How to Become a Service Writer with a Modern Shop Management System

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May 22, 2023

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Read time: 3 min

With so many different aspects of running an independent auto repair shop, the teams that keeps cars moving through your bays and repair orders flowing through your workflow function best when they run like a cohesive unit.

Just think about your favorite sports team. The players share a common goal, whether it be scoring a touchdown or hitting a home run, and they encourage each other to always perform at their best.

But there’s usually one person on the team who everyone looks to for guidance and inspiration: the team captain. Every player in the auto repair industry is important—from the technicians to the parts managers. But service writers are like the team captain. They keep everyone on track.

If you’re ready to learn about a challenging but rewarding career where no two days are the same, you’re in the right place.

The Role of a Service Writer in Auto Repair Shops

Service writers play a critical role in helping customers understand the estimate and repair process. As a service advisor, you’ll walk guests through any vehicle concerns the technicians find and then make relevant repair and maintenance suggestions.

Your team will put faith in you to drive business for the shop, and your customers will trust you to help them make the right decisions.

Being at the center of customer and team relationships is a position that comes with a lot of responsibility, and team captains aren’t made overnight.

Learning how to become a service writer starts with learning the ropes and getting comfortable with the basic technical skills needed to thrive in an auto repair shop.

What level of education do you need to become a Service Writer?

If you want to know more about how to become a service writer, but you’re afraid education requirements might hold you back, we’ve got good news!

There aren’t any particular education requirements for this position. That being said, a high school diploma or GED and some relevant experience in the auto industry are pretty common among most service writer job candidates.

You might also consider earning a technical degree in automotive technology or a traditional degree in automotive engineering, mechanical engineering, or business to gain a competitive edge in the job search. And if attending technical school or a traditional college is outside of the budget, earning a certificate might be a more viable option.

Taking an online course through the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence can make your resume stand out for a fraction of the cost of a traditional education while also increasing your earning potential over time.

More important though for service writers are the intrapersonal skills related to the job. Service Advisors are front-line and customer facing, and the role has the opportunity to really help shops create an amazing customer experience.

Not to mention, with cloud-based shop management systems, shops have the opportunity to empower their service writers to provide exceptional service by simplifying their workflows.

Now is a Great Time to Start Your Service Writer Career

Committing to a career path isn’t always easy, and a lot goes into making such a big decision. If you worry about getting stagnant in your career, you can rest assured that this is a position that comes with a lot of upward mobility.

Being a service writer can open the door to several other positions such as service manager, branch manager, or general manager.

In fact, now might be a good time to think about jumping into the independent auto repair industry as a whole.

Our latest Industry Index Report noted that automotive employment in 2022 increased by 3.5%, and grew to over 915,000 men and women working at general repair shops, vehicle dealerships and gasoline service stations, according to the Auto Care Association.

Start With the Fundamentals

Here’s how to establish yourself as a service writer and team captain at an auto repair shop:

1. Become Customer Obsessed

Service advisors directly deal with the customer, and are therefore at least partially responsible for delivering amazing customer service.

Especially in the digital age when customer have high expectations, its important to put their needs first, to learn their world and their problems, and create a customer obsessed culture for your shop.

Powerful features in Tekmetric, like shared customer history for multi-shop users, enables service writers to view a customer's entire history with your business form every single location and provide a seamless experience no matter what location they stop in.

2. Learn the Lingo

Becoming a stellar service writer goes one step further than possessing basic communication skills.

To be successful, you’ll need to know the ins and outs of the industry’s technical jargon to facilitate communication at the shop and translate complex automotive concerns from the technicians’ findings to the customer.

3. Stay Focused

From calculating labor costs to ordering parts, service writers need to understand basic computation skills. In this industry, reputation and trust are an essential part of the customer experience.

Forgetting to carry a one or add a zero on the estimate can damage your relationship with the customers that support your business.

Thankfully, modern shop management systems are packed with features to help shops manage parts inventory and apply the right markups every time.

4. Manage Your Time

Auto repair shops are a fast-paced environment. As a service writer, your work schedule will always be full between booking appointments, addressing customer concerns, and working with technicians to keep repairs on track.

Because you’ll be overseeing several different repairs simultaneously, it’s crucial to know how to prioritize tasks and delegate responsibilities in the most efficient way possible.

5. Get Organized

Service writers are responsible for establishing the repair order rhythm and keeping a balance within the shop.

Whether your shop’s RO process is tied to pen and paper methods or digital software, you should know exactly which cars are in the shop at any given time and where they’re at in the repair process.

You’ll need a handy system for keeping track of estimates and work orders to ensure necessary data doesn’t get lost.

