move up in your field by taking ASE (Automotive Service Excellence) certification tests.
How Do You Become A Certified Diesel Mechanic?
The National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) is a certification program. Many mechanics, diesel or otherwise, rely on the ASE for certification. The certification process requires you to pass the tests relevant to your field –and there are over 58 tests available, with almost every aspect of the automotive repair and service industry covered. There are different levels of certification, with the L2 certification being the highest a diesel mechanic can achieve.
How Do You Become A Master Diesel Mechanic?
Earning Master Technician status as a diesel mechanic has several requirements. You’ll need to pass a specific group of tests assigned by the ASE.
Mechanics are required to have a high school diploma or GED, plus a minimum of two years of experience. If you have a year of post-secondary training, the ASE allows this year to count towards your two-year experience requirement.
The ASE also recommends that you have experience in both customer service and vehicle computer systems, as both of these skills are necessary for the job of a master diesel mechanic.
How Long Is Diesel Mechanic School?
The time it takes to complete diesel mechanic school depends on your program. A diesel certification program usually takes around a year to complete. If you’re completing an associate degree in the same field, it will take two years as a full-time student.
The difference between these programs is that a certificate program only teaches you the skills needed to perform your job, while an associate degree will include general education courses in addition to your diesel mechanic classes. If you can only attend part-time, then either program will take twice as long.
How Long Does It Take To Become A Diesel Mechanic?
It can take anywhere from a few months to several years to become a diesel mechanic. If you’re taking a certificate program, it typically takes six to nine months.
Completing an associate degree will take at least two years full-time after passing every course, and will take longer if you’re attending part-time. Diesel mechanics are typically required to have on-the-job training, and the duration of this training depends on the employer.
Also consider the time it takes to get ASE certified, which takes anywhere from a few weeks to a few months. Generally, you can work as a mechanic while you’re also working on your certification.
How Much Does It Cost To Become A Diesel Mechanic?
The cost of becoming a mechanic also depends on your path. The cost of diesel mechanic programs and courses varies by state by the type of program offered. An online certification course can cost anywhere between $1,000 to $8,000.
A technical diploma in diesel technology might cost up to $15,000. An associate degree can cost anywhere between $10,000 and $40,000. If you enroll in a community college or trade school, you can likely get tuition assistance through scholarships, grants, or loans.
How Much Does A Diesel Mechanic Make A Year?
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for a diesel mechanic is $58,970 a year. Your pay will vary based on your experience and the industry you choose to work in.
How Much Does A Diesel Mechanic Make An Hour?
If you are paid by the hour instead of by salary, you can expect to be paid $28.35 per hour according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
How Much Does A Master Diesel Mechanic Make?
To earn status as a master diesel mechanic, you need to pass a specific group of certification tests from the ASE. You also need to get recertified every five years to avoid losing master status.
Master certification gives you the potential to improve your income as well. The average salary for an ASE master diesel technician is $74,080, with salaries ranging anywhere between $57,000- $94,000.
What Is The Job Outlook For A Diesel Mechanic?
The Bureau of Labor Statistics says the job outlook for a diesel mechanic is stable, and expected to change very little over the next decade. Diesel mechanics will be needed to replace retiring mechanics, or mechanics who switch to different fields of work.
Summary
If you’re interested in becoming a diesel mechanic, you can get started with formal training, then follow up with some field experience. To move up in the ranks, you’ll need further training and study, including passing ASE certification tests.
As you navigate becoming a diesel mechanic, remember to choose ProSource as your resource for diesel truck parts when repairing and upgrading vehicles.
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The post A Guide To Becoming A Diesel Mechanic appeared first on Prosource Diesel.
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