An auto mechanic examines, diagnoses, and repairs a wide variety of vehicles. Some choose a career working on all parts of a vehicle, while others prefer to specialize on a particular component, such as brakes or transmission systems.

This career requires the ability to think logically and use an analytical approach to solve problems. The ideal person enjoys working with his or her hands. With training, you may find opportunities in a variety of locations, including repair shops, dealerships, and more.

Arizona Automotive Mechanic Schools

Though there aren't strict educational requirements for auto mechanics in Arizona, you may consider attending a training program or becoming certified. It's no surprise that a state as large as Arizona provides a large number of educational options, including a few of the following:

  • Arizona Western College in Yuma: Students here may consider an Automotive Technology Associate in Applied Science (AAS) program that includes both training in automotive repair and general education credits, such as English and Mathematics.

  • Eastern Arizona College: Located in Thatcher, this school offers an Automotive Program that includes three options: Certification as an Automotive Service Consultant, an AAS degree in Auto Service Technology, or a Certified Auto Technician.

  • Pima Community College: This Tucson school has two options: an Automotive Mechanic Certificate prepares you for an entry-level position as a mechanic; an Automotive Technology AAS degree prepares you for both general technician and specialized service careers.

  • Mohave Community College: Here they offer two certificates in Automotive Service Technology, a Basic or an Advanced level. Instructors are ASE certified and educate students on diagnostics and repair of modern vehicles.

  • Mesa Community College: This school has an AAS in Automotive Performance Technology. Graduates are prepared to diagnose, service, and repair modern vehicles.

What to Expect from Arizona Auto Mechanic Programs

As technology continues to evolve, modern vehicles become more complex. Arizona auto mechanic programs are designed to prepare you to work on these technologically advanced systems, as well as perform traditional diagnoses and repairs. Training includes:

  • Air conditioning and heating systems
  • Automatic and manual transmissions
  • Brake systems
  • Diagnosing and repairing engines
  • Electronic and electrical systems
  • Fuel and ignition systems
  • Steering and suspension
  • Transaxles

Common courses include Automotive Maintenance, Engine Diagnosis and Repair, and Automotive Brakes Diagnosis and Repair.

Arizona Auto Mechanic License

The state of Arizona does not require auto mechanics to obtain licensing.

To increase your marketability as a mechanic, Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) certification is highly recommended, as most top facilities only employ mechanics with ASE certification.

You may also need an EPA 608 Technician Certification to work with refrigerants.

Resources for Auto Mechanics in Arizona

  • Visit the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence for practice tests, study guides, testing tips, and more.
  • If you plan to work with heating and cooling systems, you need EPA Section 608 Technician Certification.

Metro Areas Rated for Popularity for:
Automotive Mechanics

Listed below are metro areas ranked by the popularity of jobs for Automotive Mechanics relative to the population of the city. Salary data was obtained from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

2019 Occupational Employment Statistics and 2018-28 Employment Projections, Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS.gov

Metro Area
Jobs
Annual Median Salary
Lake Havasu City-Kingman290$40,570
Prescott540$47,390
Tucson2160$41,330
Yuma390$40,340
Phoenix-Mesa-Scottsdale9960$46,540
Flagstaff290$45,220
Sierra Vista-Douglas220$48,940

Sources:

  1. College Navigator, IES, National Center for Education Statistics, http://nces.ed.gov/collegenavigator/?s=AZ&p=47.0604+15.0803&l=91+92, accessed September 3, 2016
  2. Test Prep & Training, National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence, http://www.ase.com/Test-Prep-Training.aspx, accessed September 3, 2016
  3. Types of Section 608 Technician Certification, EPA US Environmental Protection Agency, https://www.epa.gov/section608/types-section-608-technician-certification, accessed September 3, 2016

Career and College Resources

Real-World Career Reports
Career References and Original Articles