6. Know How to Problem Solve

Service writers are responsible for guiding customers and team members through any bumps in the road during the estimate and repair process.

Whether you encounter low inventory, late shipments of parts, or other unexpected labor delays, knowing how to keep your cool and make quick decisions under pressure is essential.

How Modern Shop Management Systems Support Service Writer

With a cloud-based shop management system in place, service writers can streamline workflows, communication, analytics, and customer experience to create cohesive process.

Streamline shop communications

Tekmetric enables service writers to communicate with team members and customers on a unified platform, simplifying job tracking and prompt query responses.

Enhance the customer experience  

Tekmetric's two-way texting and easy-to-read invoices allow customers to approve work and pay digitally. Plus, powerful features like default inspections help to build repair orders in seconds, freeing up service writers to focus on the customer directly.

Improve with detailed analytics 

Tekmetric provides data analytics and reporting features that can help service writers make informed decisions about their operations, such as tracking performance metrics and identifying areas for improvement.

Set Your Shop Up For Success

Ultimately, Tekmetric helps service writers run their operations more efficiently and effectively, allowing them to focus on providing quality service to their customers.

And when customers feel they can trust your shop, they'll come back the next time they need something repaired in a hurry.

FAQ

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Whether you're just getting started in the world of auto mechanics or you're a seasoned professional looking to sharpen your skills, having the right books in your toolkit can make a world of difference.

In this guide, we’ve rounded up the best 10 books for anyone looking to master automotive repair—five books for beginners and five for professionals. Whether you're diving into DIY oil changes, understanding electrical systems, or prepping for ASE certification, these books can help you become the car mechanic others rely on.

Top mechanic books for beginners.

Top 5 Mechanic Books for Beginners

1. Auto Repair For Dummies by Deanna Sclar

Deanna Sclar, a trusted name in car books, breaks down automotive repair in a clear, engaging way. Topics include basics like changing oil, identifying car parts, and performing simple diagnostics. Updated editions also include guidance on hybrid and electric vehicles.

This book is great for high school students, DIY car owners, and anyone who wants to enhance their car repair knowledge. It teaches vehicle maintenance fundamentals and gives you the confidence to handle everyday car repair tasks.

This book is available in paperback and audiobook format on Amazon and Goodreads.

2. How Cars Work by Tom Newton

“How Cars Work” is an illustrated mechanics book designed to make complex automotive technology digestible. It covers everything from internal combustion engines to carburetors using simple diagrams and descriptions.

Ideal for visual learners and those completely new to auto mechanics. This is a great first book for beginners, high school students, and anyone wanting a strong visual foundation. This book is available at Amazon, Goodreads, and Walmart.

3. Service Repair Manuals

Service repair manuals offer detailed, step-by-step instructions specific to various makes and models. Whether you're working on a Chevy or a lawn mower, there's likely a repair manual for it.

These manuals walk you through every procedure—from basic maintenance to full rebuilds—making them excellent for DIY mechanics. The manuals are great for car owners who want to perform their own maintenance and repairs, especially oil changes and part replacements.

4. Auto Repair and maintenance for Beginners by Dave Stribling

This is a more recent release that blends practical guidance with a conversational tone. It’s designed for car owners who want to understand what’s under the hood without going back to school.

It breaks down diagnostics, basic electrical systems, and essential car repair projects with clarity and confidence. DIYers, automotive technology students, and anyone just entering the field will benefit from this resource. This book is available on Amazon and Target.

5. ASE Study Material

While not a traditional repair resource, these ASE guides cover specific topics you may be interested in. In addition, these resources can also help you study for your ASE exams/certification. These study guides cover everything from refrigerant to engine diagnostics.

These resources are great for beginners looking to become ASE certified or just want to deepen their technical knowledge of car repair. You can find these ASE resources on the ASE website.

Top 5 Mechanic Books for Professionals

1. Automotive Technology: A Systems Approach by Jack Erjavec & Rob Thompson

Used in technical schools and ASE training programs, this comprehensive study guide covers every vehicle system in detail. From brakes to diagnostics and internal combustion engines, it’s a powerhouse of professional knowledge.

Excellent for instructors, professional auto mechanics, and shop technicians. It’s also used as a curriculum base in many accredited auto mechanic programs. This book can be found on Amazon and Goodreads.

2. Engine Repair (A1) – ASE Test Prep Study Guide by Delmar Cengage

If you’re serious about becoming ASE certified, this study guide is one of the best tools to prep with. It’s focused on the A1 Engine Repair certification exam and is updated with the latest questions and procedures.

