Consumer reports often give the best car ratings. Ratings systems are difficult to trust, as nearly all cars receive a four-star or five star rating. That's a problem, as it leaves many car shoppers unsatisfied and frustrated. Here are some car ratings to consider. The safety rating is the first. The second is based on comfort. The ratings for cars are also confusing, since they use a different system than other reviews.
NHTSA
It is essential to understand the NHTSA ratings of cars when researching new cars. This agency awards vehicles a star rating depending on how they protect you in a collision. Cars can be rated anywhere from one to five stars. Most cars receive at most three stars. However, a 4-star rating does not necessarily translate to a safer car. In addition, it is important to note that the rating scale only compares cars with similar weights, so a 4-star vehicle will not necessarily be as safe as a full-size SUV.
The NHTSA uses a crash test that simulates an actual collision between a car and another object. While this might seem like a good way to compare cars, it isn't accurate. A car that has four stars in head protection and five stars in overall safety is likely to be safer than any other cars. NHTSA admits that it is hard to compare safety between a sedan and a coupe or an SUV.
Euro NCAP
The most recognized safety performance measures for cars are the Euro NCAP ratings. They are conducted by an independent organization in Leuven. It was created in 1996, and its first results were published in February 1997. Each vehicle's safety rating is based on its overall score, safety features and driver reaction time. Below are the top ten vehicles rated by Euro NCAP.
In addition to crash test results, the Euro NCAP safety rating also includes evaluation of the driver's assistance systems. The system must be able to provide assistance and safety backup. The latter judged a safety tech's ability to avoid an accident and disengage in unsafe situations. Another important safety feature is adaptive cruise control. This feature automatically adjusts the car's speed in order to maintain a safe distance. Another test, steering support, judges whether a car's steering helps keep it in the middle of the lane.
IIHS
The IIHS is the third-party agency that issues safety ratings for cars. It determines the best safety ratings for each model year and market segment. It does not test every model every single year. The institute partners with automakers to verify that each vehicle has a valid safety rating. These guidelines will reflect the current dangers that road users face. These ratings are based upon a combination test indicators.
The Institute introduced a moderate overlap testing in January 1995. This test differs from the government’s New Car Assessment Program. This test exposes 40% to a collision at 40 mph/64 km/h. In addition, the agency has begun to test other vehicles, such as minicars, small SUVs, and large pickup trucks. In 2017, the Institute also added a small overlap test on the passenger side.
FAQ
What type of job is there for a car mechanic?
Three main areas of employment are available for car mechanics:
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Automotive repair shops
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Dealerships
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Independent garages
Automotive repair shops
This is where most people consider becoming a mechanic. It's also the easiest way you can get started. You have two options: work in an existing shop or open your own.
If you plan to work in a shop, you must apply to join the union. After you are accepted to the union, you will receive training from it.
You'll be ready for work once you have completed the training.
Register with the government if you want to open your garage. You'll need to meet certain standards after you register.
Once you register, you'll receive a license that allows you to operate your garage.
Your license will permit you to sell spares parts and perform minor repairs. You can't fix major engine problems with your license.
In addition to selling spare parts, you'll also be expected to offer advice and guidance to customers.
Dealership jobs
Most dealerships employ mechanics who specialize in one area of the car. They might specialize in one area, such as brakes and tires.
Some dealers also have general mechanics that can handle all aspects.
These positions often require applicants to undergo specific training before being allowed to work. Employers can then choose the best candidates for their job.
Some dealerships hire students straight out of college. These graduates already have a basic understanding of mechanical engineering, so they are able to learn all about cars.
Independent garages
Independent garages are not associated with any one dealership. Instead, independent garages tend to concentrate on providing high-quality services.
Independent garages have the ability to afford higher wages, as they aren’t associated with any one company. This means that these jobs are usually more lucrative than those at dealerships.
However, independent garages do not necessarily offer better workplaces. Many business owners prefer to own their businesses and not delegate the responsibility to others.
You may find yourself working for long hours and not having control over the day.
Also, expect to make lower wages than if your job was at a dealership.
It's possible to switch between jobs. It is possible to switch between different types of jobs if your current employer would prefer you to work at a dealer.
Alternatively, if you'd like to work at an independent garage, then you could try applying directly to the owner of the garage.
The bad news? Finding a new position isn't always easy. Many other factors can also influence the amount you earn.
You might also consider the vehicle type you repair, and whether extra labor is charged.