It contains practice questions, answer keys, and step-by-step breakdowns of engine troubleshooting and repairs. Mechanics pursuing ASE certification and current techs looking to refresh their credentials will benefit from this book.

3. Bosch Automotive Handbook

This is not your average repair manual. The Bosch Automotive Handbook is a dense, technical reference filled with precise definitions, formulas, and design principles behind modern vehicle systems, including electrical systems and diagnostics.

A must-have for those working on diagnostics or developing automotive systems. Not ideal for beginners, but invaluable for seasoned pros. This book is available on Amazon.

4. Advanced Automotive Fault Diagnosis by Tom Denton

Tom Denton is a trusted author in the world of automotive technology. This book focuses on advanced diagnostics using real-world case studies and troubleshooting processes.

It covers OBD systems, scan tools, sensor data interpretation, and diagnostics strategies used in modern repair shops. ASE certified professionals, diagnostic techs, and repair shop leads will appreciate this book. This book is available at Walmart and Amazon.

5. Motorcycle Basics Techbook by Matthew Coombs (Haynes)

Auto mechanics often expand into motorcycles. This Haynes book explores motorcycle maintenance and repair with the same detail they bring to their car repair manuals.

Great for mechanics who want to branch into motorcycle repair or work at specialized repair shops. This book is available on Amazon and Thriftbooks.

Other Mechanic Resources

While books are still relevant, many mechanics have transitioned to other resources like YouTube videos and podcasts. Here are some of our favorites.

YouTube

YouTube is a gold mine for car repair veterans and DIYers alike. Some of our favorite channels include:

Reddit

Reddit can be another powerful resource for new techniques plus an online community to answer questions you may have. Some of the best subreddits include:

Podcasts

Podcasts can be entertaining and an easy way to learn while working or driving. Some of our favorites include:

Final Thoughts

Investing in a good book isn’t just about reading—it’s about building your skills, your confidence, and your future in the automotive industry. Whether you’re just learning how cars work or studying classical mechanics principles, there’s a resource here that can guide you. The best mechanics know that their education never stops.

10 Best Automotive Mechanic Books (2025 Guide)

April 23, 2025

Read time: 3 min

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In the ever-evolving automotive industry, staying ahead of the curve means constantly learning and growing. For automotive service technicians, certifications aren’t just credentials—they’re powerful tools that open doors to better job opportunities, increased pay, and credibility with customers and employers alike.

Whether you're just starting out or already working in auto repair, understanding the most common types of mechanic certification can help you create a successful, long-lasting career. This guide will break down the most recognized certifications, how to attain them, and why they matter for every auto mechanic who wants to stand out.

Image showing the various type of mechanic certifications.

Types of mechanic certifications

Mechanic certifications come in many forms, each tailored to different specializations and career goals. The most common types include:

1. ASE Certifications

Issued by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE), these certifications are the gold standard for automotive mechanics. They cover a wide range of specialties, from engine repair to electronic systems and air conditioning.

ASE certification is considered the most prestigious and widely accepted credential in the automotive world.

More about ASE

Founded in 1972, the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence sets the benchmark for automotive service technicians. ASE offers over 50 different certification tests in categories like:

  • Engine Repair
  • Brake Systems
  • Air Conditioning and Heating
  • Suspension and Steering
  • Electrical/Electronic Systems
  • Engine Performance
  • Manual and Automatic Transmission/Transaxle
  • Light Truck and Diesel Engines

Master technicians

There’s also a separate path for master technician status, which is achieved by passing all certifications in the required testing areas for that series. For example, technicians certified in tests A1 through A8 are Master automobile technicians.

Master technician status is not for life. You must keep each one of those certifications current to maintain master technician status. If you lose master technician status due to the lapse of one or more required certifications, it can be reinstated by taking and passing the recertification tests.

How long does it take to become ASE certified?

To become ASE certified, expect to spend anywhere from 1–3 years, depending on your work experience and whether you’re currently enrolled in training programs. Each certification test typically takes 1 to 2 hours to complete and can be scheduled at a local test center.

Being ASE certified shows you’ve mastered the skills needed for the job. It’s a badge of excellence recognized by employers, repair shops, and even customers looking for reliable service.

2. Student certifications

Geared toward high school and post-secondary students in automotive technology programs, these ASE certifications offer a head start in proving foundational knowledge.

What are student certifications?

Student certifications validate entry-level knowledge in core areas of vehicle repair and maintenance. These don’t require work experience and serve as a stepping stone to full ASE status.

Programs approved by the ASE Education Foundation often include student certification exams as part of their curriculum. These are excellent options for students at auto mechanic schools or in a community college training program.

Student certifications are valid for two years and help you build confidence before entering the workforce as an entry-level technician.

3. Manufacturer certifications

These certifications are specific to vehicle manufacturers and offered by companies like Ford, Toyota, GM, and others. Often, auto technicians working in dealerships will pursue these to show mastery of brand-specific systems.

For repair technicians who want to specialize in a particular brand, manufacturer certifications are essential.

Manufacturer training programs

  • Toyota T-TEN
  • Ford ASSET
  • GM ASEP
  • Honda PACT
  • BMW STEP

These accredited programs often partner with dealerships to offer real-world, hands-on experience while you earn your credential. These programs can take anywhere from 12 to 24 months and typically require completion of automotive technology coursework alongside on-the-job work experience at a brand-affiliated repair center.

Why they matter

Manufacturer-certified auto technicians often have a faster path to high-paying roles within dealership networks and brand-specific repair shops. These certifications also prepare you to service increasingly complex vehicle systems, especially as brands continue to innovate with hybrid and electric vehicles.

4. Specialty certifications

You’ll also find credentials related to diesel engines, heavy truck systems, collision repair, and even hybrid/electric vehicles.

Each of these certification types plays a unique role in an automotive technician’s career path, and in many cases, earning more than one will make you significantly more marketable in repair shops and beyond.

Depending on your interests, you may also want to pursue:

  • A/C Refrigerant Certification - Necessary if you want to be able to to buy refrigerant and work on air conditioning service.
  • Diesel Mechanics Certification – Focused on diesel engines used in commercial fleets and heavy truck applications.
  • Collision Repair Certification – Great for auto mechanics looking to work in body shops.
  • Hybrid/Electric Vehicle Certification – A growing field with high demand.

Each of these certifications typically requires completion of a specialized training course and a passing score on certification exams. These programs may be part of a broader certificate program or offered as a standalone credential.

Tek-Tip: Another way to get ahead as a young technician is to be experienced with auto repair shop software so your employer doesn't have to teach you how to use their system.

Benefits of mechanic certifications

Getting certified is one of the most direct ways to turn your hands-on experience into a long-term career asset. Mechanic certifications do more than look good on a resume—they deliver real-world advantages. Here are some of the benefits of completing automotive certifications:

  • Increased Pay: Certified mechanics typically earn higher wages. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), certified automotive mechanics can earn higher hourly rates, especially in competitive markets.
  • Job Security: The more certifications you have, the more valuable you are to auto repair businesses.
  • Professional Credibility: Certification demonstrates a commitment to quality and standards, building trust with customers and employers.
  • Career Advancement: Certified automotive service technicians are more likely to advance to roles such as shop foreman, master technician, or service manager.
  • Mobility: Certifications make it easier to move between different types of employers—whether that’s independent repair shops, starting a mobile mechanic business, dealerships, or specialty service centers.

What does the certification process look like?

Most mechanic certifications follow a similar pathway but always refer to the specific instructions for your program.

Step 1: Enroll

Start by enrolling in an automotive technology program. These are offered by community colleges, trade schools, and accredited auto mechanic schools. Many programs are supported by the ASE Education Foundation, ensuring alignment with real-world industry standards.

Look for certificate programs or associate degrees that offer hands-on training. Financial aid is often available for eligible students.

Step 2: Gain work experience

Work experience is critical for most certifications. For ASE certification, for example, you need at least two years of on-the-job experience—or one year plus a diploma from an accredited program. You’ll need to show that you’ve worked on everything from brake systems and axles to manual drive train repairs and electrical systems.

Step 3: Pass certification tests

Most mechanic certifications require passing written or computer-based certification exams. These are typically held at a certified test center. The exams cover a variety of topics depending on the specialty, including engine performance, electronic systems, and automatic transmission repair.

Tek-Tip: Some auto shops/employers will pay your test fees for you.

Step 4: Maintain certification

Many certifications require recertification every five years. Staying current ensures you’re up to date with the latest automotive repair techniques, tools, and systems.

Final thoughts

Becoming a certified mechanic takes dedication, but the payoff is worth it. From better job prospects to increased credibility, mechanic certifications help you build a successful, respected career in automotive repair.

Invest in your future. Get trained, get certified, and become a leader in the ever-growing world of automotive repair.

Automotive Mechanic Certifications: The Complete Guide

April 8, 2025

Read time: 3 min

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Mechanic interviews are challenging for both the employer and candidate because the right candidate has to be a fit in personality and technical ability. Plus, the numerous certification types, manufacturer nuances, and shop needs make it even more challenging.

This guide can be used to help repair shops/dealerships ask the right questions and also help technicians be prepared for questions they will likely encounter. Below you will find the most common car mechanic interview questions broken down by mechanic and service advisor level plus tips to ace your next interview.