What should I know about car mechanics
You don't need to know anything about cars to work as an auto mechanic. Only you need to know how things work. This is why most people get started with simple jobs such as changing brake pads or tires. Then they move on to more difficult repairs.
It is important to be able to read and understand diagrams as well as written instructions. It is also important to know how to determine if parts are damaged or need to be replaced.
It is important that you have proper training and guidance before you attempt to repair vehicles. This is especially true if you deal with expensive components such as engines or transmissions.
In fact, even though you won't need to know much about cars, you will need to thoroughly know the basics of mechanical engineering and physics. This includes understanding the mechanics of how engines and brakes work.
You should also be ready to handle all kinds of situations. For example, you may find yourself working on a vehicle that has been involved in a serious accident. Also, you'll need to be familiar with dealing with accidents or breakdowns.
Finally, you must be willing to learn new skills quickly. You will need to be able not only to diagnose problems but also to perform simple maintenance tasks like tightening bolts and nuts.
Is it worthwhile to become a mechanic?
This question is dependent on your life goals. If you are looking to make money, then yes. But if meaning and purpose is what you seek, then no.
If you don’t have any mechanical skills, it’s pointless to get into it. It will just waste your time. It's not going make you millionaire. It's unlikely that you will be famous. It is unlikely that your life will change.
You would need to spend years learning how to do everything properly. You would still need to hire someone to fix your car if it breaks down. Most people won't bother to do it. They find something they enjoy instead.
To sum up, if you want to earn lots of money then go ahead. The mechanic's profession is not the right place for you if it means that you will live a fulfilled life.
What qualifications is required to become an mechanic?
To become a technician, you will need to pass a series exams. These exams include:
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A test of general knowledge
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A practical exam
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An apprenticeship test
These tests are meant to help you grasp the fundamentals of mechanical engineering and physics, before you begin your journey as a mechanic.
You'll be eligible for work as a mechanic after you have passed the tests. But, you will still need an apprenticeship. This will involve trade training.
To learn all you can about vehicle repair, you will need to take classes and workshops. Experienced mechanics will also be required.
For mechanic success, you'll need to be focused and meticulous. You'll need to pay close attention to every aspect of vehicle repairs.
You'll need patience and persistence to become a successful mechanic. This may not be the career path that you want if you aren't able to follow directions.
You could make a great career out of your love for cars and the work that goes into fixing them.
Statistics
- According to the BLS, total auto technician employment is expected to exceed 705,000 by 2030. (uti.edu)
- There were 749,900 jobs available for automotive service technicians and mechanics in 2016, which is expected to grow by six percent through 2026. (jobhero.com)
- 52% of Mechanics in the United States think their salaries are enough for the cost of living in their area. (indeed.com)
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How To
How to set up a business plan for a car repair shop
You should have a good understanding of how to start a business before you do anything else. It is important to understand the type of business you are interested in. Consider starting in a small area with few competition. This way, if things don't go well, you won't have to work too hard to find another job. If you decide to open your own auto repair shop, then you'll probably want to choose a location near a large population base. You'll have customers who can come see you when they need help and will also be able sell them new parts at affordable prices.
When starting out, you might want to think about opening a franchise opportunity. Franchises generally require less capital investments than traditional businesses. You still need to pay monthly royalties and fees to franchisors. Be careful when you choose a franchise. There are some scams. They often promise big returns but fail to deliver on those promises.
If you are already working in retail, you might consider opening your own auto repair shop. Many people who own their businesses feel it was one the best decisions they have ever made. You must still create a business plan before starting. It is important to write down every goal you wish your business to achieve. One example of this might be to increase sales, improve customer service, or lower costs. Once you've written down these goals, you can look for ways to achieve them.
The next step in your journey to opening an auto repair shop is financing it. Most people borrow money from banks and credit unions to fund their businesses. Banks will typically require collateral. That means you have to provide something of value as security. People may even be able to borrow against their homes. To qualify for a loan, you'll need to show that you have enough cash flow to repay the loan.
Once you have secured financing for your business, it is time to get a license. You can apply for a variety of licenses depending on which type of business your are interested in operating. Auto mechanics need to be licensed by the state, while body shops require a federal license.
A marketing strategy is the last thing you need. Before you can start advertising, it is important to define what your company stands behind. What makes your company different from other companies in this regard? How can your business improve on the work of others? These questions are all part of developing a strong brand identity. This information will help you design more effective advertisements.