Top mechanic job interview questions

While every auto repair shop differs in how they run their job interview process, these are some of the most common questions you can expect. Ranging from technical questions to customer service, be prepared to answer these common questions before your next interview.

An image highlighting the top job interview questions for mechanics.

General interview questions for car mechanics

These common questions cover basic automotive repair experience and relevant work history.

  • Tell me about yourself and your experience as an automotive technician.
  • Why do you want to work for our company/shop?
  • How do you stay up to date with new automotive technologies and repair techniques?
  • What certifications do you currently hold (ASE, manufacturer-specific, etc.)?
  • Are you comfortable working weekends, evenings, or overtime if needed?

Technical interview questions for mechanics

These technical interview questions cover more specific hand-on experience and tools/equipment.

  • Which repairs are you best at?
  • How much would you estimate your tool inventory to be worth?
  • What steps do you take when diagnosing a check engine light?
  • What tools and diagnostic equipment are you most familiar with?
  • Have you worked with hybrid or electric vehicles?
  • Do you believe in factory recommended vehicle maintenance intervals?
  • How comfortable are you with OEM scan/diagnostic tools?

Experience & situational questions for mechanics

These questions help employers understand how you would handle various shop situations and also helps them understand your communication skills.

  • Can you describe a time when you had to work under a tight deadline?
  • How do you deal with angry customers?
  • How do you prioritize tasks when you have multiple vehicles to work on?
  • What would you do if you made a mistake on a repair? How do you handle accountability?
  • What do you do if you encounter a vehicle with an issue you've never seen before?

Additional questions to expect

  • Are you comfortable serving those in need once a month?
  • Are you comfortable doing a DVI on the majority of vehicles you touch?
  • How do you handle a high-pressure environment when the shop is busy?
  • How do you handle a situation where you're unsure about how to fix a problem?
  • Tell me about a time you went above and beyond for a customer?

Top interview questions for service advisors

While the interview questions for service advisors will be similar to mechanics, there will be small differences. Typically, service advisors will be more customer facing and shops will tailor their questions to focus more on customer service and communication style.

General interview questions for service advisors

  • Are you comfortable selling repair services?
  • Are you comfortable working on a commission based salary structure?
  • Who do you believe has the best after market products?
  • Which shop management software is your favorite?
  • How do you deal with a customer saying that you are more expensive than their last shop?
  • How do you win back angry customers?
  • How do you handle over the phone quotes?

Technical interview questions for service advisors

  • What are your greatest strengths as a service advisor?
  • Who do you trust for moving electrical parts?
  • How do you handle working in a fast-paced environment?
  • Are you comfortable meeting sales goals and upselling services?
  • How do you stay up to date with new automotive technology and service trends?
  • How do you handle stress during busy hours?

Experience & situational questions for service advisors

  • How do you explain complex vehicle repairs to a customer who doesn’t understand cars?
  • What steps do you take to build trust with customers?
  • Have you ever had to deal with a miscommunication between a technician and a customer? How did you resolve it?
  • Can you describe a time when you turned a dissatisfied customer into a repeat customer?
  • How do you handle multiple customers needing assistance at the same time?

Additional questions to expect

  • How do you explain the importance of routine maintenance to a customer?
  • What experience do you have with automotive service software or point-of-sale systems?
  • How do you prioritize repair orders and schedule work efficiently?
  • How do you explain repair estimates to customers?
  • How would you respond to 1-star reviews?

Job interview tips for mechanics

  • Research: Not all shops are created equal so make sure to research before applying to make sure they are a good fit. You can also look at online reviews to see what their customers are saying.
  • Preparation: Use the commonly used questions above to help you prepare for the interview. Practice how you would answer each question and ways you can present yourself well.
  • Attire: You have 7 seconds to make your first impression and attire is a big part of that. Dress to showcase your professionalism and experience.
  • Highlight your experience/certifications: Showcasing your certifications and experience can go a long way to in making sure you land the job.
  • Ask thoughtful questions: Some interviewers will allow you to ask questions during the conversation. Make sure you have a few questions to ask that help you learn more about the shop.
  • Follow up: if you haven’t heard back from the shop and you are still interested, give them a call and remind them of your interest in the position.

Final thoughts

Interviews are challenging in any industry but mechanic interviews can be even more challenging with the shortage of talent available. This guide will help you either prepare for your next interview or provide you with common questions to ask your next hire. Lastly, always hire for culture fit and talent second. Culture problems are a lot harder to correct than technical car knowledge.

Top Interview Questions for Automotive Mechanics

March 25, 2025

Read time: 3 min

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